1 /5 Edward Chesterman: I still think regularly about my disappointing experience at Lawrence Sanders. Other than getting my diamond stolen, I couldnt think of how what is supposed to be a special experience could have turned out worse!
I first went to speak to Lawrence about getting a ring made using a diamond I supplied, Lawrence was respectfully critical of the diamond id bought. 1.5ct, F colour, but bright and well cut. We discussed options and agreed on a price and plan. He suggested I send my partner in to have her finger sized properly. My partner visited the shop several days later to meet Lawrences wife and get her finger measured. My partner was met with a haughty lecture by Lawrences wife about the poor quality of the stone Id chosen and how we should have bought the stone through them! Obviously my partner had not seen the stone at that point and was totally deflated and disappointed by her interaction.
That alone should have been a sign to pull the pin but I loyally persisted as I had confidence Lawrence would build me a nice ring.
2. On Lawrences advice, I sold my poor quality diamond and got a nicer 2.2ct D colour stone that was very slightly included. We completed the transaction and built a ring to my specification. What was built was something with very poor attention to detail and finishing: The halo (using diamonds supplied by Sanders) was uneven and feels very frail. The quality of workmanship was very low.
The comments we receive from third parties are in admiration of the 2.2ct stone (not purchased from Sanders) but even to an untrained eye, the quality of the ring gets attention as looking cheap and shoddy.
This was a really poor experience for what is supposed to be something exciting and cherished for both the man and woman. The quality of the ring he made was terrible and Ill get it completely remade when I find the right jeweller to do the job. Lawrences wife was pretty awful and obviously very tactless and indiscreet.
Plenty of other options in Sydney. Use Sanders at your peril.
