Budget $2500 (CAD) - Can you help me spend it wisely?

[DefiantDragon]

Right now we''re considering sending the ring back to BN and getting the loose stone instead. Today however, we''re going to go out and about to look at some brick and mortar stores to see if there''s any kind of bands in particular that she likes.

One thing I''m wondering about - and maybe this is just paranoia - if I get the loose stone and have it set, what are the chances - realistically - that someone will swap it out for a lesser stone (or a fake)? Does this happen often? How do I protect against something like that happening? (or can I?)

Now that I''ve got the diamond that she wants I don''t want to risk losing it to someone''s grubby paws.

Thanks!
Brandon

 

[oneandahalfrock]

Date: 1/3/2009 12:39:42 PM
Author: DefiantDragon
Right now we're considering sending the ring back to BN and getting the loose stone instead. Today however, we're going to go out and about to look at some brick and mortar stores to see if there's any kind of bands in particular that she likes.


One thing I'm wondering about - and maybe this is just paranoia - if I get the loose stone and have it set, what are the chances - realistically - that someone will swap it out for a lesser stone (or a fake)? Does this happen often? How do I protect against something like that happening? (or can I?)


Now that I've got the diamond that she wants I don't want to risk losing it to someone's grubby paws.


Thanks!

Brandon

If you send it to Blue Nile and have them un-mount it, I would say the chances of them switching it out with a fake are zero, another stone, probably only by accident and VERY unlikely. When you work hard to build reputation, you know the cost of one stone is far less than all the effort it would take to build back credibility if they did something unscrupulous like that.
If it makes you feel better, you can always have a jeweler help plot out the inclusions and then when you get the stone back, compare the inclusion map to verify it is the same diamond.

 

[DefiantDragon]

If you send it to Blue Nile and have them un-mount it, I would say the chances of them switching it out with a fake are zero, another stone, probably only by accident and VERY unlikely. When you work hard to build reputation, you know the cost of one stone is far less than all the effort it would take to build back credibility if they did something unscrupulous like that.

If it makes you feel better, you can always have a jeweler help plot out the inclusions and then when you get the stone back, compare the inclusion map to verify it is the same diamond.

Yeah, I figured that Blue Nile wouldn''t do anything untoward - but I was thinking along the lines of once it was unmounted and we had the loose stone back in our possession. If we find another setting and then have it mounted locally here in Toronto.

Are there any Brick and Mortar stores here in the City that have a really good reputation? Or do I run the risk of it being swapped out no matter where I go?

Thanks!
Brandon

 

[oneandahalfrock]

Well a few things- first, make sure you get your diamond insured first! If anything happens, you want to make sure you're covered!
Second, again, plot out an inclusion map with the jeweler so you can make sure you're getting the same diamond back- every diamond has unique inclusions so this will definitely help.
Finally, don't be afraid to run some names through the Better Business Bureau. If you don't feel comfortable something like a simple remount can turn into a very stressful process!
Best of luck- hope she finds something she really likes!