Antwerp or ?

[seematt]

I'm in Germany and happen to be in the market for one of those compressed carbon thingies. Should I go to Antwerp for better prices or shop online?Thanks,
Matt

 

[pricescope]

Hi Matt,You can ask the prices from Belgium vendors online. E.g. http://gallery.uunet.be/daems/menu.htm , http://www.diamondhouse.be , http://www.antwerpideal.com , etc.Don't hesitate to email and ask for quotations. Then compare prices from the US sources. Make sure though you compare apple to apple - make your homework (3C + CUT + Lab Report). Belgium diamonds can have HRD report. HRD standards can be different from GIA.Another issue is taxes. I guess you shouldn't pay tax within EU.

 

[onewave]

I will be in Antwerp on Monday to buy a Dimond for an engagement ring. Will I be saving money by buying in Antwep as opposed to buying in New York.

Thanks

 

[pricescope]

Do you know what kind of diamond you are looking for? Experts recommend to buy a diamond not the price. I.e. first find out the qualities that you want then do a price comparison (apple to apple).

If you're American, you will have more protection at home if you'd decided to return the diamond.[/u]

 

[oldminer]

I'd suggest do some internet shopping first, then shop in Antwerp. If you see what you want, tell the dealer you "THINK you may have found a diamond you want. Ask for any documents that give the details of the stone and tell them you are going to think about it. Then, check out the value by comparison with other stones that are very similar.

You can then be prepared to make a valid offer to buy the stone from the Antwerp merchant, or buy a very similar stone from someone else.