Diamonds Really Are Your Best Friend.

Well, they say invest in what you love…

There are street level jewelry stores that beckon with all that sparkles, but upstairs is where the real deals are made.  Private jewelry purchases are on the rise over the last decade.  Hidden behind office doors in generic office buildings are daily transactions of the finest stones and jewelry. Whether square cut or pear shape these rocks don’t lose their shape or their value.

The reason I’m now sitting in a private room 31 floors above Manhattan that required three levels of security to enter is because it’s a relationship business. In front of me is a fortune in fine jewelry, across from me, my jewelry mentor.  Joseph Koren, CEO of Daniel K,  www.danielk.net, award winning international entrepreneur, is my advisor, educator and newest friend.  Joseph shares with me his thoughts on investing in fine jewelry; he’s pro, of course. “Diamonds are a unique investment.  After three generations of building and maintaining relationships with our clients, we’ve come to know their style and what they’re looking for whether it’s an emotional or strategic buying decision.  Our reputation is well established in the finest stones and designed pieces.  We provide value security to our clients, its about superb service and integrity.”  As investment demands for diamonds increases working with a trusted advisor is key.  The quality makes all the difference in ascending value; the place of purchase plays a critical role in credibility.

In the April 14^th New York Times article Diamonds as a Commodity; Nathaniel Popper discusses a push to make diamonds a traded commodity.  “A small number ofinvestment professionals around the world are competing behind the scenes to turn gems into a commodity that would be available to investors in the way that gold has been traded through funds on exchanges.”

Both the New York Times and WWD March 28th China File also discuss the rise of demand in China and India for gem stones particularly diamonds as investment purchases. Demand is up and supply is in flux, interesting conditions for those who like a little risk.

The three things to consider before investing in loose stones or fine jewelry are:

1.     Know who you’re buying from, reputation is everything. Due diligence is essential

2.     Are you purchasing jewelry to use?  In that decision the design, color and usage all come into consideration.  Does it become an heirloom; is it part of a larger collection of beloved pieces?  Is it more an accessory to be traded after a few seasons?

3.    Is it a strategic investment purchase?  In which case, loose round cut brilliant diamonds are the classic standard and most sellable shape.  Emotions play no part in this decision, buy what sells.

Diamonds are the most concentrated store of value that exists.  They are tangible, portable and liquid investments that investors make privately. They’re an investment you can use without diminishing the value. The ability to see, wear and enjoy my investment is an enhanced value that exceeds a quarterly statement.  I love the beautiful and the tangible, that’s part of my Style Signature.