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diamonds
#200348
07/19/2019 02:48 AM
07/19/2019 02:48 AM
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Joined: Nov 2006
Posts: 437 Virginia
seascape
OP
Traveler
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OP
Traveler
Joined: Nov 2006
Posts: 437
Virginia
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We will be in St. Maarten in 2 weeks and my son will be with us. He is looking for a diamond for his girlfriend and I am looking for advice as to the best jewelers there.
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Re: diamonds
[Re: seascape]
#200351
07/19/2019 06:52 AM
07/19/2019 06:52 AM
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Joined: Mar 2001
Posts: 17,477 Ohio
ruralcarrier
Traveler
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Traveler
Joined: Mar 2001
Posts: 17,477
Ohio
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Prior buying any expensive jewelry, either at home or on the island, DO YOUR HOMEWORK and know what is what with regard to pricing, quality, warranty, service, etc. As others will state, many have their favorites and I would suggest shopping at least 2-3 recommended stores. Personally, we have been comfortable in dealing with Max at Caribbean Gems and have done so for many years. Prices are highly negotiable! Good luck.
J.D.
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Re: diamonds
[Re: jazzgal]
#200352
07/19/2019 07:17 AM
07/19/2019 07:17 AM
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Joined: Jan 2018
Posts: 383
Uksimonusa
Traveler
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Traveler
Joined: Jan 2018
Posts: 383
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Everyone has their favorites, but I highly recommend Jeff Jhangiani at DK Gems right downtown in Philipsburg. Excellent service and prices, and you couldn't meet a nicer guy. I 2nd that recommendation, Jeff is the nicest guy you can meet, the address is 69a Front St, Phillipsburg, great prices, great selection great people.
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Re: diamonds
[Re: seascape]
#200369
07/19/2019 09:19 AM
07/19/2019 09:19 AM
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Joined: Apr 2001
Posts: 14,635 Brookfield, CT.
pat
Traveler
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Traveler
Joined: Apr 2001
Posts: 14,635
Brookfield, CT.
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Seascape,
I’ve dealt with the same SXM jeweler annually for the past 36 years and he’s NEVER let me down. That would be the Caribbean Gems family and specifically Manu and Max, but again, we ALL have our favorites and most returning guests form those alliances early on.
But the thing is, I agree heartily with ruralcarrier regarding him getting educated about diamonds before your son hits the island. He should spend time with a jeweler and learn about the four C’s with reference to diamond buying and he should have an idea of the size and grading quality he’s interested in as well as an amount he’s willing to spend and take it from there. Wheel and deal or not because most reputable jewelers have a bottom line on their merchandise and once they reach it, they’re done. The important thing is having a clue in what that should be.......
As I’m sure you already know, the item price as marked means nothing and you really need to bargain, and cash is usually king. The things I would look for include a GIA certified dealer, a stone I loved and a price I was comfortable with.
Good luck to your son and much happiness to him and to the lucky lady he’s shopping for.
Respectfully,
pat
"Always keep your words soft and sweet, just in case you have to eat them."
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Re: diamonds
[Re: seascape]
#200475
07/20/2019 11:25 AM
07/20/2019 11:25 AM
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Joined: Nov 2006
Posts: 437 Virginia
seascape
OP
Traveler
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OP
Traveler
Joined: Nov 2006
Posts: 437
Virginia
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Thanks everyone for the suggestions. He has done his homework and visited several jewelers where he lives. I believe he knows what he wants so he is excited to look on SXM.
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Re: diamonds
[Re: seascape]
#200482
07/20/2019 12:38 PM
07/20/2019 12:38 PM
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Joined: Mar 2001
Posts: 17,477 Ohio
ruralcarrier
Traveler
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Traveler
Joined: Mar 2001
Posts: 17,477
Ohio
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Thanks everyone for the suggestions. He has done his homework and visited several jewelers where he lives. I believe he knows what he wants so he is excited to look on SXM. Good deal! I would also suggest using a credit card (although cash may be king) so you have the option of a dispute in the case of a problem. Another option I know Caribbean Gems has offered customers is a credit card hold for a purchase and the option then to mail a check with divided payments to a US based address. Regardless, shop around, be comfortable and having done the homework puts your son way ahead of the game. Good luck to him.
J.D.
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