Am I getting scammed?

[jager1313]

I am looking for some advice, or just some comments on my sistuation.

My long time girlfriend and I are getting married and have decided to pick out a ring together.

We went to a fairly reputable jeweler in our area. 70+ ratings on city search, second most reviewed. This also happened to be the place 2 of our close friends got their engagement rings. So I feel fairly safe...

We found the perfect ring style in a Parade designs ring. The only change we wanted to make was in the band not being tapered down to the crown, but instead straight uniform thickness throughout. So we pay our downpayment and wait for our custom ring from Parade. The ring is ordered in a size 4.

4 weeks later I go and pick up the ring. I give it to my fiance, and she immediately notices differences. First, the ring is sized to 5.75(not 4). Second, the in house appraisal says the ring is a Paraviz design. Third, the ring does not really look like the one we ordered... it is very similar. The crow is correct, the band is correct, but the connection where they meet is not correct.

The explanation I got at the jeweler:

1. the size is just a mistake, they can resize and have turnaroud very quickly
2. the house appraisal was just a typo (happens all the time, Parade, Parvaviz, Panda all sound a like)
3. the design was just lost in translation when ordered

I am now wondering if this is even my ring at all??? The salesman assures me that it is. but can not offer any proof that this is a parade ring. There is no Parade markings on the band at all, and he refuses to disclose the order number from Parade, citing legal issues.

What should I do? What can I do?

Thanks everyone who read through this giant post...

 

[iota15]

I am now wondering if this is even my ring at all??? The salesman assures me that it is. but can not offer any proof that this is a parade ring. There is no Parade markings on the band at all, and he refuses to disclose the order number from Parade, citing legal issues.
What should I do? What can I do?

Thanks everyone who read through this giant post...

Yup. I think you're being scammed.

I hadn't heard of Parade but a search turns up their official website: http://www.paradedesign.com/authentication.asp Under Authentication, you can register your Parade ring for authentication (with or without style number). Plus, that page writes:

We are deeply committed to the highest standards of quality and customer care. Every piece is meticulously inspected at every stage of production and receives a final seal of approval with a laser inscribed Parade hallmark. To ensure the integrity of your Parade jewelry and to receive Parade’s promise of service, please authenticate your purchase within 90 days. At any time, should you have any questions or concerns with your Parade jewelry, please consult with your authorized Parade retailer or contact us directly at [email protected]

Your ring has no marking or hallmark! Then the jeweler tries to pass off para... *something* as Parade? No, no, no... Does your receipt say, "Parade ring" or Parade ring number XXXXX? If not, have the jewelers commit in writing, perhaps over e-mail, that this was a "Parade" ring.

Then, in any order you choose - (a) contact Parade's customer service and report the jewelers; (b) take pictures of your ring from all angles, including where the hallmarks should be; (c) ask for an immediate and full refund from the "jewelers"; and (d) consider reporting them to the BBB and writing your own city search review and rating.


ETA - you should asked to have this thread moved to the "Rockytalk" forum.

 

[Parade_Design]

Good Afternoon,

My name is Hillary and I work in the marketing department of Parade Design. I recently came across your post and I would like to make sure that your issue has been resolved. Our jewelry is always stamped with PARADE. Please email [email protected] if you have not already been helped.

Best regards,
Hillary
Parade Designs, Inc.

 

[Haven]

Good Afternoon,

My name is Hillary and I work in the marketing department of Parade Design. I recently came across your post and I would like to make sure that your issue has been resolved. Our jewelry is always stamped with PARADE. Please email [email protected] if you have not already been helped.

Best regards,
Hillary
Parade Designs, Inc.

Wow! This seems like a great possible resolution!

 

[ChloeTheGreat]

That's discouraging,
I don't have any advice, but I do hope you get this resolved.
Best of luck.

 

[centralsquare]

I would also have them show you the inscription on your diamond to prove it's the right one.

 

[John P]

Good Afternoon,

My name is Hillary and I work in the marketing department of Parade Design. I recently came across your post and I would like to make sure that your issue has been resolved. Our jewelry is always stamped with PARADE. Please email [email protected] if you have not already been helped.

Best regards,
Hillary
Parade Designs, Inc.

Welcome Hillary. Compliments on your awareness and quick response here.

 

[Cluless]

I sure hope this was resolved, this post is almost 2 years old dated nov. 2010

 

[Cluless]

oops sorry meant to say 1year old