Why White Ice Advice?

So, you're ready to ask her to marry you. Next step is figuring out how to ask and of course how to pick the diamond that she will wear for many years to come. That's what I'm hear for. I'll give you practicle advice on how to pick a diamond based on her likes and dislikes. How to understand what the salespeople are saying. How to know when they really are giving you the best price. And where to start shopping before you say "yes" to the  cash register.

How do I know all this stuff? I've worked on the other side of the counter. I was a diamond buyer for a $10 million jewelry store that had %60 of its sales come from the bridal jewelry department. I managed the buying team, graded the diamonds, priced the diamonds, and did appraisals on customer items. I went to places like New York, Las Vegas, and Orlando to buy loose diamonds. Even had loose diamond sales reps come see us (the store owner and I) to sell us "loose goods" in the store. I earned my Graduate Gemology degree through distance education while I worked in the jewelry store.

I got my start as a goldsmith's apprentice. I worked in the jewelry shop for two and one half years, before my employer moved me to sales for a one year stint, and then to buying and merchandising. I have seen all sides of the retail jewelry store, and many parts of the wholesale jewelry industry. I've been to the penthouse offices on Fifth Avenue of some of the biggest contenders with DeBeers. I've seen some of the rarest diamond collections, and seen some of the most modernly famous diamonds in the rough before they were cut.

Enough about me. What do you need to know to buy the diamond that will make her smile, but won't cause you to pick up so many extra hours you don't get to see that smile? Ask me. I'll start by writing about what I've learned over the years, and as I go if you have a question, ask it.