Is your part of Pricescope still lively?

[MissGotRocks]

PS is a forum, not a vendor. Jann Paul is a vendor so as not to confuse the two.

PS has been around for over 20 years of diamond buying for thousands of members. Clearly, potential members have found their way here and continue to do so.

PS does not differentiate between low income people and those you think have 'privilege'. Privilege often is mistaken for hard work and savings and planning for years.

PS certainly allows discussion regarding personal preferences as long as it is respectful. PS discontinued political discussions as it was not its intended use and could get quite contentious.

The pandemic, the war in Ukraine, the economy have all impacted diamond buying and seems to have resulted in some slow areas of PS. That was what this thread was addressing. Lab grown diamonds have certainly added another dimension to PS. Where or how far that goes remains to be seen with the buying public but as it has for all of these years, PS will continue to evolve as well.

While I would be considered a purist (if your definition is that of someone only buying earth grown diamonds), I do use an electric toothbrush. Thanks for asking!

Your relationship with PS and its many members is completely up to you. I can promise you that you can learn more than you could imagine about diamond cut and quality. I would encourage you to stick around with us; even long time members find things to marvel at all the time. While Kim N., dejawiz and Sledge are certainly very helpful with both EGD and LGD, there have been many others before them that have done so as well. We learn, we share. We experience, we opine. It has been a fun learning experience for many and I hope you will continue to learn here as well!

 

[Tonks]

As a modest income (read LG owner) newbie to this site, this was an eyeopener. I guess it's great that you all let your true selves hang out. How naive of me to think that the Diamond Collective were a kind and open group. Of course you don't allow political posts here anymore. Political views and diamond philosophies are often tied to financial means.

First, I didn't realize that someone's family is reaping the financial gains of what seemed to be the voluntary generosity (and thank god LG open-mindedness) of @Kim N. @DejaWiz and @sledge and others. And I see that family is a little worried that this income stream might dry up. Here are some thoughts from a disruptor.

You have NO online presence! (Insert HUGE SIGH and look of exasperation!)

I stumbled on this through my search for LG advice. You have to *direct traffic here* the way any other business does through SEO or at the very least an IG feed or a youtube channel that doesn't look like/sound a driver's ed course. Have you seen the vids and feeds of Jann Paul and By Bonnie Jewelry, just to name two? And they certainly don't have little corners on their feeds where their employees/loyalists insult LG's and by extension ppl who can only afford LG's. (And T-shirts are for family reunions. Please.)

This is the age of info and image. You can't expect Gen Z's (who are now old enough to get engaged with 3ct ovals) to take a look at this message board and dive in. They need to see you and develop faith in PS outside of this antiquated format. Give away education in a palatable 10 second format where you hook them from the first image. Make the voice or face someone relatable (ie, someone young who looks like they would be ok with LG's) so that anyone with diamond curiosity will search you out. Better yet, do the intergenerational thing to give your educational offerings more credibility. (I can't believe I'm giving social media advice to ppl wealthy enough to enjoy EG's who want to make sure yet another avenue of income stays open.)

Granted, I've enjoyed what I've learned here, but the taste in my mouth has certainly changed. Over the past few months, I actually wanted to develop myself into a word-of-mouth diamond concierge and share my enthusiasm for these heretofore inaccessible pieces of Beauty. I'm smart enough to process the data and optics in a way that could help those low income people who deign to want to enjoy the Universe's carbon creation known as a diamond. (For all you purists, I wonder if you also use electric toothbrushes. Or do you want to clean your teeth the way that takes a long time? But then an electric toothbrush costs more money, so I guess I know the answer to that. Yeah - no wonder you don't allow politics anymore. We get insulted, we get mad, then we write, and then other ppl get mad. A bad cycle.)

Anyway, my relationship with diamonds will develop into whatever it will be - with or without the resources of PS. But sheesh! What a thread! Enjoy your diamonds in good conscience - no matter what they say about you and how you see your privilege.

This is a diamond forum. Every single one of us here is here because we have disposable income. Even those who are purchasing lab stones. All jewelry is a luxury. Yes, the amount of disposable income we have and are willing to spend varies. However. I have heard ZERO people disparage those who purchase lab grown diamonds. Yet you have not been shy about disparaging those of us purchasing Earth grown diamonds. Please sit with that.

I also want to gently suggest that you check your privilege when it comes to age. Some of what you has said comes off as quite ageist. You said that we should “Make the voice or face someone relatable (ie, someone young who looks like they would be ok with LG’s).” The implication is that faces and voices with age are not relatable, desirable, and should be hidden away because they don’t jive with the Gen Z version of acceptable social media presence. Truly, you might enjoy spending time with the posts from some of our members who have been doing this the longest and who happen to be the oldest, including those in the trade. You also implore us to “do the inter generational” thing…but that would also need to include the generations older than Gen Z. While the PS format may not appeal to you, it is actually more intuitive to those who are older than Gen Z and who aren’t on TikTok and Snapchat. I’m a Xennial, and I don’t want my info in video format—I want it in text where I can read it.

I hear your frustration with the PS format, but please realize that contributing members here do not have any say over the backend of the forum. Yes, you do have to delve into this forum, or any format really, to develop a comprehensive knowledge of diamonds, whether Earth grown or lab grown. You can’t expect to do that in a short period of time and ten second sound bites. I’ve been here for years and years and still feel like a beginner. I’m incredibly grateful for those who are more experienced and volunteer their time to help others—you called out @Kim N , @DejaWiz , and @sledge . Absolutely agree. I have learned so much from those three—AND from countless others. But it’s a process, and a slow one. I genuinely hope you choose to stick around and develop relationships here. This is a special place, with wonderful people.

 

[elizat]

I browse the Reddit diamond section. It's not super active at all. A lot of the posts are basically people asking for advice and one user being recommended or responding "diamonddealer" I think. It doesn't seem super active?

Weddingbee is more active but I don't really go there. I peek occasionally. I wonder how long people stay there. They post to plan a wedding and their ring, or wedding jewelry questions.

The interface is old looking here. I'll agree with that. I don't want a bunch of flashy content and videos. But I also don't use TikTok, YouTube, etc. I think younger people may lean to videos and comments like TikTok. But I don't know if this format really is functional for that. The message board format is definitely more old looking, but Reddit is essentially a message board too.

 

[yssie]

I noticed certain sub-forums don't allow simulants, like SMTB, so that further restricts wide participation, especially from the younger generation, who may be into lab growns or moissanites. The "no simulants", as well as sequestering all simulates to something called "Fabulous Fashion Jewelry" like it's some little kids' corner, really sends an elitist vibe, and is unbecoming especially to the younger woke generation.

Agreed. The kiddy table mentality with regard to synthetics and organically-derived gemstones makes us look elitist, snotty, and unwelcoming. In 2023 it’s bad optics. But it will change once the paying advertisers who now sell lab stones request that change.

The true upside of PS that's irreplaceable by other sites is the collective wisdom and incredibly deep knowledge and expertise here. If I need legit, substantive info, I come here, but normally just via a Google search to get to the topic I need, and read in a logged out state.

Agreed, again. I’ve been in a few different private FB groups and private chats. Left all the social media groups and almost all the chat groups - the ones I stay in, I stay because those PSers are personal friends. None of those other social media groups had anything approaching the depth of knowledge and introspection that’s publicly-available right here on the fora… They were just echo chambers of the most superficial of information, and gossip-laden to boot. Maybe that’s changed now but I seriously doubt it.

This forum is such a special place. I want to see it thrive.

 

[yssie]

As a modest income (read LG owner) newbie to this site, this was an eyeopener. I guess it's great that you all let your true selves hang out. How naive of me to think that the Diamond Collective were a kind and open group. Of course you don't allow political posts here anymore. Political views and diamond philosophies are often tied to financial means.

First, I didn't realize that someone's family is reaping the financial gains of what seemed to be the voluntary generosity (and thank god LG open-mindedness) of @Kim N. @DejaWiz and @sledge and others. And I see that family is a little worried that this income stream might dry up. Here are some thoughts from a disruptor.

You have NO online presence! (Insert HUGE SIGH and look of exasperation!)

I stumbled on this through my search for LG advice. You have to *direct traffic here* the way any other business does through SEO or at the very least an IG feed or a youtube channel that doesn't look like/sound a driver's ed course. Have you seen the vids and feeds of Jann Paul and By Bonnie Jewelry, just to name two? And they certainly don't have little corners on their feeds where their employees/loyalists insult LG's and by extension ppl who can only afford LG's. (And T-shirts are for family reunions. Please.)

This is the age of info and image. You can't expect Gen Z's (who are now old enough to get engaged with 3ct ovals) to take a look at this message board and dive in. They need to see you and develop faith in PS outside of this antiquated format. Give away education in a palatable 10 second format where you hook them from the first image. Make the voice or face someone relatable (ie, someone young who looks like they would be ok with LG's) so that anyone with diamond curiosity will search you out. Better yet, do the intergenerational thing to give your educational offerings more credibility. (I can't believe I'm giving social media advice to ppl wealthy enough to enjoy EG's who want to make sure yet another avenue of income stays open.)

Granted, I've enjoyed what I've learned here, but the taste in my mouth has certainly changed. Over the past few months, I actually wanted to develop myself into a word-of-mouth diamond concierge and share my enthusiasm for these heretofore inaccessible pieces of Beauty. I'm smart enough to process the data and optics in a way that could help those low income people who deign to want to enjoy the Universe's carbon creation known as a diamond. (For all you purists, I wonder if you also use electric toothbrushes. Or do you want to clean your teeth the way that takes a long time? But then an electric toothbrush costs more money, so I guess I know the answer to that. Yeah - no wonder you don't allow politics anymore. We get insulted, we get mad, then we write, and then other ppl get mad. A bad cycle.)

Anyway, my relationship with diamonds will develop into whatever it will be - with or without the resources of PS. But sheesh! What a thread! Enjoy your diamonds in good conscience - no matter what they say about you and how you see your privilege.

Privilege? Don your own diamonds and look in the mirror, sweetheart.

Or do you truly imagine decorative diamonds of one method of manufacture to be less luxurious or privileged than another?
(‘Cause that’d say a lot more about you than any of us).

Your ranting is not constructive. You want to see change? Contribute here for more than half a month. Get to know us. Learn and then share your own wisdom. Maybe try actually reading all posts in a thread before slapping The Whole Dang Shebang with labels. Most of us care very much about this industry and for this forum.

As it stands - your post paints an unflattering and uninspiring picture of ageism, superciliousness, presumption, classism, and a whole lotta plain ol’ butthurt.




PS. I don’t use an electric toothbrush. Mine are the $5 for a four-pack sort. I do use probably the world’s most expensive floss, though. Please feel free to not share whatever conclusions that may lead you to.

 

[Gussie]

As a modest income (read LG owner) newbie to this site, this was an eyeopener. I guess it's great that you all let your true selves hang out. How naive of me to think that the Diamond Collective were a kind and open group. Of course you don't allow political posts here anymore. Political views and diamond philosophies are often tied to financial means.

First, I didn't realize that someone's family is reaping the financial gains of what seemed to be the voluntary generosity (and thank god LG open-mindedness) of @Kim N. @DejaWiz and @sledge and others. And I see that family is a little worried that this income stream might dry up. Here are some thoughts from a disruptor.

You have NO online presence! (Insert HUGE SIGH and look of exasperation!)

I stumbled on this through my search for LG advice. You have to *direct traffic here* the way any other business does through SEO or at the very least an IG feed or a youtube channel that doesn't look like/sound a driver's ed course. Have you seen the vids and feeds of Jann Paul and By Bonnie Jewelry, just to name two? And they certainly don't have little corners on their feeds where their employees/loyalists insult LG's and by extension ppl who can only afford LG's. (And T-shirts are for family reunions. Please.)

This is the age of info and image. You can't expect Gen Z's (who are now old enough to get engaged with 3ct ovals) to take a look at this message board and dive in. They need to see you and develop faith in PS outside of this antiquated format. Give away education in a palatable 10 second format where you hook them from the first image. Make the voice or face someone relatable (ie, someone young who looks like they would be ok with LG's) so that anyone with diamond curiosity will search you out. Better yet, do the intergenerational thing to give your educational offerings more credibility. (I can't believe I'm giving social media advice to ppl wealthy enough to enjoy EG's who want to make sure yet another avenue of income stays open.)

Granted, I've enjoyed what I've learned here, but the taste in my mouth has certainly changed. Over the past few months, I actually wanted to develop myself into a word-of-mouth diamond concierge and share my enthusiasm for these heretofore inaccessible pieces of Beauty. I'm smart enough to process the data and optics in a way that could help those low income people who deign to want to enjoy the Universe's carbon creation known as a diamond. (For all you purists, I wonder if you also use electric toothbrushes. Or do you want to clean your teeth the way that takes a long time? But then an electric toothbrush costs more money, so I guess I know the answer to that. Yeah - no wonder you don't allow politics anymore. We get insulted, we get mad, then we write, and then other ppl get mad. A bad cycle.)

Anyway, my relationship with diamonds will develop into whatever it will be - with or without the resources of PS. But sheesh! What a thread! Enjoy your diamonds in good conscience - no matter what they say about you and how you see your privilege.

@yssie and @Tonks and others said it better but to reinforce - ALL diamonds are a sign of privilege.

There are several forms of what I consider snobbery; holier than thou comes to mind in this case. I have 3 Gen Z kids who sometimes spout this nonsense (not about diamonds but other things). I hope it is just a phase. The oldest is already changing his tune somewhat. I am sure my parents thought the same when I was young.

You can learn a lot here. It's free information from experts. The format may be a bit dated but the knowledge is unsurpassed.

And I do use an electric toothbrush. My Sonicare is in the top 5 items I would take to a deserted island. That and my e-ring lol.

 

[Avondale]

To be fair, gen z need to learn how to use a forum board. I have been a member of many discussion boards over the years, ever since I was a teenager. I've managed several, including the one of my university. In terms of discussion, knowledge accumulation and archiving forums have no equal. And PS's system is a fairly functional and efficient one, with a clean interface which doesn't create unnecessary visual clutter. The search engine could be improved and that's about it.

Every other platform out there is only good for currently ongoing and short-lived discussions. Consume and move on. If you want to dig through the accumulated database, read through old discussions, maybe revive one because it's relevant, well, good luck if you're using facebook or, god forbid, tiktok. Reddit has a convenient discussion format to a degree, but it's still directed towards current content. The second something is old, it's done for.

 

[YadaYadaYada]

I deleted my comment because eh, some posts don’t need validation through a response.

 

[CBianco]

I actually really like the way PS functions and the traditionality of it. The knowledge here is unparalleled, and everyone are extremely helpful. It's really a wonderful community of passionate bling lovers. I stumbled onto PS through google while I was trying to learn more about pad sapphires and got hooked up completely, with PS and down the rabbit hole learning just about every gemstone there is! No other platforms generated as much interest for me as it did on here honestly.

And as a gen Zer myself, I absolutely despise tiktok and snapchat, so we are not all the same lol

 

[LightBright]

Yes, it's seemingly many factors. CS are absolutely insane right now, which is not a smart move because it's the mid market that keep things moving.
LGDs are blowing up with the younger set and I think a real permanent change is occurring. That's fun to see happening.

And anyways how am I to be entertained by everyone's lovely purchases and journeys and whatnot if they can't buy stuff?! Hmm?! It's not like I ever have money. That's not the deal. My support is superfluous in that case! Tell me that!

Are you saying colored stone prices are insane right now? I’ve noticed this happening over the past year with preowned vintage CS, when I’ve been paying attention. For example emerald prices seem to have sudenly gotten irrational to me. Is this a supply issue? I’m not an expert, but buying CS stones seems prohibitive right now.

 

[yssie]

I think you are missing the part where Wink didn’t honor his commitment to lifetime buyback in HPD business and left several of us holding diamonds we would have returned, as other clients did, if we had acted quicker. I waited out the COVID recession, not returning an HPD I wasn’t wearing as much out of concern for Wink’s livelihood. I waited two years, saying to myself he could afford a loss less than I could.

I waited until I felt it would be a better businesses environment for him to request the return I was entitled to. I was told “no”, due to the HPD transition, so sorry. Many things Wink’s done over time prove he’s a good and honorable man, and I like him. But when you don’t honor a policy that’s a really big deal. I and several other people were treated differently than other customers. The HPD return policy (along with the beautiful product) was why I bought from HPD.

l have yet to see anyone on PS talk about this policy that abruptly wasn’t a policy as they glowingly praise how Wink walks on water, and TBH the incident really tells you all you need to know.

I don’t know any of the details TBH, so I really can’t comment. But thank you for raising the point - and I don’t want to diminish or dismiss the uncertainties you had at the time you asked, but maybe you’d like to contact him again now if you still want to switch out your HPD stone?

https://www.pricescope.com/communit...-infinitys-website.271358/page-3#post-5172281

 

[LightBright]

I don’t know any of the details TBH, so I really can’t comment. But thank you for raising the point - and I don’t want to diminish or dismiss it, but now that he’s working with Continental maybe that’s something you could contact him about if you’d still like to switch out your HPD stone?

Hi Yssie, hopefully you saw my recently added part. I want you to know this is not criticism of your assessment which I think in many ways is warranted respect.

“PS, there’s no reason you would know this, and my comments here are not a criticism of your assessment which I also agree with. I’ve given a bit of info that not many PSer’s realize happened and I’ve held my tongue for a long time, but also feel a discordance between myth and reality.”

 

[yssie]

Hi Yssie, hopefully you saw my recently added part. I want you to know this is not criticism of your assessment which I think in many ways is warranted respect.

“PS, there’s no reason you would know this, and my comments here are not a criticism of your assessment which I also agree with. I’ve given a bit of info that not many PSer’s realize happened and I’ve held my tongue for a long time, but also feel a discordance between myth and reality.”

Oh no worries. I updated my post too, I acknowledge that potentially having some options for your HPD stone now doesn't diminish the loss of trust and confidence that being told "no" back then must have created. I don't know what was happening on either side of that transaction but I'm sure it wasn't pretty!

And I know of other vendors (who haven't gone under) who've just... Refused to honour their policies...

Honestly it's all made me leery of putting a ton of faith in vendor policies. At the end of the day those policies are worth only as much as I'm willing to take someone to court for, I guess. (Which, not happening, so...)

With that said - I have to add that I've used WF's upgrade policy multiple times!! And I believe that WF will be around for a long time, and I also believe that they'll honour their policies for as long as they're around.

But moving forward I'm just much more conscious of the fact that vendors can change their policies, renege on their policies, not be around to honour their policies... Which translates into me focusing on the stone(s) and the short-term return option and not much else. But, like, I've always known that. About any company, bling related or not. It's just that those realities weren't real to me ten years ago. Now they are.

 

[Cerulean]

As a modest income (read LG owner) newbie to this site, this was an eyeopener. I guess it's great that you all let your true selves hang out. How naive of me to think that the Diamond Collective were a kind and open group. Of course you don't allow political posts here anymore. Political views and diamond philosophies are often tied to financial means.

First, I didn't realize that someone's family is reaping the financial gains of what seemed to be the voluntary generosity (and thank god LG open-mindedness) of @Kim N. @DejaWiz and @sledge and others. And I see that family is a little worried that this income stream might dry up. Here are some thoughts from a disruptor.

You have NO online presence! (Insert HUGE SIGH and look of exasperation!)

I stumbled on this through my search for LG advice. You have to *direct traffic here* the way any other business does through SEO or at the very least an IG feed or a youtube channel that doesn't look like/sound a driver's ed course. Have you seen the vids and feeds of Jann Paul and By Bonnie Jewelry, just to name two? And they certainly don't have little corners on their feeds where their employees/loyalists insult LG's and by extension ppl who can only afford LG's. (And T-shirts are for family reunions. Please.)

This is the age of info and image. You can't expect Gen Z's (who are now old enough to get engaged with 3ct ovals) to take a look at this message board and dive in. They need to see you and develop faith in PS outside of this antiquated format. Give away education in a palatable 10 second format where you hook them from the first image. Make the voice or face someone relatable (ie, someone young who looks like they would be ok with LG's) so that anyone with diamond curiosity will search you out. Better yet, do the intergenerational thing to give your educational offerings more credibility. (I can't believe I'm giving social media advice to ppl wealthy enough to enjoy EG's who want to make sure yet another avenue of income stays open.)

Granted, I've enjoyed what I've learned here, but the taste in my mouth has certainly changed. Over the past few months, I actually wanted to develop myself into a word-of-mouth diamond concierge and share my enthusiasm for these heretofore inaccessible pieces of Beauty. I'm smart enough to process the data and optics in a way that could help those low income people who deign to want to enjoy the Universe's carbon creation known as a diamond. (For all you purists, I wonder if you also use electric toothbrushes. Or do you want to clean your teeth the way that takes a long time? But then an electric toothbrush costs more money, so I guess I know the answer to that. Yeah - no wonder you don't allow politics anymore. We get insulted, we get mad, then we write, and then other ppl get mad. A bad cycle.)

Anyway, my relationship with diamonds will develop into whatever it will be - with or without the resources of PS. But sheesh! What a thread! Enjoy your diamonds in good conscience - no matter what they say about you and how you see your privilege.

im probably not adding much that hasn't already been said, but....

First off, there are absolutely some younger members on this forum. I'm one of them. I'm friends with others. now that we've gotten that outta the way...

your impression here that everyone here is wealthy AND judging you for being into LGD just isn't true. and even so, if someone doesn't want an LGD, who cares? own what YOU like. and so many of us prefer stones that are flatly against what is preferred in the market, myself included. (e.g. an eye clean si1, lower colored stones, wonky old cuts, strong fluorescence, etc.)

when i first embarked on shopping for an engagement ring, i wanted an antique, low-colored stone. i had multiple, humiliating experiences in stores where i was basically told what i wanted was unattractive and they never have and never would carry what i desired. i took to the internet for answers, like many of us, and stumbled on Pricescope...a whole COMMUNITY of people who liked diamonds of ALL shapes and sizes. threads for small diamonds, big diamonds, HUGE diamonds, ideal cut diamonds, wonky old cut diamonds, uniquely cut diamonds (even a phallus or two ), man-made diamonds, fancy colored diamonds, you name it. diamonds of so many varieties that i never dreamed they existed.

People on this forum are from ALL over the world, from different walks of life, and socioeconomic statuses, we have different political beliefs in ways that were SO divisive it created discord...but you know what we have in common? we LOVE diamonds and other gemstones. what rare privilege to find a place (virtual or otherwise) to unabashedly delight in a ridiculously frivolous shared hobby.

but a hobby, that for many of us, has had an extraordinary impact on our lives. we've made friends, had a lifeline during the pandemic, and side-by-side we've shared and created emotional pieces of jewelry together to symbolize milestones, or commemorate losses, or to just plain HAVE something our hearts desired. a safe space to obsess over details and a level of perfection that 99.99999% of the population would not only not care about, but would actively be BORED talking about it. a place to ogle jewels we will never possess, and owning up to the collective envy, sincerely delighting in other people's joy for their most prized acquisitions.

Maybe if you spent less time judging people here you'd see it as the dynamic community that it is. the thing that you seem to be missing is that pricescope has been so effective at fostering dialogue that, expecting it to be something that at its core it's not, is just imposing your own beliefs, values, and priorities on a whole community of people.

im a user experience designer by profession. you've missed the mark on what appeals to this audience. could there be more expansive marketing strategies? absolutely. but to say Pricescope has no online presence? i dont think so. haven't you ever heard of organic SEO? pricescope has SO much content over SO many years that i bet it tops the charts in plenty of organic searches. i haven't done a deep dive on the SEO performance, but my hypothesis is that our little forum ranks quite high across specific keywords related to diamonds, gemstones and jewelry. that's no small feat in a world that is so rife with noise, its hard to focus on a daily basis.

i hope you are able to find what you are looking for. there's a lovely community here if you're open to it

 

[oncrutchesrightnow]

Maybe the next generation of diamond lovers will flock to Instagram and Reddit and never post their collections on PS. That would be sad.

But PS does have long term members who upgrade regularly and have astonishing jewelry to display. If PS evolves to become mostly a trove of a few peoples’ treasures, then PS will still be a special place to follow the adventures of the collectors, view those fabulous jewelry pieces, and congratulate the wearers. Peace.

 

[Wink]

I don’t know any of the details TBH, so I really can’t comment. But thank you for raising the point - and I don’t want to diminish or dismiss the uncertainties you had at the time you asked, but maybe you’d like to contact him again now if you still want to switch out your HPD stone?

https://www.pricescope.com/communit...-infinitys-website.271358/page-3#post-5172281

Dear Yssie,

Thank you for your post. One of the reasons I was so happy to go to work with Continental is they were huge vendors in-house of a diamond I sold on-line. We discussed and they agreed that it would be good business for us to honor the warranty formerly given by the wholesaler of that diamond. (As always, subject to inspection and verification.)

We have, in fact, taken many of them in trade up or buy back in the time since I became an employee of Continental Diamond.

I appreciate LightBright having waited for over two years before asking us to buy her diamond back, and I am happy to do so. I actually did do so for several clients before closing my office in late 2021, borrowing tens of thousands of dollars from my bank to do so.

I take my obligations very seriously and have been very glad to work with Continental as they believe in fine make diamonds as much as I do. These have been very trying times for many of us, and I look forward to helping make things better for LightBright and others.

Sincerely,

Wink

 

[LightBright]

As a modest income (read LG owner) newbie to this site, this was an eyeopener. I guess it's great that you all let your true selves hang out. How naive of me to think that the Diamond Collective were a kind and open group. Of course you don't allow political posts here anymore. Political views and diamond philosophies are often tied to financial means.

First, I didn't realize that someone's family is reaping the financial gains of what seemed to be the voluntary generosity (and thank god LG open-mindedness) of @Kim N. @DejaWiz and @sledge and others. And I see that family is a little worried that this income stream might dry up. Here are some thoughts from a disruptor.

You have NO online presence! (Insert HUGE SIGH and look of exasperation!)

I stumbled on this through my search for LG advice. You have to *direct traffic here* the way any other business does through SEO or at the very least an IG feed or a youtube channel that doesn't look like/sound a driver's ed course. Have you seen the vids and feeds of Jann Paul and By Bonnie Jewelry, just to name two? And they certainly don't have little corners on their feeds where their employees/loyalists insult LG's and by extension ppl who can only afford LG's. (And T-shirts are for family reunions. Please.)

This is the age of info and image. You can't expect Gen Z's (who are now old enough to get engaged with 3ct ovals) to take a look at this message board and dive in. They need to see you and develop faith in PS outside of this antiquated format. Give away education in a palatable 10 second format where you hook them from the first image. Make the voice or face someone relatable (ie, someone young who looks like they would be ok with LG's) so that anyone with diamond curiosity will search you out. Better yet, do the intergenerational thing to give your educational offerings more credibility. (I can't believe I'm giving social media advice to ppl wealthy enough to enjoy EG's who want to make sure yet another avenue of income stays open.)

Granted, I've enjoyed what I've learned here, but the taste in my mouth has certainly changed. Over the past few months, I actually wanted to develop myself into a word-of-mouth diamond concierge and share my enthusiasm for these heretofore inaccessible pieces of Beauty. I'm smart enough to process the data and optics in a way that could help those low income people who deign to want to enjoy the Universe's carbon creation known as a diamond. (For all you purists, I wonder if you also use electric toothbrushes. Or do you want to clean your teeth the way that takes a long time? But then an electric toothbrush costs more money, so I guess I know the answer to that. Yeah - no wonder you don't allow politics anymore. We get insulted, we get mad, then we write, and then other ppl get mad. A bad cycle.)

Anyway, my relationship with diamonds will develop into whatever it will be - with or without the resources of PS. But sheesh! What a thread! Enjoy your diamonds in good conscience - no matter what they say about you and how you see your privilege.

I’m not even sure where this rant is coming from. You don’t have to take an opinion as a personal affront, nor feel out of place here because you fancy yourself “different” or young.

Regarding “Age” …Can I say that Michelle Yeoh is my jewelry queen? Whatever she’s wearing I pay attention to. You should too.

I notice a few things. You’ve mistakenly perceived a few peoples’ preference for natural diamonds as a consequence of age, wealth, or privilege. (Or worse, politically incorrect callousness). Everyone has their reasons, usually emotional/philosophical. I look at natural stones because my preferred cuts (antique, historical) are done on natural diamonds. I visit the LGD threads often. I’m hoping I’ll start seeing a beautiful ”antique cut“ LGD. Ultimately, I want a big, LGD (barely affordable) antique cut in a high color. I’m even looking at how I can accomplish this in CZ! I like everything about the potential of LGD, except the cutters are no way as good as those from yesteryear. Yet... I’m waiting for them.

What I’ve learned from Pricescope is very valuable and I’ve been able to formulate my own opinions and tastes. If you look at a diamond or colored stone ring as a utilitarian ethically pure lab product and a means to an end, LGD is a great option. I look at a diamond ring or any other piece of jewelry as a historical package, reflecting a place of origin, and a journey, a stream of tenacious and talented people who have created something beautiful. It’s a priveledge to own natural stones. Until we can replicate (replicate not replace) them!

I also love big and high color diamonds and think everyone who wants big and “what they want” deserves exactly that. … LGD (and even CZ) is the future for that, for me.

 

[kenny]

@0515vision, I am exceedingly glad that I'm not young and "cool" like you.
UGH!

Your post brought to mind this classic youth vs. age movie moment.

 

[AprilBaby]

I truly don’t get your rant! PS has always been a welcoming place for all people. Maybe you don’t understand or accept Kenny’s “ people vary”. Both mined and LGD are very accepted by all ages. Many of us boomer posters own LGD. Yes we have money because we are older. When you are older you probably will too. Enjoy what you love and live and let live.

 

[sledge]

Y'all old farts need to embrace change better and see the positives instead.

 

[AprilBaby]

That need a tik tok 15 sec clip or the young’uns won’t understand.

 

[Karl_K]

In nov. it will be 20 years ago that I joined PS and lurked a few months before that.
Over the years people have been treated with the same respect and have been helped if their budget was a few hundred dollars or a few hundred thousand dollars.
Nothing is ever perfect but I firmly believe PS is the best place on the internet to get help with jewellery purchases.

 

[Ibrakeforpossums]

As a modest income (read LG owner) newbie to this site, this was an eyeopener. I guess it's great that you all let your true selves hang out. How naive of me to think that the Diamond Collective were a kind and open group. Of course you don't allow political posts here anymore. Political views and diamond philosophies are often tied to financial means.

First, I didn't realize that someone's family is reaping the financial gains of what seemed to be the voluntary generosity (and thank god LG open-mindedness) of @Kim N. @DejaWiz and @sledge and others. And I see that family is a little worried that this income stream might dry up. Here are some thoughts from a disruptor.

You have NO online presence! (Insert HUGE SIGH and look of exasperation!)

I stumbled on this through my search for LG advice. You have to *direct traffic here* the way any other business does through SEO or at the very least an IG feed or a youtube channel that doesn't look like/sound a driver's ed course. Have you seen the vids and feeds of Jann Paul and By Bonnie Jewelry, just to name two? And they certainly don't have little corners on their feeds where their employees/loyalists insult LG's and by extension ppl who can only afford LG's. (And T-shirts are for family reunions. Please.)

This is the age of info and image. You can't expect Gen Z's (who are now old enough to get engaged with 3ct ovals) to take a look at this message board and dive in. They need to see you and develop faith in PS outside of this antiquated format. Give away education in a palatable 10 second format where you hook them from the first image. Make the voice or face someone relatable (ie, someone young who looks like they would be ok with LG's) so that anyone with diamond curiosity will search you out. Better yet, do the intergenerational thing to give your educational offerings more credibility. (I can't believe I'm giving social media advice to ppl wealthy enough to enjoy EG's who want to make sure yet another avenue of income stays open.)

Granted, I've enjoyed what I've learned here, but the taste in my mouth has certainly changed. Over the past few months, I actually wanted to develop myself into a word-of-mouth diamond concierge and share my enthusiasm for these heretofore inaccessible pieces of Beauty. I'm smart enough to process the data and optics in a way that could help those low income people who deign to want to enjoy the Universe's carbon creation known as a diamond. (For all you purists, I wonder if you also use electric toothbrushes. Or do you want to clean your teeth the way that takes a long time? But then an electric toothbrush costs more money, so I guess I know the answer to that. Yeah - no wonder you don't allow politics anymore. We get insulted, we get mad, then we write, and then other ppl get mad. A bad cycle.)

Anyway, my relationship with diamonds will develop into whatever it will be - with or without the resources of PS. But sheesh! What a thread! Enjoy your diamonds in good conscience - no matter what they say about you and how you see your privilege.

"Give away education in a palatable 10 second format where you hook them from the first image. Make the voice or face someone relatable (ie, someone young who looks like they would be ok with LG's) so that anyone with diamond curiosity will search you out."
Leave me a link when this is up. All those years I spent trying to see what Karl sees! Who knew it was this easy to be a concierge?

 

[MMtwo]

I didn't know we were a "Diamond Collective". We need t-shirts and tiaras immediately.

 

[LilAlex]

This thread sure has morphed since I tried to answer the title question way up above.

I like this forum. It's a nice mix of the technical and the esthetic. I used to spend time on some financial forums but once you achieve a certain level of sophistication with the subject matter, every question is the same. Here, in contrast, every colored stone is unique. They don't just differ in scale or price; there really are near-infinite variables. And designing a piece of jewelry with them has far fewer constraints than helping someone craft a financial plan, etc.

I like the clean interface and all the white-space. It doesn't make me jumpy. I can read it at night and still go to sleep. And I can glance at it in the morning and not drive to work angry.

Differences of opinion in stone/jewelry quality, vendor reliability, design sensibility are tolerated. There is an emphasis on evidence when there are more meaningful disagreements; if there is a "shouting match," it's seldom the most strident who comes across as the winner.

There is just enough vendor input that it still "feels" like an amateur forum -- but they have offered much-needed context for the part of the elephant that most of us never touch.

It is lightly but not invisibly moderated.

There is just enough humor to keep it entertaining.

There is just enough drama to keep it interesting but not so much so that it's a constant distraction.

And of course, there is just enough baffling spam to keep you on your toes and provide some comic relief.

 

[lissyflo]

I think communities are more interesting when you know and understand those around you a little, otherwise it becomes like a conversation that never gets past small talk. I feel ps without the interesting (to me) hangout chats is a little more soulless than it was before, hence the quietness. Less argumentative admittedly, but definitely more superficial.

 

[MMtwo]

This thread sure has morphed since I tried to answer the title question way up above.

I like this forum. It's a nice mix of the technical and the esthetic. I used to spend time on some financial forums but once you achieve a certain level of sophistication with the subject matter, every question is the same. Here, in contrast, every colored stone is unique. They don't just differ in scale or price; there really are near-infinite variables. And designing a piece of jewelry with them has far fewer constraints than helping someone craft a financial plan, etc.

I like the clean interface and all the white-space. It doesn't make me jumpy. I can read it at night and still go to sleep. And I can glance at it in the morning and not drive to work angry.

Differences of opinion in stone/jewelry quality, vendor reliability, design sensibility are tolerated. There is an emphasis on evidence when there are more meaningful disagreements; if there is a "shouting match," it's seldom the most strident who comes across as the winner.

There is just enough vendor input that it still "feels" like an amateur forum -- but they have offered much-needed context for the part of the elephant that most of us never touch.

It is lightly but not invisibly moderated.

There is just enough humor to keep it entertaining.

There is just enough drama to keep it interesting but not so much so that it's a constant distraction.

And of course, there is just enough baffling spam to keep you on your toes and provide some comic relief.

I love your comments here. How many of us have been bopping in and out for years? I love the balance. You can find a little bit of all points of view. It's okay, there does not have to be a "right way" to collect. I love the recent threads that highlighted how many points of view there are here. We are harmonious, but not homogeneous.

 

[kenny]

... We are harmonious, but not homogeneous.

Hey, not so fast.
I'm a homogenius.

 

[MMtwo]

Hey, not so fast.
I'm a homogenius.

...not that there is anything wrong with that...


Buahaha love you Kenny.

 

[Lula]

Some people are attracted to MMD because of cost.
Some people are attracted to MMD because they think they are less harmful to the environment and to people.
In the future mined diamonds may become symbolic of human greed and an embarrassment to own or they may become symbolic of antiquated tastes or they may become a precious and very rare commodity appreciated because MMDs become the overwhelming, and perhaps only, choice available. All of those scenarios may likely rotate through society depending on prevailing cultural attitudes of the time.

I think it’s the former which is why I’m considering selling my larger EG diamond. I’ll keep my smaller EG diamonds to set with my EG colored stones, most of which were purchased 5 - 10 years ago and have increased in value. Just my two cents. I agree, the shift towards LGDs has been rapid, whatever the reasons.