January 20, 2010
Diamond Suggested Retail Price
This month’s issue of National Jeweler magazine had an eye-opening article about diamond pricing. Author Michelle Graff made the point that consumers can go to reputable websites when they want to know how much a car should go for. But, until now, there hasn’t really been a good pricing source for people looking to buy a diamond. 
Whether a consumer has looked for diamonds online, at second-hand jewelry distributors, large chains or independent jewelers, they’ve likely heard prices all over the map. Granted, each diamond distributor may not have the same stone so prices have to vary based on the exact qualities of a diamond. But that said, diamonds of similar cut, color, clarity and carat weight should at least fall into the same ballpark.
In an effort to reduce confusion and increase confidence in diamond buying, the International Diamond Exchange (IDEX) has launched a website with a suggested retail price list for diamonds. The site is www.DiamondSRP.com.
It is not a complete website yet, but consumers can enter specific information about a desired diamond and will learn the maximum retail price they should pay for that diamond. For instance, a 0.75 carat round diamond with G color, SI2 clarity should not go for more than $5,934 per carat.
At this point, the site has prices for colorless diamonds with grading reports, so that does not include fancy colors like yellow or stones that have not been through a laboratory.
These suggested retail prices are based on current market data and the pricing methodology is explained on the Diamond SRP website. (Click here to learn more: http://www.idexonline.com/DRBMethodology.asp)
Visit National Jeweler at www.nationaljeweler.com.
July 2, 2009
Update on Burmese Ruby and Jade Ban
National Jeweler, a leading magazine in the jewelry industry, this week published an update on the Burmese ruby and jadeite ban.
In September 2008, the U.S. government banned the import of rubies and jadeite from Myanmar (also known as Burma). The ban was intended to cut off funds to the country’s oppressive government.
Instead of economic sanctions on the government, leaders such as Doug Hucker, the president of the American Gem Trade Association, say the ban is hurting thousands of miners in Myanmar — many of whom are trying to resist the harsh government.
In an attempt to lift the ban, the AGTA and other organizations have written to Secretary of State Hillary Clinton with their concerns. They are encouraging others to write to Congress members as well.
If you’re interested in writing a letter, visit National Jewelers’ website for more information on contacting the right people.
The full article is available at: http://www.nationaljewelernetwork.com/njn/content_display/colored-stones/color-market-reports/e3i1dc51bcd151aa706e386a2307f565906
Jewelry Expert 