Engagement Ring: local jeweler or family friend wholesaler?

[CCMt]

Hi I'm new to the community - my boyfriend and I are looking at engagement rings and would appreciate your advice! We're looking to do a lab diamond ring with either a friend's friend who's a wholesaler in a different city or a local jeweler in NYC with good reviews.

We're torn between the two options because the wholesaler would give us a much cheaper price (1/3 of the market price) but we won't be able to see the diamond in person since he's in a different city. Additionally, since we're looking to do a lab diamond, we won't be able to return or resell it at the same price if we decide to go with the wholesaler, although the diamond (E VS1) he provided seems great in pictures and 360 video.

It's a big purchase for us and we would like to be prudent but also recognize that it would be nice to save us $10k.

Would appreciate any advice!

 

[tyty333]

Only buy from a vendor that has a good return policy, period! Well, ok, I guess that's an exclamation point but you get the idea.
You need to be able to return the diamond for any reason whatsoever.

We have a lab grown forum that can probably help you out with the details here. You should hit Report on your post and ask
the mods to move your thread.

Lab-Grown Diamonds/Man-Made Diamonds (MMD)

Learn about and discuss everything on lab-grown diamonds here! No simulants (CZ, Moissanite, YAG, etc), please.

www.pricescope.com

 

[Kaycee2018]

Wholesellers by definition do not sell to the public. Just a point since a lot of sellers claim to be “wholesellers“, but in fact are not if they sell direct to the public. It is a common sales tactic. I would avoid. Guarantee you will find a comparable stone elsewhere with a better return policy and likely at a better price. GL

 

[EClove]

is neither an option?

If the wholesaler option has a good return policy then it’s worth considering, but it may be worth it for you to post in the Lab Grown forum with the specs you’re looking at and getting suggestions for stones. You mentioned a 10k difference - I imagine you’re looking at over 3ct for $15k a lab diamond.

 

[diamondseeker2006]

Definitely slow down and get educated on good sources of well cut stones. The lab diamond section of this forum is a wealth of information. Many people here have bought beautiful ones, and I think there is a Show Me Your Lab Diamond Jewelry (or something like that) thread within that forum. Cut is the most important factor in buying any diamond. And you want to make sure you are getting the very best price for stone you are getting.

Distinctive Gem near NYC is a great resource in that Jonathan specializes in well cut stones, natural and lab. If he doesn't have what you want, he can source a stone for you and check it for graining, etc. and cut and light return.

Exclusive Ideal Cut Diamonds | Distinctive Gem Inc.

The home of Distinctive and August Vintage diamonds online. The world's first patented ideal vintage cut diamonds in way of oval, cushion and old European cut round diamonds.

www.distinctivegem.com

 

[Garnetgirl]

Good advice, above. Also, I’ve read various posts here on Pricescope about deals with family friends that have not gone well…..

 

[Rockdiamond]

Wholesellers by definition do not sell to the public

This- and so many times over.
I'm troubled when I see diamond sellers making disingenuous claims...I feel it reflects badly on my chosen trade.
No reflection on the friend or friend of the friend who's making the recommendation- rather the lying seller who claims to be a "wholesaler"

 

[AprilBaby]

Go on rarecaret.com after you get educated.

 

[ringo865]

ID Jewelry and Diamonds by Lauren are both PriceScope recommended and in NYC. Probably after you read a bit, contact one of them to see what they have (they have more in stock and available to call in than what is on their websites/instagram)