So this name keeps popping up...

[Diamond916]

Mark Turnowski at ERD. I keep hearing good things about him and I live in NYC and it seems to be E-ring time! I really only want to go to a couple of places, be treated right and seal the deal...I hate the pushiness of certain sales reps....would you guys say he is the ideal person to deal with in NYC? Another question...is the price they ask usually the set price or could you deal with him a little? I understand to go in there with some basic knowledge ...but is he say... trusting enough to leave it up to him to make the best decision for you?

Thanks for all your help.

 

[snlee]

I''ve heard good things about Mark Turnowski at ERD but don''t have any firsthand experience. If you do a search, you can find a lot of information about ERD. I would also start by educating myself using this Diamond Tutorial.

 

[TravelingGal]

I love him. Love him love him love him. He asks questions. And listens. I am sure he is not perfect, but my transaction with him was just awesome. He just struck me as sweet with a wry sense of humor.

He did so well by me, that I would definitely trust him again in a heartbeat. I bought my mom's diamond from him pretty much sight unseen (of course, I would have had a chance to return it if I didn't like it at the appraiser's, but I was pretty amazed at what he sent over).

I also bought a diamond from WF, and I do have to admit...ERD was $300 cheaper on the same diamond. I like WF too, and actually paid the difference because I think some of the info they send you is worth it (plus they had already called the diamond in for me), but for some, every penny counts!

ETA, here is my review of all the vendors I had dealings with.

OK, one more link as it took me a sec to find the ERD vs WF review when it came to actually buying a stone from ERD

 

[Hera]

I originally went to Mark for a cushion cut ( as he is resident cushion king), but switched to oval and then to a round diamond. By the time I changed my mind to a round, I decided to stick with him as he had great reviews here. Having worked at GIA and being familiar with Pricescopes discerning tastes, he was able to find me a glorious diamond at a great price. ( I spent ten minutes today trying to find my inclusions in my SI2.) He personally went on his hunt for my diamond as he can walk over and check out the diamonds personally. I think he is especially helpful for fancy cuts as these cuts cannot always be mathematically calculated like a round diamond and must be seen with the naked eye.

 

[Hera]

Sorry, didn''t answer your questions. I think he definitely one of the best in NYC. Absolutely trustworthy--I bought my diamond sight unseen in from the opposite coast. I wasn''t able to deal with him, but his price was cheaper than some other vendors at the time.

 

[strmrdr]

If I was in NYC id visit Mark and GOG.
http://www.goodoldgold.com
Between those 2 it would be a great diamond education and they can get you anything you want with great service.

 

[Ellen]

Date: 9/6/2007 3:25:58 AM
Author: strmrdr
If I was in NYC id visit Mark and GOG.
http://www.goodoldgold.com
Between those 2 it would be a great diamond education and they can get you anything you want with great service.

Ditto. It wouldn''t get any better than that. Two top vendors that never fail to get high praise.

 

[Diamond916]

thanks for the reviews on Mark. Is the price he asks...the final or price or can some negotiating be done?

 

[Kaleigh]

Date: 9/6/2007 4:34:25 PM
Author: Diamond916
thanks for the reviews on Mark. Is the price he asks...the final or price or can some negotiating be done?

You can always try, doesn't hurt. I haven't dealt with him myself. He's got a great rep on here as you can see. Ditto Storm to go to GOG as well.

 

[diamondseeker2006]

If I could only visit one diamond store in NY, it would be Good Old Gold. Jonathan is wonderful. Make an appointment, though, so they will plan to spend the time with you to educate you about diamonds and show you their stones.

 

[neatfreak]

Mark is really great! We bought my ering from him and the experience was extremely positive. Mark knows a LOT and isn't afraid to spend time with you educating too. His prices are good too which I am sure you will find out shortly...

Make an appointment though, you can't just walk in.