Here's a thought--- I may be off base, but at least this will open it up for converstaion, if nothing else.
When I was looking for a replacement ER for DW (before I purchased on-line) I went into a B&M store to check out the inventory. This one particular well known store (which will remain nameless) had diamonds they showed me that had huge inclusions and carbon spots in the middle of the stones. They were the ugliest things I'd ever seen. I obviously walked away from that store. Here's the thing...everytime I drive by that store I think--"what junk!!" It doesn't matter if they carry the Hope Diamond--I would never buy anything from them.
So my question is this...does inventory set the standards or do the standards set the inventory?
That is not off base at all djm!
You bring up a very good point. One that I have considered extensively. Here's where I think the Internet, and our type of business can really offer more to the consumer.
A brick-and-mortar store is basically handcuffed with their market segment. The unnamed store that you went into is probably known in your neighborhood, as a place for cheap diamonds.
Shoppers of higher quality diamonds, probably never even walk in there.
Unfortunately, many sellers of "promotional diamonds" are using less than transparent means to represent what they sell.
This would include the use of non-GIA reports for example.
Conversely, shoppers in your area that ARE looking for less expensive diamonds, probably won't feel comfortable in the high-end stores in your town.
That's what I'm talking about when I say "handcuffed"
When I was developing DBL, I realized that we might be able to cater to both ends of the market. AND do it in such a way that would offer transparency, and honesty to the shoppers.
For example, I don't know anyone who makes as big a fuss about a diamond filled with poo as I do.
Therefore, someone shopping for a diamond with a spot, will be made acutely aware of the fact that they will likely see the spot.
I believe that this makes everyone more comfortable.
That would include the buyers of high-end diamonds, because they can see the differences on our site. And hopefully buyers of more promotional diamonds, would appreciate our honesty.
Of course, you know the old saying about there being a sucker born every minute... everyday people are buying misgraded diamonds believing that they are higher quality than they actually are.
Hopefully me, and my big mouth, and you guys, and your big mouths will help to alleviate the situation, day by day.
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