Kenneth W. Burchell – Appraisal Associates

New York times article describes a new method for making synthetic diamonds through the use of silicon chip technology.

http://nyti.ms/1iUEs51

http://www.spokesman.com/blogs/hbo/2015/jun/05/ex-coinuts-owner-repay-578k/

http://youtu.be/OJkCbWg8JyQ

caveat emptor

The incredible jewellery selling machine – Part 1

The wonderful world of microscopic inclusions in gemstone:

http://www.smithsonianmag.com/science-nature/gems-minerals-inclusions-inside-photography-art-science-180953662/?no-ist

http://www.jckonline.com/blogs/cutting-remarks/2014/12/19/egl-intl-not-going-away-quietly

Yup, you’ll get a better diamond price at the local independent (“mom and pop”) store than at the big box and chain stores. From what I’ve seen, I suspect that is true of colored gems as well:

http://www.jckonline.com/blogs/cutting-remarks/2014/12/11/independent-jewelers-have-better-diamond-prices-than-chains-according-to-um-blue-nile?utm_source=JCK+eNewsletters&utm_campaign=746d96d8ba-2014_12_11_Your_Store_Thursday&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_56301e74d4-746d96d8ba-333931477

Caveat emptor in the case of Baron & Baroness Jewels, William David Leavitt, of San Diego, California. An interesting case:

http://www.10news.com/news/investigations/team-10-uncovers-flaws-in-san-diego-jewelers-claims