Diamond verification

[farzadfar]

Hi, we are in process of buying an Emerald diamond. We asked the seller to get this diamond GIA certified. My question for you experts is that how do I verify that the GIA certificate is for the stone I am buying in case the certificate number is not scribed on the diamond. Since the seller is not an accredited store and he requests cash, what are some of the ways he could screw me and what do I have to be cautious about??

Thanks

 

[EdSkinner]

It will take about 6 weeks to get the diamond certified by GIA. You can get the stone inscribed through GIA. Even if you do not get it inscribed you should be able to match the inclusions in the stone with the plot on the certificate. The seller not being a store and wanting cash is iffy. There are paragons of virtue and low lifes in every business. If this is a friend of a friend type of relationship I would be very leary. You do not know if they would or could honor a return, if that became nessary. Then again he could just be a salesman from a store, working under the table just trying to make acouple of bucks and will do everything he can to make you purchase satisfactory. Personally, unless I really knew who was selling it to me, I'd shy away from it, and keep looking. There are alot of good deals out there from people that will stand behind their product. I would also buy with a credit card, that way if something is wrong, and the dealer balks at getting things right, the credit card company will get the argument settled. One last thing GIA is great for color and clarity, but if you are looking for cut too, try AGS.

 

[oldminer]

There are so many ways to be "screwed" in this situation that you'd need the Kama Sutra. Get a source that will allow you to privately verify the accuracy BEFORE you pay. You need a written receipt and cash is dangerous with an unknown seller. Fraud is so commonplace that you need to be somewhat skeptical. Don't let fear ruin your experience. Let those willing to assist you properly be rewarded with your business and eventually with your trust.

 

[pqcollectibles]

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On 3/24/2004 12:27:05 PM farzadfar wrote:

Hi, we are in process of buying an Emerald diamond. We asked the seller to get this diamond GIA certified. My question for you experts is that how do I verify that the GIA certificate is for the stone I am buying in case the certificate number is not scribed on the diamond. Since the seller is not an accredited store and he requests cash, what are some of the ways he could screw me and what do I have to be cautious about??

Thanks----------------

The "he requests cash" screams RUN QUICK to me. If a jeweler is reputable, they would be more than happy for you to charge the purchase on a Credit Card. There are Federal Credit laws in place to protect you, the buyer, if you are not satisfied with the diamond or an independent evaluation proves the diamond is not as represented. If you give him cash, and the sales receipt says "No Refunds or Exchanges", you are stuck. Getting your cash back is gonna be really hard even if the Vendor has a return/exchange policy. The Vendor holds all the cards when he/she has your cash in their hands.

Personally, I would look for another Vendor to buy from. Preferably one that would let you have the diamond independently evaluated by an appraiser prior to purchase. If not, then find a Vendor who will give you a full refund if you are not satisfied with an independent, professional evaluation.