Diamond and Jewelry Websites. Archives
Diamond Information and Educational Websites.
A website that consumers should spend some time on:
www.gia.edu
GIA is the foremost Diamond Grading laboratory and Research Institute in the world for diamonds and gemstones. They are also the leader in educational programs for both the trade and the public.
The site offers a wealth of accurate and comprehensive information on Diamonds, Gemstones, and Jewelry with tips and pointers on how to shop smart and get maximum value for your dollar.
Amazon.com now selling Diamonds, Engagement Rings, Wedding Bands. Are You Benefiting?
Amazon.com is following their strategy of becoming an all-encompassing global e-commerce web-site by gradually expanding their product offerings and have recently added diamonds, engagement rings, and wedding bands to their inventory.
They're doing this in two ways:
1. Listing established diamond and jewelry e-commerce vendors on their Amazon website with direct link-throughs. These vendors pay a monthly fee to have their products listed and a 15% straight commission to Amazon for each item they sell.
2. Selling their "own" merchandise directly to you.
These diamonds, engagement ring settings, and bands are not owned by Amazon, but by wholesalers who drop ship directly to the consumer.
Diamonds are certified by the American Gem Society (AGS) or the Independent Gemological Institute (IGI). Amazon does not physically inspect the merchandise prior to shipping and in the case of diamonds, no additional information such as Cut Grade Analysis or Light Performance results are included.
IGI is known in the trade for being very generous in their color and clarity diamond grading and is considered to be several rungs below the industry standard bearer, the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) in the accuracy, consistency, and stringency of it's grading.
AGS is considered to be on par with the GIA.
Choices and information on the Amazon Diamond order Form are limited in scope and information. A test order for a 1 carat diamond yielded these choices of three categories provided to the consumer:
1. Fair Cut; defined as a minimum of I color and I-1 Clarity,
2. Good Cut, defined as a minimum of H color and SI-2 Clarity,
3. Ideal Cut; defined as a minimum of G Color and VS-2 Clarity.
4. Carat weight; minimum of .95 carat.
IMO, there are several problems in buying a diamond in this fashion.
1. The fact that Amazon drop ships without examining the merchandise prior to shipping means that Amazon is not corroborating that the diamond is as described by the wholesaler. If there is a problem, Amazon gets caught in the middle between the wholesaler and the customer.
2. Not enought information on the Clarity Gradings. It is well known in the trade that there can be a qualitative difference between two diamonds that have the same Clarity Grading in the range of SI-1 down to I-1. Eye visibility of inclusions critically depends on their size, location, and color. One diamond graded as SI-1 may be absolutely eye-clean in the face-up position whereas another SI-1 clarity graded stone may contain inclusions that are easily seen without magnification.
3. Definition of Cut is inaccurate as it is couched within the framework of Color and Clarity. Cut has nothing to do with Color or Clarity but is dependent on correct proportioning of facet size, facet angle, and facet placement. A diamond's Light performance which is what you're buying ( in laymen's terms it's called Bling-Bling) depends on the precision of the Cut proportions. The better the Cut, the better the face-up appearance of the stone. Amazon does not provide any information.
4. Carat weight is defined as a minimum, not an exact carat weight size. This a serious problem for two reasons:
1.There is a significant price jump (up to 15%) as you cross from .99 carat to 1.00 carat, and
2. Carat weight alone tells you nothing about proportion and proper spread. As the graphic below clearly demonstrates, you can have two diamonds of the same carat weight but differing proportions that will display significant differences in the quality of Bling-Bling.
You might very well be paying more money for less diamond.
Above: Diamonds of the same carat weight but with different Cut proportions.
Below: Light Performance Analysis (www.gemex.com) of two "Ideal Cut" Diamonds. Note the differences.
Consumers are becoming more knowledgeable about diamonds and jewelry and demanding more information.
As internet diamond and jewelry sales are increasing at a rapid rate, it appears that Amazon wants a piece of the pie. Whether selling diamonds with their paucity of information will get them a large slice or the crumbs remains to be seen.
Hearts on Fire Diamonds Launches new Website
I just noticed the newly revised website launched by www.heartsonfire.com diamonds. I must say that this new look is a huge improvement over their old website.
I was previously amazed that for a branded diamond company selling their Hearts on Fire diamonds on the premise of being "The most perfectly cut diamond in the world", the huge amount of marketing money they spend to effectively sell this concept; that they did not devote any attention to their lackluster website.
Their company objective has always been to invest a fortune of money in promoting and selling their Ideal Cut diamond (Hearts on Fire Diamonds and Hearts on Fire "Dream" Diamonds) at inflated premiums. Competition has dramatically increased, however, for the Ideal-Cut diamond buyer as new players have sprung up on the internet selling Super-Ideal cut Diamonds that come with more information and at substantially lower prices.
It is interesting to note however, that in spite of increasing consumer awareness and knowledge the new Hearts on Fire diamond website is still much like its predecessor; emphasizing romance with little product information or data.
Diamond & Jewelry Website Compliance. I
The Jewelers Vigilance Committee Consumers Buying Guide reminds consumers that diamond and jewelry websites that sell to the retail consumer can not per FTC Guidelines advertise that "We sell at wholesale prices."
Selling to consumers is a retail transaction if the selling price results in a profit to the seller.
"Wholesale" refers to transactions to someone who then resells this merchandise for a profit.
Diamond & Jewelry Websites: Compliance II
FTC guidelines require that websites must clearly indicate the carat weight of the diamonds or at the very least a statement that the diamond weights are not exact.
If you see this: "3/4 carat center diamond" and "1/2 carat total weight diamond stud earrings" you must ask the vendor to specify the exact carat weights for these diamonds. If that information is not forthcoming, move on to another jeweler.
Designer Engagement Rings: Bridal Jewelry by Vatche
People have expressed an interest in seeing some info. on some of the more recognized designer diamond engagement ring manufacturers.
Here is the first of a series of postings on the subject:
Vatche
As a child Vatché showed a great talent to design and create. At the age of twelve, a well-known designer and model maker took personal interest in Vatché. He trained him in every aspect of jewelry making from the cutting of rough diamonds to handling different metals with their unique character and texture.
At the age of eighteen, Vatché was hired by one of the world's most prestigious high-end jewelry manufacturers. For the next two years he dedicated his time to perfecting his design skills.
In 1988 he opened his first manufacturing and model making company. It was then that Vatché introduced quality hand-made platinum pieces for internationally renowned jewelry showcases. It was then that he branded some of his new designs as D. Vatché. He carefully analyzes the market and designs his jewelry with accuracy and perfection. All his designs reflect his philosophy that jewelry is meant to be adored from generation to generation as a timeless piece of art. This is why Vatché guarantees every piece of his jewelry for a lifetime.
Diamonds & Jewelry Sales Compliance: III
Guidelines for Consumers to follow when shopping for Diamonds and Jewelry as suggested by the Jewelers Vigilance Committee (JVC).
Terms of Sale Questions:
___ "Will the seller list all the information they have given you in writing?
___ Is your purchase returnable? For how long? If so, do you receive cash, card credit or store credit?
___ What is the policy if the item does not fit? Or, if it needs modifications? Is there a charge for adjustments?
___ Does the item come with a warranty or guarantee?
___ Are there any special care instructions or maintenance for the jewelry you are purchasing?"
Remember folks, get EVERYTHING in writing.
Diamond & Jewelry Compliance IV : FTC Guidelines.
On-line jewelry websites offering colored stones, either loose or in jewelry need to properly describe these stones.
For example, emeralds created in a laboratory that are offered for sale, and are described as "faux" is misleading and against FTC guidelines, even though they may have all the properties of the real thing. They need to be described as synthetic, laboratory-created, etc.
The true nature of the product must be clearly disclosed.
Gemology Course-On Line: Check this out.
For all of the diamond and jewelry lovers out there who desire to learn as much as possible about diamonds, precious gemstones, and jewelry; here is an excellent on-line gemology course.
Platinum Star: Mark Morrell-Magic Man
Mark Morrell is known in our trade and among consumers as a superb craftsman in finely crafted Platinum jewelry. His unique and innovative designs, attention to detail, and meticulous craftsmanship are unique and in high demand.
His website is here: Mark Morrell
Just Saw the New "88 Cut Diamond"
I got a call recently from the manufcaturers of a new branded diamond they are calling the "88 Cut" located here in N.Y.C.. They were interested in testing their diamonds on our in house BrillianceScope machine (to see how they performed for brillinace, fire, and scintillation) and were referred to us by the people at Gemex.
One of their sales people came up to our offices (an extremely nice fellow) with a couple of sample diamonds to test on our machine and I got a chance to eye-ball them. They are one of a new breed of modified round diamonds and feature 8 sides and eighty eight facets (versus the 58 of the traditional round diamond.). A Similar new company selling a branded diamond of 81 facets is the Eighternity Diamond.View image
This diamond companies premise is that more facets equal more brilliance. On the BrillianceScope machine the stones didn't do all that bad; averaging a few highs...but falling far short of achieving the excellent scores of the round Super-Ideals.
The diamond itself I believe is in beta and the company is probably going to now focus on cutting the stones to achieve better results on the Bscope machine (and as a direct cause and effect, better visual results to the human eye.)
The marketing material and website looks very neat, and the people behind the brand seem very nice, I just hope that their new cut doesn't go the way of so many new branded diamond shapes before it; much noise and pomp at the begining only to vanish and be replaced by a newer more daring cut/shape within a short period of time.
Historically, this has been the case with many of the funky and "faddy" (is that a word?) diamond shapes. They come and go and have limited staying power, unlike the timeless and traditional diamond shapes that never dissapear.
Blue Nile Diamonds Expands to Canada
National Jeweler has this report on the expansion of blue nile diamonds to the Canadian market.
Excellence in Platinum; Meet Leon Mege!
The third in our series on master Jewelers; this gentleman is someone you absolutely must check out. www.theartofplatinum.com
Leon Mege; owner, founder, and jeweler extraodinairre is not only a great guy who I have had the privilege of meeting personally in his workshop, he is also a master of his craft and an artiste.
Leon Mege is located in the heart of the N.Y.C. Diamond District, right around the corner from us. We have had the honor of working with him on a few occassions when a customer purchased our SuperbCert Diamonds and had them set in a custom engagement ring by Leon Mege.
His factory sits high atop the street in a magnificently appointed penthouse suite that exudes old world charm. It is here that all of the magic is made. The jewelery pieces that come out of this artists shop are absolutely breathtaking. I promise you that you will see things on Leon's website that will make you gasp for air!
Some of Leons fabulous eye candy!!
He is a perfectionist in his work and works closely with his customers to create one of a kind jewelry pieces, including reproduction rings, engagement rings, earrings, mens bands, anniversary rings and anything else you could think of in platinum, gold (of all shades) and many different precious metal combinations.
Every fashion jewelry item that he creates is unique and you will never have to worry that your co-worker will be wearing anything close to the likeness, quality craftsmanship, and substance of Leon's designer custom jewelry!
On-Line Jewelers Profits Soar!
Online retailer Amazon.com said its December 2004 jewelry sales
increased more than 120 percent from December 2003.
In a press release dated February 8, Amazon.com said triple-digit
growth of jewelry sales continues into 2005, as customers buy rings,
necklaces, earrings, bracelets, watches, and body jewelry from its
website. Amazon.com offers more than 1,000 ruby jewelry items ranging
in price from $100 to more than $1,500, including a wide selection of
heart-shaped rubies.
Internet jewelry retailer Blue Nile Inc., also came in with tremendous increases. They reported fourth quarter 2004 sales of $64.5 million, an increase of 30.3 percent from fourth quarter of 2003. Net income was $4.6 million, down 78 percent from the fourth quarter of 2003 at which time Blue Nile had applied a $15.7 million tax benefit to offset future earnings. Income before taxes
during the fourth quarter increased 38.3 percent to $7.1 million.
Net sales for the year ending January 2, 2005, were $169.2 million, up
31.3 percent from 2003, and income before taxes was $15.6 million.
Same Diamond, Different Internet Sites; What's Up?
I Just Saw a fantastic response from my Dad on a thread on one of the diamond discussion forums where a consumer asked the following question:
"Hello,
New diamond seeker here. I just purchased a princess cut from Mondera 3 days ago (hasn't shipped yet). Then doing some more looking around today I found that the EXACT same diamond (same cert.) is for sale on 3 other sites. And one is selling it for almost $100 cheaper!
So do all these sites have the same supplier? What are the chances that Mondera will cut down my price if I call them and ask them about it? Thanks for any responses".
Before I give you the link to this thread so that you can read it in its entirety, I think a brief overview on "Virtual Diamond Listings" is in order:
Drop Shipping has enabled websites to give themselves the appearance of a fully stocked retail store, without the costs, or proper knowledge/know how associated with a running a "Bricks and Mortar" (retail store) establishment.
More recently this concept has reached into the diamond industry so that there are now diamond vendors selling "virtual diamonds", or VD diamonds, from various wholesalers that are shipped directly to the end consumer without ever passing through the vendor first. Many of these vendors know absolutely nothing about diamonds and just decided to create an online business for themselves by opening up a virtual online diamond store.
They tack on the databases of diamonds from various wholesale companies, making sure to add a healthy markup for themselves. The unsuspecting customer goes ahead and purchases a diamond off one of these lists which subsequently gets shipped out directly from the Mfgr. facility to his address.
Holy %&#@!!*&!
Where Do I Sign Up!!!
... H'mmm, I think I'll Sell Diamonds!
The problem with this approach is the lack of knowledge, diamond information, accountability, and service on the part of the vendor which all too often results in terrible "buyers remorse" where a diamond was not quite as advertised and the customer has nobody to turn to.
Our Company does not sell virtual diamonds, period. We are a fourth generation owned and operated diamond manufacturing company and only sell our own exclusively manufactured SuperbCert Diamonds which are all physically here in our possession, and can be viewed either online, or in our N.Y.C. diamond showroom and offices.
To read this incredibly important discussion on virtual online diamond vendors, click here.
Awesome Diamond Enagagement Ring Experience & Testimonial From Our Exceldiamonds Customer!
Here is a beautiful testimonial that a recent customer of ous sent us a link to. He originally posted this on his personal blog which you can see at www.russmann.com. I am taking the liberty of cutting and pasting this testimonial in it's entirety here on diamond views. In addition to Russ' positive experience with buying our Exceldiamonds-SuperbCert Super-Ideal Hearts and Arrows ideal cut diamond diamond engagement ring online, is his informative information regarding his overall diamond shopping experience. For you consumers first starting out on this journey, there is much to learn from Russ' shopping experiences. Read on.
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Russ & His Bride!!
January 11, 2006
Are You In the Market for A Diamond Ring?
My Story of Buying an Engagement Ring
Are you in the market for a diamond ring, an engagement ring, or jewelry? Do you care about acquiring the highest quality product for a fair price? Do you want to make the best impression possible with your gift? This is the story of my four month journey learning the ins and outs of the retail diamond market, the custom jewelry market, and the jewelry appraisal market! Perhaps a short read will help you accomplish your goals in your own purchase.
If you’re looking to buy diamonds for any occasion, or other jewelry, it’s important to know what you’re getting yourself into, and once you know, it’s easy to see who you can trust. Don’t just blindly hand over your two months salary, or whatever your budget is, to anyone and hope they give you something worth the money – get an education!
In May of 2005 I decided it was time to propose to the most beautiful woman on the planet, and started shopping for an engagement ring. See her picture to the left – I told you she is beautiful! I’m Italian, so before laying down the dough for something I like to know that I’m getting a good value, and not just being played like a schnook. What I found in the diamond retail market is a huge variance and not a lot of help for the little guy.
Diamond education is actually harder to come by than you might expect. If you go to the mall (affectionately known as the maul in the industry) I guarantee the salespeople will not educate you about diamonds. The few who appear to be educating you are very slanted toward pushing their products, so what you get for an “education” is nothing but a bluff. One maul store tried to sell very poor quality rocks with their “proprietary” cut that was really nothing special, but it gave them justification for inflating the price on very cheap rocks. There are four main factors to consider with a diamond: Carat Weight, Color, Clarity, and Cut. To that I personally add Commission, Commodity Value, and Cost, because as a man I want to get the best value for my commodity, while at the same time valuing the emotion involved.
Buying a diamond involves a lot of trade-offs, and each person wants something different when it comes to carat, color, clarity, cut, and cost. Taking those five “C’s,” pick 4 and we’ll talk.
Carat Weight
Carat weight is easy to understand – the bigger the diamond, the more carat weight it has. For an engagement ring, your woman will look at it several times a day for the rest of her life, some estimate a million views in her lifetime, and let’s face it, size matters. I personally decided to get a 1 carat stone. A one carat stone where I come from is basically ridiculously enormous, but the effect I was going for was to really pamper my lady and communicate that she’s ridiculously special to me.
Color
Color is easy to understand as well. The scale goes from D which is completely colorless and for normal jewelry ranges to about J, which has a noticeable yellow tint when you look at it carefully. I wanted to go with something in the GHI color category, because these are colorless to the naked eye, but some color can be seen under magnification. Since my lady wouldn’t be putting her ring under magnification or using special equipment most of the time, I thought that was a reasonable trade-off.
Clarity
Clarity has to do with inclusions. Inclusions is an industry word which simply means natural imperfections in the stone. A stone graded as IF is “Internally Flawless” and has no imperfections. VVS1 is Very Very Slightly Included Level 1, VVS2 is slightly more inclusions, VS1 has more, etc. VS2 is the lowest grade at which you definitely cannot see any inclusions with the naked eye. SI1 is the highest grade at which it is possible to see an inclusion, but it’s definitely visible under 10X magnification. I chose to shop between VS1 and SI1 for clarity. At the SI1 end of the scale I was a little nervous, and since that’s where I ended up buying, let me explain why.
Cut
The cut is the only human-regulated part of the diamond. A diamond cutter gets a raw diamond stone from the mines and has to figure out how to make a masterpiece out of a chunk of carbon atoms. The important factor in the cut is how the cut affects light return. When your lady looks at her ring, and when her mom looks at it, will they see something dull and un-amusing, or will it shock them with its brilliance and sparkle? Thankfully, there is science involved in the cut which helps in locating a well cut stone. You can find information about table percentage, pavilion depth, polish, and symmetry anywhere on the net, but I’d like to share some things which really made a difference to my decision. The crown and pavilion angles are not commonly reported on a diamond, but they have an important impact on the light return of a stone. A picture says 1000 words:
When a diamond cutter decides to go the extra mile, he can create an “Ideal Cut” diamond, with proportions within very exacting limits which should cause the maximum light return possible. When you start shopping for Ideal Cut diamonds, some things become apparent. The discount stores rarely deal in Ideal Cuts. The healthy wealthy stores like Tiffany’s and Co. do not deal in Ideal Cuts. Depending on where you live, local retailers are not dealing in Ideal Cut stones. This leaves the consumer to surf the net and try to find a needle in a haystack of options.
For the amount of money I was spending on an engagement ring, I didn’t want to be disappointed by the light return. It would seem little consolation to me to know my stone rates high in color, clarity, carat weight, and cost if when someone saw her left hand they didn’t see “WOW.” Incidentally, when they do see “WOW” people tend to want to know about the other factors. Even though there is a bit of a premium on Ideal Cut stones, because they take about twice as long for a diamond cutter to produce as a non-ideal stone, I chose to maximize on the cut.
Cost
Everyone is working with some type of budget. When you decide what you’re going to spend, and which parts of the other 4 “C’s” equation are important to you, it starts coming down to nickels and dimes. Should I buy a D color, VVS2 clarity, ½ carat stone, or for the same price should I buy an I color, SI1 full 1 carat stone? Each person must answer this question for himself, and that’s why you need the knowledge. There are a few sites on the web that sell diamonds from a list of available diamonds in the country. They don’t carry the stones in stock, and they’re all selling from the same list. These sites include bluenile.com and dirtcheapdiamonds.com. You can find some smokin’ deals on these sites, but there is a very important drawback to consider.
Service
There’s a world of difference in buying a stone that has all the mathematical proportions correct from a list, and buying from an experienced jeweler who has the rocks in stock and can provide extremely detailed information on light return, as well as the mathematical proportions. In my shopping experience, I did not find this service with list sellers, I did not find this service with Costco’s wholesale jewelry program, and I did not find it with Tiffany’s and Co. Where I found this level of personal service and support is ExcelDiamonds.com with Barry (Baruch) Gutwein.
Barry took the time to help me understand the parts of the diamond market that were more confusing to me and make recommendations based on my needs and desires. For each of his SuperbCert branded Super-Ideal Cut diamonds, he takes the time to provide all this information:
GIA grading report
MegaScope report
BrillianceScope report
Actual Hearts and Arrows photo
Actual ImageScope photo
Actual Inclusion photo
Additional diamond photos
Many sites will show photos of a “similar” stone, which isn’t what you’re buying! Don’t be fooled by this, be very careful as to what you’re looking at in the picture. Once you finally settle on a stone, make sure you put it into something beautiful. Take time to pay attention to the setting.
Setting
Tiffany’s and Co. invented the classic diamond solitaire setting that is the epitome of elegant style in engagement rings. The classic knife-edge ring in platinum is very beautiful and does an amazing job of setting the stone in a way to maximize the effect of all that light return. Unfortunately, Tiffany’s sells mandatory blue boxes with each ring, and those blue boxes apparently cost as much to produce as the diamond and setting put together. I found that a frugal shopper could spend about ½ the dollars to get a perfect stone and setting without the blue box. Not all replicas are created equally, however. For the setting that I like, cheap replicas are available everywhere, but they’re not custom created for the stone, the basket in which the diamond sits is sized to be approximately fitting, then it is molded to hold the stone. It’s also soldered to the shank in most cases, rather than the whole thing being one complete piece of metal. I chose to spend about three times as much as the cheap replicas in order to have one that looks perfectly like the original, and is made 100% custom from start to finish. That choice paid off very well. Barry at ExcelDiamonds.com happens to carry what I consider to be the absolute best in Tiffany-style settings.
Wrap-Up
To wrap it all up, with all that information and research, which took about 4 months of speaking to salespeople, visiting different locations including Tiffany’s in Portland, and several local shops, this is what I purchased for my beloved:
Carat : 1.03
Cut : Super Ideal, H&A
Clarity : SI1
Color : H
GIA Specifications
Measurements : 6.54 - 6.58 x 4
Depth : 61%
Table : 55%
Girdle : Thin to Medium, Faceted
Culet : None
Polish : Excellent
Symmetry : Excellent
Clarity Characteristics : Crystal, Cloud, Needle
Fluorescence : Medium blue
MegaScope Specifications
Crown Angle : 34.3
Crown Height : 14.6%
Pavil. Angle : 41%
Pavil. Depth : 43.3%
Pictures are included at the end of this article.
In the end, I purchased from Barry at Superb Cert, and didn’t go to either Tiffany’s or Costco. Here’s why:
Tiffany's:
I found someone on diamondtalk.com who pointed out via PM that no one knows she's wearing a Tiffany unless she tells them. When they see it, it's pretty, but the ring should speak for itself. Since I could get a lot more brilliance and bang for my buck elsewhere...
And my (now wife) isn't the type of gal to care about the brand name. She does care about the quality, and if she knows a certain brand is quality she likes that, but in the end, she'd rather have something awesome that isn't a brand than something less awesome that is a brand.
Costco:
For the undereducated buyer, Costco is probably a good choice. However, once I settled on wanting a specific setting, Costco can't help. The Tiffany classic e-ring setting is the classiest ring I've seen, and Costco's version of it misses the boat. Their rocks are decent, but in the end I wanted the most brilliance for the buck and decided an ideal cut was necessary.
The Winner: SuperbCert - Barry and Judah Gutwein
Their Tiffany setting is 100% perfect. In fact, it's more perfect than the original. The prongs that hold on the rock are chevron'd at the top, whereas the originals are just flat. It adds to the look and class. My wife and I visited Chicago for our honeymoon, and went to the Tiffany's there. She compared her ring to what they have in the case and was honestly more impressed with hers than what Tiffany's was selling. SuperbCert's ideal cut stones are a little more expensive than the "diamond list" retailers like Blue Nile etc. However, I am comfortable paying that little extra to get full disclosure on the exact rock I'm purchasing online. With the others, you get specs but no light analysis, inclusion map, etc. Also, they're hand picked by Barry and Judah specifically as excellent light performers. I understand it is possible to get a 0-0-0 that is still not actually looking good under light conditions.
They were able to work with me on price point and Barry was the absolute best pre-sales service to work with. No one else even came close.
I really recommend getting a thorough education on diamonds before buying. If you don't have time for that, I believe you can trust Barry to shoot you straight.
The Proposal, and Why Light Return is Important
This is the part of the story I’m sure you’ve been waiting for. How did the proposal go? Did she like it? Did her mom like it? Is she the envy of all her friends, enemies, and coworkers?
To propose I decided to recreate our first date as closely as possible. I kept track of what I wore that day and dressed the same. I picked her up at the same time, and had the same music playing in the car. I wasn’t able to use the same car as our first date (I had borrowed a Porsche Boxter, but my friend has since sold it), but we did take a nice car. I took her to the same restaurant and on the same after dinner drive to a view spot for a romantic setting to sit and talk.
The restaurant is called The Wine Cellar and is a wine bar with live jazz and blues every night. We got an out of the way table and ordered two flights of port, and something to snack on. The Wine Cellar is very dimly lit, and a candle on your table provides most of the lighting. At the right time, I got on my knee and presented her with the ring and a question.
It was at this point that the light return of a Super-Ideal Cut stone became very important. In the low lit club it showed brilliance and fire that was unbelievable. The size was noticed second, as it just shone so clearly. We left and took a walk, and under some fluorescent lights it returned so much white light that it was a bit surreal. The next day, in the sunshine, it was a driving hazard as it did its best to knock out the eyes of anyone on the road. Bottom line, it’s a hit!
And, she said yes. She’s quite impressed, and her mom is impressed, and her women friend just can’t help but to gawk and giggle over the deal. An unintended consequence of this is her unmarried friends’ boyfriends now have a lot of work cut out for them. I hear that at least one of them wants my help when he gets ready to go shopping.
What Now?
If you’re looking for a quality diamond, a quality setting, and a reasonable price for diamond jewelry, I seriously recommend that you give Barry at ExcelDiamonds.com a chance to help you find the best deal for your money. Barry is the type of guy who doesn’t hoard all the good stuff to himself, so he created a referral program to bless those who send business his way. When you contact Barry, please go to this page:
Refer A Diamond
Click the radio button next to this:
a new customer; I have been referred by a friend who has purchased from Excel Diamonds previously: Below please find my information. I have been referred to SuperbCert/Exceldiamonds prior to my purchase by the individual below.
For my information, please use this:
First Name: Russell
Last Name: Mann
E-mail Address: russell.mann@gmail.com
Best Contact Phone #: 208-773-6310
If you do contact Barry about a diamond, let me know, I’m interested to see what others experiences are at this!
For more pictures, see the rest of this article.
Appraisal
Once you have your ring, make sure you get it independently appraised. If you pay more than 1 large for it, you'll probably want some type of insurance for loss, theft, etc. 99% of the appraisers out there are connected with a jewlery retailer. It is not possible for these people to be truly objective about the value of any jewlery, as they have a stake in selling you something other than the appraisal. I found the only independent appraiser in Spokane, WA - Jan Jennings. Her company name is Master Jewelry Appraisal Services and she did a great job for us. Her phone is (509) 534-6555.
If you get an ideal-cut stone, make sure your appraiser includes this information on the appraisal, because that is what the insurance company will go off of if you need to make a claim. They will replace with like kind, so make sure the details of your cut and setting are well understood. Re-appraise every 5 years to make sure the value you're insuring is proper to the actual stone.
Diamond Testimonial for ExcelDiamonds.com
Hi everyone!
Here is a really heartfelt testimonial that we received today from one of our thrilled Exceldiamonds customers!
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Diamond testimonial
I recently had a very positive experience with Exceldiamonds and want to offer my views of why.
I began looking for the diamond my wife deserves - after 33 years of marriage. She followed me around the Army for 24 years of the 33. I knew little about diamonds but started doing internet searches and went to several jewelry stores in our local malls. Usually I knew more than the salesperson. I also checked for positive and negative comments about diamond retailers in internet diamond chat rooms. I dropped some of those because they were only diamond sellers, they did not know diamonds. It was just a commodity to them. I dropped some sites because their web site was difficult to navigate, or unattractive, or they had little educational information, no good return policy, or wouldn’t give a price, etc, etc. I also found that there was no clear language between sites; some sold ideal cut diamonds, some sold excellent ideal, some sold premium cut diamonds, some stressed 4 C’s (cut/color/clarity/carat). Others said their diamonds should be judged by 5 or 6 “C’s.” I could go on, but it seemed there was a program to keep consumers confused instead of informed.
One site that was particularly attractive, informative, and where I was offered very personable service was Excel Diamonds. They really know diamonds! Diamonds are their passion, and have been for at least 3 generations. When I called or e-mailed, I was quickly contacted by Barry, the owner and/or his son, Judah. Their best diamonds, manufactured by them, are called SuperbCert and they are beautiful beyond description. I had one of their SuperbCert diamonds, a 1.17 D I1, and another diamond (someone else’s) sent to an independent appraiser and clearly the superior diamond was the Superbcert. Although it is an I1 clarity, I defy you to find any inclusion. Due to its’ perfect cut, etc, it looked bigger and sparkled more than you would ever think! I bought it soon thereafter and had it mounted in a beautiful Vatche setting and it is gorgeous!
Although I was skeptical about buying a diamond over the internet I am now a believer in buying one from Excel diamonds for the following reasons –
*Most importantly, everything I was told was true-there was no shady half-truths or cleverly hidden surprises or confusing diamond trade jargon.
*Excel diamond’s web site is attractive and easy to navigate. It was the best I looked at among many.
*I found a lot of information about diamonds in general and also about individual diamonds. I especially liked the brilliant scope data that shows how well each diamond reflects white and colored light and the scintillation or sparkle.
*There is a lot of educational information on the excel diamond web site.
*Barry and Judah have an excellent return policy. If I didn’t love the diamond-I could return it easily.
*All policies were well explained.
*Both Barry and Judah were very patient and personable - not overly aggressive, but attentive, and they gave me honest advice, not just advice that would result in biggest financial gain for them.
*They encouraged independent appraisal, which I took them up on.
*They seemed to enjoy a good reputation on the internet diamond discussion sites like diamondtalk.
*They sell certified diamonds and have the certifications displayed on their website. *Their diamonds are all GIA and AGS certified – not certified by one of the Mom and Pop labs that gathered mixed comments on the internet discussion sites.
*They have a good selection of diamonds and a good upgrade policy if I ever want to trade in my 1.17 in on a larger diamond. I could go on.
Superlatives fail me. Without reservation, I recommended Excel Diamonds. My highest recommendation! Kim M.
Important New Website Launched by Jewelers Security Alliance.
The Jewelers Security Alliance (JSA) has launched an online stolen jewelry website clearinghouse for the industry and consumers. Consumers and industry members can report stolen goods on the website by filling out an online form.
Users may also fill out an incident report online, browse security advice, and stay current with the latest crime spree news from across the United States.
The website also offers the alliance's "most wanted" criminal list for which there are eight mug-shots at this time. The JCK Industry Fund provided a grant to fund the website.
Report Your Stolen Diamonds and Jewelry Here
Custom Diamond Engagement Ring By ExcelDiamonds.com
Hi everyone!
Here is a stunning custom diamond engagement ring that we just completed in our factory for one of our customers.
The center diamond is our gorgeous SuperbCert Super-Ideal Cut Hearts & Arrows Round Diamond! Specs are: 1.62 I Color (can you believe that!...it faces up soo much whiter), VS1 Clarity.
The custom mounting was done in 950 pure platinum with a matching diamond eternity wedding band.
Side diamonds are approximately .04 carat each, F Color and VS Clarity.
These diamonds have exceptional cut quality, color, and clarity!
Here are some pics. WHICH DO NOT REALLY DO ANY JUSTICE TO THE ACTUAL BEAUTY OF THIS DIAMOND ENGAGEMENT RING.
Enjoy!
Judah
WhiteFlash Diamond Video Tutorial
Brian Gavin and the folks at Whiteflash have put together a really excellent selection of diamond videos designed to educate consumers on the four diamond "C's", better known as diamond cut, diamond, clarity, diamond carat, and diamond color.
If you are more of a visual learner these videos will be very beneficial to you.
Hearts On Fire Diamonds. Why?
Some time ago I blogged here concerning Hearts on Fire Diamonds and their website makeover.
There are websites that piggy back on the hearts on fire brand name recognition every day.
My question is why?
The Hearts on Fire Diamonds are very nice and extremely expensive.
They are possibly the most recognizable diamond brand no small thanks (due) to their uber marketing to the tune of millions of dollars a year.
Customers who buy into this brand are paying for this marketing.
The reality is that there are similar or better cut diamonds available today for less money, plain and simple.
With a little bit of homework on the internet you will find websites that offer Super-Ideal Cut Diamonds which are crafted to achieve greater precision and brilliancy than the typical ideal cut Hearts on Fire Diamond, and for substantially less money.
Most importantly, some websites will actually give you real hard data, and scientific information to quantify your diamonds cut precision and beauty, not just the romantic fluff and marketing spit out by Hearts on Fire's website.
In short, the Hearts on Fire Diamonds are definitely nice.
Are they the best diamonds that money can buy to the exclusion of all others? Certainly not.
Are they pricey? Hmm... not unless taking out a mortgage to buy a loose diamond is no big deal for you.
Are they worth the premium? You decide.
Do they offer any real information to actually back up their claim of selling "the world's most perfectly cut diamond"? NO.
My personal opinion (others may disagree) is; "Buy the diamond, not the Brand".
The reality is that Hearts on Fire has built a very successful business model selling their diamonds through carefully selected and authorized store-based jewelers across the Country.
The jewelry stores love their flagship diamond brand because of the mandated pricing structure which allows them to make a whopping profit on every diamond they sell.
The customers who buy into the brand (and don't realize or mind the hugely inflated price tag) are also happy with "The world's most perfectly cut diamond" because assuredly the diamond is quite beautiful.
What is interesting to note however, is the fact that Hearts on Fire branded diamonds are not sold or marketed on the Internet.
In fact, Hearts on Fire diamonds could never survive on the Internet, where diamonds of even better cut quality and beauty are sold every day for a fraction of the price.
The customers who buy Hearts on Fire diamonds in the stores, would probably never buy a diamond on the net...period. They enjoy and are willing to pay for the beauty, brilliancy and consistency of The Hearts On Fire Diamonds.
Conversely, the customers who research buying diamonds on-line and wind up with an ideal cut, hearts & arrows diamond purchased on the net at a fraction of the Hearts on Fire diamond prices, will probably never walk back into a local jewelry store again......
The "right decision" and the "right diamond" is the one that works for you, personally.
Borrow Diamonds and Jewelry!
Yes, you heard right!
There is this really cool website that has functioned up until now as a source for loaning beautiful handbags and purses for that special night out. The site features collections from Balenciaga, Chloe, and Fendi. The site lets customers pick from 3 levels of monthly membership, paying $19.95 to be a "trendsetter," $49.95 to be a "princess" and $99.95 to be a "diva". Each level gives members access to a different "closet" of handbags in various styles and prices.
Well, they have been so succesfull with this that they are now planning to round out their bag offerings with fine jewelry and watches starting in early April 2006. The company says its collection will boast baubles by David Yurman, John Hardy, Judith Ripka, and Tiffany, and will include watches by Marc Jacobs, Raymond Weil, Gucci and more!!
Check them out here!!
Custom Diamond Studded Cuflinks!
Someone sent me a link to this great website which sells custom manufactured engraved jewelry in gold or platinum with diamonds.
Custom made Cufflinks in Gold
This guy designs some really cool stuff like solid gold cufflinks carved with your initials, engraved neckleces etc.
Check him out.
Custom Made Diamond Eternity Ring
Hey Folks,
Check out this custom made diamond eternity band we just finished making in our factory!
Diamonds are G /VS and total 2.20 carats
Metal is 950 Platinum
Constructed was completely customized so as to allow maximum surface area of the diamond to be visible from all sides without compromising the integrity of the set diamonds.
Notice the distinctive U shaped Prongs and how it allows for maximum viewing of the diamonds.
It almost seems as if the diamonds are just floating out there....really beautiful the way it came out (IMO)
Abazias Offers New Diamond Line For Men
Diamond and jewelry website Abazias Diamonds added a new line to its offerings, targeting price points between $100 and $2,000, the company reports. The new line reaches out to young males. Abazias' previous online offerings were restricted to engagement and wedding rings with a small sampling of women's jewelry.
Oscar Rodriguez, Abazias CEO, (and a personal friend of ours) said that the next step is to add a ready-to-wear Paris Hilton watch line, expected to debut in April.
Hey guys, we are happy for you and wish you every success!
Team at ExcelDiamonds.com
Tiffany To Open Two New Diamond & Jewelry Stores In China.
Luxury retailer Tiffany & Co., plans to open two new stores in China during 2006. One store will open at Beijing's Oriental Plaza, and a second store at Shanghai's Plaza 66. Beijing is scheduled to open in May, and Shanghai could open towards the end of the year, the company reports.
"The Oriental Plaza in Beijing and Plaza 66 in Shanghai are ideal environments for a Tiffany store," said Darren Chen, group vice president at Tiffany & Co. "These convenient locations expand our presence both in Beijing and Shanghai, cities of growing importance as global business centers and as destinations for both domestic and overseas tourists."
Once the new stores open, Tiffany will have a total of two stores in each of those prominent cities. Tiffany currently has a boutique in Beijing's Peninsula Palace Hotel, which opened in 2001, and a boutique in the City Plaza shopping complex in Shanghai, which opened in 2004.
How do say "Bling-Bling" in Chinese?
"Bring-Bring"!
Diamond Identification Method for Consumers: Bring Napkins
The Financial Times of London reports on a novel way to identify Diamonds from fakes:
It is said that Alexander the Great found a valley full of both diamonds and poisonous snakes. No one could work out how to retrieve the jewels until Alexander had the idea of throwing down raw meat, to which the diamonds attached. When eagles flew down for the meat, Alexander's men just had to follow them to their nests.
It sounds like fantasy but diamonds are attracted to fat, and the story reminded people how to tell real diamonds from fakes. De Beers still practise Alexander's trick in their South Africa mines today: They use "grease tables" and only the valuable stones stick.
Today, most engagement rings are diamond but after the war, people wanted holidays, cars or colorful gems to celebrate a future marriage.
In 1947 a New York copywriter, given the task of finding a slogan for her client's product, stayed late in the office. "I put my head down and said: 'Please God, send me a line.'" Then she scribbled: "A Diamond is Forever" and the rest is History.
Jewelers Debate Impact of Online Jewelry Sales
Just found an interesting link to an article that talks about the ongoing debate about the increased impact of diamond and jewelry websites over traditional brick and mortar jewelers.
Interesting read. Check it out.
Buying Loose Diamonds, Engagement Rings, Wedding Bands, & Wedding Rings: Trust and Verify.
Marshall Loeb of Market Watch quotes our friend and colleague, Jay Mednikow with advice to consumers on how to safely shop for loose diamonds, engagement rings, wedding rings and bands, both in jewlery stores and through internet websites. It is advice we agree with 100% and worth following.
Few purchases are more mystifying for first-time buyers than fine jewelry. There's more information out there than ever - from jewelers' Web sites and online forums to nearly ubiquitous grading reports from independent labs. But buying expensive gems and precious metals is still largely a matter of trust between you and the jeweler.
First, educate yourself on the basics. For diamonds, that means the four Cs: cut, color, clarity and carat weight. For gold, platinum and silver, it means purity.
You can find helpful information on these fundamentals from the Federal Trade Commission ( FTC) and the Better Business Bureau (BBB). The Gemological Institute of America, the most prominent diamond grading agency, provides tutorials on buying diamonds and colored gems at (GIA Education).
"It's less of a blind purchase than it used to be," says Jay Mednikow, president of 115-year-old Mednikow Jewelers in Memphis and Atlanta. "But a jeweler who knows what he's doing can take advantage of you if he wants to."
Thus, there is still no substitute for a reliable dealer with an established reputation. Many jewelers are GIA-certified gemologists and display their credentials prominently.
For diamonds, Mednikow recommends buying only those with grading certificates from GIA, the American Gem Society or another independent laboratory. If a jeweler says he can offer you an uncertified diamond at a discount, tell him you'll pay to have it analyzed since the cost should be only $50 to $300 depending on the size of the stone. Read warranty and return policies carefully and make sure all guarantees are written on your sales receipt - it's your legal contract.
You may have a hard time distinguishing between slight variations in color and clarity, but still trust your own eyes.
Mednikow recommends holding diamonds with a pair of tweezers over your finger or against a white background and under lights of different types and varying brightness. With shapes other than round-cut, which has standard specifications, and with colored gems, you will have to rely much more on the jeweler's expertise.
If you are buying a colored stone such as a ruby, sapphire or diamond, ask if it has been "treated" to enhance the color. Some processes are routine, like heating for sapphires and rubies and oiling for emeralds, but others are temporary or undesirable.
Up to half the gold jewelry sold in the U.S. bears a false karat rating, says Mednikow. Choosing a reliable merchant is your only insurance, although national retailers like Zales and Sears are diligent about the purity of their gold.
Guess Where You Can Buy Diamonds & Jewelry? You Won't Believe It!
Idex Research today reports that Specialty jewelers who lament that they are losing sales to discounters, department stores, and many other retail categories are correct. Just-released information from the U.S. Department of Commerce reveals that for every specialty jeweler in the U.S., there are three other merchants – whose primary business is not jewelry – who are also selling diamonds, precious metals, and other goods that have traditionally been the domain of specialty jewelers.
There are just over 128,000 retailers in the U.S. who sell jewelry in their stores, according to the latest Business Census data from the U.S. Department of Commerce. Roughly 28,000 of those stores, or about 22 percent of all jewelry retail outlets, are specialty jewelers; the others represent a wide variety of retail categories including department stores, general merchandise stores, warehouse clubs, apparel retailers, non-store retailers, and a number of other specialty retailers. The graph below illustrates the mix of specialty jewelers to total retailers of jewelry in the U.S.
Stores Selling Jewelry by Category
Percent of Total of 128,000 Stores
Source: Dept. of Commerce
Because jewelry is such an attractive industry – gross margins are healthy and the long term characteristics of demand are positive – there are many merchants who are trying to sell jewelry.
Further, as a result of few barriers to entry, retailing attracts a large number of merchants who will try to sell anything to make a profit.
The bad news for specialty jewelers is that they are losing market share to those merchants whose business is not primarily selling jewelry. Over the past decade, specialty jewelers’ market share in the U.S. has dropped from about 50 percent to just over 47 percent, as the graph below illustrates.
There may be some surprises among the list of retailers who are gaining – and those who are losing – market share in the jewelry category. As expected, non-store retailers have among the strongest growth of any retail category. Stores that retail sporting goods, hobby supplies, books, and music (a single category, according to the Department of Commerce) have also posted strong jewelry sales gain, though this category generated an aggregate of just over $100 million in sales. That was just enough to be included on the Idex list, which analyzes only retail categories with $100 million or more in annual jewelry sales.
A graph of those retail categories that are gaining market share and those which are losing market share is shown below. These are all of the retail categories which report that they have $100 million or more of jewelry sales annually.
U.S. Specialty Jewelers’ Market Share
Source: Dept. of Commerce
Who Is Taking Jewelry Market Share?
Sales Growth over Past Ten Years by Retail Category
In addition to the list of logical purveyors of jewelry, there are a number of surprises on this list of jewelry outlets. For example, the Commerce Department’s Business Census, lists 117 stores which primarily sell beer and wine that also sell jewelry. You can gas up your car at 178 gasoline stations that also sell jewelry. In addition, there are about 385 convenience stores (such as 7-Eleven) which sell jewelry; 1,210 book stores sell jewelry; and, 37 pet stores also sell jewelry. In the prior Business Census (1997) about 85 automobile dealers also sold jewelry; by 2002, however, those car dealers apparently had stopped selling gemstones and watches.
Here’s an exhaustive list of all merchants who sell jewelry, but whose primary product line is not jewelry.
* Furniture & furnishings stores
* Consumer electronics stores
* Appliance stores
* Home centers, including building materials, lawn & garden supplies, nurseries, farm supply and hardware stores
* Grocery stores, supermarkets, convenience stores
* Fruit, vegetable, confectionery, and nut stores
* Beer, wine, and liquor stores
* Cosmetics, beauty supplies, and perfume stores
* Optical goods stores
* Gasoline stations
* Clothing stores, including men’s wear, women’s wear, children and family clothing, shoe stores, and infants’ stores
* Luggage and leather goods stores
* Sporting goods, hobby, and musical instrument stores
* Sewing, needlework, and piece goods shops
* Book stores, news dealers, college book shops
* Music stores
* Department stores
* Warehouse clubs
* Variety stores
* Florists
* Office supply, stationery, and gift shops
* Used merchandise stores (pawn shops are included in this category)
* Pet stores, art dealers, tobacco stores
* Electronic shopping and mail-order retailers
* Vending machine operators and direct selling, including in-home sales
Custom Made 3 Stone Diamond Engagement Ring
Check out this magnificent custom diamond engagement ring that we just finished for our customer.
The ring is a custom piece by Vatche, designed in 950 platinum.
Side diamonds are two perfectly matching pears of .25 carats each (G/VS).
Center diamond is our very own stunning .87 D SI1 SuperbCert Signature Super Ideal Cut Hearts & Arrows stone.
Zales COO Resigns.
Management shifts continue at Zale Corp. as the company announced the departure of another top executive, Sue Gove, executive vice president, chief operating officer and member of Zale's board of directors.
Gove resigned as an officer and director effective immediately, according to a Zale release issued Thursday. She follows former CEO Mary Forte and former Zales Jewelers' president Paul Leonard, both of whom left the company earlier this year.
"The company would like to thank Sue for her many contributions over the last 25 years, and we wish her well in her future endeavors," Richard Marcus, chairman of Zale's board of directors, said in the statement. "We are very appreciative of the talent, dedication and passion she brought to the business."
Zale is currently operating with an interim CEO, Betsy Burton, and has not named a successor to Forte.
Expect a continued Management shake-up at Zales who have been losing money at a rapid rate as we have chronicled here: Zales Loss . Increased competition from the Internet and the flight to diamond and jewelry quality by consumers are a few of the reasons for Zales downward spiral.
I hope the Zales Board of Directors at least gave her a Gold Watch on her way out the door.
Blue Nile Launches New Interactive Diamond Search
Blue nile announces in a recent press release (here) that they have now expanded their interactive loose diamond search to include variables such as diamond table/depth percentage, diamond lab grading report, price, etc.
Wow! how advanced are our corporate "diamond" (a.k.a. MBA) friends at Blue Nile that they only now have jumped on the bandwagon many companies have already pursued with a search capability that provides greater control and specificity to the diamond consumer.....
All of this stuff just keeps highlighting the fact that Blue Nile is really catering (succesfully) to the mass market of people who just want a decent/nice looking diamond at a fair price.
The entire website at www.bluenile.com with all of its pages and information is structured to appeal to this segment.
While high on fluff, with lengthy tutorials on the basic "4 c's " of diamonds, it provides little meat and substance on the most important aspects of a loose diamond, namely; cut precision and light performance.
Even their selection of Blue Nile Signature Diamonds are accompanied by no more than a copy of the grading report and some basic specs.
No GemEx BrillianceScope (www.gemex.com) , No Sarin/MegaScope Cut precision analysis (www.ogisystems.com), No diamond Ideal - Scope images, No hearts & arrows photos, No actual diamond photographs.....basically not much of anything.
Obviously, the reason for this is due to the fact that they do not actually own or posses any of these "50,000 virtual diamonds". Rather, they drop ship it from the diamond wholesaler directly to the end consumer.
It's nice to see that they are at least going to be providing their customers with a better drill down for searching loose diamonds going forward....
small step for consumer, BIG step for Blue Nile.
Before You Buy From www.cubicjewelry.com / www.cubiczircon.com / www.czplatinum.com, Read This!
O.k.
We have been asked for quite some time now by many customers and tradespeople alike to post a blog, alerting people to the many written and documented complaints on the Internet regarding cz-platinum.com (just one of their aliases) www.cubiczircon.com, www.cubicjewelry.com and their many other URL's on the net. These well documented and archived consumer complaints in cyberspace range from unhappiness with the quality of their products, customer service, and policies, to more significant complaints of possible fraud.
This company also operates under the names www.czengagementrings.com (cubic zirconium engagement rings), www.cubiczircon.com, www.eczjewelry.com (engagement cubic zirconium jewelry), and "The diamond store".
While it is not the nature of this diamond blog to post these types of threads, the fact is that this company has a significant and growing number of dissatisfied customers on the net with a variety of complaints, some of which are quite significant and concern possible fraudulent charges made to their credit cards.
Before you plunk down your hard earned money for some of the silver and cz diamond jewelry at www.czplatinum.com, www.cubiczircon.com, www.cubicjewelry.com etc. there are a few things you ought to be aware of.
Consumers on the net have noted the following:
1. The jewelry sold by this company is of extremely poor quality and craftsmanship, is not as advertised, and certainly not what you are paying for.
2. Their customer support and service is virtually non existent. They will not honor their own stated policies. They will not refund your money. They will not send you what was promised.
3. Some consumers have even noted fraudulent charges made on their credit cards shortly after they placed an order with this company. While this is not a sure indication of any illegal activity on the part of cubic zircon.com, it bears careful consideration nonetheless.
Cz platinum jewelry, cubic zirconia jewelry, cubiczircon.com, cubicjewelry.com, and all of its "subsidiaries" are based out of one office suite in downtown Los Angeles.
They have been rated by the BBB (Better Business Bureau) of Los Angeles with the worst possible F rating that a company can receive. With over 150 listed consumer complaints ranging from lack of service and product quality, to outright fraud. This rating is available to the public via the BBB website. You can see this link for yourself here. This will take a few seconds to load, but is worth the wait.
They are listed with the LA BBB under the Company ID #13152178. Their address is listed as 611 Wilshire Blvd. Suite 700. Contact is a guy by the name of Sam.
Much has been written on the Internet by many unhappy customers of this jewelry company currently known as "Cz Platinum Jewelry" .com, cubiczircon.com and www.cubicjewelry.com
Here are but a few posts in cyberspace by some of these customers of this cubic zirconium platinum jewelry company on the internet:
http://www.diamondtalk.com/forums/t66804-donotorderfromczplatinumcom.html
http://www.diamondtalk.com/forums/t60925-rememberczplatinumhelp.html
http://www.ripoffreport.com/reports/ripoff149118.htm
http://www.ripoffreport.com/reports/ripoff170971.htm
Some of the other names this company uses is czengagementrings.com," www.cz-engagement-rings.com,www.cubiczircon.com
Cubic zirconia Jewelry shoppers be careful; Forearmed is forewarned.
There are many internet companies selling cz jewelry. Before you plunk down your hard earned money with anyone, make sure you have done your homework and are completely comfortable.
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***************Postscript dated Feb. 27, 2007******************
Due to the response and traffic on this posting, we have been contacted by Mr. Howard Johnson who is director of consumer relations at www.cubiczircon.com and all of its subsidiaries. He has also responded to several consumer comments on this thread.
He has expressed his desire and commitment to help each and every wronged customer of his company.
You should contact him directly at Howard@ejewelryservice.com Attention: Howard.
Please reference this thread and ask him personally for help with resolving any of your problems.
He has asked that you provide him (either on this thread in the comments section, or in your direct e-mail to cubicjewelry.com) with your order number given to you at the time your order was placed. He will need this order number before he can help you with your problem (s).
Your order number was provided to you with your initial e-mail order confirmation.
We look forward to hearing your subsequent feedback.
Diamonds Are A Girl's Best Friend, NOT Moissanite.
Shares of jewelry maker and sole source of moissanite Charles & Colvard Ltd., fell on March 27, a day after the company forecasted lower quarterly sales due to substantially lower orders from K&G Creations.
Shares dipped $1.73, or 12.8 percent, to $11.75. The stock price is down 27 percent so far this year, adjusted for stock splits.
In a company statement on March 26, Charles & Colvard said sales for first quarter fiscal year 2006 are expected to be between $7.5 million and $8.4 million, which is 25 percent to 33 percent lower than a year ago. The company expects K&G's orders to slip due to lower orders from the 2005 merger of its customers, Federated Department Stores and May Department Stores Co.
Charles & Colvard’s board authorized the repurchase of up to one million common shares. Company shares have traded between $8.63 and $26.29 over the past year.
Engagement Ring Purchase onThe Internet: Is This A Good Deal?
Is the question being asked by a consumer this morning on Diamondtalk.com. He has seen a Princess Cut that is being listed on EIGHT different internet diamond websites at different prices!!
Discussion is here: Good Deal?
Here are the multiple listings for this one diamond:
Who really has this diamond?
2.23 I VS1 71.7% 72% GIA med-stk no gd vg no 7.42x7.27x5.21 $6209 $13847*SP
2.23 I VS1 71.7% 72% GIA med-stk no gd vg no 7.42x7.27x5.21 $6262 $13964SP
2.23 I VS1 71.7% 72% GIA med-stk no gd vg no 7.42-7.27-5.21 $6276 $13996*
2.23 I VS1 71.7% 72% GIA med-stk no gd vg no 7.42x7.27x5.21 $6291 $14029
2.23 I VS1 71.7% 72% GIA med-stk no gd vg no 7.42x7.27x5.21 $6306 $14062*S
2.23 I VS1 71.7% 72% GIA med-stk no gd vg no 7.42x7.27x5.21 $6308 $14066*SP
2.23 I VS1 71.7% 72% GIA med-stk no gd vg no 7.42*7.27*5.21 $6339 $14136*S
2.23 I VS1 71.7% 72% GIA med-sl thk no gd vg no 7.42x7.27x5.21 $7198 $16051
This diamond is supplied by the manufacturer to many internet websites and is known as a "Virtual Diamond".
Little if any information is provided save for a few numbers off the lab grading report and the price. You are buying blind.
We have blogged on this topic several times. Same Diamond Listed All Over The Internet?
Virtual Diamond (VD) databases do not give you the necessary information you need, e.g.; photo's, Imagescopes, and light performance data such as provided by the Gemex Brilliancescope. As such, these lists are useless. Would you buy a Home this way? I doubt it. Why should your diamond purchase be any different. It's also big money.
This is a big purchase not only because of the money, but even more so because of the emotion and psychology behind it. You need to get this right the first time. Work with Internet websites that give you comprehensive information.
Hearts On Fire To Replace The Dog with Diamonds, As Man's Best Friend.
Don't tell the family dog, but Hearts on Fire is making a bid to replace a man's favorite canine companion with diamonds.
The company announced that it is challenging the notion that custom diamonds are only gals' best friend by introducing a loose diamond program aimed specifically at men. The new platinum collection, "Distinguished," offers rings, bracelets and cuff links as semi-mounts for diamonds of male customers' own choosing.
"Men are wearing more and more diamond jewelry, and are demanding more of a selection, much like women have," designer Katherine Rosenberg-Pineau, Hearts on Fire vice president of product development and merchandising, said in a release. "Why shouldn't men be able to select the diamond of their choice, too? The 'Distinguished' collection offers this."
In platinum, the collection retails from $5,900-$20,000. Hearts on Fire touted Olympic Gold medalist Apolo Anton Ohno in its release, who wears the brand's "DreamStone Talisman" around his neck. It retails for $16,000.
"Diamonds Are For Ever", But Are Diamond Mines?
Cramer's Mining Weekly reports that the slogan "Diamonds may be forever", but the same cannot be said of diamond-mines.
While De Beers Consolidated Mines (DBCM), the largest producer of diamonds in South Africa, produced a record 15,2-millioncarats last year, it estimates that it will produce just over 14-million carats this year.
Part and parcel of new DBCM MD David Noko’s strategy is to sweat the company’s existing assets, and bring new, additional production on line.
“I do not think that we can grow production from our existing operations – we just can’t.
“Our installed capacity is fixed, and we need capital to improve it,” Noko, who was appointed as DBCM MD on February 7, tells Mining Weekly in an exclusive interview.
And, gaining approval for brownfield projects that do not meet the hurdle rates of the company’s principals is out of the question.
“There would be no point in injecting capital into declining mines like The Oaks, as a return would not be realised, but, by exception, all opportunities are being explored, the major ones being brownfields, but some being greenfields through finding partners that have large resources,” Noko says.
Hence, besides organic growth projects, DBCM’s growth strategy is levered on partnerships with smaller diamond-mining companies.
“If we partner with smaller companies, they will benefit from our knowledge, while we will benefit from the resources that they have acquired,” Noko says.
DBCM has many partnerships in Kimberley, where it has large tailings dumps that require advanced technology to turn the low grades of diamonds that they contain to proper account.
The company is also continuing to research the opportunities of working with junior miners and, in Kimberley, already 25% of revenue emerges from joint ventures with junior miners through contracts.
Diamond & Jewlery at Retail: How Much Money Is Involved?
The US jewelry retail industry generates annual revenues of about $44 billion from 28,000 specialty, department, and discount stores. Specialty retailers hold about 50 percent of the market. Wal-Mart is the biggest jewelry retailer in the country, followed by Zale, the biggest specialty jeweler with over 2,000 stores and kiosks. The industry is highly fragmented: the top 10 jewelry chains hold less than 25 percent of the market. Other large specialty retailers are Tiffany and Sterling, the US branch of British jeweler Signet Group.
Jewelry sales depend partly on consumer income. Small jewelers can effectively compete with large chains because price isn't the main factor determining retail sales. Profitability depends on the volume of sales because sales costs are high and fixed. Because gross margins are very high, often 50 percent, mass merchants like Wal-Mart have taken market share by controlling costs and cutting prices.
Jewelry is often classified as bridal merchandise (engagement, bridal and anniversary rings - about 35 percent of the market); fashion jewelry (rings, bracelets, earrings, pins, gold chains); and watches, silver flatware, and other giftware. Diamond jewelry and loose diamonds account for the largest share of total jewelry store sales (46 percent); gold jewelry for 11 percent; colored gemstone jewelry (rubies, sapphires, emeralds, etc.) 9 percent; and watches 4 percent.
Tiffany's Lucida Diamond: What is it ?
Tiffany & Co.'s Lucida is an exclusive patent pending diamond cut whose shape is a square mixed cut. It has 50 facets, a high crown, stepped facets, wide corners and a small table with a brilliant pavilion. The design of the cut maximizes the stone's sparkle and brilliance. A photo is shown below.
AGS-0 Ideal Cut Princess Diamonds have similar sparkle to the Tiffany Lucida, without the price tag!
Lucida Diamond.
Tiffany has added an eternity band and a three-stone ring as well. Lucida, which means the brightest star in a constellation, is available exclusively at Tiffany & Co. stores worldwide. The setting is copyrighted and the diamond has multiple patents pending.
The Lucida diamond is made from the same rough as a well-cut round. Created by Tiffany's gemologists, the cut is similar to the Asscher and antique Cushion Cuts. Tiffany showcases the Lucida cut in a special four-prong ring shown below. The sculptural band has clean lines and soft curves that merge with the prongs in a sloping crisscross design, which, when viewed from the side, is reminiscent of cathedral arches.
Lucida Ring.
Lucida was designed and introduced by Tiffany in 1999. The retailer has positioned the collection to fit between its classic Tiffany setting and its cuttingedge Etoile collection and has become something of a status symbol. The worldwide launch was backed by an extensive advertising campaign that included four-page inserts, spreads and single-page units in fashion and lifestyle publications. The Lucida is available at 150 locations internationally, including Japan, France and London.
Each Lucida diamond is sold with a Tiffany Certificate. The inside shank of each ring is currently engraved with the following: Copyright, Tiffany & Co. Lucida, metal fineness and the phrase "patents pending." When the patents are finalized, the actual patent numbers will be engraved in the shank.
Click on the icon below for a stunning collection of the finest Tiffany style diamond engagement rings and Ideal Cut diamonds at outstanding values!!
ExcelDiamonds Adds A New 'Build Your Ring' Feature!
Exciting news at www.exceldiamonds.com!
We have just finished adding a special new feature that will put even more control in the hands of our diamond and jewelry customers by allowing you to create your very own diamond engagement ring!
It is really simple!
First you access our incredible collection of thousands of loose diamonds online and choose a diamond based on your own specifications.
You will then have the option to purchase the diamond loose, or you may choose to select an engagement ring setting by clicking on this tab:
Once you click on this tab you will come to this landing page which will allow you to search from our selection of hand crafted solitaire settings, diamond accent engagement rings settings, 3 stone diamond engagement ring settings, etc.
Once you select your setting you will click on this tab:
This will drag both items into our fully encrypted shopping cart and will allow you to purchase the completed diamond engagement ring which you will receive fully completed and packaged in our beautiful presentation case.
We do not charge you a setting/polishing fee for the setting of your loose diamond in one of our engagement rings when you purchase a complete diamond ring from our company!
Wanna choose a setting first?........... No problem!
You can go through the same process in reverse!
Simply choose the engagement ring and then match your loose diamond to it!
With us, there is no such thing as being forced to select a pre-fab diamond engagement ring that was already put together for you. Indeed you are completely in the drivers seat!
You get to choose the loose diamond with specifications that represent maximum value for your dollars!
Select from our database of thousands of wholesale loose diamonds, or from our Exclusive selection of SuperbCert Super-Ideal Cut Branded Hearts & Arrows Diamonds...and then match it to the engagement ring of your dreams!!
We are really excited about this new feature and hope that it will add value for our customers and increase their pleasurable shopping experience with us!
Do You Know How To Buy Your Diamond Engagement Ring?
NOT as this couple unfortunately found out. Be A Smart Diamond Shopper
We totally agree. Here are our recommendations for your safe diamond engagement and wedding ring shopping:
1. Work with a reputable Jeweler; be it Brick & Mortar (B&M) or Internet. Check with your local BBB and the Jewelers Vigilance Committe (www.jvclegal.org)
2. Know what you're buying. Make sure your diamond has a lab grading report. The two most stringent, accurate, and consistent diamond grading labs are the GIA (Gemological Institute of America) and the AGS (Americn Gemological Society). Insist on them.
3. If you're more comfortable shopping with a B&M Jeweler, look at as many diamonds as you can and away from the diamond counter's high intensity halogen lights which tend to make even the ugliest darkest diamonds look D-Flawless.
4. If you're shopping with an Internet Diamond vendor, make sure that they can examine the diamond for you to determine if there are any red flags you need to know about which would dissuade you from buying the stone.
A great number of Internet Vendors sell of Virtual Diamond (VD) databases and never see the diamond you're buying. The diamond is drop-shipped directly to you from the manufacturer. We covered this topic in more detail here: Cyberspace Diamonds
5. Ask the Internet Vendor to supply you with as much information as possible, including photo's.
6. Be clear and understand the Vendor's Policies: Payment, Returns, Upgrades, etc. and any timelines or deadlines that might accompany these Policies.
7. Ask about and receive any paperwork that comes with the diamond.
8. Stay away from in-house Appraisals. Such Appaisals are inflated, will cost you undue high insurance Premiums, and is a practice that is frowned upon and not sanctioned by the reputable National Association Of Jewelry Appraisers (NAJA). Best is to get an evaluation and Appraisal from an Independent Appraiser that does not work for a Jewlery store and does not sell their own diamonds and jewelry. Contact NAJA for a llisting and location of such Appraisers.
Shop Smart. This is a big purchase not only in terms of money but also in terms of emotional significance.
Good Luck!
Zales Facing SEC Probe; Stock Price Drops 9%.
Diamonds may be forever, but at beleaguered jeweler Zale (ZLC: 25.16, -2.64, -9.5%) new management is surely hoping that an investigation by the Securities and Exchange Commission will be short-lived.
Shares of the Dallas-based specialty retailer lost some of their sparkle Monday, falling 9.5% after Zale disclosed the probe. The SEC subpoenaed records relating to accounting for extended service agreements, leases and accrued payroll, as well as for executive compensation, severance, earnings outlooks and stock trading.
MarketWatch sums up Zales plummeting fortunes this year thus far culminating with today's announcement that it is facing an SEC investigation.
It's more bad news from a company that has seen three top executives resign this year amid sagging sales and a slumping stock price.
"It's very murky," says Bill Armstrong, an analyst for C.L. King & Associates, a boutique research firm in Albany, N.Y. "According to what they told me, they don't even know what the SEC is looking for, as far as what it's investigating. The SEC communicated to them in very general terms."
Zale Treasurer David Sternblitz says regulators have offered little information beyond the request for records. The company has already publicly elaborated on its accounting practices for extended service agreements and leases, he says, and KPMG, Zale's auditor, has consistently given Zale a clean bill of health. "We will be cooperating fully, and the company believes that it has complied with generally accepted accounting principles," Sternblitz says.
The company's 2,345 stores in the U.S., Canada and Puerto Rico, as well as its online division, had sales of $2.38 billion in 2005 and are on track for sales of $2.40 billion this year, according to analysts surveyed by Thomson First Call. Its Zales Jewelers division accounts for about half of all revenue, and an average sale is between $200 and $300, says Armstrong. Other brands include Zales Outlet, Gordon's Jewelers, Bailey Banks & Biddle, Peoples Jewellers, Mappins Jewellers and Piercing Pagoda.
For its fiscal second quarter ended Jan. 31, Zale's earnings fell 7% year-over-year to $1.78 a share. The company reported a profit of $1.96 a share, but that figure didn't conform to generally accepted accounting principles.
The Feb. 21 earnings announcement came on the heels of the January resignation of Mary Forte, president and chief executive, and the February resignation of Paul Leonard, president of the Zales Jewelers division. Sue Gove, chief operating officer, quit last month. Mary E. "Betsy" Burton was named interim CEO on Jan. 31.
Change at the top can muddy the waters beneath, says Alan Ratliff, a partner at Stone Turn Group, a forensic accounting firm in Houston. Generally, he says, situations like the one at Zale could attract some extra attention from regulators.
"I would say that every one of those [areas covered by the SEC subpoena] listed is the subject of one or more interpretive accounting standards, where someone could interpret it in a particular way and be just over the line," Ratliff says. "In the context of a company where the top management resigns or gets fired, it could be something like that."
The timing of extended service agreement revenues, in particular, is an area that's ripe for trouble, says Ratliff. "When do you report revenue? Over the life of the contract, or immediately, and then have an immediate result?" he says. "If someone reports that as revenue to make things look better, or creates a huge reserve they don't necessarily need, the issues of timing can come up anytime."
Sternblitz agrees the recent management turnover is likely a reason for the SEC's interest.
"My guess would be that requesting this type of information, such as earnings guidance and compensation, is probably standard practice in order for the SEC to determine if any person profited from the issues that are in questions," the treasurer says. "Some of our executives are scheduled to talk to the SEC next month, but they haven't given us a timetable in terms of their investigation."
Zale's main priority apart from the investigation is to find a new CEO, says Sternblitz. The company has a short list of candidates and should name a new chief within three months.
Shares are down nearly 20% since. Management upheaval, disappointing financials and now accounting questions have contributed to the decline.
That said, the jewelry business isn't such a bad place to be as the population of aging and affluent customers expands. "In general, baby boomers are in their peak earnings and jewelry-buying years," says Armstrong. "I think demographic trends are generally favorable to the jewelry industry."
Unfortunately for Zale, others are lining up to lure those deep-pocketed shoppers. The company faces intense competition from Kay Jewelers, its retail rival in malls across America, as well as from jewelry departments at larger retailers such as Wal-Mart Stores (WMT: 45.70, -0.32, -0.7%), J.C. Penney (JCP: 58.47, -1.54, -2.6%), Kohl's (KSS: 53.95, +0.55, +1.0%) and T.J. Maxx (TJX: 24.41, -0.06, -0.3%).
Zale's new management needs to move away from heavy promotional discounts and regain market share, wrote Brian Tunick, an analyst at J.P. Morgan, in a Feb. 17 research note that came out just after Valentine's Day, a key time for jewelry purchases. Zale's business prospects will become clearer, he wrote, by year's end once the critical holiday gift-giving season has come to a close.