Online diamond and jewelry retailer Blue Nile has posted record sales for the first quarter of 2011, with net sales reaching $80.2 million. Blue Nile's gross profit for the quarter stood at $16.9 million.

The diamond company's international sales grew 34.4% to $12.9 million.

The jewelry categories with the strongest performance for the quarter reported included colored gemstones, pearls, and sterling silver.

Blue Nile CEO Diane Irvine said that the firm's record Q1 sales reflected its "relentless focus on perfecting the customer experience" and said that the company was committed to building business in the US and abroad.

Net sales for Q2 are expected to total between $82 million-$84.5 million.