On Friday, October 23, GIA Laboratory released a statement notifying the trade and public of a system breach that allowed a hacker to change over 1000 GIA Diamond Grading Reports to reflect different color and clarity grades that would be a benefit to the owners of those diamonds and reports. GIA has invalidated these reports and released a list of the diamonds involved. If you recently purchased a diamond in the size range of 0.40 carat to 5.50 carats that is accompanied by a GIA Diamond Grading Report, there is a chance (remote, albeit) that you could be affected.
For millions of African people, diamonds are their only source of income. Time Magazine recently published an update concerning Blood Diamonds. Blood Diamonds are nothing to close your eyes to. No one with a heart wants to wear blood on their wedding finger. At the same time, boycotting is not the answer. Cutting off their only source of income creates an even more unstable and hostile environment at the source. So, how can you help?
Today, you can buy and wear a diamond you can be proud of. By looking for a jeweler who actively supports the Diamond Development Initiative, you will know where your diamond was mined and how the miner and his family are supported. The Diamond Development Initiative was formed to address the complicated issues facing artisanal diamond miners who are in need of a stable and prosperous community and government. And, as a 501(c) (3) non-profit organization, anyone can make a tax deductible cash donation to the DDI. I encourage all of my colleagues in the jewelry industry to join me in supporting DDI in its mission to empower our partners at the source.
Would you believe me if I told you these images are gemstones? There is a wonderful world of gemstones found only under the microscope. GIA Gems & Gemology shows a behind-the-scenes look at how these incredible images are taken.
To avoid being under insured, be sure to review your insurance policy when it renews. If your scheduled jewelry has not been appraised in the past three years, it’s time for an update. Read the latest Leawood Lifestyles article for essential details.
Our new, state-of-the-art office is open. We welcome your business. Please feel free to contact us for a one-on-one appointment.
913-912-9122 or Tracey@KahleAppraisals.com
6300 W. 143RD STREET – SUITE 230 • OVERLAND PARK, KS 66223