Diamond & Jewelry News, Advice and Prices for Consumers
Diamond & Jewelry News, Advice and Prices for Consumers
September 2, 2010
My boyfriend and I are debating about the engagement ring he's going to get me. Yes, we talk about it openly ... the actual moment will probably be a surprise, but we're pretty much going through the picking out process. So I'm kind of into the idea of getting an estate diamond or estate diamond engagement ring, and my boyfriend is totally skeptical. His point is: if we're going to spend the money, why do it on something old and previously owned, why not invest in a new piece. His main concern is that purchasing an estate diamond is a risky investment. Any thoughts?
September 6, 2010
Your boyfriend has a really good point. My family is in the diamond appraisal business and I know that this is a touchy subject in the industry. You should keep the following points in mind: First, make sure that the seller is the real owner of the gem or a contracted 3rd party, and ask for confirmation of some kind like a receipt. You should also make sure the gem is not mortgaged or isnt under any other previous obligations. This is a must: ask to see any certification the seller might have regarding the diamond, and if the diamond has a serial number, compare the serial number on the diamond to the number on the certificates. SOOOOO important ... ave the diamond appraised and examined by a professional appraiser of your choice. Also, if the diamond is flawed or chipped, remember that re-polishing will reduce the diamond size and can cause further damage to the color or brightness of the diamond. If the seller is giving the diamond for an unreasonably low price think again. Stolen diamonds can be traced and located! Finally, make sure you have the correct measurements of the gem such as size and color. When the diamond is set in a jewel there might be up to 10% diversion in measurements, so keep that in mind!
September 6, 2010
Well, I suppose there is a point to that but I would have you and your boyfriend consider two other arguments in favor (or at least not against) buying an estate diamond.
1. Yes, it might be risky and you need to make sure you have all the proper documentation and that the seller is not trying to pull a fast one on you. Granted. However, all of the above are very valid important points no matter where or form whom you buy a piece of expensive jewelry. Retailers can pull a fast one on you as well, and customers often tend to trust them a lot more and pay far to much for more than they're getting. Making sure you know all the particulars about the gemstone and having it all in writing- in official documents- is essential ALWAYS. True about estate diamonds, true about brand new 2010 diamonds.
2. Buying an estate diamond is the socially aware/eco-friendly way to go. This is a gem that is already above ground and buying it is a way of recycling a stunning jewel instead of contributing to the diamond mining industry, and not being sure in what conditions - environmental and social alike- your diamond was extracted form the rough.
3. Estate diamonds are becoming more and more trendy and as antique items they are a wonderful investment, which, if kept properly can fetch a very high price in the future.
