RAPAPORT... BJ's Wholesale Club in the United States launched its online store featuring a  41-total-carat-weight diamond necklace for $249,999.99.

The online version of the retail store, BJs.com, opened December 5, 2006, with general merchandise categories that BJ's members said they want to purchase online -- computers, electronics, entertainment, home, jewelry and gifts -- including new and different items that are not available in BJ's Clubs.

"We are proud to be delivering an online shopping solution that clearly complements our in-Club shopping experience and enhances the value of BJ's Membership," said chairman and CEO of BJ's Wholesale Club Herb Zarkin.

"Through the launch of BJs.com, consumers across the country can now take advantage of the exceptional BJ's prices and values previously only available to BJ's Members located on the East Coast."

All BJ's Wholesale Club Members can shop at BJs.com and for a limited time only, non-members can shop the site without having to pay a surcharge, with full access to the site's offerings and membership prices.

"Holiday shoppers who log on to check out that exquisite diamond necklace are in for a pleasant surprise," says assistant vice president of e-commerce Jennifer Avey. "Our online store offers an excellent selection of amazingly priced jewelry and other holiday gift items for shoppers on virtually any budget."

Avey says the inaugural diamond necklace is "just the first hint at the one-of-a-kind surprises to come."