William asks…
Do you have a moissanite stone engagement ring and are you happy with it?
I am considering a moissanite ring purchase and i wonder if anyone out there owns one? Would you recommend investing in it over a diamond? I am leaning toward it for price reasons and for not supporting the conflict diamonds, child labor, etc., since we can never be really sure where those stones come from.
Justin answers:
I would absolutely recommend considering moissanite as a choice, along with diamond. Why buy something without considering the options ? Forget the brainwashing of diamond advertising, and just decide for yourself.
I’ve bought several moissanite jewelry pieces over the last decade, and I am very happy with each one. Each looks the same as the day I bought it.
Regarding durability, moissanite is arguably more durable than diamond overall. Durability includes hardness, toughness, and stability. And looking at total durability, moissanite is better. Toughness is resistance to chipping, and moissanite has better toughness than diamond. Unless you abuse a moissanite jewel, you won’t have a problem.
As for the complaints here about green color/tint, they are not something to worry about. Moissanite, like any diamond you would consider, is “near colorless”. So either diamond or moissanite will not be perfectly clear. BUT, unless you are looking at the stone closely as it lays loose (unmounted) on a white surface, you probably won’t notice the color. Once it is mounted, either moissanite or diamond, that is near colorless, will look wonderful.
I agree, as do the experts, that “cut” is the most important factor (perhaps along with size). Every moissanite is hand cut to ideal dimensions. Whereas diamond is usually cut to maximize size, while allowing variation from ideal dimensions. So to make a comparison, you have to compare moissanite to ideal cut diamond.
By all means, go out and look at moissanite yourself !!! Let your eyes decide. Compare moissanite rings and diamond rings at the same price (the amount you want to spend). I think you’ll find the moissanite is better quality, and larger size, for the same price. Once you shake the diamond brainwashing, and consider moissanite and diamond on their merits, the choice becomes pretty obvious. For me, it’s moissanite. But, you should decide for yourself.
I personally agree that you should see the actual ring/stone in person before buying, unless the seller has a easy return policy. Every moissanite, like every diamond, or every snowflake, is unique.
By the way, never “invest” in jewelry. A diamond is not an investment, certainly not for a consumer. You will never get your money back, let alone make a profit. (Even upgrade plans require that you pay retail for a newer larger stone, so you aren’t really getting your original “investment” back.) But what you like, and plan to keep it an enjoy it for a lifetime, and then pass it on. Moissanite is that kind of heirloom jewel.
James asks…
Why does Pat Robertson support the oil companies?
I just watched part of his program on the 700 club and his answer to the whole energy crisis is to invest in the big oil companies. “Be careful not to hurt the oil or the wine”. I think all people need to wise up between the relationship between big business and big religion.
Justin answers:
Why did he invest in the diamond industry in Apartheid South Africa? Why did he support Guiliani for president and not a fellow Christian – Mike Huckaby? Why did a so called Christian call for the assassination of Hugo Chavez. You should know their colors by their fruits.
Thomas asks…
Diamonds as an investment.Is there an internet site that can sell certiefied little diamonds for investment?
i would like to invest some money in some precious items… gold,diamonds… i know that it s possible to invest also few money for little quantities… ( some thousands USD).
Justin answers:
Of course there are sites. The most marketable size is about 1 carat. They are not inexpensive though. Depending on the clarity and color these run about $1,000 to $11,000 each or perhaps even more.
Http://diamonds.brilliance.com/loose_diamonds/certification/gia/page1/filter/shape,round,carat,1.00_-_1.49,color,d_-_f,clarity,flawless/#listing
Chris asks…
Where is the best place to buy a diamond engagement ring? Mall chain stores or local retailers, etc.?
Just wondering if anyone has any opinions on this – are the stores in the mall selling quality diamonds, or is it better to go local? What is the better store to go to as far as national chains? Thanks!
Justin answers:
I would definitely avoid any place in the mall! They have the largest mark-ups (like 200% of cost). For the best prices buying from a *trusted* online retailer will be your best bet. If you want to buy from a brick-and-mortar store, a smaller, privately owned jewelry store will give you the best quality-for-price. A chain store is going to try to be cutting corners and stretching the prices as far as they can, to me, they are not as trust worthy because they only care about their bottom line.
I would highly recommend doing lots of research online before you go try anything on or walk in to any store. To protect yourself and your investment, read about the different quality ratings of diamonds and learn about what factors affect the cost of a diamond the most. Then you can know how far your budget will go, and what your budget will actually get you; so you can adjust your expectations to get the most bang for your buck!
There are some of the best information sites:
http://guide.diamondpriceguru.com/diamond-and-ring-prices/diamond-ring-prices/calculating-diamond-ring-prices/
http://guide.diamondpriceguru.com/diamond-and-ring-basics/the-5-minute-diamond-shopping-guide/
http://guide.diamondpriceguru.com/diamond-and-ring-basics/4cs/
http://guide.diamondpriceguru.com/diamond-and-ring-prices/diamond-prices/saving-on-diamonds/
Then check out Blue Nile to play with their diamond search feature. It’s a god way to figure out what quality factors you want to invest the most of your budget in, and to learn what your budget can actually buy, diamond wise. They also have some of the best prices, and certified diamonds (you get an official grading report with your ring). Also, their selection of ring settings is huge, and very beautiful rings.
Http://www.bluenile.com/build-your-own-diamond-ring?first_step=diamond&forceStep=DIAMONDS_STEP
Happy Shopping!
Donald asks…
What should I do in the future?
Hi! My name is Leonard Carson and I live in Stamford,CT.My dream is to become rich and I need some advice.In this moment, I am just 15 years old,but I want to plan very well my future.I want to know how much do you think the gold ounce will cost in 2030 and I want to know if in the same year,I should invest in diamonds or in gold?Can somebody help me?
Justin answers:
Focus on school kid… Anything worth something in life takes time…
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