Uncertified Diamonds from a High-End Craftsman/Jeweler?

[boyscout]

The general consensus here on PS is that we should only be looking at certified diamonds. I think that is a wise rule, especially for single, larger stones for engagement rings, etc. Is there any exception to this rule? For instance, what about smaller uncertified stones from a respected craftsman/jeweler such as Leon Mege? (I'm using him as an example because of his (very well-deserved) reputation for excellence and because I always browse his website and drool and would like to one day buy something from him.)

If Mege, or a comparable craftsman of his quality/reputation were to have a pair of earrings, but with uncertified stones, would you be a buyer? For example, I've seen several pairs of earrings on Mege's site over the years with stones in the .6 to 1.0 ct range (per stone). None with certificates. And as his specialty is unusual cuts such as antique cushion cuts, these are not common stones with comparables in the PS database (nor HCA scores). I once spoke with him a year or so back about a pair of earrings he had, and he told me what the color/clarity was, but that they weren't certified. He also said he could get loose stones and make custom pieces. How do you evaluate stones without a certificate, especially something like an antique cushion cut?

I'm thinking of getting earrings for my wife in the next year or so. Nothing too spendy--probably want to spend ~$3-4.5K (total) on two stones each in the .5-.75 ct range, and I favor antique cushion cuts. If Leon could source something in that range that wasn't certified, would that be ok? Would I be able to rely on his statement as to weight, cut, color and clarity?

 

[cl600500]

ehhh, your kind of on your own to determine if they are worth the money. since they are older cuts, you kind of dont see other options in terms of price since most jewelry stores dont carry many and online vendors dont either. PLUS there isnt many testing and certs to prove brilliance, scintillation, fire, etc. When i look at diamonds i remember the facets and the angle of the cuts but its not always easily done with older cuts, i have remembered their facets but not too sure about optics....the main question is......are you in so much love for the older cut diamonds that it would worth taking a risk? Because you really are taking a risk unless you do some research online and ask some questions......IMHO buy a certified stone

 

[cl600500]

and also, never rely on anyone statement about anything!!! your spending thousands of dollars based on someones word??? faghetabowtit i say! buy something else

 

[MichelleCarmen]

Hi,

You could have the diamonds appraised before having them set into custom settings. Personally, I'd prefer certified stones if I was going to spend $3-4.5K and would even opt for slightly smaller stones in order to get them certified. The alternative, though, is having an appraiser look at them to provide verification. It's to protect yourself and really, you should have some sort of clear documentation for insurance purposes. And, this goes with every vendor...I'd follow the same guideline unless I was buying something fun or pre-loved and got a great deal!

 

[Gypsy]

If the pricing were adjusted correctly, and they gave me the option to get it appraised, I would consider it. But keep in mind a good appraisal, especially of detailed multistone pieces can run $350. So it really depends on the piece, how unique it is, and why you would be risking buying with out lab reports .

 

[boyscout]

You could have the diamonds appraised before having them set into custom settings.

I agree. But in my hypothetical above, we're talking about Leon Mege. If he had such stones in-hand, asking to get them appraised before being set might be a non-starter.

 

[canuk-gal]

HI:

Your budget for earrings is greater than many "engagement" rings--yet you suggest there is a double standard?

cheers--Sharon

 

[orbaya]

I guess my thought on non-certed stones from reputable vendors, such as Leon is if the stones are not certed, how do they know what they are paying for? I'm sure he has suppliers and if he buys from them without certs and goes by verbal info only, how does HE know what he's getting? I'm not saying that he would intentionally mislead you, but he's going by the information he received and passes that onto you.

I guess I'd rather source my own stones and then send them to Leon to be set.

 

[boyscout]

All good points. Thanks. When I spoke to him a while back, I seem to recall he did have a pair of loose, uncertified stones. I had asked if I could get them certified or appraised, and he basically said that he's not a diamond dealer, and he's selling them as part of a completed piece of jewelry, and if they were certified, his price would be significantly higher. I am a big believer in certs--I am well-informed about diamonds, but I am no expert. Even if he's quoting a price for a completed pair of earrings, I think it would be entirely reasonable to get the stones evaluated, at least by an appraiser at the very least.

The reason this is an issue is that, as I've said, I am thinking about getting in touch with him again, but I am aware of the fact that it is hard to find two matching "antique style" cushion cuts to make into earrings. He, however, has a whole network of suppliers that can find him what he needs. If I do it myself, I'm going to be combing through a haystack looking for two needles.

 

[Circe]

I think you sort of have to do the math on where the value of the piece comes from. My bottom line (over a certain value, of course - fashion jewelry need not apply) is that if it's in the stone, I want a cert, and if it's the workmanship, I'll take a pass. If we were talking about, say, the 6 carat earrings over in SMTB? Dear gods, CERT. something like this, where I value my time and the artist has a valuable an hard-won reputation? I would look at the earrings as wearable art, and trust (but verify with an appraisal, as for all good jewelry). Alternately, perhaps look for a vintage set in disrepair and have him reset them?