Help - My jeweller did a terrible job

[TravelingGal]

Oh wow.

Such a pretty design ruined by slopshod work. The nicest thing I can possibly say that it looks organic?

Hope it gets resolved for you!

 

[Gypsy]

I'm gonna say. Raise heck and get your money back. In the meantime find an appriaser who will A) verify that the ring is crap and B) examine your diamond to see if he damaged it and then C) unmount your diamond (only if undamaged).

In the meantime get your lady a nice cheap temporary setting like this one: http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&ssPageName=STRK:MEWAX:IT&item=120433410678 Many of us from the colored stone board have bought from this and a couple other chinese ebay sellers for inexpensive settings so they are reputable, that particular one will hopefully work with your size stone. Have the appraiser set the stone in the setting and and then propose to your lady. You'll need a good appraiser for this.

Then take the guy to court for fraud and misrepresentation and get your money back.

 

[ficklefaye]

i agree with everyone here. i would ask for your money back because its obvious from the photo that the craftmanship is just not there. just curious, do you think it''s a different situation because this jeweler was recommended by friends of friends?

 

[Monnyjay]

I agree totally with what everyone else has said. I feel really sorry for you, it''s such poor quality this jeweller has no idea

I hope you get a speedy resolution

 

[jmiranda]

It is an extremly difficult situation for me right now. This place was recommended by friends but they are on my side about getting my money back. I really don''t have time to reset it but I hope my GF will be accepting as I have sacrificed a lot of things to save up money just to buy this thing. As for the person who asked what jeweler it was. The name of the place is Mona Clara Jewelers and they are located in North York. I am going to try to take it to an appraiser today to get the stones checked out. Thanks everyone for the sympathy, it at least made me feel like I have someone on my side in this situation.

 

[Ellen]

Date: 6/19/2009 9:23:55 AM
Author: jmiranda
It is an extremly difficult situation for me right now. This place was recommended by friends but they are on my side about getting my money back. I really don't have time to reset it but I hope my GF will be accepting as I have sacrificed a lot of things to save up money just to buy this thing. As for the person who asked what jeweler it was. The name of the place is Mona Clara Jewelers and they are located in North York. I am going to try to take it to an appraiser today to get the stones checked out. Thanks everyone for the sympathy, it at least made me feel like I have someone on my side in this situation.

Hang in there, I know this sucks.

I've been thinking about your situation, and how to make the jeweler own up and give you your money back. And I'm reminded of something that happened to me. Many years ago I commissioned a gal to do a black and white dot style portrait of my BIL's house as a xmas present (somewhat expensive). She finished it and dropped it off at work. I was extremely busy, and could really only glance at it. It looked good, so I paid her and she left. When I got it home, I noticed two different light pink spots on it, like someone had spilled something. Well of course this was unnaceptable, so I called and told her about it. She didn't seem to think it was a big deal (?), and did not want to give me my money back. This went on for a couple days, and I finally thought, ok, if she wants to play dirty, so will I.

So I wrote her a letter, and explained exactly who this was going to. A Dr. and his wife, who run in upper circles. I then said that I was going to go ahead and give them this blemished piece of artwork. They could go ahead and hang it, and when everyone asked who did the crappily finished piece of artwork, they could give all of them her name.... I received a prompt refund.

Here's my point, "most" artists/jewelers/etc. care about their reputations, and most don't want them tarnished. So what I suggest you do is go back to the jeweler and calmly explain once more why this piece is unacceptable, and ask for your money back. If he says no, then nicely explain to him that you are going to turn him in to the BBB, and the JVC. And, tell him you have already posted about this on this public board (that MANY people read), that you would like to be able to come back with a happy resolution, and good words for him. But you will also be quite willing to leave the negative review, and then some. Then tell him it's entirely up to him on how he wants this to end.

I know confrontations are not fun, I've had a few doozies in my life, and one over a questionable ring. But in the end, just keep reminding yourself that you are the one in the right here. It does give you a sense of empowerment, and it feels REALLY good when you win.

 

[steph72276]

Great advice, Ellen. Jmiranda, it really sounds like you've sort of given up on the situation. If it were me, I would make it my new hobby to be in there everyday trying to get my money back. It was very poorly executed and you deserve to get your money back on it.

 

[ckrickett]

Does this jeweler even have pride in his work? I mean, C''MON. I think the design would be STUNNING if done with the proper craftmanship.
I''d go create the hugest stink until you got every penny of your money back, but DEFINATELY make sure you get the diamond removed by someone who actually knows what he is doing first!

 

[jmiranda]

So I just went in and he still refuses to do anything about it. I just filed a complaint with the BBB and have sent a message to JVC to see if they could help me out here in Canada. He would''nt even provide me with a reciept because it was a cash deal. The only reason I went with a cash deal was because I did''nt want to put it on my credit card becasue my girlfriend has access to my account and would find out about it. Boy was that a mistake. I wish I could go there everyday and inform other people of what has happened but I live about 40 minutes away and it would be more of a hassle for me. I hope the BBB resolves this. If not, I am taking this to court. Thanks for the support and encouragement. I will update you guys on what happens.

 

[ckrickett]

Date: 6/19/2009 2:05:21 PM
Author: jmiranda
So I just went in and he still refuses to do anything about it. I just filed a complaint with the BBB and have sent a message to JVC to see if they could help me out here in Canada. He would'nt even provide me with a reciept because it was a cash deal. The only reason I went with a cash deal was because I did'nt want to put it on my credit card becasue my girlfriend has access to my account and would find out about it. Boy was that a mistake. I wish I could go there everyday and inform other people of what has happened but I live about 40 minutes away and it would be more of a hassle for me. I hope the BBB resolves this. If not, I am taking this to court. Thanks for the support and encouragement. I will update you guys on what happens.

You did the right thing, and thats so shady. I would go and find anyway you could let people know about this. Don't let other people get ripped off by that shady jeweler.

GOOD LUCK! hope to hear good news!

 

[ilovethiswebsite]

Date: 6/19/2009 2:05:21 PM
Author: jmiranda
So I just went in and he still refuses to do anything about it. I just filed a complaint with the BBB and have sent a message to JVC to see if they could help me out here in Canada. He would''nt even provide me with a reciept because it was a cash deal. The only reason I went with a cash deal was because I did''nt want to put it on my credit card becasue my girlfriend has access to my account and would find out about it. Boy was that a mistake. I wish I could go there everyday and inform other people of what has happened but I live about 40 minutes away and it would be more of a hassle for me. I hope the BBB resolves this. If not, I am taking this to court. Thanks for the support and encouragement. I will update you guys on what happens.

hmm. he can probably get in crap too for giving you a cash deal sans taxes... that is illegal.

 

[Gypsy]

Date: 6/19/2009 3:40:52 PM
Author: ilovethiswebsite

Date: 6/19/2009 2:05:21 PM
Author: jmiranda
So I just went in and he still refuses to do anything about it. I just filed a complaint with the BBB and have sent a message to JVC to see if they could help me out here in Canada. He would''nt even provide me with a reciept because it was a cash deal. The only reason I went with a cash deal was because I did''nt want to put it on my credit card becasue my girlfriend has access to my account and would find out about it. Boy was that a mistake. I wish I could go there everyday and inform other people of what has happened but I live about 40 minutes away and it would be more of a hassle for me. I hope the BBB resolves this. If not, I am taking this to court. Thanks for the support and encouragement. I will update you guys on what happens.

hmm. he can probably get in crap too for giving you a cash deal sans taxes... that is illegal.

Yup. He can. Report him for it to the NY attorney general''s office for sales tax evasion.

 

[arjunajane]

Date: 6/20/2009 2:11:37 AM
Author: Gypsy

Date: 6/19/2009 3:40:52 PM

Author: ilovethiswebsite

Date: 6/19/2009 2:05:21 PM

Author: jmiranda

So I just went in and he still refuses to do anything about it. I just filed a complaint with the BBB and have sent a message to JVC to see if they could help me out here in Canada. He would''nt even provide me with a reciept because it was a cash deal. The only reason I went with a cash deal was because I did''nt want to put it on my credit card becasue my girlfriend has access to my account and would find out about it. Boy was that a mistake. I wish I could go there everyday and inform other people of what has happened but I live about 40 minutes away and it would be more of a hassle for me. I hope the BBB resolves this. If not, I am taking this to court. Thanks for the support and encouragement. I will update you guys on what happens.

hmm. he can probably get in crap too for giving you a cash deal sans taxes... that is illegal.

Yup. He can. Report him for it to the NY attorney general''s office for sales tax evasion.

absolutely - I would make this a govt. problem too, and let him have heck from them.
That is tax evasion, and he is freakin shady.

Don''t you have some type of current affairs program you could write to in your area about this guy and your situation? I''m sure they''d love to "expose" him.

I even saw a situation like yours on Dr Phil the other day, about an engagement ring debacle - and of course, the jewellery store ended up yielding. And I don''t even think that story was as dodgy as yours.
I am not suggesting you need to go on Dr Phil to get justice, but just reminding you, you do have other avenues yanno? And I think you should utilize all of them ...
And I''m sorry to say this, but I hope you remember next time you buy anything custom or expensive like this to please get a receipt! That''s worrisome, as he could potentially deny he even knows you.
Is there any written record of the transaction, like a drawing, work order - anything?

I''m sorry he is being such a douche. I don''t think this guy gives a crap about his "art", hopefully he will his reputation..But it really seems he is all about the money, so you should hit him where it hurts - please report him to your authority for tax evasion!

 

[Ellen]

Date: 6/19/2009 2:05:21 PM
Author: jmiranda
So I just went in and he still refuses to do anything about it. I just filed a complaint with the BBB and have sent a message to JVC to see if they could help me out here in Canada. He would''nt even provide me with a reciept because it was a cash deal. The only reason I went with a cash deal was because I did''nt want to put it on my credit card becasue my girlfriend has access to my account and would find out about it. Boy was that a mistake. I wish I could go there everyday and inform other people of what has happened but I live about 40 minutes away and it would be more of a hassle for me. I hope the BBB resolves this. If not, I am taking this to court. Thanks for the support and encouragement. I will update you guys on what happens.

Did you tell him that? Might change his tune.

 

[jmiranda]

I told him that I reported him to the BBB and he does''nt seem to care. Hopefully they can resolve it for me. I do have some transaction history. He gave me a reciept for the deposit of $100 dollars I had put down and I have kept all the emails for the CAD design work that he sent me. I definately have a lot of evidence to get him. I told him I am even willing to go and picket outside his store and he doe''snt seem to care. If all else fails that is exactly what I am going to do. I am so stressed out right now about this whole situation, I can''t even sleep properly. It annoys me how he can have absolutely no pride in his work. I will get to the bottom of this anyway I can.

 

[Ellen]

Ok, he''s one that truly thinks he''s above reproach and doesn''t care. Just hang in there, and see what these co''s. can do for you.

And while I know this is really frustrating, try to put it in perspective. This too shall pass, don''t stress too much. And there''s always karma....

 

[Cookiesmom]

I want to give you some encouragment regardless of how the situation works out.

You love this lady who is going to recieve the ring so focus on your mutual love. Enjoy your engagement

If it were me and you were proposing to me - I would love it (first because the diamond is gorgeous) AND because it was given out of love.

 

[Maplecustom]

This is my first post! YAY!

This situation concerns me though. Honestly if you cannot get out there everyday to picket or tell prospective customers of your situation, what I would suggest is that you type your story/situation out and create flyers. That way you can go there when you have time, hand them out to anyone going in or coming out of that jewelers store, and even post your flyers around the area and in nearby shopping centers. I would even recommend writing to your local paper or a paper local to the jewelers and let them know of your situation. Maybe they would be interested in a buyer beware article to stir up some dirt and give them a good review piece. If you are persisitent, and it seems you are, then I do not see why some negative attention to the jeweler would not help him to change his mind. Especially if the local papers are interested, they would probably want an interview and names, but anything to help you out would be great. Good luck in your situation. Please update us because you have all of our support and we would like to see you come out on top.

 

[ckrickett]

Date: 6/21/2009 9:15:03 AM
Author: Maplecustom
This is my first post! YAY!

This situation concerns me though. Honestly if you cannot get out there everyday to picket or tell prospective customers of your situation, what I would suggest is that you type your story/situation out and create flyers. That way you can go there when you have time, hand them out to anyone going in or coming out of that jewelers store, and even post your flyers around the area and in nearby shopping centers. I would even recommend writing to your local paper or a paper local to the jewelers and let them know of your situation. Maybe they would be interested in a buyer beware article to stir up some dirt and give them a good review piece. If you are persisitent, and it seems you are, then I do not see why some negative attention to the jeweler would not help him to change his mind. Especially if the local papers are interested, they would probably want an interview and names, but anything to help you out would be great. Good luck in your situation. Please update us because you have all of our support and we would like to see you come out on top.

that is a good idea....

 

[Dreamer_D]

I would report him to the authorities regarding not collecting taxes. And I would have the diamond appraised by Harold Weinstein in toronto http://www.hwgem.com/ to make sure the diamond is ok and to document the workmanship on the setting.

A simple solitaire would cost about $300. You gf will understand why the ring is simple when you explain what happened *after* you have proposed and the happy moment has been enjoyed. Giving her that ring will possible hurt the moment, because the workmanship is so bad.

But you know, don''t worry so much about the money for the setting. I know exactly what it means to save and work hard to buy something nice, but the diamond is by far the most expensive part of the whole thing and it is great! Many posters come on here with crummy diamonds and bad setting jobs! So you have gotten off pretty good in the diamond learning curve.

 

[stonecutter2]

Just focus on the love you have for your future fiance, and realize and accept this is just one small bump on the road of life - these things do happen, and you''ll get her the ring you''ve dreamt of getting for her.

It''s a shame for a jeweler to act this way, and try to tarnish something like an engagement. Don''t let him do it. He''s already caused you enough grief. Do what you can, and enjoy the excitement of you both being engaged - it''ll just be another wacky chapter in your love story together...given enough time.

 

[stonecutter2]

In addition, I would inform those who suggested this jeweler of your disappointment. That might be more effective than anything, because the next time they''ll see him, they''ll say things like, "What did you do to that poor boy''s engagement ring?"

 

[CravingDiamonds]

I am sorry that this happened to you, but when someone says cash deal, I am usually quite leary. The ring does nothing for the beautiful diamond that you purchased and the craftmanship is sloppy. I saw you mention that you got it in New York. I am from New York as well and I have had great experiences with Firenze Jewels. They are located in right in the Diamond District.

Good luck on getting your money back as well, as this guy sounds like he is going to keep giving you a rough time!

 

[Michael_E]

Date: 6/20/2009 8:55:33 AM
Author: I definately have a lot of evidence to get him. I told him I am even willing to go and picket outside his store and he doe''snt seem to care. If all else fails that is exactly what I am going to do. I am so stressed out right now about this whole situation, I can''t even sleep properly. It annoys me how he can have absolutely no pride in his work. I will get to the bottom of this anyway I can.

Hmmm, there are a couple of things going on here that you might want to understand and take a more appropriate course of action for yourself. This guy probably didn''t do the work himself and has no idea about how to make this ring acceptably finished, (yes, unless it has large porous areas, then it is fixable, as it''s just not done yet). He is probably also right on the brink of going out of business, or he would be more concerned about his reputation and the damage you may do to it. If you want to spend a large amount of time going after him, that''s fine, BUT it may cause you a lot of aggravation that you really don''t need. I would suggest finding and talking to some competent bench jewelers in your area and seeing if any of them would be willing to complete this project for a reasonable sum. I say this because it looks to me as if this just needs to be finished and although it takes a lot of hand work to finish platinum, it isn''t rocket science and just takes time, the right tools and a modest amount of experience working with platinum.

 

[jmiranda]

Just an update. I proposed on Sunday and gave her the ring I made. She loved the thought that I put into the actual proposal and it was a total surprise to her. During dinner, I explained to her the situation with the ring and she did''nt really care how the ring looked for now and was more appretiative of all the work I put into designing it. We will be dealing with this situation together as a couple now and whatever the outcome, we are not going to let it bother us too much and enjoy our engagement. I took the ring to Harold Weinstein for an appraisal and I requested a report stating the craftsmanship involved. They said that the small bezels cover more of the diamonds than are actually needed and verbally told me that the finish is not that great at all. The BBB has filed the complaint I put in and I will be hearing from them in a week or two depending on how co-operative the jeweler is. I will update everyone here on the situation when I get the chance. Thanks again to everone here for the support.

 

[Ellen]

Date: 6/23/2009 1:58:18 PM
Author: jmiranda
Just an update. I proposed on Sunday and gave her the ring I made. She loved the thought that I put into the actual proposal and it was a total surprise to her. During dinner, I explained to her the situation with the ring and she did''nt really care how the ring looked for now and was more appretiative of all the work I put into designing it. We will be dealing with this situation together as a couple now and whatever the outcome, we are not going to let it bother us too much and enjoy our engagement. I took the ring to Harold Weinstein for an appraisal and I requested a report stating the craftsmanship involved. They said that the small bezels cover more of the diamonds than are actually needed and verbally told me that the finish is not that great at all. The BBB has filed the complaint I put in and I will be hearing from them in a week or two depending on how co-operative the jeweler is. I will update everyone here on the situation when I get the chance. Thanks again to everone here for the support.

Good!

It sounds like you''re moving in a good direction, I hope it goes smoothly (relatively speaking), and you get your money back soon.

Congrats! Please do come back when you have a ring. And you''re welcome!

 

[ilovethiswebsite]

Wonderful news !

 

[ckrickett]

Date: 6/23/2009 3:30:31 PM
Author: Ellen

Date: 6/23/2009 1:58:18 PM
Author: jmiranda
Just an update. I proposed on Sunday and gave her the ring I made. She loved the thought that I put into the actual proposal and it was a total surprise to her. During dinner, I explained to her the situation with the ring and she did''nt really care how the ring looked for now and was more appretiative of all the work I put into designing it. We will be dealing with this situation together as a couple now and whatever the outcome, we are not going to let it bother us too much and enjoy our engagement. I took the ring to Harold Weinstein for an appraisal and I requested a report stating the craftsmanship involved. They said that the small bezels cover more of the diamonds than are actually needed and verbally told me that the finish is not that great at all. The BBB has filed the complaint I put in and I will be hearing from them in a week or two depending on how co-operative the jeweler is. I will update everyone here on the situation when I get the chance. Thanks again to everone here for the support.

Good!

It sounds like you''re moving in a good direction, I hope it goes smoothly (relatively speaking), and you get your money back soon.

Congrats! Please do come back when you have a ring. And you''re welcome!

thats great congratulations to you both and I hope this gets resolved quickly and she gets the ring of her dreams!

 

[ms.halo]

Congratulations on your engagement! I''m sure your fiance is floored by the work you put into getting this ring. I know it''s going to have a good outcome!

 

[junebug17]

Congratulations on your engagement! I''ve been following this thread and so glad you are feeling better about things!...and your future wife sounds like a terrific lady!