Photography Disclaimer | Image Accuracy Notice | RichosRocks
📸 Photography Disclaimer
Image Accuracy & Color Variation Notice
Last Updated: 31 December 2025 | Effective: 1 January 2026
⚠️ IMPORTANT NOTICE
Product photos may not accurately represent actual appearance. Natural gemstones vary in color, clarity, and appearance based on lighting, screen calibration, and viewing conditions. Photos are for reference only. We strongly recommend requesting videos or viewing stones in person before purchase. See full disclaimer below.
1. COLOR ACCURACY DISCLAIMER
1.1 Screen Calibration Variations
Product colors may appear different due to:
- Monitor Calibration: Every screen displays colors differently (brightness, contrast, color temperature)
- Device Type: Desktop monitors, laptops, tablets, phones all render colors differently
- Screen Technology: LCD, LED, OLED, Retina displays show different color ranges
- Age of Screen: Older screens may have color drift or fading
- Viewing Angle: Colors shift when viewing screen from different angles
1.2 Lighting Conditions
Gemstone color changes dramatically with lighting:
| Lighting Type | Effect on Sapphire Color | Our Photography |
|---|---|---|
| Natural Daylight | Truest color representation | Primary lighting for most photos |
| Incandescent (Warm) | Enhances warm tones (yellow, orange, pink) | Used for some warm-colored stones |
| Fluorescent (Cool) | Enhances cool tones (blue, teal, green) | Rarely used |
| LED (Neutral) | Balanced, close to daylight | Used for studio shots |
| Direct Sunlight | Maximum brilliance, may wash out color | Used for sparkle shots |
1.3 Natural Color Variation
Natural sapphires have inherent color variations:
- Color Zoning: Uneven color distribution within stone
- Pleochroism: Different colors from different viewing angles
- Lighting Sensitivity: Some stones change color dramatically in different light
- Unique Characteristics: No two natural stones are identical
2. SIZE & SCALE DISCLAIMER
2.1 Magnification for Detail
Photos are magnified to show detail:
- Macro Photography: Stones photographed at 2-10x magnification
- Actual Size Smaller: Stones appear larger in photos than in person
- Carat Weight Reference: Use carat weight and dimensions (mm) for true size
- Hand Model Photos: Provide better size context but still approximate
2.2 Size Perception Tips
📏 Understanding True Size:
- 1 carat sapphire: Approximately 6mm diameter (size of pencil eraser)
- 2 carat sapphire: Approximately 7-8mm diameter
- 3 carat sapphire: Approximately 8-9mm diameter
- Use Dimensions: Refer to mm measurements for accurate size
- Request Hand Photos: We can provide photos on hand for scale
3. INCLUSION VISIBILITY DISCLAIMER
3.1 What Photos Show
Professional photography may show or hide inclusions:
- Macro Photos: Show inclusions not visible to naked eye
- Standard Photos: May not show all inclusions visible in person
- Lighting Effects: Bright lighting can hide or reveal inclusions
- Focus Depth: Some inclusions may be out of focus
3.2 Inclusion Disclosure
We disclose inclusions in product descriptions, but:
- Photos may not show all inclusions mentioned
- Some inclusions visible in person may not appear in photos
- Inclusion appearance varies with lighting and viewing angle
- Request additional photos or videos if concerned about inclusions
4. PHOTOGRAPHY TECHNIQUES
4.1 Our Photography Standards
We use professional photography with:
- ✅ Natural Daylight: Primary lighting source for color accuracy
- ✅ Neutral Background: White or gray backgrounds to show true color
- ✅ Multiple Angles: Top, side, and pavilion views
- ✅ Macro Detail: Close-ups to show clarity and cut quality
- ✅ Consistent Setup: Same camera, lighting, and settings for all stones
4.2 Post-Processing Disclosure
We apply minimal post-processing:
- ✅ White Balance: Adjusted to match natural daylight (standard practice)
- ✅ Exposure Correction: Minor adjustments for proper brightness
- ✅ Sharpening: Minimal sharpening for clarity
- ❌ No Color Enhancement: We do NOT artificially enhance or alter stone color
- ❌ No Inclusion Removal: We do NOT edit out inclusions or flaws
5. VIDEO RECOMMENDATIONS
5.1 Why Videos Are Better
Videos provide more accurate representation:
- ✅ True Color: Shows color in motion and multiple lighting angles
- ✅ Brilliance: Demonstrates sparkle and light return
- ✅ Inclusions: Shows inclusions more accurately than static photos
- ✅ Size Context: Better sense of actual size and proportions
5.2 Request Videos
We provide free videos for any stone:
- Email support@richosrocks.com with product link
- We'll send HD video within 24-48 hours
- Videos shot in natural daylight and indoor lighting
- Multiple angles and close-ups included
6. IN-PERSON VIEWING
6.1 Brisbane Appointments
The BEST way to see true color and quality:
- ✅ Book Appointment: View stones in person at our Brisbane location
- ✅ Natural Lighting: See stones in daylight and indoor lighting
- ✅ Expert Guidance: Our gemologists explain characteristics
- ✅ No Obligation: View without pressure to purchase
Contact us to schedule: support@richosrocks.com
7. CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES
7.1 Before Purchasing
To ensure satisfaction, you should:
- ✅ Request videos if photos don't provide enough information
- ✅ Ask questions about color, clarity, inclusions, or any concerns
- ✅ Understand that natural stones vary from photos
- ✅ Review our 30-Day Return Policy
- ✅ Consider in-person viewing for high-value purchases ($5K+)
7.2 After Receiving
If stone appears different than expected:
- View in natural daylight (not just indoor lighting)
- Compare to dimensions and carat weight (not just photos)
- Contact us within 30 days if not satisfied
- We offer full refund under our Satisfaction Guarantee
8. LIMITATION OF LIABILITY
⚖️ Legal Disclaimer
We are NOT LIABLE for dissatisfaction due to color, size, or appearance differences between photos and actual stones, PROVIDED:
- Product description is accurate (carat, dimensions, treatment, clarity grade)
- Photos are not intentionally misleading or deceptive
- Customer had opportunity to request videos or additional information
However: Your rights under Australian Consumer Law (ACL) are NOT affected. If product is materially different from description or photos are misleading, you have full ACL protection.
9. CONTACT US
📸 Photography Questions
Request Videos:
Book Viewing:
Location:
Brisbane, QLD 4000
Australia
Response Time:
24-48 hours
Business days