Hello all,

Well, for those who wanted an update on our ahem, situation with Noble Jewelers, here it is...but first, a recap:

Purchased a two-carat diamond bangle bracelet at Noble Jewelers while on vacation in September. I was told by our jeweler back in the States that the bracelet was not the quality we were assured it was and further, one of the diamonds were chipped and many of the stones were not set properly, SO....

After much back and forth, I returned the bracelet to their NY store for necessary replacement/repairs. I made it a point to include a letter with the bracelet, cc'ing our credit card company through whom we had purchased the piece.

Well, a week after the bracelet was received in NY, no word from Noble Jewelers. I decide to send a follow-up e-mail, asking the status of the repair/replacement. Loandbehold, I receive a return message (several days later) that they decided to refund my money! I'm not sure why, but my guess was that they were not willing to make the necessary changes to the bracelet.

I am so grateful to those who suggested I contact my credit card company. THANK YOU!It's something I should have thought to do myself, but at the time I was so angry and emotional, I was not thinking of such an option! I do not know if the outcome would have been as favorable, had a credit card not been used to purchase.

Morale of the story - know your jewelry (I thought I did - was I wrong) and make sure you are purchasing from a reputable business.

There are many great and reputable jewelry outlets in Aruba.

I mentioned you call your credit card maker and also for you to talk directly to Nash Noble.

So glad it worked out for you.

I'd buy in Aruba, jewelry anytime. Less money for the same or better than the states. Get to know one of the many decent and honest locations in Aruba, ask for what you need to feel comfortable in writing before you purchase, making it a condition for the sale to be made, and of course, buy on a credit card. Make sure the owner or top manager where you buy is familiar with you and your purchase as well. Dont make an expensive purchase from a regular salesperson without the top manager or owner knowing about the purchase.

Best of Luck cal

MARK- Get a life!!! Do you live in a Cacoon?? Tell me one place on "earth" that there are no murderers, thieves, ...I'm glad people like you DO NOT TRAVEL TO ARUBA- stay home...it will make me feel safer!!

Is jewelry cheaper in Aruba or St Maarten?

Gold in St Thomas, electronics in Sint Maarten. In Aruba you save duty and maybe a little more. I bought a Tag watch in Aruba and saw it cheaper in SJU airport..AUA is not super super savings IMHO.

I've said it before, I'll say it again.
KNOW something about jewelry before you buy it anyplace. You're better off buying from a local reputable jeweler (near your home) unless you're pretty well versed in the 'know how to buy' gemstones. just 'cause it's pretty doesn't mean it's what you're told it is.
Always ask for a jeweler's loupe to check out the setting of a stone, to look for flaws (especially if told it's S carity or higher)and if you can move a stone with your fingernail - - don't buy the piece! The setting is a disaster and you're buying t-r-o-u-b-l-e.
So many people think they're getting a great deal (and some are) by buying in the islands. With all of the difficulties you go through, spending a few more bucks at home will save you lots of $$ overall.

Lisa & Dan...your story gives me hope. Do you have the address/phone number to the Noble Jewelery Store in NY?