James Allen Review

James Allen has been a prominent name in the online diamond industry since its founding in 1998. As one of the first successful online jewelry retailers, they quickly established a reputation for quality and innovation. Known for their extensive selection, transparency, and competitive pricing, James Allen has become a go-to for buyers seeking convenience without compromising on diamond quality.

The History

Founded by James Allen Schultz and Michele Schultz, James Allen began as dirtcheapdiamonds.com, a response to their frustration with the lack of options available in traditional jewelry stores. In 2005, the company rebranded as James Allen, focusing on a more sophisticated image. The acquisition by Signet Jewelers in 2017 solidified its place in the market, allowing the brand to benefit from Signet’s resources while retaining its distinctive online focus.

Quality and Certification

James Allen offers diamonds certified by renowned gemological labs, such as GIA and IGI, providing customers with the assurance that they are purchasing a high-quality product. Their commitment to quality is further demonstrated through a rigorous quality control process. Additionally, James Allen's True Hearts™ collection showcases diamonds with exceptional symmetry, representing the pinnacle of their offerings.

The Website and Imagery

James Allen’s website is widely recognized for its user-friendly design, complete with high-resolution imagery and 360-degree videos of each diamond. This unique feature allows customers to examine their chosen diamonds from every angle, providing a level of transparency that sets James Allen apart from many competitors. Despite this, the website could benefit from more readily available light performance imagery, such as ASET images, which are only provided upon request.

Customization and Designer Items

The “Design Your Own Engagement Ring” service is a standout feature at James Allen, enabling customers to create a personalized ring by choosing from various stones and settings. Their partnerships with designers like Royal Halo and Mille Coeurs add another layer of luxury, with preset pieces that blend quality craftsmanship with artistic flair.

Lab-Created Diamonds

In addition to natural diamonds, James Allen offers an extensive selection of lab-created diamonds. These lab-grown options are physically and chemically identical to their mined counterparts and are often available at a lower price, appealing to buyers looking for value while still wanting a high-quality diamond.

Pricing and Returns

James Allen’s competitive pricing is made even more attractive with their price-matching program, which ensures customers receive the best possible value for comparable diamonds. Additionally, the company offers a 30-day return policy, providing peace of mind for customers unsure about their purchase.

The Bottom Line

James Allen stands out as a leader in the online diamond industry, offering a broad selection, advanced visualization tools, and competitive pricing. Their dedication to quality and transparency makes them a reliable choice for diamond buyers. However, for those seeking the very best in light performance and cut quality, brands like Whiteflash may still hold an edge. Overall, James Allen provides an exceptional balance of quality, value, and customer experience, solidifying their place as a top choice for engagement rings and fine jewelry.