Affordability,quality diamonds & service,best 3 online vendors?

[Hughrock]

Trying to make sure I''ve contacted the best online vendor options.Which 3 online diamond vendors would you say are the best for return policy,up grade policy,quality stones and service?

 

[hmr_mama]

Whiteflash, Brian Gavin, James Allen.

 

[512BB]

Without a doubt I would highly recommend Good Old Gold. I was just there yesterday, picked out a diamond, and am now trying to decide on a setting. So far, stellar service. Knowledgeable staff, plenty of equipment to show you anything you want, etc. Most of their diamonds include a lifetime upgrade, all you need to do is buy a more expensive diamond and you will get the full value of the trade in as long as there are no chips, etc. They have the benefit of having a retail store in addition to an online one, so you can see anything you want in person. The stones are top notch. Prices are pretty competitive with the other online vendors, which is excellent for having a retail store as well. Stone selection seems a little smaller than some websites, but it is big enough in my opinion, and they can always find you something if they don''t have it. Their website has tons of good information, and they seem to have the best working diamond inventory searcher I''ve found. Jonathan in on pricescope regularly too, so he is in tune with what people here want.

 

[CharmyPoo]

I would vote for GOG since I have personal experience with them. Based on what I have heard, I would put BGD in a similar camp. I don''t believe James Allen is up to the same level in terms of their policies.

 

[Gypsy]

Depends on what you want. If you want a round-- HPD, BGD, and GOG all carry hearts and arrows super ideal cut diamonds and provide you with a ton of information with your purchase. There are a few other vendors that do this as well. But you asked for my opinion on top vendors, and those are the three I would call if I wanted a round.

But if you want a fancy... the choices are different. HPD specializes in Infinity diamonds-- and Infinity cuts rounds and princesses. So they wouldn't be my tope choice for a cushion or step cut. BGD started cutting a lovely signature modern cushion (not crushed ice) and if that's what I wanted I would call them. But for a step cut... again, not my first choice, though they can get them in (so can HPD) and evaluated them. GOG would be my first choice for a EC or a cushion or an oval. So is ERD. Mark at ERD cuts up some gorgeous stones (and they have an ideal scope now, and I hear their pictures have improved!). Plus, depending on the fancy there are a few other vendors I might call.

 

[Mrs Mitchell]

If you''re looking for a round diamond, I can recommend Whiteflash, as I''ve bought from them and it was a good experience. I would also buy from Brian Gavin Diamonds, as the lady I worked with at WF is there now (Lesley Harris).

For a fancy shape or a coloured stone, I go to Diamonds by Lauren every time. I have always been really, really happy with quality, price, service and especially upgrade policy. I''ve bought there several times and highly recommend them.

Jen

 

[Lula]

I worked with the following vendors in my search for a diamond/setting, and I was very happy with my interactions with them and do not hesitate to recommend them. See their websites under the Vendor''s List I linked below.

Vendors List

1. Wink Jones at High Performance Diamonds. (I bought my Crafted by Infinity diamond from him and a custom-designed setting). Other Crafted by Infinity vendors include Todd at Nice Ice.
2. Whiteflash (I e-mailed them about ACA diamonds/settings before I decided to work with Wink).
3. Good Old Gold (I e-mailed/called them about Solafsera brand diamonds and calling in several emerald cut stones for me -- they are great with fancy shapes).
4. James Allen (I bought a diamond and setting from them, returned it because it wasn''t exactly what I wanted -- they were gracious and professional).

I would contact several of these vendors, either by e-mail or phone, just to see who you feel most comfortable with. Also read their websites in detail so you know what their return, buyback, and upgrade policies are. Also, consider what each has to offer in terms of settings. It''s generally easier to buy the diamond and setting from one vendor.

I like to recommend and support the vendors who advertise on PS, and participate in the forum on a regular basis. Their support ensures that Pricescope is a free-to-consumers, viable, ongoing endeavor.

But we don''t give these vendors a "free pass" just because they advertise here-- they are all held to high standards by members of PS! In fact, when I first found PS about a year ago, I was amazed that the vendors (and in one case the owner/cutter) answer questions and share their knowledge with individual consumers. They are active participants on this forum and they are often challenged by the consumers on this forum. In my opinion, that takes a certain amount of guts on the part of vendors to put themselves out there like that.

Good luck!

 

[Hughrock]

Thank you all for the excellent feedback.Who of the vendors you''ve suggested have a buy back policy? Not sure I would get tired of the ring in years to come but just in case would like to know my options. I think GOG has that policy,do anyone else?

 

[Hughrock]

Date: 3/14/2010 4:18:15 AM
Author: Gypsy
Depends on what you want. If you want a round-- HPD, BGD, and GOG all carry hearts and arrows super ideal cut diamonds and provide you with a ton of information with your purchase. There are a few other vendors that do this as well. But you asked for my opinion on top vendors, and those are the three I would call if I wanted a round.

But if you want a fancy... the choices are different. HPD specializes in Infinity diamonds-- and Infinity cuts rounds and princesses. So they wouldn''t be my tope choice for a cushion or step cut. BGD started cutting a lovely signature modern cushion (not crushed ice) and if that''s what I wanted I would call them. But for a step cut... again, not my first choice, though they can get them in (so can HPD) and evaluated them. GOG would be my first choice for a EC or a cushion or an oval. So is ERD. Mark at ERD cuts up some gorgeous stones (and they have an ideal scope now, and I hear their pictures have improved!). Plus, depending on the fancy there are a few other vendors I might call.

You guys are too good really the best.Several of you have mentioned BGD.Who is that? Btw,I''m getting two stones a EC and now heavily leaning toward a modern faceted cushion.

 

[Dreamer_D]

Given what you are looking for I vote for Good Old Gold as well. Excellent policies all around. www.briangavindiamonds.com is the vendor you were asking about. They also have excellent policies, but would be my choice for RBs not for fancy shapes.

 

[kenny]

BGD is Brian Gavin Diamonds, a new company started by Brian Gavin.
He used to be at Whiteflash and designed their amazing round diamond, A Cut Above, also known as ACA.
Many here have bought from his new company and everyone is delighted with the service and diamond cut.
I don't know whether he cuts any cuts other than rounds.

Whiteflash is a fine vendor, if you can accept their short 10-day return period.
We own an ACA and it is superb.

I strongly recommend GOG for asschers.
I bought a very finely-cut asscher and an Octavia asscher from them and their goods, policies and service are top notched.

 

[susimoo]

Date: 3/14/2010 3:15:48 PM
Author: kenny
BGD is Brian Gavin Diamonds, a new company started by Brian Gavin.

He used to be at Whiteflash and designed their amazing round diamond, A Cut Above, also known as ACA.

Many here have bought from his new company and everyone is delighted with the service and diamond cut.

I don''t know whether he cuts any cuts other than rounds.


Whiteflash is a fine vendor, if you can accept their short 10-day return period.

We own an ACA and it is superb.


I strongly recommend GOG for asschers.

I bought a very finely-cut asscher and an Octavia asscher from them and their goods, policies and service are top notched.

I am with Kenny on this one. I am new to PS and have only recently started a dialogue with GOG. They have met my every expectation and more. I will be purchasing a diamond from them (from the UK) in the very near future. So far, I am very, very impressed. What''s more they come across more like a diamond information service than a vendor. I love dealing with people who are passionate about their business. A more passionate company I have yet to experience.

Good luck in your search and be sure to keep us updated. I am very excited to see the finished product.

 

[MichelleCarmen]

Date: 3/13/2010 8:58:16 PM
Author:Hughrock
Trying to make sure I've contacted the best online vendor options.Which 3 online diamond vendors would you say are the best for return policy,up grade policy,quality stones and service?

Whiteflash has all of the above. They're the only vendor I've worked with.

GOG and BGDs both have great reputations too. . .

 

[tyty333]

If you are lookinf or an EC that changes the picture. Here is what I understand...someone correct me if they know otherwise...

Most of there vendors only have tradeup policy on their "signature" diamonds which usually arent ECs.

BGD has tradeup on their Brian Gavin Hearts and Arrows (round and some princess).
Whiteflash has tradeup on their ACAs and Expert Selection diamonds which come in round or princess shapes.
GOG has tradeup on certain diamonds. Some rounds, princess and I think their AV diamonds and maybe a few others.
(I cant get to their website right now).

James Allen has tradeup on any diamond as long as you invest 2xprice of original diamond in the new stone.

I think I read diamond scassi has full upgrade on any stone but would need to double check. Also, if you want
an EC you need to work with someone who has all the images (ASET and ideal scope) and I dont know if
diamond scassi has them.

 

[Hughrock]

Abazias & Adiamor? What do you all think of these two diamond vendors for emerald and modern faceted cushion cuts and their service and trade up & return policy?

 

[Hughrock]

Date: 3/14/2010 3:15:48 PM
Author: kenny
BGD is Brian Gavin Diamonds, a new company started by Brian Gavin.
He used to be at Whiteflash and designed their amazing round diamond, A Cut Above, also known as ACA.
Many here have bought from his new company and everyone is delighted with the service and diamond cut.
I don''t know whether he cuts any cuts other than rounds.

Whiteflash is a fine vendor, if you can accept their short 10-day return period.
We own an ACA and it is superb.

I strongly recommend GOG for asschers.
I bought a very finely-cut asscher and an Octavia asscher from them and their goods, policies and service are top notched.

Ken

Who is the best vendor for Emerald cuts?

 

[kenny]

Sorry, I have no idea.
I've never bought one or looked into the emerald cut.

I think, beyond deciding on cut, your high price range makes your shopping challenge unique.
If I were in your shoes I'd first decide on a cut.
Next I'd learn all I could on the specs and wait silently for a long time for my stone to appear.

If I was in a hurry I'd commission a trusted expert to cut it and expect to pay more for it than I would if I just waited for it to show up one day (with a published price) on the Internet.

Frankly with your budget I'd be tempted to just go buy a Royal Asscher, and get it over with.

 

[Kaleigh]

EC''s?

No one is known for them in particular. They''d have to bring them in most likey.

So would say GOG, WF and then DBG.

I have worked with all three.

GOG was amazing when I was looking for an oval. They brought in a few, made a video and I picked the one that spoke to me, and it''s been speaking to me ever since, LOL!!!

 

[Laila619]

I recommend Whiteflash. Vera is the best!

 

[Hughrock]

Thanks Ken

 

[Hughrock]

Date: 3/14/2010 9:57:48 PM
Author: Kaleigh
EC''s?

No one is known for them in particular. They''d have to bring them in most likey.

So would say GOG, WF and then DBG.

I have worked with all three.

GOG was amazing when I was looking for an oval. They brought in a few, made a video and I picked the one that spoke to me, and it''s been speaking to me ever since, LOL!!!

Speaking to you ever since? That is the experience I want!!

 

[PumpkinPie]

I''ve only dealt with one vendor so far (Brian Gavin diamonds) but it was a great experience and I love my diamond studs they''re beautiful! (and also quite affordable)

 

[Lula]

Date: 3/14/2010 10:17:16 PM
Author: Hughrock

Date: 3/14/2010 9:57:48 PM

Author: Kaleigh

EC''s?


No one is known for them in particular. They''d have to bring them in most likey.


So would say GOG, WF and then DBG.


I have worked with all three.


GOG was amazing when I was looking for an oval. They brought in a few, made a video and I picked the one that spoke to me, and it''s been speaking to me ever since, LOL!!!

Speaking to you ever since? That is the experience I want!!

Good Old Gold just made a video comparing three @ 1.5 carat emerald cuts for a client. I''d work with Good Old Gold on having some called in. Then post the ASET, Sarin info, etc., on this forum and ask for help assessing the images. But given the size you''re looking for, it may take less time to get something custom cut.

There was a thread from awhile back (maybe more than one) where Karl K (former screen name strmrdr) posted the ideal crown height, table size, and depth for a good emerald cut. I just can''t find the thread right now.

 

[Lula]

Date: 3/14/2010 9:47:27 PM
Author: kenny

Frankly with your budget I''d be tempted to just go buy a Royal Asscher, and get it over with.

Ditto this. It would be incredible. Or commission an Octavia to be cut in the size you want.

 

[Hughrock]

Date: 3/14/2010 10:36:50 PM
Author: sarap333

Date: 3/14/2010 9:47:27 PM
Author: kenny

Frankly with your budget I''d be tempted to just go buy a Royal Asscher, and get it over with.

Ditto this. It would be incredible. Or commission an Octavia to be cut in the size you want.

Wish it was that easy.I know with out a doubt the emerald cut is the diamond for me.Have looked at so many stones since joining this great site and the one constant with out change has been my admiration for the EC. Have wavered between the Asscher and Emerald a few times but I always come back to the EC.I like the step cuts.

I think Ken is correct about either waiting for a great EC to be found by my vendors or to have one cut with my specs which is a whole other issue. The goal is to buy two totally different kind of cuts.My second purchase at this point is still a bit in the air but I am leaning heavily toward the modern faceted cushion.Has amazing brilliance but with out all those bold big flashes. I really like it.

This whole process has taught me a lot.You can''t expect to know how you feel about a diamond and its qualities until taking the time to learn a great deal about gem stones. A diamond is not just a diamond!

 

[kenny]

I''m sure you are going to have the most amazing ring ever.
I can''t wait to see.

 

[Lula]

Well, if emerald cuts make your eyes happy, then you have found the right cut for you. I agree that they are beautiful, and so very elegant.

Have you contacted Jonathan at GOG? I think their website was having some issues today, but that''s where I would start, is with Jonathan at Good Old Gold. He will be honest with you about what''s out there that meets your specifications, and he may also be able to help you with getting something custom cut, if that''s what you decide to do.

 

[Hughrock]

Date: 3/14/2010 10:34:18 PM
Author: sarap333

Date: 3/14/2010 10:17:16 PM
Author: Hughrock

Date: 3/14/2010 9:57:48 PM

Author: Kaleigh

EC''s?


No one is known for them in particular. They''d have to bring them in most likey.


So would say GOG, WF and then DBG.


I have worked with all three.


GOG was amazing when I was looking for an oval. They brought in a few, made a video and I picked the one that spoke to me, and it''s been speaking to me ever since, LOL!!!

Speaking to you ever since? That is the experience I want!!

Good Old Gold just made a video comparing three @ 1.5 carat emerald cuts for a client. I''d work with Good Old Gold on having some called in. Then post the ASET, Sarin info, etc., on this forum and ask for help assessing the images. But given the size you''re looking for, it may take less time to get something custom cut.

There was a thread from awhile back (maybe more than one) where Karl K (former screen name strmrdr) posted the ideal crown height, table size, and depth for a good emerald cut. I just can''t find the thread right now.

Thank you Sarap

 

[Lula]

Date: 3/14/2010 11:44:36 PM
Author: Hughrock

Date: 3/14/2010 10:34:18 PM

Author: sarap333

Date: 3/14/2010 10:17:16 PM

Author: Hughrock

Date: 3/14/2010 9:57:48 PM


Author: Kaleigh


EC's?



No one is known for them in particular. They'd have to bring them in most likey.



So would say GOG, WF and then DBG.



I have worked with all three.



GOG was amazing when I was looking for an oval. They brought in a few, made a video and I picked the one that spoke to me, and it's been speaking to me ever since, LOL!!!

Speaking to you ever since? That is the experience I want!!

Good Old Gold just made a video comparing three @ 1.5 carat emerald cuts for a client. I'd work with Good Old Gold on having some called in. Then post the ASET, Sarin info, etc., on this forum and ask for help assessing the images. But given the size you're looking for, it may take less time to get something custom cut.


There was a thread from awhile back (maybe more than one) where Karl K (former screen name strmrdr) posted the ideal crown height, table size, and depth for a good emerald cut. I just can't find the thread right now.

Thank you Sarap

You are welcome, HughRock! Here is a reading assignment for you:
I searched the PS archives (using the PS search box) for these terms "strmrdr emerald cut" and "emerald cut crown" and a whole bunch of old threads came up. Take a look at these, and you will see some very old posts from a couple of the appraisers and vendors on this site about grading/evaluating emerald cuts.

But, keep in mind that these threads are several years old, and knowledge evolves. So my best advice to you is to find a vendor who has experience and knowledge about fancy cuts and work with that person. There are many excellent vendors on PS, but only a few who stand out for fancy cuts.

In addition to Good Old Gold, two other vendors you may want to contact are Todd Gray from Nice Ice site and Wink Jones from High Performance Diamonds link
Both of these gentleman have years of experience in the diamond business, are straight shooters, and will be happy to share their knowledge with you about where to find a well-cut emerald-cut diamond.

You are looking for something very specific and something very pricey, and so choosing a vendor who has experience with fancy cuts is very important. A year ago, I looked into purchasing an emerald cut (my budget was a fraction of yours), and I found it very difficult to find good inventory, and even more difficult to assess the quality of what I was finding online. I gave up and decided to go with a round brilliant instead!

But, having been a member of PS for about a year and knowing more about the knowledge and experience of individual vendors, if I was looking for an emerald cut today, I would start with Jonathan, Todd, and Wink.

I do wish someone was cutting a consistently good emerald cut. And maybe some experts on PS will weigh in on why it is so hard to find nice emerald cut stones. Karl K, and others,where are you?