Luxe Treasures & Legacy
Lawrence Paul writes from 44 West 47th Street — New York's Diamond District. These are his unfiltered views on signed estate jewelry, unheated gemstones, and fancy-color diamonds. 17 years of buying at auction, in private sales, and from collectors worldwide. No affiliates, no sponsored content.
What 'No Heat' Actually Means on a Lab Report —...
No heat means zero thermal treatment — confirmed microscopically by SSEF and Gübelin. The designation can double or triple a stone's value when underlying
What 'No Heat' Actually Means on a Lab Report —...
No heat means zero thermal treatment — confirmed microscopically by SSEF and Gübelin. The designation can double or triple a stone's value when underlying
SSEF vs Gübelin vs GIA vs AGL: Which Lab Report...
SSEF and Gübelin are the gold standard for colored stone origin and resale credibility. GIA is reliable but conservative. AGL offers the most detailed grading
SSEF vs Gübelin vs GIA vs AGL: Which Lab Report...
SSEF and Gübelin are the gold standard for colored stone origin and resale credibility. GIA is reliable but conservative. AGL offers the most detailed grading
Why Important Jewelry Lots Fail to Sell at Auction
Important jewelry lots fail at auction when reserves exceed market appetite. A bought-in result doesn't mean the piece is flawed — it means pricing was
Why Important Jewelry Lots Fail to Sell at Auction
Important jewelry lots fail at auction when reserves exceed market appetite. A bought-in result doesn't mean the piece is flawed — it means pricing was
Buying Rare Gemstones at Auction: When It Works...
Auction houses aggregate the best material when provenance is documented and lab reports are current. When origin claims are vague, private dealing often wins
Buying Rare Gemstones at Auction: When It Works...
Auction houses aggregate the best material when provenance is documented and lab reports are current. When origin claims are vague, private dealing often wins
How to Read Auction Estimates Like a Dealer
Auction estimates are pricing signals, not appraisals. Low estimates attract bidders. High estimates show expected range. Reserve behavior tells more than the
How to Read Auction Estimates Like a Dealer
Auction estimates are pricing signals, not appraisals. Low estimates attract bidders. High estimates show expected range. Reserve behavior tells more than the
Hammer Price vs. Final Price: What You Actually...
Hammer price is the opening number. After buyer's premium, taxes, shipping, and insurance, your actual cost runs 25-35% above hammer. Calculate the all-in
Hammer Price vs. Final Price: What You Actually...
Hammer price is the opening number. After buyer's premium, taxes, shipping, and insurance, your actual cost runs 25-35% above hammer. Calculate the all-in
