A good enquiry is specific. Before you compare prices, make sure each seller is describing the same things: the exact material, the exact dimensions, the condition, the evidence for origin, and the terms that apply after payment.
Questions about the stone
Ask the seller to describe the material in plain language and to separate tested facts from opinions. If the listing says Xinjiang, Hetian, or seed jade, ask what those words mean for this particular bangle.
- Is the material nephrite or jadeite?
- What is the basis for the stated Xinjiang or Hetian origin?
- Has the stone been treated, repaired, dyed, or filled?
- Can you provide a report or supplier documentation?
Questions about the exact piece
One-of-a-kind natural stone should be photographed as the exact item for sale. Confirm that the measurements are taken from that piece, not copied from a standard size chart.
- What are the inner diameter, width, and thickness in millimetres?
- What is the weight, and is it measured before or after any setting?
- Are there chips, repairs, hairlines, or filled areas?
- Can I see unfiltered daylight photos and a short video?
Questions about the transaction
International jewellery purchases can involve insurance, customs charges and delivery delays. Ask for a written quote that separates the bangle price, shipping, insurance, tax estimate and any service fee. A quote that says only total is difficult to compare. Ask how many calendar days you have to report damage or request a return; a 48-hour photo requirement is very different from a 14-day inspection window.
- What is included in the quoted price?
- Which carrier and insurance level are used?
- Who pays import duties and taxes?
- What is the return window and condition requirement?
- What happens if the piece is damaged in transit?
- What is the deadline for reporting a delivery problem?
Turn two listings into a fair comparison
Create one line for each cost and one line for each missing fact. For example, a 56 mm bangle quoted at $1,200 plus $80 insured shipping is not automatically cheaper than a $1,320 delivered quote if the first seller excludes import tax or offers only two days to report damage. Write the currency, measurement date and quote expiry beside the number so the comparison still makes sense a week later.
- Record the exact inner diameter to the nearest 0.1 mm when available.
- Record the quote currency and whether tax is included.
- Treat an unanswered field as uncertainty, not as a zero cost.
- Save the final description, photos and return terms with the payment record.
A simple decision rule
If a seller answers clearly, provides images that match the description, and gives written terms, you have a basis for comparison. If answers remain vague after two or three specific questions, pause. Scarcity or urgency should never replace documentation.