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Do You Plan to Sell Lab-Grown Diamonds? Here’s What 5 Retailers Had to Say

Published

8 years ago

June 8, 2016

INSTORE Staff

It’s a polarizing topic.

Southern Jewelry News asked five jewelry retailers if they sell or plan to sell lab-grown diamonds in their stores, eliciting a range of answers that collectively spell out the pros and cons of doing so. Depending on who you ask, the question can prompt some impassioned responses – like this one from Everett Osborne, the owner of Osborne’s Jewelers in Huntsville, AL:

“Very few customers have been asking about synthetic diamonds. It’s mostly a price matter, but there’s also the blood diamonds issue. … For those factoring blood diamonds into their buying decision, we offer assurances that the gem and jewelry industry has gone through great efforts and great expense to stop the selling of diamond from designated conflict countries. In those rare instances when people insist on lab-grown colored stones, we’ll order these gems for them. But when it comes to synthetic diamonds, I won’t do it. I don’t want our store to be known for selling those products. I’d rather lose the sale than sell a synthetic diamond.”

This Third-Generation Jeweler Was Ready for Retirement. He Called Wilkerson

Retirement is never easy, especially when it means the end to a business that was founded in 1884. But for Laura and Sam Sipe, it was time to put their own needs first. They decided to close J.C. Sipe Jewelers, one of Indianapolis’ most trusted names in fine jewelry, and call Wilkerson. “Laura and I decided the conditions were right,” says Sam. Wilkerson handled every detail in their going-out-of-business sale, from marketing to manning the sales floor. “The main goal was to sell our existing inventory that’s all paid for and turn that into cash for our retirement,” says Sam. “It’s been very, very productive.” Would they recommend Wilkerson to other jewelers who want to enjoy their golden years? Absolutely! “Call Wilkerson,” says Laura. “They can help you achieve your goals so you’ll be able to move into retirement comfortably.”