Headlines

Up for Auction: Ponzi Schemer’s Diamonds and Watches Valued Up to $10M

Published

8 years ago

February 18, 2016

INSTORE Staff

A 12-carat yellow diamond ring is the headliner.

A lavish lot of jewelry purchased with money that Scott Rothstein made off a massive Ponzi scheme will go to the highest bidder, Fox 13 reports. The article says that Rothstein scammed investors to the tune of $1.2 billion, buying diamonds and watches valued between $8-$10 million along the way. Now those items will be auctioned by Old Northeast Jewelers in St. Petersburg, FL, with the proceeds going back to those who were bilked. The lot includes a 12-carat fancy intense yellow diamond ring which shop owner Jeffrey Hess is hoping will fetch at least $400,000. “It’s a pretty extraordinary group of stuff. The fellow had very good taste in watches and very good taste in diamonds,” he told the news station.

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.”