The "Spirit" of PS

[Dreamer_D]

Every "generation" thinks society is going to heck in a hand basket when, in reality, everything is going along just as its always going along.

Everyone remembers slights and mistreatment of the self better than they remember slights and mistreatments towards others, even though in all liklihood everyone is the "dog pile" target once in a while.

This is a random assortment of people who gather becuase of one single shared interest. What are the odds that everyone will get along?

 

[Rockdiamond]

I kinda had to chuckle a little.
PS is calm and collected compared to past years.
Almost in some ways boring.
hmmm think I will go pick a fight with David to liven it up a little!! Just kidding.

re: personal comments:
When you hang out with people for years and let them into different parts of your life on a board just like in real life you open yourself to comments from your well meaning "friends" about your life.
Sometimes they are welcome and sometimes not but hey no one is perfect. :}

oh yea????
YOUR OCTAVIA WEARS ARMY BOOTS

 

[Dancing Fire]

I find it really annoying and inappropriate when people push their tastes/preferences and their favorite vendors onto the newbies, and state their opinions as fact. I think this is something all advice givers need to be mindful of.

i only recommend vendors whom i had good buying experience with in the past.

 

[diamondseeker2006]

I was hoping our resident psychologist would chime in! Karl made good points, too!

While I may have posted an opinion on many pave setting threads, I apparently did not continue following that particular one because I do not know what specific thread is being referenced. I usually do recommend Victor and Steven for custom pave, because I believe their work is the best. To the poster above, yes, I have met Leon and found him to be charming. But I have seen examples posted on this forum of structural problems with some of his settings, so I can no longer recommend him for custom rings (and in addition, Frankie's thread also convinced me that VC and SK had superior designs for that style ring) . For those with lower budgets, I recommend companies like Gabriel and Co, Beverly K, and Engagement Rings Direct. These have proven to be good quality for their price range.

What I will say about my posts on Rocky Talky is that I always encourage people to buy the very best quality that their budget will allow. I have been around the block a few times, and I think jewelry items with lesser quality end up being replaced and thereby cost more in the long run! I encourage people to buy well cut diamonds, because that is what this forum taught me and I don't depart from that because it is the best advice I ever received regarding buying quality diamonds. I do not rely on the HCA like I used to since I know there are plenty of stones in the 2-3 range that are fine. But I like to see an idealscope image to show the light return. You will never see me recommending poorly cut stones, hopefully! And I definitely recommend vendors that I have worked with and who have provided me with excellent products and service! Experience makes the best references on a consumer forum!

I was a defender of Phoenix because I felt people overstepped some boundaries there. This is a diamond forum and many of us have upgraded or changed our rings multiple times, and just because her budget is plentiful doesn't give us the right to question how she spends her money.

I will also say that while I appreciate positive comments and not harsh ones, I feel that honestly evaluating a stone or other item and telling the truth is the best thing that I can do for someone, even if it may not be what they want to hear. I never encourage someone to buy something when I think they can do better. I am so thankful for my friends here for giving me the advice I need to hear when I am at a point of indecision! They have been exactly right!

I will say that those of us who are on RT a lot sometimes see things others may not see, and I am sure that is true of me as well, because I certainly do not read every thread. These things definitely influence my opinions. And that's all I'll say about that!

 

[Aoife]

I've participated on forums since they were called lists, and there is a cycle that repeats over and over:

If you post on a forum asking for opinions and advice, you will get plenty. You won't like all of it. You won't find all of it useful. Some people have an abrasive posting style. Some people are genuinely sweet. Some people prefer the academic approach. Some people are flaming, um...whatevers.

Inevitably, at some point, individuals who have been part of the resident in-crowd, will be at the bottom of a pile-on.

This will be followed by someone appealing for improved standards of courtesy/consideration/etc.

And at some point it will also be suggested that yet another forum be set up to meet the needs of those who are finding that the current forum doesn't "fit" as well as it may have once.

Happens over and over.

And yes, I have played all those roles at one point or another, more than once.

 

[Karl_K]

I kinda had to chuckle a little.
PS is calm and collected compared to past years.
Almost in some ways boring.
hmmm think I will go pick a fight with David to liven it up a little!! Just kidding.

re: personal comments:
When you hang out with people for years and let them into different parts of your life on a board just like in real life you open yourself to comments from your well meaning "friends" about your life.
Sometimes they are welcome and sometimes not but hey no one is perfect. :}

oh yea????
YOUR OCTAVIA WEARS ARMY BOOTS

How did you know I have Octavias on my combat boots????
Have you been spying on me!! ??? !!!! ROFL

 

[GemFever]

I kinda had to chuckle a little.
PS is calm and collected compared to past years.
Almost in some ways boring.
hmmm think I will go pick a fight with David to liven it up a little!! Just kidding.

re: personal comments:
When you hang out with people for years and let them into different parts of your life on a board just like in real life you open yourself to comments from your well meaning "friends" about your life.
Sometimes they are welcome and sometimes not but hey no one is perfect. :}

oh yea????
YOUR OCTAVIA WEARS ARMY BOOTS

How did you know I have Octavias on my combat boots????
Have you been spying on me!! ??? !!!! ROFL

 

[Circe]

Re: The "Spirit" of PS

I would buy those. IN A HEARTBEAT.

 

[makemepretty]

Any time someone goes on forum to ask "strangers" for advice, it's kind of you get what you pay for. Advice is just that, advice and opinions, if you don't want it...don't ask for it.

Most of the more negative posts are because people are worried for the poster about erratic behavior that they've seen displayed over and over and over. I've never understood a couple of the "pot stirrer" long time posters that mostly hang out and just post really random weird topics but to each their own. I'm just glad I'm not the wife of one of them!

The MAJORITY of posts are positive, helpful posts offering vendor suggestions, cut angles, color preferences, setting styles, etc. I can safely buy jewelry no matter the grading and know what to look for and what to avoid like the plague thanks to this board.

I also know, and hope anyone who read this board also knows, trust your gut. Buy what YOU love, not what someone you don't even know, thinks you should buy.

 

[BriBee]

You know what they say, opionions are like ........ everyone has one, and no one likes to hear it
That being said, I think people do have to be aware that when they ask for an opinion or advice, they are most likely going to get both agreeable and dissenting. I also agree that, at some point or another, we can all filter ourselves and our responses a little better so that they don't come off as intimidating or condescending or whatever. Perhaps more care could be taken when responding to a newbie vs. a veteran. I think we may have a better idea of how vets and regular posters will respond to brutal honesty rather than a newbie who could be intimidated or turned off by it.
I've been a member here for a while but don't have tons of posts, and part of that is because even when I want to respond to something or post something, I may hesitate due to the fact that I don't want to stir anything up, or get on anyone's bad side, or be chastised for giving bad advice. I've even contemplated responding here all day because of this.

 

[missy]

I don't know the thread(s) that are being referred to on this thread but I will just say that I appreciate the honest opinions that most PSers offer. If I didn't want truthful opinions I wouldn't post and ask for them. And for the most part I think those opinions/expert advice are given respectfully and generously and it is something I really value about this place. It is up to each individual who is requesting advice to either follow it or not but just having such helpful info shared here so freely is wonderful. It wouldn't be the same place if everyone just said how beautiful, how gorgeous etc without offering real and constructive advice.

 

[diamondseeker2006]

I don't know the thread(s) that are being referred to on this thread but I will just say that I appreciate the honest opinions that most PSers offer. If I didn't want truthful opinions I wouldn't post and ask for them. And for the most part I think those opinions/expert advice are given respectfully and generously and it is something I really value about this place. It is up to each individual who is requesting advice to either follow it or not but just having such helpful info shared here so freely is wonderful. It wouldn't be the same place if everyone just said how beautiful, how gorgeous etc without offering real and constructive advice.

Exactly. The Show Me the Bling forum is for that!

 

[missy]

I don't know the thread(s) that are being referred to on this thread but I will just say that I appreciate the honest opinions that most PSers offer. If I didn't want truthful opinions I wouldn't post and ask for them. And for the most part I think those opinions/expert advice are given respectfully and generously and it is something I really value about this place. It is up to each individual who is requesting advice to either follow it or not but just having such helpful info shared here so freely is wonderful. It wouldn't be the same place if everyone just said how beautiful, how gorgeous etc without offering real and constructive advice.

Exactly. The Show Me the Bling forum is for that!

True! But even then, while you are still within the return period I would most definitely appreciate an expert PSer(s) telling me hey, return that dud...we can help you get a better/more beautiful one!

 

[Harpertoo]

I don't know the thread(s) that are being referred to on this thread but I will just say that I appreciate the honest opinions that most PSers offer. If I didn't want truthful opinions I wouldn't post and ask for them. And for the most part I think those opinions/expert advice are given respectfully and generously and it is something I really value about this place. It is up to each individual who is requesting advice to either follow it or not but just having such helpful info shared here so freely is wonderful. It wouldn't be the same place if everyone just said how beautiful, how gorgeous etc without offering real and constructive advice.

Exactly. The Show Me the Bling forum is for that!

True! But even then, while you are still within the return period I would most definitely appreciate an expert PSer(s) telling me hey, return that dud...we can help you get a better/more beautiful one!

I agree with this!
Even a newbie like me can appreciate constructive criticism and help! You have to start somewhere.
And It does seem like when someone simply wants approval or admiration they are able to convey that in the post.

 

[iheartscience]

Any time someone goes on forum to ask "strangers" for advice, it's kind of you get what you pay for. Advice is just that, advice and opinions, if you don't want it...don't ask for it.

Most of the more negative posts are because people are worried for the poster about erratic behavior that they've seen displayed over and over and over. I've never understood a couple of the "pot stirrer" long time posters that mostly hang out and just post really random weird topics but to each their own. I'm just glad I'm not the wife of one of them!

The MAJORITY of posts are positive, helpful posts offering vendor suggestions, cut angles, color preferences, setting styles, etc. I can safely buy jewelry no matter the grading and know what to look for and what to avoid like the plague thanks to this board.

I also know, and hope anyone who read this board also knows, trust your gut. Buy what YOU love, not what someone you don't even know, thinks you should buy.

I couldn't agree more with this, particularly the bolded part.

And ditto Karl-PS is a much kinder, gentler place than it once was, IMO!

 

[ForteKitty]

If someone wants advice from only certain PSers, that person should probably address that in the begining. Leaving it open for interpretation not only frustrates the OP, but everyone else as well. Be specific!

 

[04diamond<3]

I don't know the thread(s) that are being referred to on this thread but I will just say that I appreciate the honest opinions that most PSers offer. If I didn't want truthful opinions I wouldn't post and ask for them. And for the most part I think those opinions/expert advice are given respectfully and generously and it is something I really value about this place. It is up to each individual who is requesting advice to either follow it or not but just having such helpful info shared here so freely is wonderful. It wouldn't be the same place if everyone just said how beautiful, how gorgeous etc without offering real and constructive advice.

Exactly. The Show Me the Bling forum is for that!

True! But even then, while you are still within the return period I would most definitely appreciate an expert PSer(s) telling me hey, return that dud...we can help you get a better/more beautiful one!

I agree with this!
Even a newbie like me can appreciate constructive criticism and help! You have to start somewhere.
And It does seem like when someone simply wants approval or admiration they are able to convey that in the post.

I agree with this, but there are boundaries that have definitely been crossed a lot more recently....I get that when you register everyone can say whatever they want, but is it necessary?!? Especially if someone says that they've already decided whatever, is it really necessary to continue as much as I've seen for so long insisting that they don't go with that vendor for custom, or they don't go with the diamond they clearly want and are doing everything possible to just get some positive feedback? I get quality is important to almost all of us, but sometimes people will make sacrifices in that area for other things like size or personal preference...just thinking maybe people go a bit too far. There's your opinion and something else....We shouldn't be making especially newbies have to defend themselves and fight as hard as has been evident for what they want.

 

[SB621]

Ok I will bite since this is directed at Charmy and I. I bet Charmy is too smart and has been here too long so she knows better then me to respond, what can I say I'm an idiot.

On PS I have ALWAYS tried to give my opinion on settings and different vendors. I believe I'm one of a small group that has worked with the large majority of PS vendors. Great experiences all of them- no complaints. Since I have worked with or at least spoken with most vendors for different projects I think at times I can help direct PS members to get the best possible ring (necklace etc etc) at the best possible price. To me that is what PS is about. I'm not going to recommend vendors for projects that I know could be done better, cheaper etc at another place. It is up to the OP if they want to take that advise. But I at least want to give them options. If you come on PS on RT and say "What is your opinion of this..." then be prepared. In the thread that led to all of this that is EXACTLY what the member stated. For pave rings I think there are only a few people who do it well. This is based on seeing pictures on PS, my own experience from what I have seen at their stores of their work, working and talking with them as well on my own projects. Do I care if they take my advise...no not really. I think jewelry is personal and there are always reasons why people pick different vendors that they dont' share on a public forum. However, I would hope that if it was ME posting asking for help someone would give me their honest views on what I was requesting info on.

Mayk I just saw the other thread that you have a project in the works with DBL. That is great. It is for a non-pave ring. I'm not sure why you suggested we were pushing for our "favorite" vendors when I view it the other way. I think DBL has great colored diamonds. I have purchased from him before. I think he does wonderful non-pave rings. I have requested quotes from him in the past for some. However, pave rings are a different story. I won't spell out every reason why. I will just say since prices were equal across the board I would go with a pave master. There is nothing wrong with giving options and opinions when that is what the person asked for.

As for the spirit of PS- I will end on this note. I think the spirit of PS is a group of people who all share the same love and enthusiasm for gemstones, diamonds and jewelry. Not vendors who call past clients and say they dont' understand why I couldn't recommend them for member's XYZ project...and do it repeatedly.

And on that note, as my younger brother would say "Hate the game, not the player!"

 

[missy]

I don't know the thread(s) that are being referred to on this thread but I will just say that I appreciate the honest opinions that most PSers offer. If I didn't want truthful opinions I wouldn't post and ask for them. And for the most part I think those opinions/expert advice are given respectfully and generously and it is something I really value about this place. It is up to each individual who is requesting advice to either follow it or not but just having such helpful info shared here so freely is wonderful. It wouldn't be the same place if everyone just said how beautiful, how gorgeous etc without offering real and constructive advice.

Exactly. The Show Me the Bling forum is for that!

True! But even then, while you are still within the return period I would most definitely appreciate an expert PSer(s) telling me hey, return that dud...we can help you get a better/more beautiful one!

I agree with this!
Even a newbie like me can appreciate constructive criticism and help! You have to start somewhere.
And It does seem like when someone simply wants approval or admiration they are able to convey that in the post.

I agree with this, but there are boundaries that have definitely been crossed a lot more recently....I get that when you register everyone can say whatever they want, but is it necessary?!? Especially if someone says that they've already decided whatever, is it really necessary to continue as much as I've seen for so long insisting that they don't go with that vendor for custom, or they don't go with the diamond they clearly want and are doing everything possible to just get some positive feedback? I get quality is important to almost all of us, but sometimes people will make sacrifices in that area for other things like size or personal preference...just thinking maybe people go a bit too far. There's your opinion and something else....We shouldn't be making especially newbies have to defend themselves and fight as hard as has been evident for what they want.

I don't think I know the thread you are referring to so it is hard to comment intelligently but if the OP is clear that they are going with a specific vendor/stone then I think people should respect that. It's when they are asking for opinions or even seem a bit unsure and would welcome advice/opinions that I would say post your opinions and help. If I was about to make a big mistake I truthfully would welcome someone helping me and if I didn't want to hear the advice and I said so then I would also appreciate them backing off. However when in doubt I do think it is helpful to hear what PSers think because they are a very knowledgeable group of people.


ETA: I see Sarah posted and I agree with what she wrote.

 

[diamondseeker2006]

Ok I will bite since this is directed at Charmy and I. I bet Charmy is too smart and has been here too long so she knows better then me to respond, what can I say I'm an idiot.

On PS I have ALWAYS tried to give my opinion on settings and different vendors. I believe I'm one of a small group that has worked with the large majority of PS vendors. Great experiences all of them- no complaints. Since I have worked with or at least spoken with most vendors for different projects I think at times I can help direct PS members to get the best possible ring (necklace etc etc) at the best possible price. To me that is what PS is about. I'm not going to recommend vendors for projects that I know could be done better, cheaper etc at another place. It is up to the OP if they want to take that advise. But I at least want to give them options. If you come on PS on RT and say "What is your opinion of this..." then be prepared. In the thread that led to all of this that is EXACTLY what the member stated. For pave rings I think there are only a few people who do it well. This is based on seeing pictures on PS, my own experience from what I have seen at their stores of their work, working and talking with them as well on my own projects. Do I care if they take my advise...no not really. I think jewelry is personal and there are always reasons why people pick different vendors that they dont' share on a public forum. However, I would hope that if it was ME posting asking for help someone would give me their honest views on what I was requesting info on.

Mayk I just saw the other thread that you have a project in the works with DBL. That is great. It is for a non-pave ring. I'm not sure why you suggested we were pushing for our "favorite" vendors when I view it the other way. I think DBL has great colored diamonds. I have purchased from him before. I think he does wonderful non-pave rings. I have requested quotes from him in the past for some. However, pave rings are a different story. I won't spell out every reason why. I will just say since prices were equal across the board I would go with a pave master. There is nothing wrong with giving options and opinions when that is what the person asked for.

As for the spirit of PS- I will end on this note. I think the spirit of PS is a group of people who all share the same love and enthusiasm for gemstones, diamonds and jewelry. Not vendors who call past clients and say they dont' understand why I couldn't recommend them for member's XYZ project...and do it repeatedly.

And on that note, as my younger brother would say "Hate the game, not the player!"

I have no words for what I think of that (that I can say, anyway).

 

[04diamond<3]

I agree with this, but there are boundaries that have definitely been crossed a lot more recently....I get that when you register everyone can say whatever they want, but is it necessary?!? Especially if someone says that they've already decided whatever, is it really necessary to continue as much as I've seen for so long insisting that they don't go with that vendor for custom, or they don't go with the diamond they clearly want and are doing everything possible to just get some positive feedback? I get quality is important to almost all of us, but sometimes people will make sacrifices in that area for other things like size or personal preference...just thinking maybe people go a bit too far. There's your opinion and something else....We shouldn't be making especially newbies have to defend themselves and fight as hard as has been evident for what they want.

I don't think I know the thread you are referring to so it is hard to comment intelligently but if the OP is clear that they are going with a specific vendor/stone then I think people should respect that. It's when they are asking for opinions or even seem a bit unsure and would welcome advice/opinions that I would say post your opinions and help. If I was about to make a big mistake I truthfully would welcome someone helping me and if I didn't want to hear the advice and I said so then I would also appreciate them backing off. However when in doubt I do think it is helpful to hear what PSers think because they are a very knowledgeable group of people.


ETA: I see Sarah posted and I agree with what she wrote.

Missy, in the case of the thread that mayk referred to and the one I'm talking about, his decision wasn't respected. I do agree, if an opinion on the setting was requested, then other advice is welcomed.

 

[missy]

Ok I will bite since this is directed at Charmy and I. I bet Charmy is too smart and has been here too long so she knows better then me to respond, what can I say I'm an idiot.

On PS I have ALWAYS tried to give my opinion on settings and different vendors. I believe I'm one of a small group that has worked with the large majority of PS vendors. Great experiences all of them- no complaints. Since I have worked with or at least spoken with most vendors for different projects I think at times I can help direct PS members to get the best possible ring (necklace etc etc) at the best possible price. To me that is what PS is about. I'm not going to recommend vendors for projects that I know could be done better, cheaper etc at another place. It is up to the OP if they want to take that advise. But I at least want to give them options. If you come on PS on RT and say "What is your opinion of this..." then be prepared. In the thread that led to all of this that is EXACTLY what the member stated. For pave rings I think there are only a few people who do it well. This is based on seeing pictures on PS, my own experience from what I have seen at their stores of their work, working and talking with them as well on my own projects. Do I care if they take my advise...no not really. I think jewelry is personal and there are always reasons why people pick different vendors that they dont' share on a public forum. However, I would hope that if it was ME posting asking for help someone would give me their honest views on what I was requesting info on.

Mayk I just saw the other thread that you have a project in the works with DBL. That is great. It is for a non-pave ring. I'm not sure why you suggested we were pushing for our "favorite" vendors when I view it the other way. I think DBL has great colored diamonds. I have purchased from him before. I think he does wonderful non-pave rings. I have requested quotes from him in the past for some. However, pave rings are a different story. I won't spell out every reason why. I will just say since prices were equal across the board I would go with a pave master. There is nothing wrong with giving options and opinions when that is what the person asked for.

As for the spirit of PS- I will end on this note. I think the spirit of PS is a group of people who all share the same love and enthusiasm for gemstones, diamonds and jewelry. Not vendors who call past clients and say they dont' understand why I couldn't recommend them for member's XYZ project...and do it repeatedly.

And on that note, as my younger brother would say "Hate the game, not the player!"

I have no words for what I think of that (that I can say, anyway).

Wow, some vendors do this really? I would love to know which ones so I can make sure to avoid them!

 

[missy]

Missy, in the case of the thread that mayk referred to and the one I'm talking about, his decision wasn't respected. I do agree, if an opinion on the setting was requested, then other advice is welcomed.

That's not right. If he didn't want opinions and said so then it should have stopped. It's just that PSers are so helpful and enthusiastic that sometimes they get carried away. Now, personally, I want to hear what they have to say but I understand not everyone feels the same way.

 

[04diamond<3]

Missy, in the case of the thread that mayk referred to and the one I'm talking about, his decision wasn't respected. I do agree, if an opinion on the setting was requested, then other advice is welcomed.

That's not right. If he didn't want opinions and said so then it should have stopped. It's just that PSers are so helpful and enthusiastic that sometimes they get carried away. Now, personally, I want to hear what they have to say but I understand not everyone feels the same way.

I know. I didn't respond just because I saw where it was headed (now I feel bad for not). But if you read through the thread he's just having to try SO hard to defend his decision and is just bombarded with other vendors. I'm not saying it's all bad, but he made the decision. And although I don't like when vendors come on here either, I felt bad for him too. It really was just too much.

I would also like to hear what people on here say, but I would start the process earlier etc. He (I guess) didn't know better, did his research and seemed to me like he wanted to be congratulated for his good work. And it was!

 

[SB621]

Missy, in the case of the thread that mayk referred to and the one I'm talking about, his decision wasn't respected. I do agree, if an opinion on the setting was requested, then other advice is welcomed.

That's not right. If he didn't want opinions and said so then it should have stopped. It's just that PSers are so helpful and enthusiastic that sometimes they get carried away. Now, personally, I want to hear what they have to say but I understand not everyone feels the same way.

I know. I didn't respond just because I saw where it was headed (now I feel bad for not). But if you read through the thread he's just having to try SO hard to defend his decision and is just bombarded with other vendors. I'm not saying it's all bad, but he made the decision. And although I don't like when vendors come on here either, I felt bad for him too. It really was just too much.

I would also like to hear what people on here say, but I would start the process earlier etc. He (I guess) didn't know better, did his research and seemed to me like he wanted to be congratulated for his good work. And it was!

Sorry but this just made me giggle. I guess it is because when I hop on PS I do it inbetween meetings so my posts are fast (if you can't tell by my bad grammer and spelling) so I know I at times I can come off as rude, which I never mean too....but the entire topic I thought was really tame. I thought the OP asked for opinions (and yes he did ask for opinions....I actually believe it was part of the title), we gave him some, he decided on his course of action and that was the end. I don't believe any posts were deleted so I'm still scratching my head over this one. Well either way I'll let you guys debate this one out. Goodnight to all!

 

[missy]

Missy, in the case of the thread that mayk referred to and the one I'm talking about, his decision wasn't respected. I do agree, if an opinion on the setting was requested, then other advice is welcomed.

That's not right. If he didn't want opinions and said so then it should have stopped. It's just that PSers are so helpful and enthusiastic that sometimes they get carried away. Now, personally, I want to hear what they have to say but I understand not everyone feels the same way.

I know. I didn't respond just because I saw where it was headed (now I feel bad for not). But if you read through the thread he's just having to try SO hard to defend his decision and is just bombarded with other vendors. I'm not saying it's all bad, but he made the decision. And although I don't like when vendors come on here either, I felt bad for him too. It really was just too much.

I would also like to hear what people on here say, but I would start the process earlier etc. He (I guess) didn't know better, did his research and seemed to me like he wanted to be congratulated for his good work. And it was!

Sorry but this just made me giggle. I guess it is because when I hop on PS I do it inbetween meetings so my posts are fast (if you can't tell by my bad grammer and spelling) so I know I at times I can come off as rude, which I never mean too....but the entire topic I thought was really tame. I thought the OP asked for opinions (and yes he did ask for opinions....I actually believe it was part of the title), we gave him some, he decided on his course of action and that was the end. I don't believe any posts were deleted so I'm still scratching my head over this one. Well either way I'll let you guys debate this one out. Goodnight to all!

OK I just found the thread (Ryan's thread right?) and I have to agree with Sarah again. Ryan was asking for opinions and didn't make it clear at first he already promised to go with DBL. And honestly, whether or not you agree with the opinions it is nice to have options and advice from PSers who have been there and done that. You do not need to take that advice. He posted in Rocky Talk first of all and he specifically asked for opinions. Sure, he already made up his mind to go with DBL but didn't say that at first. So I just don't see what the big fuss is about and Ryan seemed fine with it anyway. I don't think it was a big deal and I know the point of the posters were to be helpful. Which I always appreciate.

 

[CharmyPoo]

Aoife - Oh how true .. how true. I have been participating in forums (groups, lists, chatrooms a la AOL) for over 15 years. It's all the same and PS is by far the tamest I have been on. The dog forums were way rougher and wait until you try out the forums where the sole purpose is to diss each other.

sarabear - I wasn't going to bite but since you did ... I can't leave you alone. I feel like we are two peas in a pod lately. All I can say is ditto to your post. Took the words out of my mouth.

I have worked with many of the PS vendors - many of which I purchased from and others whom I considered. Many more that I watched PS photos carefully and matching feedback with the general preference and expectations of the particular poster. I have spoken and met many of the PS vendors and even observed how they react with potential customers. I stand by my recommendations. I personally find it silly that people get upset if others don't like their vendor of choice - we like different ones and we can all recommend whomever we want.

Gosh, I just can't imagine PS being the same if we ever only shared happy experiences and just praised each other for all the choices we make. We see a bent setting, uneven prongs and cracked diamond ... "great stuff ... excellent vendor ... don't worry he has to feed his family so it is ok you got a subpar product. The most important thing is that you love it."

Well just read your update sarabear ... we are two peas. I pop on PS in between meetings or when I am walking to another building ... haha. Lots of grammar mistakes and don't read all the posts.

 

[Laila619]

On that other thread, people were stating that vendor B's pave was worse than vendor A's as though it was a fact. It's not, it's just an opinion. You could find other people who would argue that vendor B's pave was better than vendor A's. "Less metal showing" does not mean that a ring is superior. What it does mean is that the ring will probably be less secure and durable.

 

[CharmyPoo]

I know. I didn't respond just because I saw where it was headed (now I feel bad for not). But if you read through the thread he's just having to try SO hard to defend his decision and is just bombarded with other vendors. I'm not saying it's all bad, but he made the decision. And although I don't like when vendors come on here either, I felt bad for him too. It really was just too much.

He said "I was wondering what you all thought of my choices." I gave him my opinion and linked him to two recent PS show me the ring for options (mind you - not my typical recommendations). He then said he was going to stay with DBL but open to design choices. I gave him another option for design - yes, it was SK but it was just a design option. I think for me .. the only confusion was that I advised him to use DBL's uber bench for better quality pave work. My mistake that looking at the DBL photos he linked to (not reading the text) .. it appeared to be his lower end bench and not uber based on the amount of visible metal in the pave and the prong work. I truly think that the thread got side tracked when vendors enter in and people feel the need to define their vendor of choice.

 

[Mayk]

TO BE CLEAR.. I DIDN'T START THIS POST TO BE DIRECTED AT ANYONE.. OK... I PROMISE....

I wasn't here when PS was more rough and tumble . Recently I had noticed more undercurrents. I love some of the discussion here in this thread and I honestly felt that the verbal feeback to Phoenix was totally out of line.. sorry.. I just didn't think it was necessary and she is a long time poster with a lot of super fabulous bling..Hello..that is why she is here... she love bling!

So, I had seen a few posts that made me scratch my head... I even made sure I told Nielseel this was not directed at her.. honestly.. I love it here and I love seeing all the great information and the help people get.. but the undercurrents are sometimes unsettling to me.. I was just wondering what other people thought. I love, love, love this brought out a few people.. I've never seen post!! How awesome is that they have been lurking but came on board to say.. here's how it made me feel.

I must tell you.. when I had been here a year... loving LM's work..and planning a project... I never called him because I was so intimidated by the feedback.. I'm a good ol' southern girl and sometimes that rough exterior will scare me off...

This forum does an extraordinary amount of good... I just felt a strong undercurrent.. I wondered if I was the only one...

Thank you Karl.. loved your posts.. I would like to order a pair of the Octavia army boots in a size 9.5 narrow... Thanks!