I will be in St.Thomas for the first time this spring and I have read about how good the shopping is, particularly for diamonds. Has anyone purchased diamonds in St. Thomas? How do they compare in quality and price to ones that I would buy in the US? Thanks!

Depending on where you live you might do better at home at a jeweler who is reliable.. A woman at our resort bought a five carat tennis bracelet at a well known jewelry shop..the name starts with a "C".. I don't know the remember the name. The next day she noted a huge flaw in one stone.. fortunately she was able to return it

If you decide to buy, do your homework including the price per carat based on the quality. Since diamonds are "rated" by weight, clairity and color there is a wide range of prices within the diamonds of the same carat. And you can ask to see the certificate to avoid a problem with not getting what you expect!! The better diamonds will come with a GIA certifiate or you can have one done for you as part of an appriasal fee! I have found some excellent buys but don't know that I would have gotten the same at home but diamonds are duty free up to $1200 (2400 if a couple) and if you buy a loose stone there is no duty no matter the price. You will also save tax! There is a wide variety of stores from the small jeweler to the large stores. I prefer the larger stores only if there is a "problem" when I get home, I am more comfortable that they will be around or have a store nearby. I know I had a problem with the Customer Service at Diamonds International but that was a purchase in Mexico and not a gem stone.

Most jewlers in the Caribbean will give you full credit of your purchase on an up-grade. So remember what you are getting might not be new.

I am a jewler in Philadelphia and will be happy to give any info. you nead. Please e-mail me.