|
|
|
|
| ||
Diamond Jewelry Forums
 Picture Gallery
 Video Gallery
 Journal
|
|||
|
|  Search
|  Posted Today
|  Most Active
|  Help
|
||
 »
Home
»  » Diamond Prices and Grading »
 » RockyTalky
»  » The Impeccant Internet-vendors
|
|
 |
The Impeccant Internet-vendors |
 |
| P: 12/30/2004 11:57:40 PM | |
DoctorDan Rough Rock Total Posts: 27 Last Post: 5/1/2005 Member Since: 12/30/2004 |
Hi, I'm learning about this engagement ring-buying stuff and appreciate all of the helpful advice I've learned indirectly through this site. But, I have one interesting observation, which, granted, may be entirely unfounded, but, nonetheless, I'm eager for it to be shot down in order for me to feel more secure in the e-vendor ring-buying business. My observation is that I have not read anything really negative about any e-vendor. On the contrary, whenever I do I search about an e-vendor there is a plethora of topics suggesting so-and-so from such-and-such e-vendor, going on and on about how helpful they were and how they would suggest their business for anyone looking for an engagement ring. They sound like cheezy sales pitches. I'd love to take these recommendations at face-value, but my observations make me suspect. Hence, my desire to be proven wrong. Furthermore, everyone condemns "B&M" stores incessantly. Am I way off here? Is there not anything negative about any e-vendor? It's almost as if everyone is rubbing eathother's back, which negates everyone's reputation. Feel free to direct me to previous posts. Thanks in advance, Dan |
| Posted: 12/30/2004 11:57:40 PM | |
|
There are 19 replies to this message. There are 19 replies on this page. |
|
| P: 12/31/2004 12:16:14 AM | |
Regular Guy Ideal Rock Total Posts: 5,315 Last Post: 11/20/2009 Member Since: 7/7/2004 |
All different kinds here, but I know what you mean. Here's a story from me; you tell me what you think. There's certainly advantages to shopping locally. Still, being directed by knowing what you want will help to lead you to get what you want, however you need to get it. Now, here's some additional shopping thoughts, welcome to the board, happy New Year, and best of wishes... P.S. Have fun in the process, and don't be afraid to keep your analytical view. Ira (Ruffles have Ridges) Z. |
| Posted: 12/31/2004 12:16:14 AM | |
| P: 12/31/2004 12:17:33 AM | |
Lions, Tigers & Bears Ideal Rock Total Posts: 4,107 Last Post: 9/12/2005 Member Since: 10/18/2003 |
This is an e forum on diamonds, so many here use e vendors, and usually have a great experience. I can understand why you have the observation that there is hardly a negative word about certain e vendors but it is probably because of the environment, as I mentioned, and the fact that these vendors are generally very reputable. There is nothing wrong with a B&M jeweler--I have one and love him. But Many mall jewlery stores do sell inferior goods at inflated prices, so i think this reputation is well deserved. And many B&M stores have higher overheads so they must charge more for their goods--while the e vendor might offer a better value and possibly, access to more stones as well. My opinion is if you can find a great local person with competitive pricng, do it. But for many who cannot, the e vendors here offer great diamonds at good prices with solid customer service. Also, I know there have been more than a few politely critical threads about the service at a couple of the e vendors. The bottomline with these stories was the way the vendor handled the issue, which was admirably in each case. No one is perfect--hey, even my jeweler, who is like family to us, has made a mistake or two--but it was his service and handling of the mistake that was impeccable, similar to the e vendors, which has kept me as loyal as before, if not more so. Good luck. 
_____________________________________________ Don't breed or buy when homeless pets continue to die. |
| Posted: 12/31/2004 12:17:33 AM | |
| P: 12/31/2004 12:20:58 AM | |
pqcollectibles Ideal Rock Total Posts: 3,441 Last Post: 6/18/2005 Member Since: 2/23/2003 |
Most all of the e-Vendors here have hit a bad patch from time to time. No person or business is perfect. Emails sometimes get lost or misdirected. Phone calls get missed or not returned from time to time. A loose diamond here and there, a poorly made setting once (the Vendor was using a new smith), occasionally a package gets intercepted by the wrong person, etc. Folks have posted their problems as well as their successes in the Forum. The better e-Vendors step up to the plate immediately and correct the situation to the satisfaction of the customer. People refer others to companies they know and trust. Do you tell someone about a electrician because you've used the electrician or because you pulled a name out of the phone book. Many of the e-Vendors also spend time on the Forum working to help people learn about diamonds. Sharing their time, in addition to providing great diamonds and great service have helped the notable e-Vendors earn their good names. Good B&M's are becoming much more saavy in competing with the internet. Check out your locals. See what they have to offer. If a local B&M can come reasonably close to e-Vendor pricing, buy from the local merchant. You are investing in a relationship for future service and purchases. Local B&M's also invest in your local community,......... paying taxes, sponsoring youth league teams, supporting the school PTAs, local charities, etc. Just my $0.02 worth.
Why use a big word when a diminutive word would be succinct! |
| Posted: 12/31/2004 12:20:58 AM | |
| P: 12/31/2004 12:54:35 AM | |
Richard Sherwood Ideal Rock Total Posts: 4,874 Last Post: 11/20/2009 Member Since: 9/25/2002 |
I've seen plenty of criticism. It's just hard to find it all with so many topics, and so many of them taking twists and turns within the topics which you'd never know by the headings. Many of what I would consider top vendors have taken serious criticism in the two+ years I've been posting on Pricescope. Often undeserved, in my opinion, and usually quickly rectified by the vendor, who usually just grins and bears it. Rich, Independent GG Appraiser |
| Posted: 12/31/2004 12:54:35 AM | |
| P: 12/31/2004 1:02:08 AM | |
Superidealist Ideal Rock Total Posts: 655 Last Post: 8/23/2006 Member Since: 9/10/2003 |
A lot of mutual backslapping does seem to go on around here and on the other diamond boards, extending even to many vendors' testimonial pages. It's all very incestuous. Still, I think most of the enthusiasm is genuine and many of the major players run quality operations. I have never bought from any of them but there are some vendors here that I could do business with. Not everyone here bashes bricks and mortar operations, though it often feels that way. I shy away from giving buying advice but when I do it's always to see all your options with your own eyes whenever possible. I'm a big supporter of quality bricks and mortar stores but I live in an area where there is no shortage of these. Many people who post here don't have the luxury of actually comparing quality goods with their own eyes before buying, as good bricks and mortar stores are as rare as good internet diamond vendors. For consumers in this situation, a Pricescope vendor might be a good choice. D Riley |
| Posted: 12/31/2004 1:02:08 AM | |
| P: 12/31/2004 1:05:06 AM | |
|
DoctorDan Rough Rock Total Posts: 27 Last Post: 5/1/2005 Member Since: 12/30/2004 |
I began my search for a diamond ring only this week, and have found my research not only educational, but also very fun. I never really thought I would enjoy learning so much about jewelery, but have found the science quite fascinating. I suppose the thing is, e-vendors seem too good to be true as far as customer benefits go. However, it appears as if the benefits are real and true! Unfortunately, this adds another factor to the equation, and that is e-vendor research. Anyway, I'm thankful I ran across this site.
|
| Posted: 12/31/2004 1:05:06 AM | |
| P: 12/31/2004 1:15:39 AM | |
|
Regular Guy Ideal Rock Total Posts: 5,315 Last Post: 11/20/2009 Member Since: 7/7/2004 |
You also might find Paul Antwerp's comments interesting here.
Ira (Ruffles have Ridges) Z. |
| Posted: 12/31/2004 1:15:39 AM | |
| P: 12/31/2004 1:49:55 AM | |
sciencegeek Cut Rock Total Posts: 233 Last Post: 1/28/2005 Member Since: 10/27/2004 |
I've had both a positive and a negative experience with two different e-vendors. My fiance and I chose these vendors based on endless hours of pricescope research and noticed the continual stream of positive reviews of both, sometimes from people who had not purchased from either one. I have yet to post in full detail on my negative experience because I would like to sit down and take the time to compose a balanced and accurate account and haven't had the chance with all the holiday business.
|
| Posted: 12/31/2004 1:49:55 AM | |
| P: 12/31/2004 6:40:08 AM | |
katrina_33 Cut Rock Total Posts: 445 Last Post: 7/30/2008 Member Since: 6/8/2004 |
Not all e-vendors are highly recommended here anyhow. I hear lots of negative things on this board about E-Bay, Blue Nile (for being overpriced and not providing enough information on their stones), etc.
|
| Posted: 12/31/2004 6:40:08 AM | |
| P: 12/31/2004 8:49:09 AM | |
strmrdr Ideal Rock Total Posts: 23,296 Last Post: 10/9/2009 Member Since: 11/1/2003 |
There are 5 e-vendors that I recommend. Why? Simple not one of them has never had a problem/mistake but it is rare. How they handle it when a problem comes up is much more important than never having problems. Those 5 have a solid track record of dealing with problems. They are: whiteflash.com goodoldgold.com niceice.com winkjones.com diamondexpert.com There are other good ones out there but they havent earned my recommendation like those 5. There are some PS vendors that will never get my recommendation for various reasons but rather than slamming them I just keep recommend my top 5 and continuously evaluate them and when needed get after them. ........... Karl has joined the diamond trade and is now posting as Karl_K |
| Posted: 12/31/2004 8:49:09 AM | |
| P: 12/31/2004 9:18:33 AM | |
perry Ideal Rock Total Posts: 1,782 Last Post: 11/16/2009 Member Since: 9/19/2004 |
I think what you are seeing is the end of the washout process. Many internet vendors when the internet started getting "big" several years ago did not provide good service because many people thought that all you had to do was open an e-store and the world would make them rich. Those vendors are almost all gone now, although some new ones pop up from time to time. What is mainly left are the ones who understood from the start that customer service is the basis for any business. Pricescope further weeds out vendors - and the most active vendors here - and the most highly recommended vendors - are the ones with the best earned reputation. The result is that amoung this group of vendors. They know that they are in a group of the best internet vendors out there; thus they have no problem saying complementary things about each other. Really good business people know that there is always room for another good business - and that they will get farther ahead by lifting each other up, than by cutting them down. Are there negitive stories out there: yes, and most of those in the past. Are there many on Pricscope: no. Most pricescope clientell decide that it is in their best interest to work with the highest recommended vendors by other pricescope clientell. Does that make the whole process somewhat incestious - of course. The same can be said of any group of people who recommends any vendors or service on anything. I will note that some of the highest recommended pricescope vendors are not the cheapest place to buy a diamond - or a ring. I would argue that they are the best value when buying a diamond or ring. Value includes many things beyond price. Perry
|
| Posted: 12/31/2004 9:18:33 AM | |
| P: 12/31/2004 10:11:26 AM | |
karenmich Rough Rock Total Posts: 9 Last Post: 1/21/2005 Member Since: 12/4/2004 |
I know what you are saying and I had the same thoughts when I was lurking here. I finally did go ahead a buy from an internet vendor and could not be happier. Two things helped me feel secure in the process...1) the sales person at the vendor pointed out to me that one bad post on this board about their company could effectively ruin their business...that made sense to me. 2) I had a viewing period within which I could return the ring (still......thoughts about would I really get my money back?) . Next, took the ring to my local independent appraiser who confirmed that I had what I thought I had and also confirmed that I did well with the price. Still...wiring off thousands of dollars to the vendor was a bit nerve racking! Basically, I did my research and the rest was a leap of faith! Hope this helps, Karen
Karen |
| Posted: 12/31/2004 10:11:26 AM | |
| P: 12/31/2004 11:20:52 AM | |
denverappraiser Ideal Rock Total Posts: 4,610 Last Post: 11/20/2009 Member Since: 7/21/2004 |
I would also point out that some of the dealers that receive high recommendations here are, in fact, b&m stores. Neil Beaty Independent Appraisals in Denver There's never a crowd when you go that extra mile. |
| Posted: 12/31/2004 11:20:52 AM | |
| P: 12/31/2004 11:24:36 AM | |
Paul-Antwerp Ideal Rock Total Posts: 1,902 Last Post: 11/20/2009 Member Since: 9/3/2002 |
Hi Dan, I think that you are over-generalizing in your post. To start, there are e-vendors and e-vendors. Some of them are merely using the Internet as a store-front, while they try to sell you whatever they can lay their hands on. For others, like the 5 mentioned by storm, the Internet is an essential part of their business strategy. They combine it with a specialisation in the very best cuts, which enhances their 'brand'-recognition. With Pricescope being a forum dedicated to the importance of a diamond's cut, and with many consumers contributing or lurking here, it is clear that these particular vendors are very active here. The openness and the scope of Pricescope has raised the competition between these vendors, and since they adapted to it, they can now easily be compared to olympic champions in their discipline. Of course, with such high quality of vendors, it is normal that you find mostly positive comments about them. On the other hand, there are B&M-stores and B&M-stores. It is no coincidence that 3 of the 5 on Storms list also operate a B&M-store. Like these e-vendors, there certainly are B&M-stores, who have a strategy of concentrating mainly on cut. However, with thousands of stores in the country, it is difficult to locate them. The chance of anyone asking for advice on Pricescope having found such a specialised B&M-store is slim. This will give you the general idea that B&M is being bashed here, which is definitely not the case. Basically, we would love to know them, we would welcome their presence and contributions on this forum, but the past has shown that such a B&M-vendor showing up here will also start with a web-presence over time, and in a few years from now, he will also be on storm's list of top-e-vendors. Live long, Paul Slegers |
| Posted: 12/31/2004 11:24:36 AM | |
| P: 12/31/2004 11:26:11 AM | |
fire&ice Ideal Rock Total Posts: 7,827 Last Post: 3/30/2009 Member Since: 7/22/2002 |
Different strokes for different folks. Some buyers fit well with certain vendors as well as type of vendors. You have to ask yourself - what do you want out of the purchase.
|
| Posted: 12/31/2004 11:26:11 AM | |
| P: 12/31/2004 2:08:34 PM | |
|
windowshopper Ideal Rock Total Posts: 2,023 Last Post: 7/25/2006 Member Since: 7/11/2004 |
i think a great experience has to do with the ease of getting what you want and there is a lot of luck involved. The downside to real e-vendors is that they don't own much of their "inventory." The downside to b & m is that they have what they have and getting more is no different than you using an e-vendor. The pricescope community is full of people who have decided what they want pretty much and then they search the vendors for what they've decided they want. Whoever happens to have it is just lucky. Service, attention and extras really make it--like trade in , etc. In truth every e-vendor is different from the next--as is every B &M. I think people post and go on when they truly feel they got exactly what they want at a price they felt good about. I know that was what happened with me. Caveat: I feel that while I really liked the people I dealt with...I got what I wanted because I knew what I wanted......................
|
| Posted: 12/31/2004 2:08:34 PM | |
| P: 12/31/2004 5:22:04 PM | |
lop Ideal Rock Total Posts: 2,651 Last Post: 9/7/2009 Member Since: 6/14/2003 |
I have bought from 3 e-vendors so far, with good results from all of them. (USACerted, DCD, and Wink Jones.) I have talked to or emailed with probably 5-10 others in my shopping processes. There are a few that I won't bother with anymore, simply because I did not have good experiences with them in the shopping process. I don't post those negative experiences since they are just my opinoin -- not hard facts since I don't keep going back if the service isn't good or they don't seem credible to me. I would love to have a good local vendor to work with, but the only one I like is substantially more expensive, so it makes it tough to justify for big purchases. I recommend that you contact a few of the vendors once you are getting serious. You may find some more than others work in a way that you are comfortable with. The other thing to do is to be smart about how you go about things. Educate yourself, get opinions here, and then send it to an appraiser before you pay for it. These simple things help to ensure that you won't have trouble with your purchase.
|
| Posted: 12/31/2004 5:22:04 PM | |
| P: 12/31/2004 5:41:51 PM | |
|
RockDoc Ideal Rock Total Posts: 2,509 Last Post: 6/17/2007 Member Since: 8/16/2000 |
Lop's post is very good.... but I might suggest you spend the time to talk to the vendors you're thinking of doing business with. Everyone has a bad day here and there but for the most part the people suggested here are worthwhile researching to find which one suits you needs with what he sells, has the best refund, buy back or return policies and if they will send the stone to a professional without you paying for it. Most of the etailers here are far more reputable than stores, and as such they have very few complaints.... and when they do almost everyone is put on center stage so to be adamant or stubborn with satisfying a reasonable request can really hurt their businesses. You do see complaints about B&M stores, they have a significantly higher overhead, and in many cases have to inventory stones, which the e-tailer works more as a broker, assembling stones you might want and hoping they make a sale. If you read through many of the posts you find that a great deal of stores don't give refunds, and once they have your money, well the niceness and customer service leaves many with things to be desired. They don't realize that what they do that is not "right" many times gets posted here.... e-tailers - specifically the ones who contribute to the education of consumers are aware that one bad move, if not resolved, stays in the minds of consumers. Take the time to read the postings, check out the websites, and become knowledgible about everything that concerns you. Make your purchasing decision by being informed. The more informed you are, the easier it is for the seller, and better for you, as you won't be sorry you invested the time. Good hunting and happy new year. Rockdoc
|
| Posted: 12/31/2004 5:41:51 PM | |
| P: 12/31/2004 11:33:12 PM | |
solange Ideal Rock Total Posts: 871 Last Post: 8/23/2008 Member Since: 2/20/2004 |
There have been some negative postings here from time to time. However the vendors you see good reviews about all the time are very responsive to complaints. If a customer has a problem, I have a feeling they would not have to post it here because the vendor would resolve it as the result of a phone call or email. And when a complaint has been posted, the vendor usually comes forward immediately with an explanation and an offer of resolution. I bought my ring from Whiteflash, one of the vendors frequently mentioned here.That is why I decided to do business with them. They were very easy to deal with and willing to do an extensive search for a stone for me. I got exactly what I wanted at a price lower than my budget. I was completely satisfied with the service and the ring. However I have the very strong feeling that it I had a complaint,which I did not, I would I havejust had to call them and they would have done their best to resolve it.There are some vendors listed who are rarely mentioned. Some of them just drop ship diamonds from a published list and never see what they are sending out. Whiteflash sends for every stone that is not in their inventory and then Brian, the cutter, examines it and discusses it with you at length. The other popular vendors here also give highy personalized service. I think that if you choose any of the vendors with good reputations here, you will get honest advice and a very good price on a stone, as I did.
|
| Posted: 12/31/2004 11:33:12 PM | |
 Previous Page
|
Next Page 
|
Contact Us | Back Home | Privacy Statement | Forum Agreement | Forum Policies | |
| Ideal BB Version: 0.1.5.4.beta1 | Message forum software powered by the Ideal BB |
| |
Pricescope -
Knowledge -
Diamond Prices -
Tools -
Resources -
About
© 2000-2009 Pricescope. Terms of Use Privacy Policy Disclaimer
forum archives
