I have never written a review of a business online, but I was so disapppointed in my experience at Diamonds Direct I felt compelled to share it online. I also wanted to share a review online because Charlotte has many transplants like me. While I'm very comfortable with the reputations of the jewelers in my homeotwn, I do not have that same benefit in Charlotte. Diamonds Direct seems to operate on the principle that they'll sell you a diamond in your price range, even though you could buy the same diamond elsewhere for much less. We compared their prices to other local jelewers and online retailers - Diamonds Direct prices were not at all competitive (in one case, a diamond with the exact same GIA certification was $3000 more at Diamonds Direct). Besides the lack of value we found in their prices, we were also disappointed in their sales associates. Their attitude and tone was condescending. Additionally, they were very pushy about a deposit being placed on a ring. I've dealt with many jewelry stores and have never experienced this type of pressure to put a deposit on a ring or a piece of jewelry. My experience at other stores has been the opposite. They work with you to ensure that you are comfortable with your decision. The other reason I found the deposit thing problematic: rings and jewelry are metal and rocks. All jewelry stores can easily create or replicate settings. While most jewelers are very willing to suggest this option, Diamonds Direct seemed more interested in selling a ring they had in their case or inventory rather than tailoring a ring to meet the buyer's preferences. Lastly, their ""guarantees"" that they say separate themselves from other jewelers are very similar to the same guarantees most jewelry stores offer (service, cleaning, trade-ins, etc.). This may not be common knowledge to potential customers who are making their first significant investment in jewelry. Buying an engagement ring is supposed to be a special and exciting experience for people. I hope that others don't have that taken away from them by having to deal with Diamonds Direct, their disappointing prices, lack of value and unsophisticated staff. I know buying an engagement ring can be an emotional process, but please don't let the Diamonds Direct employees prey on that emotion. I highly recommend shopping other jewelers whether online or local. I have found Karat Patch on Providence Road to be much more helpful, a better value and to offer a very pleasant experience.
more