I’ve been interviewed…

I’ve been interviewed! It’s all about being a gemologist, starting an Etsy Shop, and business. Check it out: 

Whatever you do, DO NOT buy this toy. When the box said it needed batteries, I clearly wasn’t thinking! It needs batteries to, get this, SOUND like a vacuum. And it does! The dog and I are both permanently traumatized. Cece loves it of course. 

go-mo-go asked: Hey Gillian! So I've recently stumbled across Diamond In The Rough jewelry. I find it very unique! Being a gemologist, how do you feel about their engagement rings from the style to the price of the uncut stones? Thanks! -Nina

Hi Nina, 

Thanks for the question! I really like the style of the brand “Diamond in the Rough”, and the quality of the manufacturing is great! But, price-wise they’re totally ridiculous! Any line that retails in Neiman’s is probably more than you really have to pay. This style of design has been around for several years now, with many designers doing similar work. Several other factors to consider:

Unlike cut diamonds, rough diamonds currently have almost no resale value or market - So don’t plan on selling:) 

The diamonds that look great for these rough designs tend to be lower quality - if they were actually cut, they’d be very very included - what we would grade I3. This is why there is little resale value, but also means stones won’t sparkle well (or at all), which is kinda the point of having a diamond. 

If looking at carat weight, keep in mind that when a diamond is cut it loses  well over 60% of it’s weight - so when comparing prices a one carat rough should be the same as a .40ct cut stone - assuming the quality actually was the same, which it isn’t. 

Basically, I really like the style too. It has a very unique, natural look that I love! Try shopping on Etsy.com. You’ll find a lot of smaller designers doing similar work at much more reasonable prices! 

What does Cece say to me when I go in to wake her a WHOLE HOUR after nap time normally ends? “What you wake me up for?” Jeez. Two going on Sixteen! 

And that’s a yawn in the photo:)

Rainy Day with a toddler. What to do? What to do? 

Anyone need a Platinum Diamond Wedding Band?