5 carat radiant yellow diamond

[LD]

Missy I was confused by your reply so went back and read all the posts and I understand now!

This is such a shame that the vendor has done this to you. As you're a long standing customer of hers, my suggestion would be to tell her that she's lost a sale and explain the reasons why in a non-confrontational manner. If you do that, she's less like to do it to others and may well be contrite enough to offer you a good deal if you ever decide to return to her. It's worth doing to just clear the air and make you feel better. As I said, it does have to be non-confrontational and factual. There may be a very good reason why she did it - there may not but she'll think twice in the future (unless she doesn't care and then you're better off NEVER shopping there again).

I had a local jeweller do this to me. I spoke to him about it and have never been back since but I felt better!

 

[canuk-gal]

HI:

It is a lovely ring--but now there is too much negativity surrounding the item, that you could never be happy with it--even had it had a GIA cert.

Incidentally I have a "habit" of collecting the pieces of paper with gems and their respective details/data and dollar figures written by vendors ....so when I go back I have the written "comparisons" and don't have to rely on memory....I recently cleaned out my desk in the computer room and had quotes from 2005!

Hope you are not upset for long. Life is short.

cheers--Sharon

 

[junebug17]

I understand how you feel missy - Maybe you should just give yourself some time and see if you feel better after a few days. I still think it couldn't hurt to ask about sending it to GIA and negotiating on the price based on the results. As you said in one of your posts, maybe she expected you to negotiate! But I understand if you are so disillusioned that you don't want to do business with her and don't want to bother going through all that. I guess it's just that I don't usually let things like that deter me if it's something I really want

And I guess that's what it will boil down to - how much you really want this ring; if you find yourself day-dreaming about it, and imagining yourself wearing it everyday, and wishing it was yours. It's a gorgeous ring, it's ok that you love it! But as you said, you just want to make sure you pay a fair price.

You sound like you've decided not to buy it, so sorry if my post is out of line - in the end, you have to do what feels right for you. And a reset sounds sounds awesome too!

 

[missy]

Missy I was confused by your reply so went back and read all the posts and I understand now!

This is such a shame that the vendor has done this to you. As you're a long standing customer of hers, my suggestion would be to tell her that she's lost a sale and explain the reasons why in a non-confrontational manner. If you do that, she's less like to do it to others and may well be contrite enough to offer you a good deal if you ever decide to return to her. It's worth doing to just clear the air and make you feel better. As I said, it does have to be non-confrontational and factual. There may be a very good reason why she did it - there may not but she'll think twice in the future (unless she doesn't care and then you're better off NEVER shopping there again).

I had a local jeweller do this to me. I spoke to him about it and have never been back since but I felt better!

Hi LD, I absolutely plan on discussing my disappointment about this with her but I am going to let some time pass before I do. And I will do it in a polite way for sure because that is just the way I am anyway. I feel foolish that I was so trusting and it just reinforces my usual cynicism about people's behavior in general. Benefit of the doubt and all that bah. As I like to quote fool me once shame on you fool me twice shame on me so live and learn. Thank you for your input. As always I appreciate it very much.

HI:

It is a lovely ring--but now there is too much negativity surrounding the item, that you could never be happy with it--even had it had a GIA cert.

Incidentally I have a "habit" of collecting the pieces of paper with gems and their respective details/data and dollar figures written by vendors ....so when I go back I have the written "comparisons" and don't have to rely on memory....I recently cleaned out my desk in the computer room and had quotes from 2005!

Hope you are not upset for long. Life is short.

cheers--Sharon

Hi Sharon I totally agree. Life is (too) short but always rich and full in experiences isn't it and I will take this as a learning experience. It's just too bad she did this. There are many lovely jewelry stores so I will find a better match for me. I can compartmentalize quite well so while I am aggravated about this I am still enjoying my weekend and activities so no worries my dear. Thanks for your wise perspective.

I understand how you feel missy - Maybe you should just give yourself some time and see if you feel better after a few days. I still think it couldn't hurt to ask about sending it to GIA and negotiating on the price based on the results. As you said in one of your posts, maybe she expected you to negotiate! But I understand if you are so disillusioned that you don't want to do business with her and don't want to bother going through all that. I guess it's just that I don't usually let things like that deter me if it's something I really want

And I guess that's what it will boil down to - how much you really want this ring; if you find yourself day-dreaming about it, and imagining yourself wearing it everyday, and wishing it was yours. It's a gorgeous ring, it's ok that you love it! But as you said, you just want to make sure you pay a fair price.

You sound like you've decided not to buy it, so sorry if my post is out of line - in the end, you have to do what feels right for you. And a reset sounds sounds awesome too!

Thank you Junebug. I guess I feel that there are so many gorgeous rings out there I don't need to get this one though I do love it. I am a big believer in what was meant to be and right now it sure doesn't feel like this ring was meant to be for me based on this whole affair. But I do agree with you in that if I felt it was the only one for me I would negotiate and do what was best for me in the end despite her poor behavior. Your thoughts are most welcome and thank you for posting!


I want to address the negotiating thing. I do not enjoy that at all but I guess I should learn to do that more. It's just I would love to find a jeweler who would give me a fair price on what piece I fall in love with. In an ideal world, oh well.


ETA: If only I could afford David's amazing gorgeous TDF yellow cushion that I posted a pic of above I would be in sweet blissful delight I can tell you that! That ring is even more beautiful than the ring I tried on yesterday though I never thought I would go for that kind of ring with the OMC halo but it really is a beauty. Gotta play that lottery!!

 

[junebug17]

Missy, I totally understand where you're coming from and completely respect your feelings!

I had to smile when you talked about negotiating - I too hate to negotiate, absolutely hate it so I can really relate to how you feel. I feel so awkward and embarrassed. My better half, though, has worked in business for over 30 years and negotiates for a living. I'm telling you, it's like second nature to him, he doesn't even give it a second thought! He always says to me, "junebug, what are you so worried about? All they can do is say no!" He's right of course, but it's just not in my nature I guess. I have gotten a little better at it though with his prodding!

Now the wheels are turning on how you could swing the DBL ring! Haha!

 

[JewelFreak]

Missy, I feel so bad about your experience! I understand your being hurt -- you trusted & liked her, and it hurts to think somebody like that would treat you like a chump. Disillusioning. The ring is beautiful -- but (this is the wisdom I tell myself ALL the time when I fall in love) there is another beautiful one out there with your name on it. Sold by somebody honest. It's so true, it makes me feel better; maybe it will you, too. I'm sure you know, from experience.

Have you thought about asking Erica Grace? She might be able to find what you want & would be very likely to give you a trade on your present e-ring, if the terms satisfied you.

You'll find the right one -- with the good feeling that that shop owner WON"T get the profit from it. And I wanna see it RIGHT AWAY when you do!

--- Laurie

 

[Deactivated member 42515]

I read through your newer posts again. That jeweler makes me so angry!!! She could have maybe gotten a sale from you if she hasn't tried to be sly and cocky about her price! How rude is that! Did she think you wouldn't notice? Damn jewelers.

 

[kenny]

I got a bit (very) disillusioned last night when I realized she quoted me a much higher price than she was asking previously for said ring. I got so upset that I couldn't fall asleep for hours last night after I realized what she did. It makes me feel that all the cliches about the jewelry industry are true. Like the used car salesmen. Really upset especially since I am a good customer. My dh said she sized us up. Ugh. I don't feel like I can ever go back there and that's major because I love her jewelry. It doesn't bother my dh as much as me because he is not surprised but it upsets me terribly. I wanted to call her right then and there (11 pm Sat night lol) but fortunately I didn't do anything rash and after reading all the posts here I realize I am not going to buy this ring anyway. Though I doubt I will buy anything there anymore unless I am sure the price is fair.

But that makes me question who can I get a fair deal with here. I am not expecting a bargain but a fair price.

This is exactly why I'll only buy goods with a price published on the Internet.
I got in an argument with Richard Wise over his secret pricing of his best goods only to be revealed after the he gets to size up the customer.
Granted even my favorite vendor of colored diamonds, Leibish, has call for price on some of their top FCDs.

A published price does not guarantee a "good" deal or even a "fair" price, whatever that is, but it does make it more likely than secret pricing.
Internet-published pricing does level the playing field over all customers.
When setting a price the vendor knows that setting the published price too high makes diamonds sit in their vault longer collecting dust.

Sorry you had a bad experience with this seller, but I hope you find your dream ring.

About negotiating ... I do it and am probably better than most and while I don't actually like negotiating it doesn't stress me out that much.
I think the people who hate to negotiate have a niceness-complex.
They think of themselves as "nice" and expect everyone in the world they interact with to be "nice" too.
After all that's how everyone's mommies raised everyone; isn't it?
(Uhm NO!)

I think the key is to see negotiating as being an actor playing a character who negotiates well, and isn't as 'nice' as you think you are.
You get into character and go in and act for a few hours.
Just say whatever is necessary to get the best deal possible.
Then pop out of character, go back to being you, and walk out of the building with your new ring, or car, or house, or piano.

Sellers do it every day.
Why shouldn't we?

I've also heard if the seller isn't pissed at you then you overpaid.
Being nice and expecting sellers to play nice is a sure way to overpay or get your feelings hurt.
Niceness and money don't mix.

 

[smitcompton]

Hi Missy,

I would be just as upset as you are. However, I would discuss it with the owner, letting her know how awful you felt. Do not choose nice words(of course don"t curse). Put her on the defensive. Maybe she will have an explanation.

I love the ring. I do not like the rings that were shown from DBL. They are too small, too light in color, and don't have the wow factor that this diamond has.

When people are good at negotiating they usually are knowledgeable about the product. Your job is to know apprx what a 5 ct yellow diamond costs with certain parameters, and resale value of your diamond. Then you can decide what you will pay for the ring.
People just say yes, no, or counter offer. I've never encountered anyone who even got huffy, even if they thought the offer was ridiculous. Its not a bad experience.

As all have said, it needs a GIA grading report before all else. I'm afraid I do believe the jewelry business is often just as you found it today. I am usually a bit paranoid when buying stones myself. Kennys advise is well considered. Show me the price.

I used to work for dental specialists when I was young. If you looked prosperous, your charges were more. Really, Really Really.


Annette

 

[missy]

Missy, I totally understand where you're coming from and completely respect your feelings!

I had to smile when you talked about negotiating - I too hate to negotiate, absolutely hate it so I can really relate to how you feel. I feel so awkward and embarrassed. My better half, though, has worked in business for over 30 years and negotiates for a living. I'm telling you, it's like second nature to him, he doesn't even give it a second thought! He always says to me, "junebug, what are you so worried about? All they can do is say no!" He's right of course, but it's just not in my nature I guess. I have gotten a little better at it though with his prodding!

Now the wheels are turning on how you could swing the DBL ring! Haha!

Thank you Junebug! Let me know if you come up with any ideas on that!

Missy, I feel so bad about your experience! I understand your being hurt -- you trusted & liked her, and it hurts to think somebody like that would treat you like a chump. Disillusioning. The ring is beautiful -- but (this is the wisdom I tell myself ALL the time when I fall in love) there is another beautiful one out there with your name on it. Sold by somebody honest. It's so true, it makes me feel better; maybe it will you, too. I'm sure you know, from experience.

Have you thought about asking Erica Grace? She might be able to find what you want & would be very likely to give you a trade on your present e-ring, if the terms satisfied you.

You'll find the right one -- with the good feeling that that shop owner WON"T get the profit from it. And I wanna see it RIGHT AWAY when you do!

--- Laurie

Thanks so much Laurie- I appreciate that. It is disillusioning and makes me question everything and I don't like living like that but I am wiser for the experience though sadder as well. And believe me, if and when I do get something I will be sure to alert you to the fact ASAP and ofc I will post pics immediately.
Re Erica and Grace -I am always admiring their beautiful jewels but I don't think they do trade-ins though. I know they will put jewelry on consignment but that is not something I would do. Hmmm, if they did do trades towards a purchase I would be most interested! Perhaps I will send them a message. Thanks for the idea!

I read through your newer posts again. That jeweler makes me so angry!!! She could have maybe gotten a sale from you if she hasn't tried to be sly and cocky about her price! How rude is that! Did she think you wouldn't notice? Damn jewelers.

Thank you YT! I love the support PSers give each other. It's so lovely and makes it easier to deal with the disappointment.

I got a bit (very) disillusioned last night when I realized she quoted me a much higher price than she was asking previously for said ring. I got so upset that I couldn't fall asleep for hours last night after I realized what she did. It makes me feel that all the cliches about the jewelry industry are true. Like the used car salesmen. Really upset especially since I am a good customer. My dh said she sized us up. Ugh. I don't feel like I can ever go back there and that's major because I love her jewelry. It doesn't bother my dh as much as me because he is not surprised but it upsets me terribly. I wanted to call her right then and there (11 pm Sat night lol) but fortunately I didn't do anything rash and after reading all the posts here I realize I am not going to buy this ring anyway. Though I doubt I will buy anything there anymore unless I am sure the price is fair.

But that makes me question who can I get a fair deal with here. I am not expecting a bargain but a fair price.

This is exactly why I'll only buy goods with a price published on the Internet.
I got in an argument with Richard Wise over his secret pricing of his best goods only to be revealed after the he gets to size up the customer.
Granted even my favorite vendor of colored diamonds, Leibish, has call for price on some of their top FCDs.

A published price does not guarantee a "good" deal or even a "fair" price, whatever that is, but it does make it more likely than secret pricing.
Internet-published pricing does level the playing field over all customers.
When setting a price the vendor knows that setting the published price too high makes diamonds sit in their vault longer collecting dust.

Sorry you had a bad experience with this seller, but I hope you find your dream ring.

About negotiating ... I do it and am probably better than most and while I don't actually like negotiating it doesn't stress me out that much.
I think the people who hate to negotiate have a niceness-complex.
They think of themselves as "nice" and expect everyone in the world they interact with to be "nice" too.
After all that's how everyone's mommies raised everyone; isn't it?
(Uhm NO!)

I think the key is to see negotiating as being an actor playing a character who negotiates well, and isn't as 'nice' as you think you are.
You get into character and go in and act for a few hours.
Just say whatever is necessary to get the best deal possible.
Then pop out of character, go back to being you, and walk out of the building with your new ring, or car, or house, or piano.

Sellers do it every day.
Why shouldn't we?

I've also heard if the seller isn't pissed at you then you overpaid.
Being nice and expecting sellers to play nice is a sure way to overpay or get your feelings hurt.
Niceness and money don't mix.

Kenny, you are absolutely correct. Thank you. And I am with you on buying items with prices already published for all to see. Much fairer that way.
I think I dislike negotiating for a few reasons-one being that it doesn't feel "nice" so you have a great point. The other reason is I don't want to take advantage but lol there's no chance of that here that's for sure!
I am taking your great advice to heart and thank you for the pointers!

Hi Missy,

I would be just as upset as you are. However, I would discuss it with the owner, letting her know how awful you felt. Do not choose nice words(of course don"t curse). Put her on the defensive. Maybe she will have an explanation.

I love the ring. I do not like the rings that were shown from DBL. They are too small, too light in color, and don't have the wow factor that this diamond has.

When people are good at negotiating they usually are knowledgeable about the product. Your job is to know apprx what a 5 ct yellow diamond costs with certain parameters, and resale value of your diamond. Then you can decide what you will pay for the ring.
People just say yes, no, or counter offer. I've never encountered anyone who even got huffy, even if they thought the offer was ridiculous. Its not a bad experience.

As all have said, it needs a GIA grading report before all else. I'm afraid I do believe the jewelry business is often just as you found it today. I am usually a bit paranoid when buying stones myself. Kennys advise is well considered. Show me the price.

I used to work for dental specialists when I was young. If you looked prosperous, your charges were more. Really, Really Really.
Annette

Thanks Annette. That's another great point and one I certainly don't possess regarding yellow radiants. I came to the party not prepared at all and told her as much. How much of a fool am I. But shame on her for trying to take such advantage of anyone (let alone a good customer). Ofc, she didn't know I had PSers on my side and I certainly wasn't making such a major purchase without the wonderful input of PSers! Ha!

As for those dentists, well, shame on them because you cannot judge a book by its cover and you cannot tell what someone can afford by how they look or what they wear nor is it any of their business. I'm with Kenny on this one. I want the price published for all to see because it is a level playing field and then at least then you might get a fair shake.

Interesting that you prefer the first yellow radiant. (Which I still think is beautiful though it does need a GIA report- I agree 100%). The 5 carat yellow cushion I posted from the DBL site seems very vibrant yellow. I haven't seen that one in person though but from the pics it seems not light yellow at all.

 

[Rosebloom]

Missy - what a sad experience. The silver (yellow?) lining is that it has opened up a new possibility for you. I love the idea of a huge yellow diamond. It would be to die for!

Here's another to enjoy -

http://jewelry.1stdibs.com/jewelry_item_detail.php?id=85575

 

[chrono]

If you plan on going back to discuss pricing with her, look around at Leibish and DBL to see what that size and colour rating goes for. Make sure to discount it slightly since it does not have a GIA memo. Take a gander also at one colour and clarity grade below the stated stats. I would absolutely negotiate. You may not like this but you never know if the vendor is willing to move pricing. At worst she'll say no and who knows, it might be a number that will surprise you. As mentioned above by many posters, the final price and offer should be dependent on what comes back from GIA.

 

[Noam]

You received some amazing answers here. I'd like to emphasize a couple and add something.

IGI and GIA… I never heard of a case where the IGI failed to notice that a diamond was treated and had it marked as a natural.
However, their color grading is often off than the GIA grading and the GIA is definitely the one to go by.
A slight difference in color in a 5 carat diamond is enormous money-wise.
Imagine that the diamond would have gotten fancy light yellow or alternatively fancy brownish yellow…
Also, in my point of view, there is absolutely no reason to send a 5 carat yellow diamond to the IGI unless you like their findings better than the GIA's.
The GIA certificate is more expensive but it is completely insignificant in diamonds that are above $1,000 (and even less).

I somehow missed the part about what happened with the jeweler, but this tip is good for any jeweler with a none GIA diamond.
Tell the jeweler that you will buy the diamond ring if they can issue the same in a GIA certificate.
i.e. remove the diamond from the setting and send it to the GIA. Offer to even add the price of the certificate.

I also noticed you don't favor custom made rings - I personally feel that if you know a good jeweler there shouldn't be any problem.
On the contrary, it will be perfectly made for your hand and fingers (slightly bigger / smaller side stones etc.).
With that said, you can always ask the place where you saw the ring you liked if they are willing to do the same for you with a center diamond that you provide them and go buy the diamond of your dreams elsewhere.


Last note… You often discuss the price limit stating you want a big diamond but due to the high price you need to sell /trade your current ring.
There are ways to "reduce" the price of the diamond without trading your ring. Be sure that if you trade your ring you will either get very little for it or that the price you buy the new one will be higher (you won't be able to negotiate as much).

Just an example (that I know some won't agree with), buy a yellow diamond with Fluorescence.
It will bring about a major price reduction and in most cases you won't notice it.
Another idea is to find a diamond that is slightly less than 5 carat.
A 4.50-4.75 carat diamond will have a price tag that is lower than a 5 carat by more than the 10% of weight difference and I am quite certain that the size would still look great on your finger.


Hope this helps – good luck

 

[airplay355]

At least you're getting sized up as being able to afford more. I walk into a store and they don't think I can afford anything. I'm 25 but probably look 18 or so (I still get carded for rated R movies). You must impress everyone in there

 

[missy]

Ooh, pretty ring rosebloom.

Hi Chrono- thanks for your advice. I am not sure the owner would be willing to send it to GIA though she probably would if I would commit to purchasing it or something else in her shop. But I am not happy with her as you could well imagine and right now do not want to give her any business though I might change my mind if the yellow diamond was rated by GIA and was rated within what was acceptable parameters and we could agree on price. That's a lot of supposing though and right now I am drained and not wanting to deal with her. I need some time to pass for me to decide what I want to do.

I was speaking with my dad yesterday and he thinks switching a colorless diamond for a yellow one for my ER is not a great idea. But that's his opinion ofc. Right now it doesn't look like I can afford getting a 5 carat yellow diamond like the one on DBL's site anyway (but if I could I would probably purchase it without further thought- I can be impulsive considering I never even considered a yellow diamond or radiant as my ER) so I am just going to wait a bit and see what happens. If it's meant to be...

Thanks for your input Noam.

Airplay-lol. Believe me you will appreciate being mistaken for younger when you get older. I used to dislike it when I was in my twenties and people thought I was 12 haha but now that I am much older I rather like it though I no longer get carded ever and I am no longer mistaken for being in my teenage years. Not even close! Though last week when I saw my dermatologist he did say I look a good 15 years younger than my real age which is a good thing in my book.

 

[smitcompton]

Hi Missy,

I forgot to say that Amythest, a pricescoper, put her 5 cts WXYZ ??? on consignment with Jewels by Erica????. She wanted 25,000 for it. When she showed me a picture of it, it looked pretty yellow. I think its too probably too light for you.

When I said the DBL rings were too light and too small I didn't include that very saturated ring that was pictured. That certainly is beautiful.

Take a breather. Interesting experience.


Annette

 

[missy]

Hi Missy,

I forgot to say that Amythest, a pricescoper, put her 5 cts WXYZ ??? on consignment with Jewels by Erica????. She wanted 25,000 for it. When she showed me a picture of it, it looked pretty yellow. I think its too probably too light for you.

When I said the DBL rings were too light and too small I didn't include that very saturated ring that was pictured. That certainly is beautiful.

Take a breather. Interesting experience.


Annette

Thanks Annette, I forgot about lemony! Though I think it sold already. I don't remember the saturation so not sure but I do remember it was a beautiful ring! The person who bought it is very lucky and I hope she is enjoying it...I hope she comes back and posts pictures!!!

 

[missy]

I just got an email from the owner of the jewelry shop telling me what a pleasure it always is to see me and my dh. Ha! I'm sure it is. And she also wrote that she would be happy to hold the ring for me with a deposit of only 10K. Her email riled me up again so now my adrenaline is going. I'm angry yet I also love that ring. I emailed her back saying I could not consider the ring unless she sent the diamond to GIA to be certified. Let's see what she says. I can imagine she will say she would do it if I put a deposit down but that's not happening because I would need the GIA cert first and then address the pricing second. I still plan on discussing that with her but not till some time has passed and not till I know exactly what I want to do.

I haven't contacted David of DBL yet or Erica and Grace because I just need some time to think about things. But since I got that email from the owner I thought let me reply about the GIA cert. Let's see what she says if she replies at all.

 

[derbygal]

Is there any way she's been lurking around Pricescope and saw all this? Interesting that she emailed you. I hope you find your dream ring. Can't wait to see it when you do!

 

[missy]

So she replied that it would take 4-6 weeks to be certified and would incur an additional charge. So I replied I don't care about the extra time to get it GIA certified but I would not commit to purchasing until I see the GIA cert and see that it meets my expectations. Let's see what she replies back. I mean, we are talking a large purchase here and I don't think the cost of the cert should even matter as it would make the ring more attractive to other buyers in any case. I have no clue as to fair price for this ring so I cannot start negotiating and really need the GIA cert as a starting point.

I am fairly sure that the GIA cert would not match the EGL cert (going by my experience with colorless diamonds at least) which would help me in the negotiation process as long as the GIA cert shows it to be a good stone. If I was to end up buying this ring I really wouldn't care about the extra charge for the GIA cert as long as we could arrive at what I felt was a fair purchase price and trade in price on my original ER diamond. Somehow I do not think that it is going to work out with her but if I do get all the necessary info on this diamond and I still want to purchase it I am letting my dh do the tough negotiations.

But, I bought a megamillions ticket anyway for this Tuesday's drawing because the ring on David's site is calling to me...

Derbygal, I highly doubt it but if she is here I wish she would address the higher quote she gave me on Saturday. I would love to be able to rebuild trust here but I don't think that could happen given her behavior. I think she emailed me because she sees us as a (relatively) easy mark and it is a slow time right now. She said as much on Saturday- that she is giving us a very good deal because it is her slow time of year. All I want is a fair deal. The bigger the promise of a good deal the bigger the lie in this case I fear. The only reason I am even replying to her email is to see if she would send it to GIA and then we could work out a fair deal. And if not, well, there are many many other beautiful rings to be sure. So I am not emotionally invested in this one ring but I do think it is worth exploring if she is willing to send the stone to GIA.

 

[missy]

Well, I do not care for her last reply. I do not think I will be purchasing this ring.

As a GIA certified gemologist I can tell you that you can send the same diamond twice to GIA and they will give you two different grading reports on the same stone. GIA has circulated information on the internet that they are the only lab that can grade a diamond, but nothing is further from the truth...a couple of years ago a NYC jeweler " bought" a higher grade from GIA...it was in all the trade papers. You could pay for a GIA grading report, probably $400.00 for the cert and another 100.oo to re-set it. Let us know...I will call them and see how long it takes. The stone is properly graded as it is ...we have had plenty of GIA graded fancy yellows in these past months to compare to this one, and this diamond has been more yellow than all the GIA graded fancies.
The price of the diamond would not change, but you are welcome to re cert if you feel you should.

I had no idea about this and it does bother me but I still trust GIA more than EGL. She also writes about comparing it to many GIA fancy yellows but this ring is set and I know that can change the perception of the color. So she is not comparing apples to apples.
This whole situation has sort of turned me off jewelry I think. I mean, who can you trust? Ugh.


ETA: She just emailed me again and said she spoke with GIA and they can do it for $450 in 5 days and for an extra $75 will laser inscribe it and now she is willing to split the cost with me.

 

[Tuffy]

I know exactly how you feel about feeling "fleeced" by your regular jeweller. Like you, I also lost sleep! But I also realised that he runs a business and at the end of the day, his objective is to make profit. The jeweller has a wide discretion on the amount of discount he gives. I have seen him do it - he quoted a higher price to another customer compared to the quote he gave me. Sometimes he does forget what quote he has given - if I remember I will remind him that's not what he quoted me previously. He will then give me the earlier quoted price. In fact, I will bargain further because I know that he is certainly not selling it to me at cost price.

It's all about profit margin at the end of the day and I have to remember that I have to look out for my own interest.

So as a matter of bargaining strategy, I think you should tell your jeweller that you just discovered her quote is higher than what she quoted previously and express your "disapppointment". See what she says - if she is prepared to honour her previous quote, you can bargain further from there.

incidentally, am curious - what's the difference in the amount for both quotes?

 

[missy]

I know exactly how you feel about feeling "fleeced" by your regular jeweller. Like you, I also lost sleep! But I also realised that he runs a business and at the end of the day, his objective is to make profit. The jeweller has a wide discretion on the amount of discount he gives. I have seen him do it - he quoted a higher price to another customer compared to the quote he gave me. Sometimes he does forget what quote he has given - if I remember I will remind him that's not what he quoted me previously. He will then give me the earlier quoted price. In fact, I will bargain further because I know that he is certainly not selling it to me at cost price.

It's all about profit margin at the end of the day and I have to remember that I have to look out for my own interest.

So as a matter of bargaining strategy, I think you should tell your jeweller that you just discovered her quote is higher than what she quoted previously and express your "disapppointment". See what she says - if she is prepared to honour her previous quote, you can bargain further from there.

incidentally, am curious - what's the difference in the amount for both quotes?

Hi Tuffy, the quote she gave me is 12K higher than the price that is actually published on her website!! I didn't bring it up today when we were emailing because I still don't feel ready. If and when I decide I want to purchase this ring it will be dependent on a satisfactory negotiation. It could be that because she is giving me trade in money for my ER diamond she inflated the cost of the ring but that is unacceptable to me. Why would I do that? Anyway, I keep vacillating b/w wanting to just walk away vs just seeing where this goes. I just read SapphireSun's story re her ER (happy ending yay!) and I swear this all makes me want to give up my jewelry obsession. I mean, I know it is a business and they are in it to make a living of course. That is totally OK with me! But can't they do it fairly?? I think it is very possible to run an ethical business and still make good money and I do not think it acceptable to lie and cheat to make a bigger profit. But I am an idealist that way LOL.

 

[Circe]

Aw, she's trying to play hardball! That's cute.

But, even for me, who loves haggling, there's something distinctly unpalatable about the constantly shifting terms. It feels extremely manipulative for her to tell you a thing, wait to see if you fall for it, and immediately change her tune 6 hours later! Might bother me less in a RL negotiation - this way, it just feels so calculating.

That said, if you like the ring, I vote you bargain her into the ground and get it. Who can you trust? GIA, PS, and yourself.

 

[derbygal]

I would print off a copy of the webpage with the 12k lower cost and keep it just in case you decide to negotiate and she denies ever posting that price. I agree with Circe that I'd get the GIA report and negotiate her into the ground. You have nothing to lose, but she does if she loses this sale!

 

[missy]

Aw, she's trying to play hardball! That's cute.

But, even for me, who loves haggling, there's something distinctly unpalatable about the constantly shifting terms. It feels extremely manipulative for her to tell you a thing, wait to see if you fall for it, and immediately change her tune 6 hours later! Might bother me less in a RL negotiation - this way, it just feels so calculating.

That said, if you like the ring, I vote you bargain her into the ground and get it. Who can you trust? GIA, PS, and yourself.

LOL Circe, so true, so true!

And you are right- the situation is very unpalatable. I am not really into hardball (never was able to acquire a taste for it- figuratively or otherwise) nor am I into manipulation and not sure I feel up to the game. Part of the problem is ofc having no clue about what it should cost and I was trying to do some research on PS but unable to find cost comparisons. I am also not sold on having a yellow diamond as my ER. Darn my dad. His voice has gotten inside my head as it often does and I am thinking perhaps he is right. I don't know. It just seems this whole combo of issues is overwhelming me and this ring may just not be meant for me. However, I will allow this jeweler to be on pins and needles until I decide definitively. I can tell she really wants to make this sale.


Thanks Derbygal-great suggestion!!

 

[iLander]

Hi Missy,

I think you need to take your e-ring out of the equation. Go down to 47th St and tote it around and see what the diamond dealers will give you for it. They all refer to Rapaport pricing and they should be fairly consistent.

Then, armed with that number, and go back and quote her the website price. And see what she says.

It's like buying a car, you get a good price on the car before you mention your trade in.

But frankly, she sounds kind of fishy to me. What, she thinks you don't have internet access? What's the thought there? Seems like lots of jewelers think their customers don't use the net. (Sometimes they're right, I showed my aunt how she could put together a 3 stone ring, to the specs that her B&M jeweler told her, for half the price. She still bought it from the B&M jeweler, because the net seemed too mysterious to her.)

The secret to any negotiation is that "whoever cares less, wins." You can't fall in love with it, you have to sincerely be ready to walk away.

And honestly, I think you can do better. You walked into one jeweler and fell in love. But you haven't even started to search for a yellow diamond. You don't even know what's out there, like this bigger 5 carat from Costco (with GIA); http://www.costco.com/5.12-ct-Radiant-Fancy-Yellow-Diamond-Platinum-Ring%2c-18kt-Yellow-Gold.product.100028558.html As far as the setting goes, IDJ has a whole pile of pointy halos available (I just had them set my round sapphire with 1 ctw halo and it was under $2K), it's not rocket surgery.

Go slow, take your time, what's your hurry?

 

[missy]

Hi Missy,

I think you need to take your e-ring out of the equation. Go down to 47th St and tote it around and see what the diamond dealers will give you for it. They all refer to Rapaport pricing and they should be fairly consistent.

Then, armed with that number, and go back and quote her the website price. And see what she says.

It's like buying a car, you get a good price on the car before you mention your trade in.

But frankly, she sounds kind of fishy to me. What, she thinks you don't have internet access? What's the thought there? Seems like lots of jewelers think their customers don't use the net. (Sometimes they're right, I showed my aunt how she could put together a 3 stone ring, to the specs that her B&M jeweler told her, for half the price. She still bought it from the B&M jeweler, because the net seemed too mysterious to her.)

The secret to any negotiation is that "whoever cares less, wins." You can't fall in love with it, you have to sincerely be ready to walk away.

And honestly, I think you can do better. You walked into one jeweler and fell in love. But you haven't even started to search for a yellow diamond. You don't even know what's out there, like this bigger 5 carat from Costco (with GIA); http://www.costco.com/5.12-ct-Radiant-Fancy-Yellow-Diamond-Platinum-Ring%2c-18kt-Yellow-Gold.product.100028558.html As far as the setting goes, IDJ has a whole pile of pointy halos available (I just had them set my round sapphire with 1 ctw halo and it was under $2K), it's not rocket surgery.

Go slow, take your time, what's your hurry?

I love you iLander, I really do. Your post made me laugh and you are (as usual!) 100% correct. You even have my dh smiling and he has been listening to me wax on endlessly about this for the last few days haha so that's saying something.
I didn't even think of going down to the jewelry district and seeing what I could get for my diamond- great idea, thank you.

I didn't even know Costco has yellow diamonds!! What don't they have?! Gotta love Costco! I wonder if it is any good. I am off to check your link out. ETA: Checked it out and that price is great compared to the price I was quoted or even her website price. Not in love with the setting but a great point of reference. I can just see myself bringing Costco comps to the negotiations haha. Her head would probably explode.

And you are right, a few days ago this idea wasn't even on my radar. I just wanted to either reset or get a new ER entirely. I can be a bit impulsive at times. I am going to slow down like Jeff Conaway kept telling his buddy Jim (Christopher Lloyd) on Taxi during the written part of the driving test. (Skip to 4:15 if you want to see that part- hysterical)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pvn-tBeLpCk

Thank you for your great advice iLander. As always I appreciate it very much!

Edited several times for clarity!

 

[iLander]

I love you iLander, I really do. Your post made me laugh and you are (as usual!) 100% correct! You even have my dh smiling and he has been listening to me wax on endlessly about this for the last few days haha so that's saying something.
I didn't even think of going down to the jewelry district and seeing what I could get for my diamond- great idea, thank you.

I didn't even know Costco has yellow diamonds!! What don't they have?! Haha. Gotta love Costco! I wonder if it is any good. I am off to check your link out.
And you are right, a few days ago this idea wasn't even on my radar. I just wanted to either reset or get a new ER entirely. I can be a bit impulsive at times. I am going to slow down like Jeff Conaway on Taxi kept telling his buddy Jim (Christopher Lloyd) during the written part of the road test. (Skip to 4:15 if you want to see that part- hysterical)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pvn-tBeLpCk

Thank you for your great advice iLander. As always I appreciate it very much!

I don't even have to click the link! I know it by heart! "What does the yellow light mean?" "Slow down." "What . . . does . . . the . . " etc. Classic TV moment!

Don't underestimate Costco, and remember you can always (say, 10 years from now) return it! Just keep the GIA/Costco paperwork. I got my 25th anniversary ring there (online) and now that it's on my finger, I can't really see how it's different than a jewelry store ring. Oh, wait, it was cheaper! My exact ring, on the Tiffany website? $85,000. From Costco? Less than 20% of that price. Honey, you can't argue with that math.

Edited to add; On the Costco ring, just reset the diamond. You'll get $$ for the metal and stones, take that to IDJ and have them plop it into one of their fantastically sparkly halos. It's almost a calibrated size, it's a stock setting, not even custom. Don't make me pull up the thread on my sapphire . . .

 

[iLander]

Okay, I give, you twisted my arm, here's the thread with my halo from IDJ:

[URL='https://www.pricescope.com/community/threads/ok-ilander-where-is-it.183597/']https://www.pricescope.com/community/threads/ok-ilander-where-is-it.183597/[/URL]