The recently launched GemTek1.com, a resource for gemological and bench tools and equipment, claims to offer more than 7,000 products in its inventory. Its e-commerce site is quick, well-organized and designed to get busy jewelers in and out the door with as few headaches as possible.

Within the frames-based site (useful because you don't have to wait for the page to reload each time you click on a link), you can browse subcategories of tools, equipment, lapidary supplies, books and videos, and gemological products. Once you've chosen a subcategory, a list of products appears in a neat table, listing product descriptions, prices and easy buttons for adding chosen quantities to the shopping cart. For more information, click on a product name to see a picture and more detailed description – every product is pictured, right down to replacement blades for screwdrivers. If you know exactly what you're looking for, a search engine will take you right to the product you seek.

The site offers items discounted for the Web and free UPS ground shipping for first-time orders. You can easily choose the method of shipping you desire and, once your transaction is complete, track your order by entering your order number.

GemTek1 has built a site that is among the most user-friendly e-commerce sites on the Web.

- by Stacey King