- Joined
- Aug 5, 2010
- Messages
- 12,879
TL - thank you for the clarification of the padparadscha thread.
I too am one who generally likes Ed's threads. I often find them informative. Sometimes, they do seem a little packaged, but I have just overlooked it. I do get concerned with vendors when the exact same post appears elsewhere, like in their blog, or posted on other websites; if they are writing it in their blog/website/having it published, then it does smack of self-promotion to me when it shows up here. There was one occasion when a vendor showed up for the sole purpose of seasonal greetings and another vendor quickly jumped in to the thread with a "me too!" response. I found both of those awkward as they could've sent an email out to those on their lists rather than post on PS. The one who really sets my teeth on edge is one who quotes from their blog/articles. If we wanted to read it, we could go to the article, blog or website; posting on here to let us know of it is by definition self-promotion.
As for this situation, I think its a case of one end of the spectrum, the very knowledgeable gem bargain hunter, not having a need for the services of a vendor whose niche is to serve those willing to pay a premium in the gem price for the services. I also have seen concerns expressed in the past by TL about the photography used, and whether it exaggerates the beauty of the gems (in a way, another form of self promotion). I can understand why there are doubts. But on the flip side, TL you have to appreciate that you are one end of the spectrum and the vast majority here are no where near as educated/experienced as you are. Many also have deep pockets and don't have a problem paying someone to undertake their search. That is where Ed comes in.
I too am one who generally likes Ed's threads. I often find them informative. Sometimes, they do seem a little packaged, but I have just overlooked it. I do get concerned with vendors when the exact same post appears elsewhere, like in their blog, or posted on other websites; if they are writing it in their blog/website/having it published, then it does smack of self-promotion to me when it shows up here. There was one occasion when a vendor showed up for the sole purpose of seasonal greetings and another vendor quickly jumped in to the thread with a "me too!" response. I found both of those awkward as they could've sent an email out to those on their lists rather than post on PS. The one who really sets my teeth on edge is one who quotes from their blog/articles. If we wanted to read it, we could go to the article, blog or website; posting on here to let us know of it is by definition self-promotion.
As for this situation, I think its a case of one end of the spectrum, the very knowledgeable gem bargain hunter, not having a need for the services of a vendor whose niche is to serve those willing to pay a premium in the gem price for the services. I also have seen concerns expressed in the past by TL about the photography used, and whether it exaggerates the beauty of the gems (in a way, another form of self promotion). I can understand why there are doubts. But on the flip side, TL you have to appreciate that you are one end of the spectrum and the vast majority here are no where near as educated/experienced as you are. Many also have deep pockets and don't have a problem paying someone to undertake their search. That is where Ed comes in.