Extra Facets-Blog
My name is Gary Wright.
I am a Graduate Gemologist certified by GIA, a Registered Supplier, and a Certified Gemologist accredited by AGS. I’ve also been a member of the NY Diamond Dealers Club since 1988. I have made over 150 trips overseas to import diamonds since 1985. I have been the owner of my own diamond importing and wholesale company for over 40 years, along with operating the information website www.HeartsandArrows.com.
I’m known in the business as one who always has an opinion about issues affecting our industry, and I’m not shy about expressing my views on them. Now I have a bigger platform to express myself from time to time about issues and controversies that face the diamond and jewelry industry. This is my blog; "Extra Facets" expresses my opinion about issues that mean a great deal to me. I hope readers find value in my comments.
In 2008, we began offering diamonds online 24/7 to registered website members, providing a 3% discount on stones over 0.30ct, free FedEx shipping, and 30-day terms. Over 16 years, customers have repeatedly returned to explore our stock, particularly for Ideal Cut and Hearts and Arrows diamonds. We later introduced a platform with an algorithm to […]
Major mining companies recover and market about 85% of diamonds by volume and 95% by value. Mining from a kimberlite pipe is a well-planned and funded, large-volume rock-moving and processing operation that occurs over a relatively limited land area. The goals are to maximize diamond recovery while minimizing mining costs and reducing waste. Employee safety […]
When GIA introduced their Cut grade system in 2005, the diamond industry quickly adopted it. Manufacturers began cutting diamonds to specific combinations of angles and table sizes to maximize weight while still achieving GIA’s top grade, “Excellent.” Tom Yonelunas, CEO of the GIA Laboratory, stated, “Diamond manufacturers will be able to cut round brilliants to […]
Natural Diamonds are quite different than their modern man-made counterparts. Below are 6 unique value propositions to consider: Inherent Rarity and Uniqueness:Natural diamonds, formed over millions of years, boast unparalleled uniqueness and rarity, making each stone a one-of-a-kind treasure.Symbolism and Tradition:Natural diamonds symbolize timeless love, commitment, and tradition, connecting generations past and future with their […]
The term “GROW” means “to increase in size over time.” The idea of “growing something” leads one to the thought that the process in perhaps a greener method of production than other methods. Although humans can technically “grow” diamonds, the process is not environmentally friendly. This process starts with a tiny seed and consumes vast […]
“It was the best of times, it was the worst of times.” This phrase captures the fortunes of GIA over the past decade or so. A Storied Past Years ago, the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) operated only two laboratories, one in California and one in New York. Their grading was reliable and trusted as […]
Today’s discerning shoppers are always on the lookout for the latest technology. They invest in 4K TVs, the latest i Phones, and cutting-edge gadgets. So, it’s hard to imagine these tech-savvy individuals settling for outdated technology, like DVD players from the early 2000s. Yet, when it comes to diamonds, many are still offered stones cut […]
In 1979, GIA reports were not widely used. Diamonds were sold as investments, and “certs” were reserved for high-end stones. High color, VS2 or better stones over .50ct required certification, while SI goods and smaller sizes were graded by jewelry stores or suppliers. As public awareness of GIA reports grew, demand increased. Around this time, […]
