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Rip-off, warning for those less savvy
My husband purchased my engagement ring from Raz. I guess he’s a good sales man and my husband is a gullible guy. Raz charges the jewelry store premium, but holds little inventory (materials or finished goods), and almost everything is made to order. He basically orders materials from a wholesaler, which I could do myself (and have identified the exact stones he purchased), for 25% of the price. And then has it set, again which I can do myself by a third party for a 100% mark up. Totally understand the net 300% markup in the case of jewelers with real working capital needs and expenses, but you're basically paying Tiffany's/Cartier level margins without the comfort of a quality floor, ease of return/exchange, for product you can purchase from a wholesaler (also with money back guarantees), for 2-3x+ the cost. I’m sure business savvy individuals see right through this, but this post is for those folks like my husband out there. You're welcome. Note: He gets 2-stars for having great salesmanship skills.