Complaint Review: Robert David Jewlers

I left my 1.51ct modified brilliant (with certified GIA papers) diamond engagement ring with Robert David Jewelers for re-consignment March 2003 due to a failed relationship. I was told by Robert that it would be sold in two weeks for $8,000.00.

He since then has put me on a merry-go-round of lies, telling me that my diamond "has such a unique cut and shape that it was hard to sell" and he also suggested that it may have a better passability of selling during the holiday's.

Unfortunately at the time (not knowing much about diamonds) I trusted Robert was being honest.

With much struggle and very little cooperation from Robert and his staff, I demanded he return my diamond back in March 2004 Robert agreed that he would return it).
What he returned to me was a 1.30ct Princess diamond (appraised at a little over $6,000.00)

My 1.51ct diamond has also been appraised taking into consideration that my diamond is not in my possession,I had no choice but to use my diamonds certified papers which has a picture and all the dimensions of my diamond,I was given an estimated purchace price of $10,500.00.

I received my information from a well known certified GIA Gemologist, who said he would testify in court to what he told me about my diamond and the diamond I was given.

Also, my GIA certified diamond has a laser inscription which is not in the diamond I was given.

I have all my receipt's, appraisals and papers regarding this situation, and if fact I have a signed receipt from Robert himself stating that the diamond he gave me March 2004, is not the same diamond I left with him March 2003.

Yet he refuses to respond to my lawyers letter and refuses to take any phone calls from me. He is not someone to be trusted and I want everyone I can get a hold of know what a crook he really is. If he's done this to me I'm very certain there has been others in the past and more to come if he's not stopped NOW.

I have since March 2004, hired a lawyer which has sent him a certified mail letter demanding he return my diamond to me in 10 days. Well, 10 days passed and he did not respond.

I intend to pursue my case and take him to court, but if you can help me in any other way,I would be extremely grateful.

I don't want this to happen to any one else, and as far as I know, I could possibly have some other unsuspecting persons diamond....Please help. Thank you

Ornella
Bloomfield, New Jersey
U.S.A.