Question about reputable gemstone dealers?

[Geo1991]

Hi,

I'm currently in the market to buy a ruby or sapphire for a ring and I have been looking online at different sites and there are three that stand out and I was wondering if anyone would be able to let me know about the legitimacy/reputation of any of the following three websites:

1. The Natural Sapphire Company
2. James Allen
3. GemsNY

How much should I trust these websites to have actual untreated/unheated stones when they say the stones are such, and how much should I trust that their heated stones are not heated in a way that would damage the stone (possibly chemically heated).

Also, if there are reputable or good dealers you have dealt with in the past, I would be very happy to hear about who they are!

Thank you in advance for any help you can offer. If this has already been discussed, I apologize and hope you can point me in the direction of the thread where this is discussed.

Thanks again!

 

[Geo1991]

I should also mention that I'm looking for a sapphire or ruby around 4mm long/.35-.4 carats in an oval, cushion, pear, or asscher cut.

Thanks!

 

[arkieb1]

Most of the stores you mention have average sapphires, are you looking for a dark Royal blue stone a dark but vivid blue stone, a mid blue stone or a lighter blue stone?

 

[Geo1991]

I'm looking for something dark blue and vivid, but a royal blue would also be good, as well

I should also mention my budget is $500.

A difficulty in encountering is finding stones that are small enough to be what I'm looking for (~.35 carats).

 

[Geo1991]

That would be great! Thanks a lot!