April 1, 2024

1.08ct. VS2-M (1.53ct. tw.) diamond ring, 4.3gr. 18kt. sz. 7. $3,500.00 CAD. 101-00551

You can buy a lab-grown diamond at the same or higher price, that has zero residual value should you ever want to upgrade or trade in; or you can purchase something like this stylish natural diamond in premium 18 karat white gold and receive some genuine honest value. Googling around other jewellery stores, I’m amazed at what they are charging for lab-grown diamonds that cost around 95% less than natural diamonds of the same quality. This diamond measures a generous 6.7mm in diameter and weighs an estimated 1.08 carats. We have graded the clarity at an eye clean VS2 and the colour a slightly warm M. Bead set along the shoulders and edges are an additional 15 small accent diamonds adding 0.45 carats of high quality VVS-I sparkle. The white gold ring weighs in a 4.3 grams in a finger size 7. Our onsite goldsmiths can adjust the fit up or down a little as needed. Please shop around for genuine value when you’re looking at natural and lab-grown diamonds as there is a huge range in prices for the same thing. There are not many jewellers that promote doing your homework and shopping around. This ring is in like new condition and comes with a December 2007 appraisal suggesting an estimated retail value of $12,400.00 plus sales tax. In today’s economy this value is somewhat optimistic. Our estate price reflects a great value at $3,500.00 CAD. Stock #101-00551.

March 18, 2024

3.66ct. tw. SI1-HI pave diamond eternity ring, 8gr., size 7. $5,250.00 CAD. e9031 121-00051

This is the Queen of eternity bands! Measuring a head-turning 7.2mm wide and pave set on three sides with a jaw-dropping 266 diamonds (of course we counted them)! The diamonds equal 3.66 carats together of bright SI1-I quality, showing eye-clean, exploding with brilliance and dispersion. They’ve been set into 8 grams of premium 18 karat white gold, brightly rhodium plated to make it blend into the background. The interior of the ring features a decorative latticework and the ring measures a finger size 7. Estate price $5,250.00 CAD. Stock #e9031 121-00051.

February 27, 2024

1.19ct. SI1-I fair cut with GIA report (1.54ct. tw.) diamond ring, 3.9gr., sz. 7, 14kt. $4,000.00 CAD. 191-00142

Forty years ago you walked into a jewellery store, saw a sparkly ring that appealed to you, and you bought it; simple. I suppose today that still happens from time to time, but our customers are interested in the quality, the pedigree, and most of all assurance they are receiving excellent value. The best way to determine value is to make sure the jewellery is described correctly and documented accurately. Accurate grading is the only way to comparison shop, and we welcome opportunity to demonstrate the excellent value of our estate diamonds and jewellery. Our latest estate diamond and ring can be purchased together or individually. We sent the centre round brilliant cut diamond to The Gemological Institute of America for a full grading report in January 2024. The full report can be seen online here. 1.19 carats in eight, SI1 clarity, I colour, fair cut, excellent polish, good symmetry, and strong blue fluorescence were The GIA’s opinion of this diamond. While it was there we spent a little extra to have the report number laser etched in the diamonds girdle. In case you lose the original laminated GIA report you can always look it up online and print off a copy. The cut is bright with lots of sparkle and brilliance, it could be brought up to excellent standards at the expense of around 10 to 12% loss in weight. That’s always the tradeoff when cutting natural diamonds; go for a perfect cut or try to retain some extra weight. If this diamond were to be recut the diameter wouldn’t change, only the depth would be altered, so it really wouldn’t look smaller in a setting. The strong fluorescence is a unique characteristic that only some natural diamonds exhibit (lab-grown diamonds do not fluoresce like this). When exposed to invisible long wave ultraviolet light some natural diamonds glow an eerie chalky blue colour like this. It’s a neat party trick that goes unnoticed until you’re getting your nails cured under UV light or you see the phenomena at glow in the dark bowling or similar. The 14 karat white gold ring contains 4 large baguette cut shoulder diamonds that are estimated to weigh 0.30 carat in total, they are of very good VS-GH quality. The 3.9 gram ring measures a finger size 7 and can be adjusted up or down a size or two. It’s flat edge makes selecting a matching wedding ring a simple process. This setting offers an almost endless selection of potential matches. If you’d like a different style of ring or other piece of jewellery, this diamond can be purchased separately for $3,500.00. The basic ring setting without the centre diamond is also available separately for $500.00. The diamond or complete ring comes with the original January 2024 GIA report, and our traditional blue presentation box. This estate ring is estate priced at $4,000.00 CAD. Stock #191-00142

SOLD

February 26, 2024

1.34ct. I1-H good cut (1.49ct. tw.) 3.7gr. platinum, sz.7. with GIA report. $4,900.00 CAD. 101-00556

We acknowledge and appreciate lab-grown diamonds, but our hearts will always prefer Mother Nature’s creations like this vintage estate ring. Lab-grown offer a cheaper alternative but offer little to no residual value, as their prices have been falling for years now. If the lab-grown diamond you’re looking at isn’t around 95% less than its natural equivalent then shop around because they’re asking too much. This diamond offers an outstanding value for two reasons; we acquired it pre-owned, and it is an I1 clarity but looks more like an SI2 (or better). We’ve seen VS clarity diamonds that don’t sparkle as well as this one. The grade setting inclusions are around the outside edge and can mostly be concealed with careful claw placement. The centre of the diamond is almost completely free from inclusions. The colour is a bright H, with a good overall cut, symmetry, and polish. As an added bonus the diamond exhibits no fluorescence. We recently sent this diamond to the Gemological Institute of America for a full diamond grading report. The full report can be seen online here. If you ever misplace the original GIA document you can refer to the microscopic laser etched number on the girdle and print a copy of the report from GIA’s website. This “don’t judge a book by its cover” diamond is set in its original vintage platinum setting that we believe dates from the 1950s or 1960s. It contains 6 marquise shaped brilliant cut diamonds of VS-GH quality (one chipped) that are estimated to weigh 0.15 carats in total weight. For under $5,000.00 this diamond ring offers exception bang for the buck and looks waaaaaay more expensive. If you’d like to set this natural diamond into a different piece of jewellery, it can be purchased without the setting for $4,400.00. This ring measures a finger size 7, it can easily be made a couple of sizes smaller or larger. Included with purchase is the January 2024 GIA diamond grading report and our traditional presentation box. The complete ring is estate priced at $4,900.00 CAD. Stock #101-00556.

SOLD

February 2, 2024

3.00ct. tw. SI1-H platinum eternity ring 5.3gr. platinum sz. 5 $4,760.00 CAD. 121-00222

Crystal is the traditional gift for a 15th anniversary. Celebrate your 15th wedding anniversary with a touch of crystal-clear humor and a dazzling twist – the 15-diamond eternity band! Because, let’s face it, diamonds do start out as crystals, right? This platinum beauty boasts a total of 3.00 carats, all perfectly matched with eye-clean SI1-H quality. The low shared prong setting style enhances the brilliance of each diamond, creating a seamless flow of radiance by keeping the precious metal to a minimal. The band measures a finger size of 5 with just a smidge of wiggle room for adjustment and weighs a hefty 5.33 grams. Whether you’re celebrating an anniversary or just looking for a high quality high carat weight eternity band, this ring is pretty tempting at about $317.13 per diamond. Don’t expect this one to last very long at the estate price of $4,760.00 CAD. Stock #121-00222.

January 27, 2024

1.00ct. I1-I very good cut (6.48mm diameter) natural diamond solitaire, 18kt.,5.5gr., sz. 5, $3,500.00 CAD. 101-00480

When considering an I1 clarity diamond, it’s essential to inspect the stone individually, as the visibility and impact of inclusions can vary widely. While I1 diamonds offer a more budget-friendly option compared to higher clarity grades, they can still be a viable choice for those seeking a larger carat weight while accepting the presence of larger inclusions. In this 1.00 carat round brilliant cut example those inclusions are most visible around the very edges of the table facet and in one pie-wedge segment of the crown. They appear as soft white but are difficult to spot thanks to the intense sparkle and fire of the very good cut. This is why we value cut over the other 4C’s, a well cut diamond can do a lot for raising the spirit of the gem. It even helps to improve the “I” colour, though the rich 18 karat yellow gold of the ring whitens the diamond up a lot all on its own. The timeless solitaire very well made, weighing in at 5.5 grams and currently measuring a finger size 5 with room to adjust. This excellent condition, reverse knife edge shank solitaire is estate priced at $3,500.00 CAD. Stock #101-00480.

January 26, 2024

18kt. Simon G MR1894-D 1.00ct. tw. I1-H from DC Taylor $3,500.00 CAD. e11457

“1 carat has a nice ring to it”. It’s a great slogan that respected local jeweller D.C. Taylor has been using in recent marketing. This ring was supplied brand new by D.C. Taylor Jewellers in 2014. It contains 34 tiny round brilliant diamonds that total 0.27 carats of VS-GH quality. The centre diamond is calculated to weigh in a 0.73 carat resulting in that nice tidy figure of 1.00-carat total weight. The centre diamond measures 5.75mm diameter showing good finger presence; especially when framed in the rose gold diamond set halo. The very good cut centre gives lots of sparkle and twinkle; you’d never guess the clarity is an I1. Its grade setting crystal inclusion goes unnoticed except under extreme scrutiny and then only by those with super sharp close up vision. With lots of artificial magnification under darkfield illumination, this photomicrograph reveals the inclusion with relative ease. As Gemologists and certified diamond graders, we love teaching clients how the various aspects of diamond quality affect pricing. We have the knowledge and the tools to show you all the characteristics that are important and the ones that make little difference in typical viewing conditions. The 3.6 gram 18 karat white and rose gold ring is in like new condition. Simon G designer ring model number MR1894-D has a suggested retail price of $2418.00 CAD not including a centre stone. A complimentary sizing by one of our onsite goldsmiths and rhodium plating will have the ring looking brand new. When it comes time for the wedding ring, Simon G has one ready to go. The flat edge and raised halo make alternative wedding ring options plentiful. Included with the purchase is an appraisal supplied by D.C. Taylor Jewellers suggesting a replacement value of $7,970.00 CAD plus tax. While it lasts our estate price for the designer ring from Glendale California is priced at just $3,500.00 CAD. Stock #e11457.

January 23, 2024

0.70ct. VS2-G Canadian diamond solitaire $3,395.00 CAD. e9191

Glacier Fire brand Canadian princess cut diamond of  very good VS2-G quality and cut. We seldom see well cut fancy shaped diamonds since there are no widely accepted cutting standards for any shape besides the round brilliant cut. Many manufacturers simply cut to achieve a heavy stone without much consideration given to the optical efficiency of the finished diamond. What results with many princess cuts and other fancy shapes are things like thin crowns, huge tables, very thick girdles and overly deep stones. Details like this conserve lots of extra weight but contribute nothing to making a potentially beautiful diamond sparkle more. This 0.70 carat princess cut doesn’t suffer from any of those characteristics. It shows a nice tall crown, smaller than average table, medium girdle and not too deep. It’s also perfectly square only off 0.01mm! Measurements of 4.76mm x 4.77mm x 3.50mm are just about perfect dimensions for a 0.70 carat princess cut diamond. The Canadian diamond is secured in a traditional 14 karat white gold 4 prong double gallery setting with a flat edge shank measuring 3.0mm wide. A traditional design like this is very versatile for easy wedding/anniversary ring selection. A unique registered laser engraved serial number has been applied to the girdle of the diamond as your guarantee of Canadian origin. Included with purchase is a complimentary sizing, Glacier Fire booklet/certificate along with an International Gemological Institute certificate and appraisal. Estate priced at $3,395.00. Stock #e9191.

January 21, 2024

Gents diamond (0.65ct. VS1-H) & ruby ring, 12.6gr. 14kt. size 8 1/4 $3,290.00 CAD. 206-00330

Ruby is the traditional gem given as a gift for a 40th anniversary or birthday. It is also the birthstone for July and occasionally occurs in one of the gem world’s most vibrant hues of red. High quality rubies are far rarer than diamonds and are seldom seen in large sizes. In a recent July 2022 Hong Kong auction a beautiful 8.39 carat Burmese ruby in a Cartier diamond ring sold for $7,300,000.00 USD. While the rubies in this ring are nowhere near that size, they are very bright and of very nice quality. When we first saw them we figured they were synthetic. After some microscopic examination, we determined they are all of natural origin. The 7 rubies measure 3.2mm in diameter and weigh approximately 0.14 carat each (1.00 carat in total). This ring was custom made approximately 40 years ago and was enjoyed and worn every day by its previous owner. As such, the colourful red rubies have acquired some chips and scratches to their crown facets. The centre diamond is of a high quality VS clarity with white H colour and in perfect condition. Based on diameter and depth dimensions we’ve calculated the diamond to weigh 0.65 carats. This custom-made dome setting has been crafted from a substantial amount of 14 karat yellow and weight gold with a gross weight of 12.6 grams. This isn’t a large ring for a gentleman as it measures around 8 1/4. It should come close to fitting the pinky finger for the average size man. We can easily make it a little smaller for a lady or larger for a man’s ring finger. Coloured stone rings are uncommon to find in men’s designs. This classic style is often seen showcasing a single diamond or cluster, but this is the first we’ve seen with rubies and diamond. The 7 claws that hold the centre diamond are in excellent condition and should provide the new owner with decades of security. This high-quality and unique ring is estate priced at $3,290.00 CAD. Stock #206-00330.

January 16, 2024

1.01ct. I1-H good cut natural diamond solitaire, 3.5gr. 14kt. $3,850.00 CAD. 101-00490

Jewellery is one of those things consumer  discretionary items that can last for generations. This ring is a good example of that. Bill Le Boeuf Jewellers originally sold this estate diamond ring back in 2009. It had previously been used as an engagement ring for long time. The original setting was worn our, so we reset it into a brand new 14 karat white gold traditional cathedral solitaire design that was made from Canadian gold. It recently came back to us on a trade in and now is looking for a new home. The sturdy white gold setting remains in excellent lightly worn condition. Measuring a finger size 6 1/2, weighing 3.5 grams, the ring can easily be adjusted up or down a couple of sizes. Interestingly, the ring comes with a Gem Scope “Certificate of Evaluation” describing the ring and its Estimated Retail Replacement Value. We originally sold this ring in 2009 for $4,024.73 plus sales tax. The May 2022 Gem Scope document feels the ring has a retail value of $20,000.00 (excluding taxes). Optimistic appraisal documents have been an issue for the jewellery industry seemingly forever. In this world of information it isn’t hard to find a reasonable idea of what anything is worth, including a simple 1.01 carat I1-H diamond ring. Gem Scope incorrectly misidentified this diamond as an Old European cut diamond, it is in fact a typical natural round brilliant cut diamond. They also assigned it a hopeful clarity grade of SI2, we feel it is more on an I1. The Gem Scope colour grade of G is pretty close to our assigned H colour grade. As a competitive jeweller involved in the buying and selling of both new and estate jewellery with 65 years experience, we have a pretty good idea of what jewellery is worth. We feel an appropriate value for this ring if it was purchase new would be around $5,500.00,not $20,000.00. As an excellent condition preowned estate item we have if priced at $3,850.00 CAD. Stock #101-00490.

2014 Tiffany Soleste plat./18kt. pink/white diamond halo 29578613 0.60ct. tw. 3.5gr. sz. 5. $4,500.0 CAD. 101-00534

Today are showcasing the Tiffany Soleste Round Brilliant Double Halo Engagement Ring with extremely rare and costly natural pink diamonds in set in rose gold and platinum. Our petite model measures 8.35mm across, featuring a significantly smaller center diamond than the version currently featured on Tiffany’s website; but it’s still the extremely high quality Tiffany’s is prized for. The ring also features a dazzling halo of chic natural fancy pink diamonds surrounded and shouldered by white diamonds, bumping the total carat weight of the ring up to 0.60 carats. The 3.5 gram ring currently measures a finger size 5 with some room to adjust. It’s accompanied by its original black box and a 2014 receipt showing a purchase price of $5,800.00. We have this excellent condition Tiffany estate priced $4,500.0 CAD. Stock #101-00534.

January 9, 2024

2.00ct. tw. ruby & diamond anniversary ring SI1-I, 8.3gr., 14kt., sz. 8 1/2. $3,346.00 CAD. 206-00491

A ruby and diamond anniversary ring isn’t too unusual, but this one is notable in many ways. It contains larger than usual 3.8-3.9mm brilliant cut diamonds and rubies. The quality of the diamonds is quite good, conservatively graded SI1-I. The rubies on the other hand are exceptional, they don’t get much better than this. The five bright red rubies exhibit great saturation of vivid red. The alternating five white diamonds intensify the colour and provide great contrast. It is somewhat curious there are 10 stones in total. The usual arrangement of stones in rings like this are odd numbers, so the ends are the same. With this ring one end stone is a diamond and at the other end is a ruby. This doesn’t look strange as the ten stones cover more than half of the circumference and are not all visible at the same time. The 10 stones weigh at least 2.00 carats in total (likely closer to 2.25 carats). The ring has been crafted from close to 8 grams of yellow gold with a sturdy solid shank measuring 5.3mm wide x 2.1mm thick, this is one well made ring. It measures a finger size 8 3/4. As most of the stones are touching, it is dangerous to alter the size up or down more than half a size or so. This ring looks great all on its own and will fit against almost any ring with a flat edge. Excellent condition and looking like new. It is estate priced at $3,346.00 CAD. Stock #206-00491.

January 8, 2024

2.00ct. tw. VS-I1- IJ pear & baguette diamond dinner ring 7.3gr. 18kt. sz. 9. $3,500.00 CAD.131-00214

Embark on a journey (a short one) through time with our latest arrival – an exquisite vintage ring from the late 60s or early 70s, a true testament to enduring elegance. This 18 karat white gold swirling masterpiece features a harmonious ensemble of four pear-shaped diamonds, collectively weighing a conservative 1.00 carat of pleasant SI2-IJ quality. The fancy shaped brilliant cut foursome is complemented by 18 baguette-cut diamonds weighing at least another carat, boasting VS-H quality. With a finger size of 9 and ample room for adjustment, the 7.3 gram ring effortlessly combines comfort with timeless allure. Accompanied by a certificate of appraisal from 1979, this like-new ring promises to add a touch of vintage sophistication to any modern ensemble. Estate price $3,500.00 CAD. Stock #131-00214.

SOLD

December 20, 2023

0.91ct. SI1-H princess cut diamond solitaire 2.8gr. 14kt. $4,550.00 CAD. e11856 101-00323

Round brilliant cut diamonds are the most expensive shape available. This is partially due to their consistently high level of popularity and the amount of weight that is lost when they are cut to a high standard. If you’re in the jewellery business long enough you see fancy shapes come in and out of popularity and their prices rise and fall with that movement. Currently ovals are on the rise and princess cuts are in a bit of a decline from their place at the top a few years ago. Opting for a princess cut will save you some serious money, quite often at least 20% compared to a round brilliant cut. With their busier facet pattern they create a geometric, splintery light show during wear. This particular princess all the more so thanks to its higher cut quality. As no diamond shape except the round brilliant has a set standard for cut grade many diamond manufacturers will use fancy shapes to hide bad cutting practices. Princess cuts often have very thick girdles, huge table facets, ultra-shallow crowns, and deep pavilions designed to hide extra weight. It’s very important when buying any shape (especially a fancy shape) that you speak to someone who understands diamond geometry for all shapes. We have two GIA certified diamond graders here at 52 Dunlop St West you can talk to. The 0.91 carat here is also a nicer SI1-H quality making it colour and inclusion free to the unaided eye. It’s been set into a timeless 2.8 gram 14 karat white gold solitaire that currently measures a finger size 4 1/4 with room to adjust up in size. The ring is accompanied by an HKD Report stating an optimistic opinion of value at $10,800.00 CAD. Our more competitive opinion of the new replacement value is $6,500.00. Our estate price is $4,550.00, CAD. Stock #e11856 101-00323.

December 17, 2023

1.23ct. total weight custom 3 stone diamond ring $3,465.00 CAD. e9362

Who doesn’t love the symmetry and simplicity of a three stone ring. The style has been around for over 100 years and is consistently been a best seller. We have a few three stone designs at Bill Le Boeuf Jewellers that haven’t changed at all in over 50 years. Even in a three stone design can be made unique though. This custom made ring contains three high quality radiant cut diamonds that weigh an estimated 1.23 carats in total. They average a very nice VS2 clarity with G/H colour and are all nicely cut. This modern interpretation combines a flattering double gallery four prong setting showcasing a 0.55 carat centre stone with low bezel set shoulder diamonds. The size 6 ring weighs 5.5 grams in a finger size 6. Comes complete with original certificate of appraisal from December 2008. Excellent condition showing no areas of wear or concern. This ring is a very attractive spin on a classic and popular design. A complimentary sizing by our onsite goldsmiths can be accomplished in just a day or two as needed. Estate priced at $3,465.00 CAD. Stock #e9362.

December 14, 2023

3.20ct. custom made emerald & diamond (1.28ct. tw. VS-H) ring 10.6gr. $3,360.00 CAD. e14270

This ring is not just digit-dominating, it’s hand-dominating! Not simply for its 11.2mm x 22.6mm footprint but the combination of lush green emerald, clean white diamonds, and bands of warm yellow gold. The ring’s crown is a natural emerald-cut emerald weighing approximately 3.20 carats, of intense emerald-green colour, showing the typical eye-visible Jardin you’d expect from the stone of springtime. The rows of high-quality VS-H baguette-cut diamonds turn to waterfalls as they tip down the steep shoulders of the ring. The belt of flush set round brilliant cuts bring the total diamond weight to 1.28 carats. With all of these fantastic ingredients, you can probably guess that this ring was indeed custom-made. The 10.6 gram 14 karat yellow gold ring currently measures a finger size 5 with a bit of room to adjust. Estate price $3,360.00 CAD. Stock #e14270.

December 13, 2023

0.70ct. I1-IJ + 119=2.00ct. SI-I diamond engage/wedd ring set 14kt. 8.8gr. $4,550.00 CAD. 101-00402

This wedding set contains a hidden detail for the wearer’s eye only, two tiny natural blue sapphires tucked into the base of the main setting, one on each side. Sapphires were traditionally the gemstone for engagement as they symbolize faithfulness and constancy. Diamond on the other hand was considered an evening stone, wearing one during the day was considered garish. It wasn’t until the 1920s and 1930s that diamonds became the standard center for an engagement ring. The diamond at the center of this engagement ring is a 0.70 carat I1-IJ quality round brilliant cut, showing almost eye-clean thanks to a collection of tiny inclusions instead of one large grade-setting inclusion. The additional 119 diamonds add their estimated 2.00 carats total weight to the top and sides of both the engagement ring and wedding band, all of SI-I quality. The rings are well-built from 8.8 grams of 14 karat white gold and currently measure a finger size 6 with some room to adjust. The set is accompanied by a September 2013 EGL USA certificate stating a fantastical replacement value of $11,050.00 CAD. We feel a more competitive replacement value with new would be around $6,500.00, our estate price is $4,550.00 CAD making for an excellent value. Stock #101-00402.

1.02ct. SI2-H radiant cut GIA report (1.42ct. tw), 6.8gr., 14kt., sz. 5 1/2. $4,200.00 CAD. 131-00207

This ring looks like a million bucks, well maybe not a million, but at least $10,000.00. The rectangular radiant centre stone measures an impressive 7.18mm long. Framing the centre stone is an outline of round brilliant cut diamonds enhances the top width of the ring to half an inch. It looks like an antique but it was originally purchased brand new, right here at Bill Le Boeuf  Jewellers not even 10 years ago. The pierced scroll shoulders are flanked with more diamond sparkle that has been highlighted with decorative milgrain. The centre diamond comes with the original Gemological Institute of America report (May 2014). The full report can be seen online here. The eye-clean SI2 clarity assures there are no distracting inclusions that can be seen without magnification. The H colour grade is high on the scale and faces up quite white. Excellent polish, very good symmetry, and no fluorescence round out the quality characteristics of this impressive natural diamond. The 40 accent diamonds are well matched of SI-HI quality. This ring was made in Canada using Canadian gold. It remains in excellent condition showing no areas of wear. Our onsite goldsmiths can adjust the fit up or down a size or two if needed. This ring is estate priced at $4,200.00 CAD. Stock #131-00207.

1.88ct. tw. Michael Hill Arpeggio cushion halo engagement/wedding ring set. $3,360.00 CAD. 101-00354

This diamond wedding set certainly comes with the “full kit”, from original receipts to certificates of authenticity, a certificate for the main diamond, warranty paperwork, and, of course, the original box. The double halo engagement ring is a retired member of Micheal Hill’s Arpeggio collection, a subcategory of their Sir Micheal Hill designer line. The signature of this line is the hidden pink sapphire bezel set into warm rose gold on both sides of the undergallery. Now the problem with these hidden accents, whether from this line or Vera Wang’s bridal collection, is the matching diamond wedding bands rub against them and their hard girdles act as tiny diamond sawblades cutting away at the stones. These sapphires were a victim of their wedding band with both being worn to a sea-glass matte finish. Otherwise, the set is in like-new condition, probably thanks to the armor of diamonds that covers most of the set. Not only do they encircle the main diamond twice in a tiered halo and run down the split shoulders, but they also cover almost the entire surface of the engagement ring and the band, leaving only a small section plain at the very bottom of each. There are also diamonds covering both sides of the undergallery of the engagement ring, resulting in an impressive total diamond weight of 1.88 carats. The crown of which is the 0.50 carat cushion shaped brilliant cut diamond of pleasant I1-G quality; the diamond has been inscribed with a unique serial number and Michael Hill’s logo. The 14 karat white gold set weighs in at 5.9 grams and both currently measure a finger size of 6 1/4. The estate price for the set only is $3,360.00 CAD. Stock #101-00354.

December 11, 2023

1.01ct. I1-G good cut (1.51ct. tw.) double halo diamond ring, 14kt., 4.8gr., $4,410.00 CAD. 101-00330

At the height of halo-mania about 5 years ago we were having a blast showcasing what we called “super halos”; oversized halo engagement rings covered over with sparkly accent diamonds and crowned by large center diamonds. This belated entry to the league of super halos certainly deserves its place. Its top has been patterned after a celestial body with its concentric halos spaced like the rings of Saturn. They span an impressive total width of 13.35mm and the diamond they encircle is a 1.01 carat round brilliant cut of pleasant I1-G quality, with small galaxy-like inclusions (not to drive this simile too far) that keep the diamond mostly eye-clean. The rest of the ring has been hand-set with 64 petite round brilliant cut diamonds of bright VS-SI-GH quality, tipping the ring’s total weight into 1.51 carats. The 14 karat engagement ring is solidly constructed and currently measures a finger size 6 with some room to adjust. The ring is accompanied by its original GS Laboratories certificate stating a slightly optimistic replacement value of $10,000.00 CAD. We feel a more competitive replacement price is $6,300.00 and our estate price is $4,410.00 CAD. Stock #101-00330.

December 5, 2023

0.50ct. VVS2-D halo ring Canadian made $3,490.00 CAD. d16050

Would you consider this ring new or estate? The diamond is pre-owned but the ring is brand new never worn. New or estate is a matter of perspective especially when you consider that most diamonds formed 4 billion years ago. So it really makes little difference if they have been worn before or not. The estate diamond is this ring by T&T design Toronto is one of the best diamonds in the store. Its VVS2 clarity and D colour combination are just about as good as it gets. An excellent cut really shows off the outstanding clarity and colour to its full potential. The halo design makes the 5.12mm diameter centre diamond look bigger than the 1/2 carat size suggests. 16 tiny full cut diamonds that comprise the cushion shape outline have been expertly bead set by Canadian craftsmen exclusively using Canadian gold. The 3.6 gram ring measures a size 6.5 and can be adjusted up or down as required. Rings of this design or any other make great candidates for an estate diamond of a bigger and better size than you might otherwise be able to afford. At Bill Le Boeuf Jewellers we have thousands of possibilities of estate diamonds with new settings. As shown this ring is priced at $3,490.00. Stock #d16050.

November 14, 2023

0.70ct. SI1-F very good cut GIA report, 4.5gr. 18kt. Lucida solitaire. $3,290.00 CAD. 101-00500

15 years ago this diamond came with a fresh Gemological institute of America report stating all the characteristics describing its quality. The 4-Cs as they are commonly referred to are the “clarity, colour, cut, and carat. GIA are the industry benchmark when it comes to providing an unbiased and accurate opinion of quality but they never comment of the 5th C, the cost. They wisely let the market determine the value of these miracles of nature. Quite often diamond rings and are accompanied by appraisals at the sales counter. All appraisals are simply opinions of value and like most opinions, some are more accurate than others. The same diamond ring can sell for many different prices depending where it is being sold. Suppling a value for a traditional diamond solitaire that has a Gemological Institute of America report is a relatively easy thin to do. There are many online databases showing pricing information for this quality/size of diamond. This classic Lucida solitaire diamond ring comes with a 2008 appraisal report stating a new replacement value of $12,850.00 CAD plus sales tax. Right or wrong, $12,850.00 is definitely one opinion of value. The diamond is this ring is bright 0.70 carat round brilliant cut with an nice clarity grade of SI1, an excellent F colour, very good cut, very polish, very good symmetry, and absent of fluorescence. The full GIA can be seen online by clicking here. Our estimate of a competitive replacement value for this ring if it were new is $4,700.00, and again, this is simply our opinion. As a like lightly worn estate ring showing now measurable signs of wear, our price is $3,290.00 CAD plus applicable sales tax. It is interesting to note, when this ring was appraised in November 2008, the price of gold has more than doubled and the Canadian dollar has depreciated from $1.00 USD = $1.23 CAD to $1.00 USD = $1.37 CAD, yet our idea of replacement value is more than 60% less. Diamonds are always wholesale priced in USD, so when the Canadian dollar drops, diamonds become more expensive in Canadian dollars. When buying a diamond (lab-grown or natural) make sure it comes with documentation that accurately describes the quality in order for you to determine whether or not the asking price reflects good value. If this classic diamond solitaire doesn’t fit (4.5 grams, size 6), it can be adjusted to fit by one of our onsite goldsmiths. It is in like new condition and estate priced at $3,290.00 CAD. Stock #101-00500.

October 22, 2023

Michael Smiley 18kt. diamond ring 1.13ct. VS-HI $4,340.00 CAD. e8834

Very high quality 3 stone diamond ring made by local goldsmith designer Michael Smiley. Made to the typical excellent standard Michael is known for, beautiful finish, well assembled with a generous 8 plus grams of 18 karat white gold. It’s a three stone, but it’s a three stone with that little designer flair. A gentle and smoothly profiled three section ridged shank measures 5.8mm wide. The centre ridge rises up from the shoulders meeting the outside diamonds in the middle gallery. All three diamonds are nicely matched of minimum VS clarity, HI colour and good to very good cut. You just don’t see this kind of quality at your typical jewellery store. Seldom are mass produced rings made from 18 karat gold and almost never weigh more than 5 grams or so. If the three stone design has always appealed to you come have a look at this example. It’s a classic design with the designer touch. Estate price $4,340.00 CAD. Stock #e8834.

October 19, 2023

1.25ct. tw. VS-H 3 stone diamond ring, Lucida setting, 4.1gr., 14kt, sz. 5 1/2. $3,990.00 CAD. 101-00505

Three stone rings come in many combinations of gem stones, sizes, shapes, and qualities. Our latest estate example is the classic round diamond version featuring the type of quality we don’t typically encounter. All three of these round brilliant cut diamonds are VS1 or better clarity, equally impressive G or better colour, all three are very well cut, and do not exhibit any fluorescence. The sturdy 14 karat white gold Lucida setting measures a finger size 5 1/2 with room to adjust up or down. This ring was likely worn beside a low wedding ring as the crossover gallery displays some minor wear from rubbing. The setting needs no service and the 4 prong settings are in great condition. We’ve calculated the three natural diamonds weigh a combined 1.25 carats. The centre stone alone weighs an estimated 0.73 carats. The three stone design never goes out of style and is easy to wear with almost any wedding ring. This ring is estate priced at $3,990.00 CAD. Stock #101-00505.

September 19, 2023

2.00ct. fine Tsavorite garnet & diamond (1.00ct. tw. SI-GH), dinner ring, 18kt. 7.8gr. sz. 9, $4,760.00 CAD. 206-00424

There is a good chance you’ve never heard of the precious gem tsavorite but this lesser known garnet variety came very close to being included in the Tiffany & Co. marketing machine. The gemstone was originally discovered in Tanzania in 1967 but for almost a decade it was only of interest to mineralogists and rare gem collectors. In 1974 the VP for Tiffany began talks with mine owners to market the stone which he renamed from its original tsavolite. They never could come to an agreement so unlike other familiar stones that Tiffany took to market, such as morganite and tanzanite, tsavorite had to make its own way to consumers. It’s too bad it didn’t work out as part of Tiffany’s plan, as it’s taken the vibrant green gem a long time to attract the attention of jewellers and the general public. The stone derives its name from the Tsavo National Park in Kenya Africa where some of the first specimens where found. The bezel set mixed cut example we are showcasing today measures approximately 7mm in length and is estimated to weigh approximately 2.00 carats. Fine tsavorite can approach a colour you’d normally associate only with extra fine quality emerald. This example is about as good as it gets and is the best we’ve ever encountered. It exhibits a deep saturated pure green hue with exceptional clarity. It was expertly bezel set in this pierced Art Deco inspired dinner ring of contemporary construction. Made from premium quality 18 karat white gold. It measures a size 9 ring and contains 108 round brilliant cut diamonds bead set on the top and both vertical sides; additional hand engraved leaf/vine decorate the shoulders. The ring appears to be in unworn condition showing no wear of any kind. The bright white polished rhodium finish remains scratch free still covering the entire ring. It would be a difficult task to find another tsavorite garnet as nice as this one. This ring is estate priced at $4,760.00 CAD. Stock #206-00424.

September 17, 2023

0.65ct. SI2-F (28=0.25ct. tw. SI-H) vine design diamond ring set 9.1gr. 19kt. $3,493.00 CAD. 101-00423

The vine motif that makes up this unique wedding set is heavily carved, ensuring that despite the delicate appearance of the rings, they have been made to last. The vines themselves measure under 1mm wide but stand an average of 2.5mm tall. The pattern on the engagement ring is comparably subdued, with the vines curling around elongated navette-shaped leaves, tapering as they move toward the bottom of the ring. The wedding band on the other hand is a wild garden of twisting vines mixed with round buds and marquise leaves. The vines stretch to a 5.3mm width making the band more than capable of being worn on its own if desired. The engagement ring is crowned with 0.65 carat round brilliant cut diamond of eye-clean SI2-F quality. The set is accented with 28 additional round brilliant cuts that add their 1/4 carat of SI-H sparkle to the overall design. The engagement ring features a deeply carved “Love you more” tucked away in its bottom, so deep the message should survive most sizings. The rings are made from very high-quality 19 karat white gold and both retain their original chrome white rhodium plating. The set currently measures a finger size 7 with some room to adjust. Estate price for the set only is $3,493, CAD. Stock #101-00423.

18kt. 3 stone diamond ring 0.94ct. total weight $3,780.00 CAD. e9583

Another classic three stone design. Although a smaller 5.5 finger size it’s surprisingly heavy at 6.5 grams. Made from premium 18 karat white gold with full tall shoulders explains the extra weight. Most rings like this would weigh at least a few grams less and be made from less pure 14 karat gold. A very nice 0.60 carat round brilliant cut diamond of VS1-G quality is flanked by two smaller 0.17 carat SI1-HI diamonds. The 3 diamonds weigh a conservative 0.94 carats in total. If removed from the setting and physically weighed I wouldn’t be surprised if together they weighed 1.00 carat in total. A triple ridge shank design helps hide any scratches that may appear with regular use. The ring is a few years old and is in great condition. A complimentary size adjustment and fresh rhodium plating will have it looking like new and conceal the soft warm white hue all white gold alloys naturally have. Estate priced at just $3,780.00 CAD. Stock #e9583.

September 15, 2023

0.90ct. SI2-G + 0.28ct. tw. SI-I, 6.2gr. 19kt. Spence Diamonds $4,550.00 CAD. 101-00412

This Spence Diamonds engagement ring comes with a mountain of paperwork neatly packaged in a sleek little folio. And it’s well worth all of that documentation being well-constructed from 6.2 grams of top-quality 19 karat white gold. The ring features three round brilliant cut diamonds set in high bar settings that offer a full view of the diamonds, top, and sides. The main diamond weighs 0.90 carat of a pleasant SI2-G quality with a very good cut, flanked by a pair of equally lovely SI-I diamonds. You’d need a bit of magnification to see what really makes this ring unique, but almost dead-center in the table of the main diamond is a one-dimensional black arrowhead inclusion, unlike anything we’ve ever encountered. The arrowhead is an open black frame instead of solid black, making it invisible without at least 10 times magnification, much higher magnification was used taking this photomicrograph. The accompanying Spence Diamond certificate accurately describes that diamond. It’s also accompanied by the original warranty, appraisal stating a replacement value of $7,614.00 CAD (August 2007), and receipt stating a sale price of the same value. Our estate price for this like new modern style 3 stone diamond ring is $4,550.00, CAD. Stock #101-00412.

September 14, 2023

1.75ct. tw. SI-H pave diamond ring, 13.8gr. 14kt. sz. 7. $3,500.00 CAD. 131-00145

At 14.3mm wide this ring is sure to turn heads! Of course, it doesn’t hurt that it’s literally paved with an interlock of round brilliant cut diamonds. The 59 diamonds are very well cut and well-matched SI-H quality, showing a uniform sparkle. They’ve been balanced with high polished rhodium plated 14 karat white gold, with the ring weighing in at an impressive 13.8 grams. The band is in like-new condition and measures a finger size 7 with some room to adjust. The estate price is $3,500.00 CAD. Stock #131-00145.

August 29, 2023

1.04ct. I2-I diamond solitaire 3.2gr. 14kt. sz. 7 $3,500.00 CAD. 101-00469

As with many clarity grades, there are good and not so good looking examples, this one falls firmly into the category of pleasant. Its grade-setting inclusion lines up perfectly with the facet pattern of the diamond, though it is visible without magnification it ends up being quite subtle. The remaining inclusions are outside of the table facet, getting lost in the busier pattern of the diamond’s crown. The 1.04-carat round brilliant cut ends up being at least 70% free of inclusions, allowing lots of clear space for it to sparkle and shine. The diamond is also a softly tinted I colour and is secured into a timeless four-prong solitaire. The cathedral-style setting weighs in at 3.2 grams in 14-karat white gold and currently measures a finger size 7 with two sizing balls that can be reduced or removed as needed. The ring is accompanied by a GS Laboratories appraisal and is estate priced at $3,500.00 CAD. Stock #101-00469.

August 20, 2023

1.00ct. tw. SI-I (0.46ct. centre) Canadian diamond Peoples 20062077 $3,180.00 CAD. 101-00341

We’ve had a number of Canadian diamonds through our estate department but this is the first Canadian oval. The diamond doesn’t disappoint either, weighing 0.46 carats and displaying an eye-clean SI2 clarity with an I colour. The diamond doesn’t have its original certificate but its girdle has been permanently branded with a unique serial number and the world’s smallest maple leaf (maybe). The like-new engagement ring has been accented with 51 petite round brilliant diamonds of matching SI-I quality. They encircle the main diamond, decorate its intertwining under-gallery, and run down both shoulders in graduated open channels; they also bring the total diamond weight of the ring up to 1.00 carat. The 14 karat white gold ring is well made and currently measures a finger size 7 1/4 with some room to adjust. It is in excellent condition and accompanied by its original paperwork from Peoples. This is a current design and is shown on their website for $5,299.00. Our estate price is $3,180.00 CAD. Stock #101-00341

August 12, 2023

15mm South Sea pearl & diamond ring, 12.9gr., 1.20ct. tw. VS-J, 18kt. gold. $4,533.00 CAD. e8865 131-00139

In many of our past posts, we’ve given out the pearl buying advice of judging a pearl’s quality by the mirror-like reflections on its surface; the sharper the reflections the higher the nacre quality/thickness. With South Sea pearls that isn’t quite the case and it’s due to the relatively extreme thickness of their nacre. Akoya pearls have an average nacre thickness ranging from 0.35mm to 0.70mm, South Sea pearls have an average of 2.00mm to 6.00mm. That thickness softens the surface luster of the pearls creating an appearance similar to the sheen of satin. You still want to be able to see yourself on the pearl’s surface but don’t expect to make out any features of your face. This 15mm South Sea pearl is a fantastic example of what high quality looks like. The smokey grey-green body colour displays orient of soft purples and blues and is almost blemish-free showing only the slightest imperfections on its surface. The phenomenal 15mm pearl is shouldered by trios of pear and marquise brilliant cut diamonds of VS-J quality. They equal approximately 1.20 carats together and stand out against the broad high polished 18 karat white gold shoulders of the ring. The size 5 ring is accompanied by a 2009 Gem Review appraisal stating a replacement value of $8,010.00 CAD. We believe a more competitive replacement value would be $6,475.00 and our estate price is $4,533.00 CAD. Stock #131-00139.

July 16, 2023

1.00ct. I1-I diamond solitaire (strong fluorescence) 3.7gr. 14kt. $3,290.00 CAD. 101-00375

Fluorescence was traditionally viewed as a slightly negative characteristic of many natural diamonds, lowering the price by 5 to 10% compared to a similar diamond with little to no fluorescence. But now that lab-grown diamonds are so prevalent fluorescence is becoming a quick trick for determining whether a diamond is natural or not. Lab-grown diamonds can fluoresce but it is uncommon and they fluoresce in unusual patterns. Natural diamonds mostly fluoresce blue (though they can also fluoresce yellow, red, and green) but their fluorescence is even across the stone. So a quick check under a longwave ultraviolet light and the presence of even fluorescence allows everyone to be confident the diamond they are looking at is natural without any fancy screening equipment. If it is important to you that your diamond is natural this one requires no additional proof, as you can see its chalky Ghostbusters blue glow at any nightclub, glow-in-the-dark bowling alley, or nail salon. The 1.00 carat round brilliant cut diamond is an I1-I quality showing two soft white inclusions just visible without magnification. The diamond has been set into a modern 14 karat white gold solitaire engagement ring that tapers gracefully towards the center, making the diamond look a bit larger. The unworn ring retains its original chromy white rhodium plating and currently measures a finger size 6 1/4 with room to adjust. Estate price is $3290.00 CAD. Stock #101-00375.

July 7, 2023

1.00ct. tw. fancy colour diamond ring 18kt 8.8gr. $3,290.00 CAD. e12883

Dinner rings are the best place for fancy coloured diamonds! The statement pieces are a blank canvas for a goldsmith’s wildest dreams and whoever designed this band was having a very good time! The yellow round brilliant cut diamonds are almost the exact tone of the rich 18 karat yellow gold that holds them. Allowing their winking fire to sparkle subtly against the bolder reddish brown and white diamond bands. All told the hand set diamonds equal a perfect 1.00 carat total estimated weight. They cover the top half of the 8.8 gram intertwining ring for maximum brilliance. The unique ring is estate priced for $3,290.00 CAD. Stock #e12883.

June 26, 2023

0.83ct. SI1-F marquise brilliant cut solitaire 5.9gr. 18kt. gold $3,430.00 CAD. e13689

Fancy shapes are back and frankly we can’t understand how they fell out of favor, especially the marquise. The diamond is one of the best for getting maximum footprint for minimum budget. It’s the diamond version of that tall thin glass vs. the short and wide glass. Even if both glasses hold the same volume of liquid, and even if you know that, the tall thin glass always looks like it has more. Marquise being the tallest (longest) and thinnest of fancy gem shapes always gives the impression of being larger than its carat weight. This 0.83 carat marquise measures an impressive 9.15 x 4.59mm of an eye-clean SI1-FG quality. It’s been proudly perched on a heavy 18 karat yellow gold solitaire with shoulders that rise up to meet the diamond. The solid ring weighs 5.9 grams and is accompanied by a Gem Scan certificate stating an rosy Replacement Value of $11,200.00. We feel a realistic value is more like $4,900.00, and our estate price $3,430.00 CAD. Stock #e13689.

June 7, 2023

1.00ct. I1-treated blue diamond, 72=0.40ct. tw. VS-G, 6.4gr. 14kt. $3,150.00 CAD. 131-00146

Forgive our photography, this irradiated teal diamond is exactly the colour of a Montana sapphire in person. But, being a diamond, it is gifted with diamond high dispersion (sparkle) and fire (converting white light into coloured light). Which results in a brooding gem that dances between teal, bright green, and blue. The rectangular princess cut weighs approximately 1.00 carat of an almost eye-clean I1 clarity thanks to its darker tones disguising the grade-setting inclusions. The shoulders and halo of the ring are studded with 72 petite round brilliant cut diamonds of nice VS-G quality. They bring the total diamond weight of the ring up to 1.40 carats. The ring itself is solidly constructed from brightly rhodium plated 14 karat white gold and currently measures a finger size 6 1/2 with some room to adjust. The estate price for the like-new ring is $3,150.00 CAD. Stock #131-00146.

May 4, 2023

2.00ct. tw. I1-J Peoples Jewellers “Quad” engagement/wedding ring set, 9.1gr. 14kt. $3,080.00 CAD. 101-00373

The “Quad” engagement ring has been a box-store staple for at least a decade, it features a “main stone” made of four invisibly set princess cut diamonds made to look like one larger diamond at a glance. In this version, the grouping measures 7.5mm wide, equal to the footprint of well cut  2.50 to 3.00 carat princess cut single diamond. In reality, the entire wedding set contains 2.00 carat total weight of princess and round brilliant cut diamonds, all of nicely matched I1-J quality. Both rings currently measure a finger size 8 with a bit of room to adjust. The 14 karat white gold set is originally from Peoples and is accompanied by their paperwork. This exact model has been retired but the new version is currently listed on Peoples website for $4,999.00 CAD. Our estate price for the set is only $3,080.00 CAD. Stock #101-00373.

April 30, 2023

1.00ct. I1-H good cut (6.32mm) 12=0.25ct. tw. SI-H, 5.0gr. 14kt. $4,900.00 CAD. 101-00370

Our pictures came out a bit hazy for this diamond and though it does have some haze it really is very pleasant looking in person. Its grade-setting inclusions are a collection of small black and white crystal inclusions and delicate twinning wisps (crystal growth planes), with only the darker inclusions showing up without magnification. The 1.00 carat diamond is of course an I1-H quality with a good cut. It’s accented by 12 channel set round brilliant cut diamonds of SI-H quality, that bumps the total weight of the ring up to 1.25 carats. The solidly constructed ring weighs a significant 5.0 grams in 14 karat white gold. It is in like-new condition still retaining its original chromy white rhodium finish and measures a finger size 6. The estate price is $4,900.00 CAD. Stock #101-00370.

April 16, 2023

3.50ct. tw. sapphire & diamond ring SI-GH, 16.8gr. 14kt. gold $3,500.00 CAD. e13422

A colossal crossover style ring and perhaps the largest to pass through our estate department. At 15.75mm wide the ring is certainly digit dominating though the 11mm intersection tones the width down slightly. Despite its intense design the ring’s pallet is a timeless combination of 14 karat white gold, bright white diamonds, and a streak of well matched, high quality blue sapphires. The 38 round brilliant cut diamonds total approximately 1.25 carats of bright SI-GH quality, adding sparkle to the subdued tones of the 9 square cut natural sapphires. Not surprisingly the ring weighs in at a very substantial 16.8 grams and currently measures a finger size 7 with some room to adjust. The piece is accompanied by a 2010 insurance schedule stating a coverage of $6,374.00. Our estate price for the head turning ring $3,500.00 CAD. Stock #e13422.

April 14, 2023

1.45ct. tw. SI-IJ Peoples Vera Wang halo 20334085, sz. 9 1/2, 14kt., 6.2gr. $3,600.00 CAD. 101-00318

Vera Wang is most famous for tearing down the rigid norms of the wedding dress industry, throwing away the rule book on what a bride should look like on her big day. Her engagement ring line takes a more traditional route, opting for ornate halos signed with two natural blue square-cut sapphires tucked away in the gallery. This offering from the Peoples Vera Wang collection is crowned with a 0.45 carat princess cut diamonds and shouldered by a pair of pears equalling 0.48 carats. The additional 64 hand set round brilliant cut diamonds bump the total carat weight of the ring to 1.45 carats, all of SI-IJ quality. The 14 karat white gold ring currently measures a finger size 9 1/2 with some room to adjust down a couple of sizes. It’s currently listed on Peoples’ website for $5,999.00 CAD, our estate price for the beautiful ring is $3,600.00 CAD. Stock #101-00318.

March 19, 2023

Charmed diamond ring 1.45ct. tw. SI-GH 6.6gr. 14kt. $3,479.00 CAD. e11412

Probably one of the most complete Canadian engagement rings available in the retail chain market is the Charmed line. Made from Canadian gold, featuring Canadian diamond centers and hidden Canadian diamond accents within the band and finally designed by Charm’s founder/owner Richard Calder (Canadian). Of course Charm Diamond Centres themselves are a Canadian company. This particular piece from the collection is set with 1.42 carats of SI-GH diamonds, covering over the entire top half of the ring. The center is a Canadian princess cut weighing on its own 0.56ct of SI2-H quality and proudly laser inscribed as proof of its Canadian origins. Made from 6.6 grams of solidly constructed 14 karat white gold and currently measuring a finger size 7 with limited room to adjust. The ring is accompanied by its original inner and outer box, certificate of authenticity, and CGI Diamond Report with an estimated replacement value of $6,510.00 CAD. The ring is just over 2 years old and looks like brand new. There is no wear showing on any of the claws. Model 1130708 is currently listed on Charm’s website for $5,799.00 CAD. Our estate price $3,479.00 CAD. Stock #e11412.

March 11, 2023

0.57ct. SI1-FG + 1.11ct. tw. VS-FG Spence diamond set 5.6gr. 14/19kt. $3,741.00 CAD. e13843 e13844 101-00215

One drawback to a diamond encrusted wedding set is that the center diamond can get lost in the brilliance of the accent diamonds. The way around that problem is to use tiny accent diamonds like those in this Spence Diamonds wedding set. The pave setting style creates a totally different optical effect to that of a large single diamond. The 0.57 carat round brilliant cut diamond ends up standing out brightly against its disco-ball background. Not surprising that the diamond is an eye-clean SI1 clarity and colour-free FG, not to mention well cut. The 56 individually hand set accents are of high-than-normal VS-FG quality, ensuring they are as brilliant as possible despite their small size. The wedding band is set with an additional 61 diamonds bumping the total weight of the set to 1.68 carats. The engagement ring is cast from 3.2 grams of ultra-premium 19 karat white gold and the wedding band from 2.4 grams of more traditional 14 karat white gold. The pair both measure a finger size 5 1/2 with some room to adjust. They are sold separately and estate priced for $2,579.00 CAD and $1,162.00 CAD but they make a perfect set. Stock numbers e13843 and e13844 101-00215

SOLD

February 24, 2023

2.07ct. tw. black & white (VS-GH) Ritani 18kt. cushion halo diamond ring 6.9gr. $3,150.00 CAD. 101-00483

Black diamonds are not something we encounter very often and this might be the best-presented black diamond ring we’ve had! The 1.41-carat round brilliant cut black diamond is unusual for the purity and evenness of its black surface. Usually, black diamonds are extremely heavily included and those inclusions create inconsistencies in the facet surfaces, but that is not the case here, this is a diamond as black as black can be. It’s been framed in a soft cushion-shaped halo of high-quality VS-GH round brilliant cut diamonds. Combined with those accenting the shoulders the carat weight of the ring jumps to an impressive 2.07 carats. The ring itself is originally from Ritani in New York, explaining the exacting standards the ring has been built to. It weighs in at 6.9 grams of top quality 18-karat white gold and currently measures a finger size 6 1/2 with some room to adjust. The ring is accompanied by a 2008 D.C. Taylor appraisal and is estate priced at $3,150.00 CAD. Stock #101-00483.

SOLD

February 23, 2023

1.03ct. SI2-IJ Celebration Canadian diamond ring 18kt./plat. or 14kt. yellow gold $4,500.00 CAD. 101-00019

The traditional princess cut diamond has 57 facets (the same as a round brilliant cut) but certainly, another 43 couldn’t hurt and besides, 100 facets probably sounds so much more impressive. The Celebration Canadian diamond by Peoples Jewellers adds an extra touch of splintery brilliance to a diamond that is already known for its multitude of small facets. Our example is a 1.03 carat of SI2-IJ quality, proudly displaying its Canadian pedigree engraved inside of the ring and across the diamond’s girdle facet. It’s been set into an equally distinguished ring with a platinum head and 18-karat white gold solid shank weighing a significant 6 grams. The previous owner reset the diamond into a similar style setting handcrafted from over 6 grams of 14-karat yellow and white gold and kept the original 18kt./plat. version. You can choose whichever ring mount you prefer the diamond to be set in. The newest version of the 1.00-carat Peoples Princess celebration cut is available on Peoples website with slightly modified prongs for $12,999.00 CAD. Our estate price is only $4,500.00 CAD in 14-karat yellow with a white gold head or 18-karat white gold with a platinum head. Stock #101-00019.

SOLD

February 22, 2023

0.70ct. SI1-I good cut Canadian diamond ring set (1.56ct. tw.) sz. 4 3/4, 6.3gr. 18kt. $3,600.00 CAD. 101-00437

One lament we hear regularly is that a diamond is not more visible from all angles. This applies to so many setting styles that opt for security over visibility, but many rings are designed by production goldsmiths that think more like engineers. Their goal is durability and they often get lost in the head-on view, forgetting about the profile. Well, that is not the case for whoever designed this wedding set! The rings are undoubtedly well-built but they still give a full profile view of not only the main diamond but also all of the accents. The Canadian diamond that crowns the set is held in an open four prong setting and the additional 9 graduated accents are in graceful open bar settings. That main diamond weighs in at 0.70 carats of SI-I quality good make. The rest of the well-matched round brilliant cut diamonds push that total weight up an additional 0.86 carats. The rings themselves are solidly constructed from 6.3 grams of “pure white” 18-karat gold. They currently measure a finger size of 4 3/4 with some room to adjust. The set is accompanied by a certificate/appraisal for the centre diamond and engagement ring, and the origin report stating the main diamond came from the Ekati mine in the Northwest Territories. The estate price for the set only is $3,600.00 CAD. Stock #101-00437.

SOLD

February 20, 2023

1.12ct. I2-G (1.32ct. tw) 14kt. rose gold halo engagement ring 3.5gr. $3,805.00 CAD. 101-00288

If you’re secretly in love with popular modern halo designs but still want to put your own stamp on it, how about doing it in pink gold? Of the numerous halo designs we’ve done over the years, I’d estimate around 95% were made in white gold or platinum with the odd one done in a more traditional yellow gold. This 14 karat rose/pink gold creation is one of just a handful we’ve done in soft tone rose gold. The American made 3.4-gram setting has a tight 9.7mm diameter halo assembled with 16 high-quality VS-GH round brilliant cut diamonds. Secured nice and low in the brand new, never worn setting is a 1.12 carat round brilliant cut estate diamond of I2-G quality with no fluorescence. This diamond was purchased way back in 1977 and was never used in a piece of jewellery until now, which is a shame. We thought it deserved to be the star of the show in a popular style diamond ring. It came to us with an appraisal from a Toronto jeweller who valued the diamond at $1,700.00 close to 45 years ago. Take advantage of our large collection of estate diamonds. Start with a great value estate diamond and we’ll put it in a brand new production ring like this or let us custom make the ring of your dreams. You get unmatched savings using high-quality estate diamonds and the satisfaction of getting exactly what you want in a new or custom-made setting. This is the type of specialty assembly that Bill Le Boeuf Jewellers do so efficiently. We’ve been doing it at the same Downtown Barrie location since 1958. So believe us when we say; Nobody does “I do” like we do. This ready to go finished ring is estate priced at an unsurpassed value of just $3,805.00 CAD. Stock #101-00288.

SOLD

February 15, 2023

1.53ct. tw. Simon G engagement/wedding ring set MR1546 $4,980.00 CAD. e11981 101-00394

Simon G has been our top of the line bridal brand since we introduced it to the Barrie area almost a decade ago. Over the last decade, the California based designer has become a leading manufacturer of diamond engagement and wedding rings. Their designs are some of the most duplicated around, copied by almost everyone. Looking at the various flyers and promotional brochures that appear in the mail from time to time it’s easy to see where mainstream jewellery chains’ inspiration comes from. While these imitation designs look okay the attention to fine detail and quality are where they usually fall short. Simon G uses only premium quality 18 karat gold and platinum for their jewellery. Every one of their small diamonds is of minimum VS-GH quality. Our latest estate offering is the popular MR1546 from the Vintage Explorer collection. It is proudly showcasing a 0.95 carat round brilliant cut diamond of I1-KL quality with a very good cut. We say proudly because we don’t mind showing you how beautiful a properly graded I1 can look. We’re not afraid or shy to show you a close up photomicrograph of the nice I1. Sure there are some inclusions that are easy to resolve with dark field lighting and lots of magnification, but you don’t live in a dark field world with artificial magnification. This diamond sparkles like a disco ball, even in regular overhead office fluorescent lighting against simply a white sheet of printer paper. It weighs just under a carat at 0.95 with a very good cut and a diameter of 6.3mm. It actually appears bigger and has a larger diameter than many average to good cut 1.00 carat diamonds. It would be pretty hard to get a nicer looking, better value diamond of this size for less than the $1,900.00 we’ve factored into the total estate price of $4,980.00 for the complete set. The rings weigh a combined 5.9 grams in a finger size 6. They’ve hardly been worn and still feature the fine crisp milgrain edged detail that Simon G is known for. Simon G will make up this ring to hold any size or shape of diamond you may have or want. To buy a new set in this configuration the price would be $5,148.00 CAD (without a centre stone). Included with the set is a perfect condition Simon G illuminated box. As soon as the box is opened up a super bright LED shines a spotlight on the treasure inside. Thinking about an upgrade to your current engagement set or maybe you just want a newer style? Bring in your old set or any other jewellery item you may no longer be wearing, we take trade ins every day. The 2 piece set is estate priced for only $4,980.00 CAD. Stock #e11981 101-00394.

SOLD

February 1, 2023

1.00ct. I1-I very good cut (6.45mm diameter) diamond solitaire ring, 2 x 0.025ct., 2.8gr, 14kt. $3,500.00 CAD. 101-00376

A good cut grade (or very good in this case) can go a long way in making up for modest clarity. The superior brilliance that comes with a high cut grade can disguise or at least distract from eye-visible inclusions. In our 1.01 carat example the grade setting inclusions are visible when the diamond is sitting still, but get it moving and they really do get lost in the sparkle! That very good cut grade also ensures the diamond has an appropriate footprint, measuring an appropriate 6.45mm diameter for a carat diamond. With a lower cut grade, the weight is often lost in the depth of the diamond, reducing its overall footprint and making it look like it weighs far less than a carat. A mistake no one will make with this diamond thanks to the modern narrow-shouldered ring that carries it, making the diamond look even larger by contrast. The like-new 14 karat white gold ring is in like-new condition retaining its unblemished chromy rhodium plating. It features two hidden diamonds tucked into the gallery, each weighing approximately 0.025 carats. The ring currently measures a finger size 5 1/2 with room to adjust. Estate price $3500.00 CAD. Stock #101-00376.

SOLD

December 28, 2022

2.44ct. tw. VS-FG diamond dinner/anniversary ring 11.6gr. platinum $4,690.00 CAD. 131-00168

There are two things needed for a ring to be qualified as a “statement” ring, first by being a significant size, second, it needs to have a head-turning design. A quick glance at these pictures and you may not think this is a statement ring, but see it in person and you’ll understand how big its 9mm width really is. The 19 diamonds that cover its top are all well-matched, high-quality VS-FG, and well-cut, throwing a ton of light at the slightest movement. Together they equal approximately 2.44 carats (likely 2.50ct.). They don’t quite cover the top half of the ring, ensuring comfortable wear between the fingers. The high polished low dome band does gradually taper to ensure the ring is comfortable when you close your hand, but it still measures an impressive 5mm at its narrowest point. The 11.6 gram ring is made from top-quality platinum and currently measures a finger size 6 3/4 with some room to adjust. The estate price is $4,690.00, CAD. Stock #131-00168.

SOLD

December 22, 2022

0.98ct. SI2-IJ pear shape & baguette (0.18ct. tw. VS-HI) diamond ring 3.7gr. 18kt./plat. $3,983.00 CAD. 101-00364

There is something very Old Hollywood about this vintage engagement ring style, especially since it’s crowned with a pear-shaped diamond! Pears have a natural glamour to them, being less common than most other shapes and having an elegant overall shape. The 0.98 carat drop is an eye-clean SI2-IJ showing just a hint of warmth that is diminished by the rich 18 karat yellow gold of the ring itself. The shoulders of the ring have been armored with tapered baguette cut diamonds equalling 0.18 carats together of bright VS-HI quality. The solidly constructed ring features a platinum head to disguise the sturdy prongs that encase the main diamond. The 3.7 gram ring currently measures a finger size 6 with room to adjust. Estate price $3,983.00 CAD. Stock #101-00364.

SOLD

December 20, 2022

1.00ct. I2-HI diamond halo (30=0.50ct. tw VS-GH) 4.3gr. 14kt. $4,550.00 CAD. 101-00369

Clarity grades represent a range of quality, meaning you can have a strong I2 diamond or a weak VS2 diamond. The weak VS2 will still be much nicer looking than the strong I2, it simply represents the lowest possible clarity within its set grade. By definition, an I2 diamond contains inclusions that have a severe effect on either the diamond’s beauty or its durability, with inclusions that are easily visible without magnification. This diamond certainly contains inclusions that can be seen without magnification but they are arrayed in such a way that they disguise themselves within the pattern of the stone with most of them located on the outer edge of the diamond. The result is one of the nicest I2-HI diamonds we’ve had on offer. You won’t believe just how nice a conservatively graded I2 can look; this diamond looks better than many SI2 diamonds we’ve seen. That 1.00 carat diamond is made even more impressive with a tight halo and broad shoulder covered in 30 accent diamonds of bright VS-GH quality. Together they push the total weight of the ring up to 1.50 carats. The ring itself is in unworn condition displaying untouched rhodium plating over its solid 14 karat white gold. It currently measures a finger size 6 1/2 with some room to adjust. The estate price is $4,550.00 CAD. Stock #101-00369.

SOLD

December 14, 2022

1.05ct. tw. oval halo diamond engagement/wedding ring set $3,290.00 CAD. 101-00457

Halo style engagement rings are still some of our top selling designs and lately, oval diamonds are seeing quite a bit of interest. Don’t wait too long if you’re interested in this one because I don’t think it will last before someone else agrees. The 4.8 gram, 2-piece sleeve design is only a couple of years old and comes with a June 2016 appraisal from W.J. Shaw Jewellers of Orillia. Although Shaw Jewellers have since closed shop this ring is a small part of their history. The centre oval brilliant cut offers an interesting alternative to a round. They cost a little less and often look bigger with the extra length the shape brings. Looking at the I1-F centre stone you’d swear it was much larger than our estimated weight of 0.70 carat. 72 additional small diamonds of VS-SI-FG quality are set throughout the ring set. I’ve always liked sleeve design wedding rings, especially for a lightweight engagement ring. They always stay perfectly lined up, they offer a balanced symmetrical appearance and they protect the engagement ring. The set measures a size 6 and can be adjusted up or down a little. It’s a more complicated procedure to adjust the size but it can be done. You can always slide them apart if you like wearing the engagement section alone once in a while. The appraisal supplied by Ontario Gemological Service suggests an appropriate retail replacement value of $8,450.00 for the set. We feel a more appropriate value based on a more competitive retail pricing model is more like $4,700.00. As a hardly worn, excellent condition set, we have them estate priced at $3,290.00 CAD. Stock #101-00457.

SOLD

December 13, 2022

1.65ct. tw. oval 3 stone diamond ring SI2-I1-J 3.7gr. $3,920.00 CAD. 131-00167

We love the 3 stone ring design. It’s been around forever, yet never gets old. It’s a combination that works with any size/shape of diamond or coloured gem. It’s one thing to assemble three matching round diamonds for a ring like this, but it’s an entirely different challenge trying to find matching ovals. Even though ovals are very popular, they still represent less than 10% of the different diamond shapes larger than 1/2 a carat. Now you need to find 3 that match closely in clarity, colour, and cut. Add to that they must be very similar in length to width ratio and you can understand how difficult it is to find matching oval diamonds. We are happy someone else did the work putting this one together and we just need to find it a new home. This traditional design contains nicely matched, conservatively graded SI2 to I1 clarity diamonds with J colour. They weigh an estimated minimum combined weight of 1.65 carats, but likely closer to 1.75ct. They are secured in a 14 karat yellow and white gold double gallery setting that weighs 3.7 grams. The ring measures a slightly larger size 8 but can be made a size or two smaller. This classic design is quite uncommon to see with ovals, and it provides a significant presence on the finger with the added length the oval shape provides. At the estate price of $3,920.00, it is a lot of bang for the buck. Stock number 131-00167.

SOLD

November 10, 2022

1.00ct. I2-I good cut, diamond halo 44=0.33ct. VS-GH 4.7gr. 14kt. sz. 7. $3,500.00 CAD. 101-00338

There are I2s and there are I2s. This I2-I round brilliant cut diamond is the good kind; displaying transparent colourless crystals and translucent white feather inclusions that only take up only a small portion of the diamond’s interior, leaving most areas free to sparkle and shine. The 1.00 carat diamond is also a good cut grade, the middle ground of GIA’s cut grading scale. That cut grade allows the diamond to display a lively show of every-coloured fire and scintillation, helping it disguise its grade-setting inclusions. It has been set into a classic round halo with gently split shoulders are a soft knife-edge shank. The 44 additional diamonds are a bright VS-GH quality and bump the total diamond weight of the ring up to 1.33 carats. The 14 karat white gold ring is in like-new condition and currently measures a finger size 7 with room to adjust.  Estate priced at $3,500.00 CAD. Stock #101-00338.

SOLD

September 9, 2022

1.13ct. I2-H very good cut (6.75mm diameter) 3.9gr. solitaire $3,430.00 CAD. 101-00398

An I2 diamond can be a very viable option for someone looking for a large natural diamond at an affordable price point. This I2 keeps its grade-setting inclusions focused on the outer section of its surface, leaving most of the diamond open to play with light as only a diamond can. The main inclusions do create a frosted area that is visible without magnification but at a distance they are minimal. The 1.13 carat round brilliant cut diamond measures an impressive 6.73mm in diameter and does feature a pleasant H colour. Its very good cut allows the diamond to sparkle brightly despite its modest clarity grade. It’s been set into a traditional white gold solitaire with sturdy 5mm wide cathedral shoulders that build towards the diamond. The 14 karat white gold ring currently measures a finger size 7 1/2 with room to adjust as needed. The ring is accompanied by a Gem Review Inc. appraisal stating an optimistic retail value of $9,310.00 CAD, we feel a competitive replacement with new would be $4,900.00 CAD, and our estate price is $3,430.00 CAD. Stock #101-00398.

SOLD

September 8, 2022

1.00ct. I1-I good cut, natural diamond, 18kt. knife edge solitaire 3.3gr. size 7 1/2. $4,060.00 CAD. 101-00409

Further proof of the timelessness of the solitaire diamond engagement ring. Though this piece was made at least 40 years ago, perhaps a lot longer, it would look equally at home in a modern showcase. And frankly, it looks like it just came from the showcase, with the prongs and sharp knife edge showing little signs of wear and the ring retaining a chromy rhodium plating. Even its scale is modern, measuring 2.25mm wide at the shoulders for that barely-there look that is so popular right now. The diamond that crowns this ring is a 1.00 carat round brilliant cut of I1-I quality and good make. What’s unique about this diamond is the small natural cavities clustered around its prong tips. Under magnification, they look like a topographical map of moon craters, featuring the hard geometric growth lines of the original rough diamond crystal it was cut from. These small cavities are natural features of the diamond and have been there for around 3 billion years. Removing them wouldn’t change the clarity grade but would result in a diamond weighing well under 1.00 carat. The ring is accompanied by a Hake Jeweller’s appraisal from 1984 stating a replacement value of $4,000.00 CAD. We feel a modern competitive replacement value for the ring would be $5,800.00, and our estate price is $4,060.00 CAD. Stock #101-00409.

SOLD

September 7, 2022

0.69ct. VS1-GH excellent cut (4=0.20ct. tw. VS-GH) diamond ring 5.39gr. 14kt. $3,185.00 CAD. 101-00418

If the person who faceted this diamond had been less scrupulous it could have achieved a weight closer to 0.75 carats of decent cut. Instead, they opted for a 0.69 carat weight with an excellent cut, a diamond cutter after our own hearts! Given the choice, we would always recommend dropping the carat weight slightly in favor of a superior cut. This diamond also happens to boast a VS1-GH clarity and colour, rounding it out as a fabulous gem! The ring it crowns features four equally lovely accent diamonds of a combined 0.20 carat weight and well-matched VS-GH quality. The ring is well made from 5.39 grams of warm 14 karat yellow gold and currently measures a finger size 5 3/4 with a bit of room to adjust. Estate price $3185.00 CAD. Stock #101-00418.

SOLD

September 1, 2022

0.72ct. VS-G + 8=0.20ct. VS-G vintage engagement ring 3.0gr. sz. 7. $3,640.00 CAD. 101-00408

This engagement ring features a unique asymmetry you don’t often encounter in vintage pieces. It shouldered by two straight baguettes and a collection of different round cuts that point to this being a possible custom remake of what were likely family heirloom diamonds. The mix of small antique single cuts (two chipped) and modern round brilliant cuts have all been deeply set into leaf-shaped frames, creating a subtly organic motif. The diamond at the heart of the ring is a modern 0.72 carat round brilliant of high VS-G quality. Added to the 8 VS-G quality accent diamonds the total weight of the ring jumps up to 0.92 carats. The ring itself is made from 18 karat white gold and currently measures a finger size 7 with room to adjust. Estate price $3,540.00 CAD. Stock #101-00408.

SOLD

August 27, 2022

0.80ct. I1-K radiant cut (78=0.50ct. SI-H) halo diamond ring, 8.1gr. 14kt. $3,150.00 CAD. 101-00400

We often find people coming in looking for only the highest colour grade of diamond available; they know the D through Z letter grade system for diamond colour and they want the very best. But as we hunt through the hundreds of engagement rings in our showcases they occasionally end up stumbling on something a little warm and being surprised at how much they like the hue. In person, a warmer colour, especially when it falls in the yellow spectrum, can be quite lovely. Even More so if the warm diamond has been cut into a busier facet pattern like the kaleidoscope of a radiant cut. The energetic play of white and spectral rainbow light stands out more brightly in a yellow setting than they do in a colourless diamond. That immersive light show also helps to disguise the two grade-setting inclusions in this I1-K diamond, making them distinguishable unless you know where to look. In contrast that 0.80 carat diamond has been set into chromy rhodium plated 14 karat white gold and surrounded by bright with round brilliant cut diamonds. 78 of them in fact, of a lovely SI-H quality they push the total weight of the ring up to 1.30 carats. The impressive 8.1 gram ring is in like-new condition and currently measures a finger size 7 1/2 with a bit of room to adjust. This is a lot of ring for the estate price of $3,150.00 CAD. Stock #101-00400.

SOLD

August 15, 2022

1.00ct. I2-I good cut, (44=0.33ct. VS-GH) 4.6gr. 14kt. sz. 6 1/2. $3,500.00 CAD. 101-00337

Galaxy diamonds are I3 clarity grades but I2s can sometimes contain galaxy-like inclusions. This 1.00ct I2-I round brilliant cut has two feather inclusions and a string of micro-crystal inclusions looking like distant planets and stars. The diamond is a good cut grade, allowing lots of sparkle and fire to shine through that unique galaxy of inclusions. The additional 44 diamonds set onto three faces of both shoulders are of high VS-GH quality and bump the total diamond weight of the ring to 1.33 carats in total. The 4.6 gram 14 karat white gold ring is in like-new condition and currently measures a finger size 6 1/2 with some room to adjust. The estate price is $3,500.00, CAD. Stock #101-00337.

SOLD

July 1, 2022

1.00ct. I1-I2-I very good cut natural diamond solitaire, 3.2gr. 14kt. $3,493.00 CAD. 101-00387

What more can we say about our love for natural diamonds and traditional design? A simple honest ring like this speaks volumes about classic design and a statement of commitment. This natural diamond was formed by Mother Nature between 1 and 3 billion years ago. Today, laboratory grown, high tech synthetic diamonds are grown in only a few months. Newly man-made diamonds cost at least 90% less than their natural counterparts but they somehow leave us cold. At one time synthetic diamonds cost much more than natural, but like every other technology, the price has continued to fall. Who knows how cheap synthetics can get over the next few years? Our latest natural diamond isn’t as perfect as many synthetics and it is much more expensive, but we love it just the same. To think something this pretty was created naturally because nature came together with the right combination of ingredients, heat, pressure, and time to produce diamonds has fascinated people for hundreds of years. This diamond has a few inclusions that an eye visible, under scrutiny resulting in an I1 to I2 clarity grade. The colour is quite nice and is conservatively graded an “I”. The cut is very good and the diamond has an average diameter of 6.35mm. We’ve estimated the weight to be an even 1.00 carat. The traditional solitaire design is solidly constructed with full shoulders of over 3mm in width. The ring measures a smallish size 5 1/2 but can be adjusted up or down as required. A simple 5-minute polish while you wait will have this ring looking brand new. This natural diamond is at least 1 billion years old but it could be new to you for the estate price of $3,493.00 CAD. Stock #101-00387.

SOLD

June 4, 2022

0.95ct. I1-H radiant cut with 0.98ct. tw. SI-I-J round diamonds, 9.3gr. 14kt. white gold $4,060.00 CAD. e14034 131-00136

This ring is in a league of its own! Spanning almost a full digit at 13.5mm wide the ring is all diamonds and curving, mirror-finished 14 karat white gold. The main diamond is an impressive 0.95 carat radiant cut of I1-H quality, its grade-setting inclusion is difficult to spot without magnification thanks to the busy brilliance of radiant cuts. The diamond has been bar set, making the side profile almost as interesting as head-on. That diamond is bracketed by two channels of round brilliant cut diamonds, featuring 7 diamonds each. Their weight pushes the total diamond weight of the ring up to a conservatively estimated 1.93 carats. The rounds are SI-IJ quality and stretch across the top third of the 9.3 gram ring. Estate price $4,060.00 CAD. Stock #e14034 131-00136.

SOLD

May 1, 2022

4.00ct. sapphire & diamond (1.00ct. tw. VS-GH) ring, 9.1gr. 14kt. sz. 6 1/2. $4,200.00 CAD. 206-00293

This digit-dominating sapphire ring has been built to a quality we don’t encounter often enough. At 15.9mm long the ring had to be hollowed out to some degree to make the casting successful and to ensure the price stayed within the realm of reasonable. But even lightened the 14 karat white gold ring weighs in at a significant 9.1 grams. The underside of the halo was left hollow, with a thick decorative grill installed to ensure the inside of the ring looks as thoughtful as the outside and more comfortable to wear too. The shoulders are solid except for small drill holes beneath each diamond to allow for cleaning. The 4.00 carat oval sapphire that crowns the ring is a deep brooding blue that flashes indigo at the slightest movement. It’s been accented with 54 round brilliant cut diamonds of high VS-GH quality, adding their sparkle and fire to this head-turning ring. Currently, the ring measures a finger size 6 1/2 with a bit of room to adjust.  The estate price for this like-new ring is $4,200.00 CAD. Stock #206-00293.

SOLD

March 1, 2022

1.50ct. I2-LM radiant cut diamond ring, 94=0.55ct. tw. VS-GH, 4.9gr., sz. 6, $4,620.00 CAD. 101-00335

Here is a fantastic engagement ring with a fantastical appraisal accompanying it! According to the appraisal, the 1.50 carat radiant cut diamond that crowns this ring is an SI2-F. If you have even the most basic understanding of diamonds, you’ll know colour grades considered colourless are DEF. Looking at these pictures would you say this diamond is colourless? It clearly has a pleasant, warm light brown hue to it, making it an LM colour grade, 6-7 colour grades lower than the described F. An SI2 clarity grade means the inclusions are minimal, just bordering on visible without magnification. This diamond does display large areas that are free from any inclusions, but it also displays several inclusions that are easily spotted without magnification. By GIA (Gemological Institute of America) standards would define this diamond as I2, two clarity grades lower than an SI2. Even if we were living in the fairytale land where this diamond is an SI2-F a replacement value for the diamond alone would be somewhere around $15,000. This leaves $28,822.00 of the retail replacement value (totaling $43,822.00) listed on this document, for the ring itself. This is a beautiful engagement ring, made from a solid 4.9 grams of 14 karat white gold, set with 94 top quality round brilliant cut diamonds of VS-GH quality, but there is no way this ring (without the centre diamond) could ever be worth $28,822.00. We feel a competitive retail replacement value for the entire ring including its center diamond is $6,600.00 CAD. Our estate price for the like-new piece is $4,620.00 CAD. Stock #101-00335.

SOLD

February 18, 2022

3.15ct. emerald cut sapphire & diamond (0.87ct. tw. VS-H) 5.8gr. 14kt. sz. 7. $3,500.00 CAD. 206-00294

A sapphire that perfectly matches the soft velvet of our ring boxes! It’s the same deep-Bill-Le-Boeuf-Jewellers-blue with a soft velvety sheen caused by countless microscopic silk inclusions within the gem (silk inclusions are what cause the magnificent star in star sapphires). The emerald cut sapphire weighs approximately 3.15 carat and has been partnered with two emerald cut diamonds and 64 petite round brilliant cut diamonds. All the diamonds are of high VS-H quality, adding their 0.87 carats of combined sparkle to this statement ring. Emerald cut sapphires are very uncommon. The natural shape of rough sapphire crystals typically doesn’t lend itself well to cutting in a rectangular shape without significant wasted weight. At its peak, it measures 13mm wide taking up almost an entire digit when worn. The 14 karat white gold ring is in like-new condition, maintaining its original chromy white rhodium finish. The ring has been finished with a decorative milgrain accented undergallery and currently measures a finger size 7 with some room to adjust. The estate price is $3,500.00 CAD. Stock #206-00294.

SOLD

January 5, 2022

1.20ct. I1-K princess cut custom solitaire 14kt. 3.4gr. $4,060.00 CAD. e13977

Princess cut diamonds offer some fantastic values. Their price is easing as alternative shapes are seeing renewed interest. Princess cut diamonds are showing noticeably lower prices from only a couple of years ago. This particular 1.20 carat princess cut is a great balance from a value standpoint. Its I1 grade setting inclusion is a single dark crystal in the top right corner of the pictures. In person, it is quite inconspicuous, but the sharp-sighted may resolve it without magnification. The diamond is also an ever so slightly warm K colour, which you can also see in the images. That colour is diminished by setting the diamond against a 14 karat yellow gold shank. It has been cut with a larger table facet and a slightly shallow crown. While these characteristics are not ideal they do help to give it a bigger footprint than many 1.20 carat stones, making it look even bigger. If size/price vs. appearance is a priority, this diamond exhibits the right combination for a pleasant stone that faces up bigger and brighter than you’d expect. To diminish the appearance of the prongs they’ve been made from rhodium enhanced white gold. The ring currently measures a finger size 7 with plenty of room to adjust. It’s accompanied by its original appraisal commissioned by the original retailer, Jeff Walters Jewellers. The appraisal shows a slight difference of opinion from ours, suggesting the diamond has an SI2-J quality. It also states a replacement value of $10,345.00. We feel a more realistic replacement value with new would be $5,800.00. Our estate price for this excellent condition impressive solitaire is only $4,060.00 CAD. Stock #e13977.

SOLD

November 8, 2021

1.80ct. tw. VS-H diamond eternity ring, 4.2gr. plat. sz. 7 1/2. $3,220.00 CAD. 121-00129

This eternity band is a cut above the rest, with its diamonds so well matched and well-cut that there is no distinguishing each diamond from its neighbors. The 22 round brilliant cut diamonds are all between 2.70mm to 2.90mm in diameter and all are a bright eye-clean VS-H quality. Together they equal approximately 1.80 carats and span a finger size 7 1/2. With diamonds this nice, it’s not surprising the ring has been made from top-quality platinum. The heirloom-quality metal means the ring will go much longer before any retipping is needed, but being a softer metal it does need to be worn mindfully (read: this ring is not for weight lifting!). Estate price $3,220.00 CAD. Stock #121-00129.

SOLD

November 7, 2021

Michael Smiley custom wedding set 18kt.,1.74ct. tw. VS-SI-FG, 11.1gr. $4,340.00 CAD. 101-00310

A very well-made wedding set from our DownTown Barrie neighbor Michael Smiley Fine Jewellery. The set is a study of square edges, featuring nothing but princess cut diamonds, crisp channels, and softly squared-off, premium-quality, 18 karat white gold. The main princess cut diamond weighs 0.64 carats of nice SI1-F quality, featuring a single grade-setting inclusion that blends nicely into the cut pattern. The engagement ring steps from that diamond down to tightly packed channels of 10 well-matched VS-FG quality diamonds. The wedding band features 12 more princess cuts and tops the total diamond weight of the set up to 1.74 carats. As proof of quality, the rings weigh in at a substantial 11.1 grams. They are in brand new condition, still retaining their original chromy white rhodium plating. Both measure a finger size 5 with some room to adjust. The rings are accompanied by September 2017 GS Laboratories Certificates of Evaluation suggesting a replacement value of $11,950.00 for the 2 rings. Our estate price for the like-new rings is only $4,340.00 CAD. Stock #101-00310.

SOLD

November 6, 2021

1.50ct. tw. VS-HI double halo diamond ring 4.0gr. 18kt. $3,360.00 CAD. e13038

Torn between your love of princess cut diamonds and the classic round brilliants? This three stone halo encrusted engagement ring is gifted with both. The past and future are two princess cuts and the present is a round brilliant cut enlarged to a 10mm footprint thanks to its two tiered cushion shaped halo. Including the three main diamonds this ring has been handset with 93 diamonds of impressive VS-HI quality. The high quality diamonds have been set into 4 grams of brightly rhodium plated premium 18 karat white gold. The under-gallery has been thoughtfully filigreed with two hidden hearts inside the ring, making constant contact with the finger during wear. Estate price $3,360.00 CAD. Stock #e13038

SOLD

October 18, 2021

0.92ct. SI2-H excellent cut Canadian diamond ring (1.33ct. tw.) 3.2gr. 14kt. $4,900.00 CAD. e12721

An engagement ring from Charm Diamond Centres highest end engagement line Charmed by Richard Calder. The line is designed by the Canadian companies founder and features Canadian centers and a hidden Canadian diamond inside each shank. This example is a swirling statement currently available on their website and accompanied by a copy of Canadian certificate. The main diamond laser is inscribed with proof of origins and weighs 0.92 carat of SI2-H quality. It’s wrapped with 0.41 carats of additional round brilliant cut diamonds of matching SI2-GH quality. The ring itself is made from 3.2 grams of 14 karat white gold and currently measures an approximate finger size 6. According to Charm Diamond Centres website the ring retails for $10,990.00, we feel a more realistic value is closer to $7,000.00, our price is just $4,900.00 CAD. It’s in like new condition and was recently traded in for something different by the original owner. Stock #e12721.

SOLD

October 6, 2021

BIRKS North Star 0.70ct. VS2-G excellent cut GIA report. 18kt. $4,567.00 CAD (never worn).

An elevated solitaire diamond ring has been the ultimate less is more statement when it comes to an engagement ring. Tiffany invented the classic diamond solitaire in 1886. 136 years later it is still one of the most popular designs around. The original 6 claw design or 4 prong version are a staple in the jewellery business. Both offer perfect symmetry, balance, no matter which way it is worn. Canadian luxury jeweller BIRKS daring spin on the mirror image 4/6 prong solitaire offers a bold and uniquely awkward Canadian perspective on the solitaire tradition. Their asymmetrical “North Star” diamond ring looks fantastic with its unusual 5 prong head. Who says you can’t reinvent the wheel. This 0.70 carat example was purchased less than a year ago but was never worn. It came from the BIRKS Yorkdale Toronto location in May of 2021. The size 7 ring comes with the original bill of sale, boxes, a copy of the GIA diamond dossier report, and even a BIRKS shopping bag. The North Star solitaire has been a great success for BIRKS and can be seen on their corporate website in a wide range of diamond sizes in gold or platinum, with prices starting at $4,550.00 for a 0.50 carat. Our latest estate engagement ring features a 0.70 carat round brilliant cut diamond of eye clean VS2 clarity, with a very good G colour and an excellent cut. The independent Gemological Institute of America report can be online here. There is no better diamond grading report than GIA’s impartial opinion of quality; after all, they developed the diamond grading system that is now the industry standard. BIRKS describe the North Star like this, “The North Star illuminates the night sky, guiding travellers safely back home. Inspired by the brightest star in the constellation, the mythic and spiritual Birks North Star features round, brilliantly cut diamonds with a twinkle that rivals the brightest stars in the sky.” To see a short YouTube video of this actual North Star BIRKS ring, click here. The 3.2 gram, 18 karat yellow gold setting is in perfect unworn condition and measures a finger size 7. One of our onsite goldsmiths can adjust the size up or down a size or two in just a few days or less. Follow the North Star to Bill Le Boeuf Jewellers in Downtown Barrie for over 63 years. This ring is estate priced at $4,567.00 CAD.

SOLD

October 3, 2021

1.03ct. SI1-RS very good cut diamond solitaire 3.2gr. 18kt. $3,045.00 CAD. e12761

Fluorescence in diamonds has long been cause for a slight discount on price. It was thought by some in the industry to be a negative quality that about 25-35% of natural diamonds exhibit. In some instances, very strong fluorescence can cause a slightly hazy appearance when the diamond is in sunlight or some fluorescent lighting. As synthetic diamonds have become more prevalent on the market we feel fluorescence is a comforting guard against undisclosed lab-grown diamonds. Fluorescence in synthetics if present at all is always an unusual colour and uneven pattern, making this chalky blue a comforting confirmation of natural origins. The diamond that bears this fun party trick is an impressive 1.03 carat round brilliant cut of very good make, eye clean SI1 clarity, and a silvery cognac RS colour. The colour is almost a perfect match to the un-rhodium plated 18 karat white gold that holds it. The 3.2 gram ring is a classic tulip solitaire with pinched cathedral shoulders accentuating the impressive diameter of the center. That antique tone gives the ring its competitive price of only $3,045.00 CAD. Stock #e12761.

SOLD

September 2, 2021

0.82ct. Internally Flawless-H HRD certified princess cut 3.6gr. 14kt. $3,500.00 CAD. e12066

Are you confused about diamond grading and pricing that’s all over the map? Having a hard time deciding whether to go for an I1-H, SI1-J, VS2-L? If you just want a beautiful diamond that needs no excuses how about this internally flawless, H colour princess cut solitaire? You can’t get much better than an internally flawless clarity and the H colour is near colourless. The diamond is accompanied by an 2003 HRD (Hoge Raad voor Diamant) Antwerp Belgium diamond certificate report. While we always prefer GIA reports for an accurate unbiased opinion of quality an HRD certificate is okay. Even if their opinion differs from GIA by a colour or clarity grade (as is often the case) this diamond is still a knockout. It’s perfectly square only off by 0.5%, decent table of 75% with a nice crown height of 8%. The 14 karat Lucida setting is still a popular choice for a solitaire of any shape. The finished ring comes with a July 2004 HKD Diamond Laboratories Canada appraisal suggesting an approximate value for the ring of $12,000.00. I’m sure the original owner was elated with this evaluation until it came time to trade it in. While we wholeheartedly feel this value is excessive, we also realize ALL appraisals are strictly opinions of value. Our opinion of a more competitive replacement value is closer to $5,000.00 CAD. The size 6 1/2 ring is in like new condition and estate priced at just $3,500.00. CAD. Stock #e12066.

June 5, 2021

2.15ct. tw. SI2-I1-HI eternity ring 18kt. 5.9gr. $3,220.00 CAD. e11307

This blocked off, bead set anniversary/eternity band would be right at home against an Art Deco engagement ring or wedding set. Geometric setting styles were extremely popular in the  1920s and early 30s adding a retro twist to this anniversary ring. The top quality handmade 18 karat white gold ring is in like new new condition with 100% coverage in a fresh plating of bright white rhodium. The size 7 ring can be made a little larger if required by boring out the tall walled setting. It can also be made a little smaller by removing a diamond and the segment it is set into. 17 bead set round brilliant cut diamonds are estimated to weigh a combined 2.15 carats. The lively diamonds are each a conservatively graded SI2-I1-HI quality, throwing an ample spray of brilliance and dispersion with 360 degrees of ring coverage. The shank measures 3.5mm wide making the diamonds look much larger than 0.125 carats each. Estate priced at $3,220.00 CAD. Stock #e11307.

SOLD

June 4, 2021

2.30ct. VS-H total diamond weight 18kt. square anniversary ring $4,200.00 CAD. e9372

Despite having a square outline this ring is very comfortable and also just looks really cool. Embellished with 36 bead set round brilliant cut diamonds weighing an estimated 2.30 carats in total. Quality was top of mind when this ring was designed and manufactured using 18 karat white gold to compliment the VS clarity, H colour diamonds. It’s hard to say exactly what the finger size is for a square ring but it feels close to the average lady’s finger size of approximately 6 to 6.5. It’s a fun and funky ring that could be used as an anniversary or a right-hand ring. The finished weight of 5.6 grams is a fair bit heavier than the typically encountered mass produced ring. Huey Lewis and the News said it best in 1986 “It’s Hip to Be Square”. Estate priced at $4,200.00 CAD. Stock #e9372.

SOLD

May 21, 2021

2.20ct. tw. SI-HI diamond ring set 16.2gr. 14 karat gold. $3,695.00 CAD. e13485

Unusual, substantial, and definitely a conversation piece. This set takes the concept of a traditional abstract wire gallery cluster and adds a funky vintage sleeve with pebbled texture to make a most unique engagement or dinner ring. The combined 2 rings weigh well over half an ounce at 16.2 grams in a finger size 8. Even though these rings fit like a 3-dimensional puzzle we’re still able to adjust the fit up or down a size or two. Not only is the ring set heavy, but it has also been made with nice SI1-HI quality diamonds. The 23 round brilliant cut diamonds all measure around 3mm, together they’re estimated to weigh an impressive 2.20 carats in total. One diamond has a small chip on its edge that is invisible without magnification. Even worn by itself the diamond ring section of the set makes a statement; add the fitted sleeve and it’s impossible to miss. Two rings in one for less than you’d expect given the components. There’s enough gold and diamonds in these rings to make an amazing eternity ring should you decide to redesign the set down the road. In fact, we came very close to doing just that with these rings but something in its creative design made us change our mind and present it in its original form. This retro diamond ring is priced at $3,695.00. Stock #e13485.

SOLD

February 25, 2021

2.25ct. tw. I1-I2-IJ diamond ring, 10.7gr. 14kt. gold $3,493.00 CAD. e14127

We probably need a subcategory for “statement rings” for our estate blog, because we certainly get a number of them! This diamond-encrusted 3 section ring spans 12.5mm despite its petite finger size 5! The ring was originally a three-piece set that has been built into one, with a solid common bottom. The 10.7-gram mega-ring is set with 21 diamonds with an estimated total weight of 2.25 carats of bright I1-I2-IJ round brilliant cut diamonds. The main diamond is conservative I2 clarity, showing a number of small inclusions drifting across its surface like a meandering galaxy. The 14 karat white gold retains its original chromy rhodium plating and is estate priced at $3,493.00 CAD. Stock #e14127.

SOLD

February 10, 2021

1.80ct. tw. VS-FG eternity ring, 4.0gr. platinum, size 6, $3,010.00 CAD. e14243

Clients are always looking for eternity rings and for good reason. They are versatile, always in style, and when they’re estate the value can’t be beaten. This example is made from top of the line platinum that has never been polished. Platinum is more dense than gold, whiter than white gold, doesn’t require rhodium plating, and is hypoallergenic. Made in a finger size 6 the 4.0 gram ring could easily be made bigger by at least a size by simply boring out the centre a bit. The thick tall scalloped edge setting could easily be opened to at least a size 6 1/2 to 7 without weakening the ring. 21 shared prong set round brilliant cut diamonds circle the ring adding up to an estimated 1.80 carats. Each of the diamonds is well matched and of very high VS-FG quality. The diamonds weigh 0.085 carats each but look much bigger thanks to the robust claw size and sparkle from the premium diamonds. Excellent condition showing little evidence of use. Estate priced at $3,010.00 CAD. Stock #e11742.

SOLD

February 9, 2021

Custom cut 1.00ct. I1-I round diamond platinum solitaire 4.5gr. $4,410.00 CAD. e14257

We’ve seen a number of reinventions of the standard round brilliant cut diamond with 57 facets. Most focus on the crown of the diamond (it’s top half) but this iteration focuses mostly on the pavilion (bottom half), although the 8 bezel facets on the crown have been bisected making 16. By adding another 10% to the diamond’s depth the cutter has given themselves room to create a true kaleidoscope. Below the 8 pavilion main facets, the cutter has managed to add an additional 32 small facets. The splintery brilliance of the bottom third of the diamond is reflected around the diamond’s perimeter, doubling up on the effect. That does a great job of disguising the grade setting inclusions, making this I1-I face up much better than you’d expect. The 1.00 carat fancy cut diamond has been set in a timeless solitaire cast from top-quality platinum. The 4.5 gram ring currently measures a finger size 5 1/4 with plenty of room to adjust. Estate price $4,410.00 CAD. Stock #e14257.

SOLD

February 3, 2021

0.71ct. VS1-F GIA cert. diamond ring 5.3gr. 18kt./plat. sz. 9 1/4 $3,080.00 CAD. e12423

Most jewellery store chains push a regular rhodium plating schedule on their customers. Suggesting it is an important part of a ring’s maintenance and upkeep. Really rhodium plating is purely aesthetic and the choice to maintain rhodium doesn’t affect the durability of the ring. One could actually argue the opposite; every time an item is rhodium plated it’s usually polished to remove any scratches. Each time a ring is polished a small amount of gold is removed, accelerating premature shank and claw wear. Quite frankly we prefer the more natural look of white gold, it has a soft off-white glow that gives an antique air to any piece. Take this modern 18 karat white gold solitaire for example, the rhodium has been removed allowing it a subtle more sophisticated tone. The warmer tone helps to accentuate the ever-white platinum that the double gallery head is made from. It also allows the diamond to proudly take center stage as the ring itself blends into the finger. That diamond certainly deserves its place of honor considering its high quality and GIA pedigree. The 0.71 carat princess cut is certified VS1-F, has very good polish/symmetry, and no fluorescence.  The 5.3 gram ring currently measures a finger size 9 1/4 with plenty of room to adjust as needed. Estate price $3,080.00 CAD. Stock #e12423.

SOLD

January 6, 2021

1.26ct. tw. (0.74ct. I1-F GIA cert & 2=0.52ct. VS-GH) 14kt. 3 stone ring 2.9gr. $3,882.00 CAD. e11956

This diamond ring is a great example of why you should never judge the beauty of a diamond by simply looking at a gemological report. Most accurately graded I1 clairity diamonds are quite beautiful if as well cut like this one. What I find remarkable is the centre diamond was graded an I1. The translucent white, feather type inclusion is small enough and insignificant enough that we thought it was a pretty safe bet to receive an SI2 clarity grade from The Gemological Institute of America. In this magnified dark field contrasting photomicrograph it’s not difficult to see the inclusion just to the right of centre in the diamond’s pavilion. In a regular viewing situation, the inclusion all but disappears in the brilliance and dispersion offered by the very good cut diamond. In these two photographs, the inclusion is much more difficult to see without artificial magnification. From a naked eye perspective, this is a close as you could possibly get to a diamond with a GIA certified I1 clarity grade that looks flawless to a naked eye. It would be a lie to say we were not disappointed with the I1 grade but it’s pretty hard to argue with the world’s undisputed authority for diamond grading. After all, it was The Gemological Institute of America that developed the system of how all diamonds are graded today. Some savvy Bill Le Boeuf Jewellers client is going to get an amazing diamond considering the price for the centre diamond is only $2,380.00 CAD. The full January 2019 GIA diamond grading report can be seen online here. Even within a specific clarity or colour grade, there is a range; a low SI2 is basically the same as a very good I1. A low J colour grade is pretty much the same as a very high K colour. At least if you’re dealing with GIA certified diamonds you know you are looking at accurate, unbiased opinions from a not for profit educational institution that has no direct interest in the commerce of diamonds or jewellery. You should also know that GIA does not appraise diamonds, they are only interested in accurately documenting the quality. We currently have this diamond set in a brand new 14 karat white gold 3 stone ring. A short YouTube video of the ring can be seen here. The 2 shoulder diamonds add 0.52 carats in weight and are of very nice VS-GH quality. Please add an additional $1,500.00 for the complete ring. Centre diamond only is estate priced at $2,380.00 CAD. Stock #e11956.

SOLD

January 3, 2021

0.73ct. SI1-I excellent cut with GIA report 1.09ct. tw. 14kt. 4.7gr. Art Deco design $3,402.00 CAD. e12749

There is no era of jewellery quite as decadent and elegant as the 1920s. With a base of white gold or platinum, almost exclusively accented with diamonds, sapphires, and geometric divisions patterned with millgrain. What else could you ask for? Another advantage to Art Deco was the commanding ring tops, probably one of the earliest inspirations for the modern halo. Art Deco made the most out of the gems it carried by framing each into decorative compartments. This 11.75mm wide Deco inspired ring is a perfect example, occupying maximum space while still looking graceful. The only part of the ring that is actually vintage is the diamond at its center. The newly GIA certified round brilliant cut diamond weighs 0.73 carat of eye-clean SI1-I quality excellent cut and faint fluorescence. The rest of the ring is hand set with 0.20 carats of round brilliant cuts and 0.16 carats of custom cut bright blue sapphires. Made from 4.7 grams of brightly rhodium plated 14 karat white gold this “new” ring is receiving a vintage price point despite being specially made for this diamond, $3,402.00 CAD. Stock #e12749.

SOLD

January 1, 2021

14kt. custom diamond & emerald ring set 2.25ct. total gem weight VS-HI 12gr. $4,830.00 CAD. e13170

Believe it or not, this is a Bill Le Boeuf Jewellers original from over 30 years ago and was designed by Bill Le Boeuf himself! I’m sure it goes without saying that it has been made from only the very best ingredients. The 1.18 carats of round brilliant cut diamonds are bright VS-HI quality. The 2 emeralds combine for a total weight of 1.00 carat and are intensely saturated pure greens of high clarity and quality. The combination of splintery brilliance and fire makes the two hits of green even more intense from contrast. At the time this retro ring was made it was pretty contemporary, pushing the envelope for downtown Barrie (in our totally unbiased opinion). The former owner asked to incorporate a stylized S into the design (S was the first letter of her new last name). Large swaths of highly polished 14 karat yellow gold bend and swirl across the finger. The ring keeps the eye moving towards the center, not that it needs help getting attention. The bending wedding band is an understated accent and the set together measures a finger size 8 with some room to adjust. This set was made in a time when the price of gold factored much less into the price of a ring than it does today; the set weighs in at a hefty 12 grams. Own a piece of Le Boeuf history for the estate price of $4,830.00 CAD. Stock #e13170.

SOLD

December 28, 2020

0.86ct. I1-J cushion halo 2.00ct. tw. SI2-HI 14kt. white gold 7.2gr. $4,550.00 CAD. e13837

If round diamonds have always been the most popular and oval cuts are the current trendy shape, then perhaps a cushion-shaped diamond is a perfect choice today. While no cut is as optically efficient with light return as an excellent cut round brilliant diamond a well cut cushion shape comes very close while offering a vintage/antique look that is so popular these days. Our latest estate engagement/wedding ring set is this beautiful 2.00 carat total weight cushion shaped halo cluster. It is much more significant and impressive looking than the $4,550.00 price would suggest. The cluster top has an outline of 11.2mm x 10.5mm with just a single row of tightly set round diamond surrounding the 0.86 carat centre cushion cut. The centre diamond is very well cut with a small table and a generous crown. These features help to enhance its brilliance and help reinforce the antique appearance. While the ring looks like it could have been made in the early part of the 20th century it is actually less than 10 years old but was worn very little. It has never been polished or refinished. The factory-applied rhodium finish over the 14 karat white gold is mostly still intact. A simple polish and rhodium electroplating would have this ring looking unworn. It was manufactured using a generous 7 grams (net weight w/o diamonds) of white gold. The centre diamond is a strong I1 clarity that approaches an SI2. 34 small diamonds contribute 1.86 carats of well matched and slightly higher quality SI2-I1-HI sparkle. A nice detail can be seen underneath the setting; a small filigree scroll pattern is a subtle detail honoring a design element that was popular a century ago. The size 6 1/2 set can easily be adjusted up or down a little bit. The excellent condition set is estate priced at $4,550.00 CAD. Stock e13837.

SOLD

December 10, 2020

Vintage 18kt. top quality sapphire (1.04ct.) & diamond ring (1.44ct. VS-FG) 4.9gr. $4,340.00 CAD. e13974

Not to always be invoking Princess Di but this is the nicest Diana-esq sapphire cluster we’ve had in a long time! The sapphire on its own is a revelation! Weighing an estimated 1.04 carats, the natural velvety blue gemstone is of the finest quality. It’s perched on top of a 16.2mm x 12.8mm oval cluster that has been set with the very best diamonds. The four baguette cuts add their unique hall of mirrors effect to the 16 round brilliant cut diamonds. All of them come together for an estimated total weight of 1.44 carats of vibrant white VVS-VS-FG quality. Their high cut grades are evident with the slightest movement of the finger, as each ignites into white and spectral coloured fireworks. To keep the emphasis on the cluster, the tapered shoulders and shank have been kept narrow. Measuring 1.7mm at the cathedral shoulders, widening to 2.5mm at the shank bottom. The ring is of course cast from premium quality 18 karat white gold and currently measures a finger size 8 with room to adjust. Estate price for this vintage masterpiece $4,340.00 CAD. Stock #e13974.

SOLD

December 3, 2020

1.10ct. tw. I1-JK oval halo diamond ring 2.9gr. 14kt. rose & white gold $3,080.00 CAD. e13351

In case you live under a social-media-free rock, ovals are the new “it” diamond shape. Who can blame them? They have an inherent old world charm and the bonus benefit of offering a larger footprint to carat weight ratio than many other cut styles. Take this 1.00-carat oval which measures 7.67mm x 5.28mm compared to the average 1.00 carat round brilliant measuring about 6.40mm diameter or less. The apparent size is further increased here with a decorative white gold halo that looks almost like lace. Set with 0.10-carat total weight of petite round brilliant cut diamonds of SI2-I1-GH quality the halo bumps the length up to 10.76mm. The ring itself is 14 karat rose gold with a white gold top. The rose hue blends into the finger during wear and works well with the slightly warmer JK colour of the centre diamond. The I1 clarity grade is determined by a feather that runs one edge of the diamond; in one direction it reflects white but in the opposite direction it almost disappears. The ring currently measures a finger size 8 with plenty of room to adjust. We made this ring only a few years ago for the original owner and it was only worn for about a year. It is in like-new condition and comes with a Bill Le Boeuf Jewellers 2015 insurance appraisal stating an appropriate replacement value of $4,990.00 CAD. Our price for the pre-owned ring is now only $3,080.00 CAD. Stock #e13351.

SOLD

November 27, 2020

1.04ct. tw. SI1-H Canadian diamond ring Peoples Celebration cut 18kt. 5gr. $2,800.00 CAD. e13147

A trio of Certified Canadian diamonds captured in Peoples proprietary Celebration Cut. The additional 43 facets brings the count on each diamond up to 100, creating a splintery kaleidoscope of brilliance. Each SI1-H diamond has been microscopically laser inscribed as proof of origin and branded cut. The 1.04 carat total weight trio are perfectly matched and set into an extra sturdy understated mount weighing in at 5 grams. The ring itself was made from premium quality 18 karat white gold to finish off the theme of quality. The ring is fully documented with its certificates of origin, service/check-up repair history, warranty, and an original receipt listing a purchase price of $4,499.00 CAD in 2011. Our price for this like-new previously owned trinity, $2,800.00 CAD. Stock #e13147.

SOLD

November 12, 2020

Art Deco platinum diamond ring 1.14ct. tw. SI-H, 3.6gr., $3,360.00 CAD. 131-00111

SOLD

October 21, 2020

0.77ct. SI1-H excellent cut Canadian diamond GIA certified, 6.8gr. 18kt. & platinum $4,060.00 CAD. e13902

How’s this one for an unbeatable combination? Canadian diamond from the Ekati mine in the North West Territories, GIA certification, heavy 18 karat yellow gold shank with a platinum setting, desirable clarity, colour, cut, and a popular price point to boot. I wish we could offer more rings with such reliable and complete documentation. The February 2006 GIA report describes the cut as excellent with very good polish, very good symmetry, and no fluorescence. We refer to the SI1-H quality as desirable because a Gemological Institute of America SI1 means you will not be able to see any value affecting inclusion without magnification. An H colour does not show any colour but it offers a significant discount over the truly colourless DEF grades. The traditional setting is in like-new condition made from premium 18 karat yellow gold with a platinum setting. The platinum head is whiter than any white gold alloy and much longer-lasting too. The Canada Mark diamond certificate describes the original rough diamond weighed 1.97 carats, but after the cutting process was complete the faceted diamond had lost over 60% of its original weight! Yellow gold is making a comeback with new brides who appreciate tradition. You can’t get more traditional than this solitaire style. Including the original GIA report and CanadaMark certificate, this diamond ring is estate priced at $4,060.00 CAD. Stock #e13902.

SOLD

August 7, 2020

1.00ct. I1-IJ Blossom cut diamond ring 2.9gr. 14kt. $3,850.00 CAD. e13870

Anyone else have the lockdown blues? If you’re looking to break up your Netflix-Pinterest-check the fridge-Instagram-Disney-back to the fridge-routine we invite you to dive into the world of fantasy diamond cutting! That’s an internet rabbit hole that should keep you occupied for at least an hour! As an introduction take a look at the Blossom Cut Diamond, a 104 facet invention that is made to mimic a flower (think gerbera daisy or chrysanthemum). According to the makers of the Blossom Cut, each diamond is crafted by a small group of 12 master cutters and can take up to 6 days to complete. Though it does little to improve the optics of the traditional round brilliant cut (57 facets) despite claims from the cutters, the diamond ends up being very mesmerizing to look at. Our 1.00-carat example is a nice I1-IJ quality and may actually be Canadian in origin. There is no specific Canadian laser inscription on the girdle but there is a serial number for the Blossom Cut database. The ring itself carries the gentle curves of a flower cast in 14 karat white gold. It is actually currently available on Ben Moss’s website for $9,999.00 CAD (they state on their website that the main stone is Canadian). Comes in its original baby blue and white box. Our estate price $3,850.00 CAD. Stock #e13870.

SOLD

August 6, 2020

0.68ct. SI1-H good cut diamond solitaire 4.4gr. $3,200.00 CAD. e13462

We are certainly fans of the dainty rings that are so popular right now. The wispy and whimsical little bands help keep the focus on the diamonds they carry. But if you are looking for something with staying power and the durability to stand up to everyday wear over a lifetime a wide band is best. Gold is relatively soft and constant wear slowly scratches it away. Not to mention most people need their ring sized at least a couple of times in their lifetime. Even if the ring is being sized up the refinishing process can slightly thin the band where the solder joints are made. These factors over a couple of decades can cut a shank bottom to almost half its original size. The natural defense against this thinning is to start heavier with something like this 4.4mm wide solitaire. The yellow gold shank is flat for comfortable wear despite its width. The shoulders taper gently towards the center diamond to draw the eye in. That center is a 0.68 carat eye clean SI1-H round brilliant cut diamond. Being set again 14 karat yellow gold helps the bright diamond stand out as the gold blends into the skin tone during wear. The 4.4 gram ring is in like new condition and currently measures a finger size 9 1/2 with room to adjust up or down. Estate price $3,200.00 CAD. Stock #e13462.

SOLD

August 4, 2020

18kt. Tanzanite & diamond ring 3.39ct. tw. 7.0gr. $4,900.00 CAD. e12644

I know tanzanite wasn’t discovered until the late 1960s but we just can’t help ourselves when it comes to 1920s Art Deco design. So we crafted this ring after our own hearts, historians be darned! Our custom 18 karat white gold ring is hot off the press and set with nothing but estate and vintage diamonds. The stepped baguettes and 12 round single cuts were hand-selected from our loose stock. They range from VVS-SI eye clean quality but all carry a well-matched GH colour. Together they make a perfect 0.75 carats taking the ring to a digit dominating 14.44mm long by 13.26mm wide. The 2.64 carat oval tanzanite is a deep violet-blue and makes a perfect center to the bright white statement ring. The tanzanite came to use as a previously owned investment stone that was never set in a piece of jewellery. We opted for a finger size 7 so there is plenty of room to size up or down as needed. As jewellers with over 60 years of experience we know the value of all manner of jewellery and gems, never the less we thought it a good idea to get a second opinion on value from Harold Weinstein LTD. who established a retail replacement value of $8,500.00 plus sales tax. We feel a more realistic replacement value is $7,000.00 if you had to replace it with all new components. As a brand new ring made from vintage parts we’ve priced it for the excellent value of only $4,900.00 CAD. Stock #e12644.

SOLD

August 3, 2020

1.00ct. I2-H (1.20ct. tw.) diamond ring 2.3gr, 14kt. white gold $3,080.00 CAD. e12118

Besides a simple solitaire this is one of the most timeless engagement ring styles (in our opinion) available. It is also one of the most popular designs around. Showing only diamonds it doesn’t lend itself to any passing trend. The ring was made intentionally petite to enlarge by contrast the center diamond that crowns it. Fitting, as this 1.00 carat round brilliant cut doesn’t quite have the footprint you’d expect. The diamond was cut, as many are, to achieve the heaviest weight possible; sacrificing some beauty by hiding weight in its depth. If cut to excellent standards and weighing 1.00 carat this diamond should have a diameter around 6.4mm, instead it measures 6.2mm in diameter. Perhaps the cutter felt there was no need to maximize brilliance since mother nature destined it to be a modest I2 clarity with a nice H colour. Please don’t dismiss this diamond because of its I2 clarity grade, it’s still got a lot of fire and sparkle for the money! There are some white feathers and crystals to be seen by the naked eye but the centre is mostly free from distracting inclusions. We’ve also positioned the prongs strategically over the flaws to minimize their impact. You’ll be surprised how far $3,080.00 can go when purchasing an estate diamond from Bill Le Boeuf Jewellers. The shoulders of the ring are set with 12 petite I1-H round brilliant cut diamonds that push the total carat weight to 1.20 carats. All told the 14 karat custom-made white gold ring weighs 2.3 grams and currently measures a finger size 7 with room to adjust up or down. Estate priced at $3,080.00 CAD. Stock #e12118.

SOLD

July 3, 2020

1.35ct. VVS2-N very good cut GIA certified 2.0gr. 14kt. solitaire $3,850.00 CAD. e13854

Is it new or is it estate? I guess it could be either. This diamond came out of a 1980s style engagement ring that was in excellent condition but was a little dated looking. We’ll remove the diamonds, use them in another creation and the gold will get recycled. We sent the diamond to The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) in New York to get an accurate and internationally recognized report. It just returned yesterday with the important grading characteristics of VVS2 clarity, N colour, very good cut, good symmetry, good polish and no fluorescence. The cut is slightly shallow with an average diameter of 7.24mm making the diamond look like it weighs 1.50 carats. The full December 8th 2020 report can be seen on GIA’s website by clicking here. The brand new, 14 karat, white gold, wire shank setting is the epitome of a less is more philosophy. The thin shank measures only 1.7mm wide with a 4 prong setting that reveals as much of the diamond as possible from every angle. This new setting can be paired with any existing or future wedding/anniversary ring combination. We could have easily sold this ring as completely new but we like to promote the fact the diamond originated in a previously owned ring. Remodelled jewellery is a win-win for everyone. Our customers get a great ring at an incredible value and no new earth was disturbed to repurpose the diamond. Estate and vintage jewellery is environmentally friendly, and pocketbook-friendly too. Including the December 8th 2020, laminated GIA report this new to you ring is estate priced at just $3,850.00 CAD. Stock #e13854.

SOLD

June 29, 2020

0.75ct. VS2-J GIA certified emerald cut custom (never worn) 0.86ct. tw. $3,500.00 CAD. e13704

Custom made by Bill Le Boeuf Jewellers and the ring never even left our store or even tried on by the intended recipient. The fact that we count it as estate is mostly so we can feature it here! In our typical fashion we built the ring around the main diamond which of course is an emerald cut (one of our favorites!). The diamond weighs in at a perfect 0.75 carat of eye-clean VS2 clarity and J colour, no fluorescence, excellent polish, and very good symmetry. It is GIA certified, laser inscribed, and comes with its original Diamond Dossier, though that certificate can also be accessed on GIA’s website. The diamond was set into a halo that measures 8.7mm long by 6.7mm wide, adding 14 petite round brilliant cut diamonds to the overall footprint of the emerald cut. We opted for slightly smaller diamonds down the shoulders to allow for a delicate 1.2mm width. For stability and longevity we added material to the height of the shank (2.0mm tall) and cast it from durable 14 karat white gold. The 24 accent diamonds equal approximately 0.12 carat total weight and the ring measures a finger size 5 1/2 with some room to adjust. In its unworn, brightly rhodium plated condition the ring is estate priced for $3,500.00 CAD. Stock #e13704.

SOLD

June 18, 2020

1.12ct. tw. VS-G Martin & Co. UK princess cut diamond ring 4.0gr. platinum $3,150.00 CAD. e13665

Another fine example of what has kept Martin & Co. thriving in Cheltenham England for well over 200 years. The Royal Warranted British house of jewellery is well known for its high quality and this ring is no exemption. Made from top quality ever white platinum the thoughtfully designed ring flares as it moves to the bottom of the finger. This detail protects the part of the ring that experiences the greatest amount of wear, ensuring the ring will last for generations. The trio of extremely well matched princess cut diamonds are all high VS-G quality. They come together for an estimated total weight of 1.12 carats and each has been protectively set with their corners covered to reduce the risk of damage. The understated and elegant ring currently measures a petite finger size 4 1/4 with plenty of room to adjust. It comes nestled in royal purple velvet, in its original vintage inspired Martin & Co. box. Estate price for the like new ring $3,150.00 CAD. Stock #e13665.

SOLD

June 8, 2020

Custom 0.59ct. VS2-H diamond & sapphire ring 14kt. $3,010.00 CAD. e9906

You can usually tell a hand made ring from a production piece simply by its weight in the palm of your hand. They are almost always made generously, ensuring they will last a lifetime and longer. This hand carved, one of a kind ring is made from a substantial 7.5 grams of bright white 14 karat gold. Its been carefully accented with delicate hand engraving, a near extinct art form that’s rapidly being replaced by CAD and 3D printing technologies. The impressive piece of craftsmanship features very high quality princess cut sapphires and 0.22 carats of VS-FG princess cut diamonds. The centerpiece is an excellent cut 0.59 carat round brilliant cut diamond of VS2-H quality. Estate price $3,010.00 CAD. Stock #e9906.

SOLD

May 4, 2020

1.25ct. cornflower blue sapphire & 1.00ct. tw. diamond ring $4,200.00 CAD. e11779

Blue sapphire come in such a range of tones and hues that desirability is a matter of personal taste and preference. As far as the industry is concerned however this cornflower blue is the most valuable available. Lighter tones of blue partnered with high transparency allow the gem to best show off its natural brilliance. In this ring, the 1.25 carat oval sapphire is lit up by the combined 1.00 carat of diamonds that encircle it and run down the shoulders of the ring. All are of nice VS-SI-GH quality and set into 6.2 grams of brightly rhodium plated 14 karat white gold. This is one head-turning, attention-grabbing finger full of bling. It comes accompanied by a Gemtech Certificate of Evaluation that lists an extremely high Retail Replacement Value of $11,200.00 CAD. Our realistic opinion of a competitive replacement value is closer to half of that. As an excellent condition estate ring, we have it priced at $4,200.00 CAD. Stock #e11779.

SOLD

April 23, 2020

1.07ct. SI2-L European cut diamond solitaire 2.1gr. 18kt. $3,983.00 CAD. e12593

There are not too many of these around. Early European cut diamonds haven’t been produced since the early late 19th century. A few speciality cutters are making them for reproduction jewellery but for the most part, they are only available as original antiques. Coming across larger examples is happening less often all the time. When this diamond was cut over 100 years ago few people could afford any diamond, never mind a 1.07 carat. Our latest estate diamond grades a strong SI2 clarity with a slightly warmer L colour. Most diamonds from this era were mined in South Africa and as such typically exhibit a certain degree of colour due to how they formed and their geographic origin. It’s not uncommon to see MNO colour grades or lower when looking for antique diamonds, so the L colour is very respectable. Stones with warmer colour grades in the JKLM range benefit particularly well from the dispersion biased European cutting style. When this diamond was new, artificial electrical lighting was practically unheard of. Sunlight and fire were the only sources of incandescent light, European cut diamonds make the most of these natural light sources. You’re going to be very surprised just how bright a properly graded, L colour European cut diamond is when you see it in person. The extremely tiny 39% table helps produce much more dispersion than even an ideal cut modern round brilliant helping to control the L colour. The 6.65mm diameter antique diamond is currently set in a vintage 18 karat white gold double gallery setting weighing 2 grams. The size 5 karat white gold mount still retains a good amount of fine detail with its hand engraved shoulders. It can be easily adjusted in size a little bit to suit various finger sizes. If you’d like this diamond set into a different style ring or perhaps a custom style, our designers can help produce the perfect piece of jewellery just for you. Estate priced at only $3,983.00 CAD. Stock #e12593.

SOLD

March 29, 2020

Custom Art Deco style sapphire & diamond ring 2.14ct. tw. 8.4gr. platinum $4,200.00 CAD. e13360

A hardly worn custom piece that came in on trade without a maker’s mark. Too bad as we would love to give credit to the artist that made such a fantastic Art Deco inspired ring. Really the piece is after our own heart, top quality sapphires and diamonds set into platinum, it checks all our boxes! The main stone is a 1.42 carat natural medium dark blue sapphire that has been well cut, showing bold flashes of violet and indigo. Its pinned down by two 0.06 carat sapphires of matching quality set into decorative reuleaux triangles. The rest of the top of the ring has been adorned with 24 round brilliant cut diamonds of high VS-G quality, all edged with petite millgrain. The ring makes quite a statement when worn as it spans 13.7mm long. Solidly constructed from 8.4 grams of ever white platinum, it feels great on your finger. Currently measures a finger size 7 1/2 with room to adjust as needed. The unique piece is accompanied by an AGL Appraisal stating an estimated retail replacement value of $10,800.00 CAD. We feel a more competitive replacement value with new would be closer to $6,000.00, our estate price is just $4,200.00 CAD. Stock #e13360.

SOLD

February 19, 2020

1.11ct. I2-J transition cut GIA certified 1.36ct. tw. 14kt. $4,400.00 CAD. e10886

Before the modern round brilliant cuts geometry had been fully perfected in the 1930s, transition cuts bridged the gap when the industry was moving away from manufacturing Old European cut diamonds. Transition cuts look a lot more like a European cut than a modern diamond. Typically they have large culets, smaller tables, prominent bezel and pavilion main facets. These characteristics definitely give them unique optical properties. Our latest estate diamond just returned from The Gemological Institute of America for certification. The full document is available online here. On paper you may dismiss this stone without consideration due to the I2 clarity grade. This is not the typical I2 you’d encounter with one of those optimistic sales geared appraisals commonly seen. While certainly not without significant inclusions this diamond is still very attractive. With a stone only price of $3,200.00 it represents fantastic value for a diamond weighing well over 1 carat. We selected a brand new 14 karat white gold Canadian made ring to showcase the vintage diamond. The old fashioned split claw design definitely contributes to the antique look. 14 bead set small diamonds on the shoulders add 0.25 carats of SI-GH sparkle. The 3.2 gram setting measures a size 6 1/2. It can be adjusted up or down as required by one of our onsite goldsmiths. Blending old and new is one of our favorite things to do at Bill Le Boeuf Jewellers. You can feel good about wearing a beautiful repurposed diamond and getting a high quality new setting at a great price. Complete ring is estate priced at $4,400.00 CAD. Stock #e10886.

SOLD

January 23, 2020

18kt. Tanzanite & Diamond ring 2.59ct. tw. 4.5gr. $3,150.00 CAD. e12646

Another fantastic tanzanite. Like many significant stones that we’re showcasing this year, this 2.31 carat tanzanite came in as just a loose stone without a setting. To find inspiration for an appropriate home we went digging through our loose fancy shaped diamonds. We found a perfect pair of matching triangular cut corner diamonds of SI1-FG quality. No memory of where the 0.28 carat pair came from or even how long we’ve had them but they were the perfect understated accent for this violet-blue beauty! For a vintage vibe and extra protection against wear we opted for six prongs instead of four. And to do the center justice we made the ring from high quality rhodium enhanced 18 karat white gold. We made the ring in a finger size 7 to allow for plenty of room to size as needed. We also decided to have it assessed by Harold Weinstein LTD. to confirm up our opinion of the tanzanite quality. They’ve put a retail replacement value of $5,750.00 CAD. As a brand new ring custom made completely from previously owned vintage components we’ve priced the ring at just $3,150.00 CAD. Stock #e12646.

SOLD

January 5, 2020

1.01ct. I1-E good cut GIA certified 1.34ct. tw. custom 14kt halo diamond ring $4,300.00 CAD. E13578

You’d have a hard time finding more bang for the buck than this custom-made diamond halo style engagement ring. This design has been a consistent top seller of ours us for many years now. The super white E colour diamond provides an excellent display of brilliance and dispersion. A few scattered inclusions qualify the diamond as an I1 according to the Gemological Institute of America. The full March 2020 report can be seen online here. Diamonds of this colour/clarity and cut combination rival the optical performance of stones costing double or triple this one.The centre diamond is secured in a custom made 14 karat white gold halo style engagement ring. Measuring a slightly petite size 5 this ring will flatter the smaller hand. Our onsite goldsmiths can adjust the 2.6 gram ring a size or two larger if required. 42 small French set brilliant cut diamonds frame the large centre diamond and run down the shoulders giving it the fully dressed look. If you love the diamond but have a different style ring in mind the stone by itself is priced at $3,500.00. The ring is in like new condition showing no areas of wear. Complete ring with centre diamond is estate priced at $4,300.00 CAD. Stock #e13578.

SOLD

December 20, 2019

Antique 1.67ct. I1-UV mine cut diamond ring Ellis Bros. Toronto 3.8gr. $4,886.00 CAD. e12260

Only platinum can survive generations and still look this good. The only wear it carries is on the outer-most flower on either side of the under gallery which has worn mostly smooth against a wedding band. Every other detail, from the delicate millgrain to the cupped and veined flower petals, is as crisp as the day they were carved. The shoulders have each been set with three early round single cut diamonds as a stamp of age. But nothing is as telling as the early European cut diamond which weighs an estimated 1.67 carats of I1-UV quality. Its average diameter of just under 8mm makes this old girl look like a 2 carat! That pale champagne hue was fairly common of the 1800s as most diamond sources were alluvial deposits on the African continent and warmth was the signature of their source. The deeper tone adds to the drama of stark flashes of white and spectral light that you only get with antique cuts. That center has to be at least older than the 1890s but the ring would be right between that time or the very early 1900s thanks to its Canadian Ellis Bros makers mark. Ellis Brothers were a Toronto carriage trade jewellery house that had partnered with Birks when they arrived from Montreal. Their partnership occurred in the very early 1900s but this stamp is pre-partnership. Regardless of its 110 year plus vintage the 3.6 gram ring is still head turning. It currently measures a finger size 6 with room to adjust up or down. Estate price for this antique ring $4,886.00 CAD. Stock #e12260.

SOLD

December 15, 2019

1.44ct. VS2-OP old mine cut diamond GIA certified 14kt. solitaire $4,305.00 CAD. e13579

There are not too many of these to be around. Original mine cut diamonds have not been produced since the 1800s. A few specialty cutters are making them for reproduction jewellery but for the most part they are only available as original antiques. Coming across good sized examples is happening less often all the time. When this diamond was cut around possibly close to 300 years ago few people could afford any diamond, never mind one close to 1 1/2 carats. A Gemological Institute of America report (March 2020) comes included with purchase. GIA paperwork is your assurance of accurate nonbiased full disclosure grading. The full GIA report can be seen online here. The diamond has been microscopically laser engraved along the girdle edge with a unique certificate number. ALL significant diamonds should include a GIA report. If the diamond you are considering does not, insist on GIA certification and only GIA certification. There are many inaccurate and optimistic certificates out there. GIA does not provide appraisals. If the document you are looking at has a price attached, it is NOT a GIA endorsement of appropriate value. Our latest estate diamond grades a very good VS2 clarity with a slightly warmer OP colour. Most diamonds from this era were mined in the “old mines” from Brazil and India and often exhibit a certain degree of colour. It is not uncommon to see MNOP colour grades or lower when looking for antique diamonds. Stones with warmer colour grades in this range benefit particularly well from the dispersion biased mine cut faceting geometry. When this diamond was new, artificial electrical lighting was unheard of. Sunlight and fire were the only sources of incandescent light, mine cut diamonds make the most of these natural light sources. You are going to be very surprised just how bright a properly graded, OP colour, mine cut diamond is when you see it in person. A tiny 53% table with a tall crown produces much more dispersion than even an ideal cut modern round brilliant. Here is a short YouTube video of the actual diamond. Currently set in a brand new, Canadian made four prong double gallery setting weighing 3.5 grams. The slightly larger size 9 ring can easily be made smaller to suit almost any finger by one of our onsite goldsmiths. If you’d like this diamond set into a different style ring or perhaps a custom one-off design, our designers can help produce the perfect piece of jewellery just for you. The diamond alone is available for $4,000.00. Complete ring is estate priced at $4,305.00 CAD. Stock #e13579.

SOLD

December 1, 2019

1.15ct. I1-I Northern Spirit Canadian diamond ring 2.7gr. 14kt. $4,480.00 CAD. e12704

Northern Spirit Diamonds were a proprietary Ben Moss brand of Canadian diamonds. After the chain fell into bankruptcy that brand disappeared from the market. When Charm Diamond Centres purchased the collapsed Ben Moss chain they imbibed it with their Glacier Fire Canadian diamonds to help cement recognition of Charm’s own Canadian diamond brand. This Northern Spirit diamond weighs 1.15 carats of I1-HI quality and has been laser inscribed as proof of origin. The high quality ring is cast from 2.5 grams of solid 14 karat white gold and decorated with a European bottom and diamond accented undergallery. The ring measures a finger size 5 with room to adjust by one of our onsite goldsmiths as required. Comes complete with original documentation along with a certificate of valuation from 2009 expressing an estimated retail replacement value of $10,615.00. In a extremely competitive diamond market a five figure opinion of value seems rather generous. Our price for this pre-owned like new diamond solitaire is only $4,480.00 CAD and represents outstanding value in a Canadian diamond. Stock #e12704.

SOLD

November 13, 2019

14kt./silver antique ruby & diamond ring 4.10ct. tw. 3.3gr. $2,800.00 CAD. e13171

This yellow gold ring has been topped with sterling silver which by today’s standards is very unusual. But in the 1800’s this was a common practice, really it was the only option. White gold wasn’t invented until the 1920s and the oxyacetylene torch (required to make platinum workable) wasn’t invented until 1903. Making sterling silver the only white option available. Based on the mix of old European cut and Swiss cut diamonds that make up this antique halo I’d guess the ring was made in the final decade of the 1800s. As that is when old European cuts hit the scene. Combined the diamonds equal about 0.50 carats of nice SI-HI quality. The 3.60 carat natural ruby crowning the ring is intense magenta of excellent clarity considering it was cut in a cabochon. This ancient stone fashioning dome style is usually used on stones that are close to opaque. Its feather and silk inclusions create a microcosm of different optical effects that you can lose yourself in. The 14 karat yellow gold under-gallery features two petite filigree hearts as a finishing touch for the wearer’s eyes only. The 3.3 gram antique currently measures a finger size 5 3/4 with some room to adjust. Estate price $2,800.00 CAD. Stock #e13171.

SOLD

November 6, 2019

0.92ct. SI1-I mine cut diamond ring 1.12ct. tw. 2.0gr. 14kt. $4,812.00 CAD. e11985

From the early 1700s right up to the mid 1800s the old mine cut diamond was the dominate cut. No two diamonds ever came out the same as the techniques used to create them were rudimentary and focused on the dimensions and proportions of the rough diamond crystal. The style started to taper off after the steam powered bruting machine was invented in 1874 allowing for more even and symmetrical round outlines. This 0.92 carat oval old mine cut has been in our loose diamond stock for a very long time waiting to be repurposed into something new. It’s amazing the things that accumulate after being in business for over 60 years. You’d be surprised by the oddities kicking around in the backs of our safes. With the rise in popularity of oval shaped diamonds and the interest in antiques and heirlooms we thought it a good time to find this diamond a new life. With its comparably random facet pattern the SI1-I quality gives off more spectral rainbow fire than you find in a modern round brilliant cut. Even at a glance and without any understanding of diamond history you can tell there is something unique about this diamond’s optics. To contrast its 200 year vintage we set it into a very contemporary style brand new American made 14 karat white gold engagement ring. The new ring is set with 0.20 carats of round brilliant diamond accents bead set along each shoulder. Something old, something new and only available at Bill Le Boeuf Jewellers. Estate price for this re-imagined antique $4,812.00 CAD. Stock #e11985.

SOLD

October 11, 2019

5.67ct. tw. tanzanite & diamond ring 18kt. 10.8gr. $4,816.00 CAD. e11119

Get them while you can. If you are a fan of rare and exotic when it comes to precious gems, Tanzanite Zoisite has got to be at the top of your list. Most people who like jewellery have seen it or at least heard of it but few realize how truly rare this mineral is. It was discovered in Tanzania in 1967 south of Mount Kilimanjaro. This is the only source on earth and it’s limited to an area of less than 3 square miles. There are a few gems as rare but these are only known to serious collectors and have little commercial interest. Fine quality Tanzanite on the other hand is known worldwide for its beautiful violet/blue colour in the best examples. It’s a gem that may only be available for a single generation of consumers before the mining area is exhausted. Artificially synthesizing tanzanite is not possible; there will never be a less expensive man made versions of the mineral. Currently a good supply of Tanzanite is available on the market and prices are very affordable given its rarity. Fine quality diamonds in the 5 carat range sell for over 100 times the cost of top quality Tanzanite. Historically significant single source gems like Russian demantoid garnet and Paraiba Tourmaline deposits have been mined out. When specimens of these rare gems find their way back to market they command very strong prices. Is this the future for tanzanite? Only time will tell. In the meantime take advantage of bargain tanzanite prices and enjoy one of the earth’s rarest treasures. Our latest estate ring comes to us containing a beautiful trillion cut weighing 4.67 carats. Slightly violet blue strongly saturated colour with excellent clarity makes this example one of the best we’ve ever had (an easy 9/10). It is secured in a 3 prong white gold double gallery setting on an 18 karat yellow gold custom made ring. The ring contains 24 invisible set square princess cut diamonds along the shoulders estimated to weigh 1.00 carat in total of SI-IJ quality. Tanzanite is a relatively soft stone so it must be worn with some degree of care. This example was showing some pretty good scratches on the large table facet. We had our master lapidary perform his craft of re-faceting and polishing. The repaired stone is much prettier, with just minor weight loss of only a few hundreds of a carat. The crown and table facets are now completely scratch free, polished to a mirror finish. The hand made ring weighs a generous 10.8 grams. It was hand crafted in 18 karat yellow and white gold in a finger size 9. Our onsite goldsmiths can custom fit it for you as required. Looking like new, freshly polished and in excellent ready to wear condition. Estate priced at $4,816.00 CAD. Stock #e11119.

SOLD

September 30, 2019

1.00ct. SI2-I1-FG Canadian Maple Leaf diamond ring 3.6gr. 18kt. $3,780.00 CAD. e12997

Can’t get more Canadian than this! Made from Canadian gold by a Canadian company and crowned with a Canadian diamond! The 18 karat timeless solitaire widens gracefully as it moves towards its center, a Maple Leaf pedigreed princess cut weighing exactly 1.00 carat of SI2-F quality according the the manufacturer (we feel it is closer to an I1-G quality). It bears its unique serial number and stylized maple leaf on its girdle as undisputed proof of origin. The 3.6 gram ring has been alloyed with allergy neutral palladium instead of the nickle regularly used to create white gold. The ring currently measures a finger size 5 1/4 and is priced at $3,780.00 CAD. Stock #e12997.

SOLD

September 15, 2019

2.08ct. tw. SI-G emerald/princess cut diamond ring $4,200.00 CAD. e11011

If brilliant cuts best resemble kaleidoscopes, step cuts are best compared to a hall of mirrors. Not the kind that conjure up images of tacky fun houses at travelling carnivals; think instead of the much buzzed about Infinity Mirrors art installation by Yayoi Kusama. The shallow rooms create worlds that stretch on forever, engulfing the visitor in something that feels like another universe. Step cut diamonds create a similar affect as their rectangular facets shrink towards the culet. Gaze into one for too long and you get the impression of a long passageway of white and spectral flashing light. This unique brilliance is a glassy meditation that is tripled in our robust estate ring. The 1.33 carats of VS-SI-FG emerald cuts are proudly and securely set into 5.4 grams of sturdy 14 karat white gold. To help bring out the unique quality of step cuts the trio has been shouldered with 0.78 carats of geometric princess cut diamonds. The 6 graduated SI2-I1-GH quality diamonds round the total carat weight of the ring up to 2.08 carats. The excellent condition blingy ring currently measures a finger size 8 1/4 with some room to adjust. Accompanying the ring is a Gem Scan Laboratories Certificate of Evaluation that lists a rather optimistic replacement value of $12,000.00 CAD. Our idea of a competitive replacement value for the ring is $6,000.00, our estate price is just $4,200.00 CAD. Stock #e11011.

SOLD

June 19, 2019

0.77ct. VS2-D GIA certified triple excellent no fluorescence 18kt. solitaire 3.4gr. $4,950.00 CAD. e12973

It’s a simple formula but it never fails to deliver; high quality plus low price equals great value. The trick is having the knowledge to determine if the quality truly reflects the price. Our vintage and estate jewellery offers the  sort of value few others can come close to matching. Our 60 plus years of unique experience with pre-owned jewellery and diamonds definitely gives us knowledge unlike anyone else. In this era of commoditized retail efficiencies a quick Google comparison of this diamond will easily reveal this is an outstanding opportunity. GIA certified, perfect D colour, high VS2 clarity, excellent cut, excellent polish, excellent symmetry, no fluorescence, hearts and arrows designation. Not the most expensive diamond we have but I can honestly say this one exhibits the best sparkle; and really isn’t that what it’s all about. Professionally, we’re all about the science and clinical analysis of diamonds and jewellery but who cares about that boring nerdy stuff when all you really want is your diamond to be the star of the show. Let our Gemological Institute of American trained diamond graders and Gemologist do the work and you just sit back and enjoy our beautiful jewellery. The GIA dossier report of this diamond can be seen online here. The traditional solitaire setting was custom made from 3.2 grams of premium 18 karat white gold in a finger size 4 1/2. Our onsite goldsmiths can adjust the size as required within a few days. Previously owned but you’d never know it as the ring is in like new condition. $4,950.00 CAD. Stock #e12973.

SOLD

May 23, 2019

0.74ct. SI1-F AGS certified cushion solitaire 18kt. 5.2gr. $3,938.00 CAD. e11515

The geometry for cutting round brilliant cut diamonds to a high standard is widely accepted and is usually documented on high quality grading reports. When you’re dealing with a reputable vendor buying a well cut round diamond is pretty worry free. If your tastes prefer a fancy shaped diamond it’s the wild west when it comes to the quality of cut you can encounter. There are no universally accepted standards for cut quality in any other shape besides round. We see it first hand almost every day, diamonds with a compromised cut to maximize weight over sparkle and beauty. There are many ways diamond manufacturers can conserve weight in a finished stone at the expense of high quality cut. Just because one diamond weighs more and costs less money doesn’t mean it’s necessarily a better value. It’s always a great idea to consult with a Gemologist familiar with the optical properties of fancy shaped diamonds before you purchase one. When it comes to analyzing a fancy shaped diamond no one does it better than the American Gem Society. An AGS report documents far more useful information than even the Gemological Institute of America when it comes to fancy shapes. Our latest estate diamond has the coveted AGS report you can see online here. Once I see details like these I know this cushion is going to sparkle like a disco ball. Knowing these geometric characteristics you’d be hard pressed finding a better cut example than this one. Inputting just a single feature like the very small 57% table to our diamond database limits the comparable diamonds from over 20,000 to less than 1200. What makes this diamond even more compelling is the fact it was previously owned by the daughter of a well known and respected Toronto diamond wholesaler. The SI1 clarity grade looks flawless to the naked eye as the grade setting white feather is invisible without magnification. Its F colour grade is among the whitest available. Excellent polish, very good symmetry and negligible fluorescence round out the important grading characteristics. The diamond is expertly set in a well made ring manufactured from premium 18 karat white gold with a finished weight of 5.2 grams. If you are not a size 6, one of our onsite goldsmiths can custom fit the ring to your finger in just a day or two. It’s in perfect condition showing little to no wear of any kind. Including the original laminated AGS report the ring is estate priced at $3,938.00 CAD. Stock #e11515.

SOLD

May 7, 2019

BIRKS 0.46ct. VS1-H platinum ring set 10.8gr. $3,493.00. CAD. e10520

A solitaire with soul for the woman who’s looking for an understated engagement ring with substance. The Birks solitaire features softly domed 3.25mm shoulders that are free of decoration, leaving the high polished platinum to reflect the world around it in micro scale. Those fun house style reflections play a nice contrast to the 0.46 carat round brilliant cut diamond at the heart of the ring. That extremely lively 4.95mm diameter round brilliant cut diamond loudly declares its VS1-H quality, throwing an exceptional amount of fire with the slightest movement courtesy of its excellent cut. Together the set weighs in at a hefty 10.8 grams in a finger size 5 with room to adjust as needed. The rings are accompanied by a Birks blue velvet white satin box with a subdivided travel pouch. Estate price $3,493.00 CAD. Stock #e10520.

SOLD

May 1, 2019

0.97ct. VS1-G princess cut diamond solitaire 2.5gr. 14kt. $3,500.00 CAD. e7888

Poor princess cuts have fallen from their number one spot as the must-have center stone. Honestly we let out a little sigh of relief when they did. Some vendors were disguising value by selling princess cuts with huge table facets, oversized girdles, and long pavilions as good or very good cuts as no formal standards exist for the quality of cutting for this shape. Many consumers thought they were getting a very good price when actually they were paying appropriately for an average or poorly cut diamond. We’ve talked before how Cut is the forgotten C but with fancy shaped diamonds a cut grade isn’t even an option. Only the round brilliant cut gets a Gemological Institute of America (GIA) cut grade so retailers don’t go anywhere near that C when selling fancy shapes. Most consumers don’t know what to look for in a badly cut princess so they don’t bother to ask. And so the world gets populated with terribly cut princess cuts making this 0.97 carat a revelation! Not only is it well cut its at that sweet spot of quality where the value is very temping. With a beautiful VS1 clarity and near colourless G this princess cut really is worth it. Especially since their fall from grace has made their prices contract! The ring gifted with such an honest crown is a simple 14 karat white gold solitaire; classic and understated to keep the focus on the diamond. $3,500.00 CAD. Stock #e7888.

SOLD

March 4, 2019

18kt. 2.96ct. tanzanite & diamond 1.50ct. tw. SI-I-IJ ring 12.7grams $3,290.00 CAD. e12353

We’ve struck some sort of vein of top quality tanzanites while digging through our back-stock of estate jewellery. This is the third we’ve come across in a couple of weeks and we are currently creating 2 custom items using a couple oval tanzanites that came in loose. If you’ve read our other posts about the stone you’ll remember that tanzanite is highly pleochroic, meaning it shows two different colours when viewed from two different crystal directions. Out of the batch we’ve encountered recently this one has the strongest pleochroism showing bright indigo at its ends and violet through the middle. View it from its side and the contrast becomes even more pronounced. This phenomenon is showcased in a 2.96 carat natural tanzanite of such high quality that a one of a kind ring has been built around it. The solid custom made piece is cast from over 12 grams of 18 karat white gold. It has been shouldered by custom princess cut diamonds invisibly set girdle to girdle showing nothing but brilliance. The 18 SI-I-IJ quality diamonds total an estimated 1.50 carats and are edged with bright rhodium. The tanzanite itself is surrounded by yellow  gold, adding a touch of warmth to bring out the purple tone. The dinner ring measures a finger size 6 1/2 with some room to adjust. Estate price $3,290.00 CAD. Stock #e12353.

SOLD

January 28, 2019

Vera Wang Love Collection 0.95ct. tw. Diamond Swirl Frame Engagement Ring $3055.00 CAD. e11872

“Designed to take her breath away” as People’s put it, and hard to dispute as the swirling double halo draws your eye in. The Vera Wang line is their highest quality offering and they imbibe it with quality ingredients well above Peoples standard. The 14 karat white gold ring weighs a solid 4.53 grams, spared from any cost saving hollowing out that many mass produced rings exhibit. The 0.50 carats of round brilliant cut accent diamonds are of a nice SI2-I1-I quality, covering over the entire top half of the ring. The undergallery is decorated with the lines signature princess cut blue sapphires in untouched condition. At the center of the 10.37mm wide halo sits a bright 0.45 carat round brilliant cut of matching SI2-I1-I quality, which shows virtually eye clean thanks to its high fire and sparkle. The ring currently measures a petite finger size 4 3/4 with room to make larger. It is accompanied by original inner/outer boxes, receipt, service receipt, and People’s Lifetime Diamond Commitment. Currently listed on their website for $4,699.00 CAD our estate price for the designer engagement ring $3,055.00 CAD. Stock #e11872.

SOLD

January 23, 2019

0.75ct. SI1-IJ very good cut solitaire 7.0gr. 18kt. white gold $3,150.00 CAD. e11976

No sense trying to reinvent the wheel. Although we’re called upon to custom make engagement rings pretty much on a daily basis a traditional solitaire such as this always looks great. It doesn’t hurt starting off with a beautiful 3/4 carat round brilliant cut diamond of very nice SI1 clarity, J colour and very good to excellent cut. The 5.8mm diameter diamond exhibits just a hint of faint blue fluorescence when exposed to long wave ultraviolet light. Any diamond showing even trace fluorescence is natural in origin as lab grown, created and synthetic diamonds don’t fluoresce when exposed to long wave ultraviolet light. The size 7 ring is constructed of premium quality 18 karat white gold with a generous finished weight of just over 7 grams. Accompanying the ring is a September 2019 GemScan Toronto Certificate of Evaluation suggesting the ring has a replacement value of $7,900.00 plus sales tax. While we agree with the rings overall description, our opinion of a more competitive replacement value is closer to $4,500.00. As an excellent condition trade in estate ring we are offering it for just $3,150.00 CAD. Stock #e11976.

SOLD

January 19, 2019

0.64ct. SI2-D radiant cut (0.96ct. tw.) Michael Smiley custom 14kt. 5.2gr. $3,500.00 CAD. e12310

An American Gem Society (AGS) report is the only other documentation besides GIA that we endorse. Like the Gemological Institute of America the AGS is a not for profit educational organization that does not participate in the commerce of diamonds or jewellery. Their certificates do not place any monetary value on the diamond at all. The only thing the GIA or AGS are concerned with is the diamonds quality and not selling something. As soon as someone presents a document stating quality while providing a value, being impartial can be a challenge. We’ve seen it time and time again where small to major biases are granted to the diamond in a more positive direction. This AGS certified 0.64 carat radiant cut seems to almost have the opposite problem. The diamond is listed as an SI2 clarity but closely approaches SI1. The grade setting feather inclusion lines up so perfectly with the facet pattern it almost disappears. Even in the first photomircograph the inclusion is difficult to spot despite the fact it’s almost dead center. The diamond also boasts a perfect D colour and has been set into a high quality, hand made, Michael Smiley engagement ring. Michael has been a downtown neighbor for 30 years and we are always delighted to showcase his work! The 5.2 gram ring is solidly constructed from bright white 14 karat gold. It’s an all modern crisp edge design with hidden geometric details. It is in like new condition as it was hardly worn. We didn’t even need to polish it, just an ultrasonic cleaning and it’s ready to go. Even the original bright rhodium plating  is fully intact. Instead of making an open gallery halo, Michael’s is solid to create a high polished mirror bowl around the diamonds pavilion. The real Michael Smiley quality can be seen in the 32 0.01 carat round brilliant cuts he’s hand set across the top half of the ring. Most jewellers would opt for lower or medium quality diamonds at this size but these are astonishingly VS-F quality! The ring is currently a finger size 6 1/2 and is also accompanied by a Gem Scan appraisal stating a Replacement Value of $8,000.00 CAD. Our estate price is $3,500.00 CAD. Stock #e12310.

SOLD

January 12, 2019

0.95ct. tw. SI2-H pear shaped engagement set 8.0gr. 18kt./platinum $3,045.00 CAD. e8069

At first glance this may appear to be a garden variety pear shaped diamond. Instead of the traditional gently rounded outline forming the shape it has seven distinct totally flat sides. The diamond is estimated to weigh 0.70 carat of SI2 clarity and GH colour. At some during during its career the centre diamond must have suffered a significant impact as the crown is showing a small chip at an upper girdle/star/bezel facet junction. This minor chip does no affect the clarity grade and could easily be removed. We would include this repair with purchase if the new owner wishes. The two piece set is made from 18 karat yellow gold and platinum weighing in at a hefty 8.0 grams in a finger size of 6 1/2. Seven tapered baguette cut diamond frame the centre diamond and add approximately 0.25 carats of additional weight. The set is in excellent condition and estate priced at $3,045.00. Stock #e8069.

SOLD

December 20, 2018

0.76ct. VS2-D excellent cut GIA cert. 1.01ct. tw. 4.9gr. 18kt. $4,900.00 CAD. e12122

Despite the fact this beautiful GIA certified diamond had a report issued December 2006 the ring is brand new. That’s one of the great things about diamonds, they don’t go bad, they don’t rust out and they’ve never gone out of style. Being a product of mother nature around 3 billion years old, it doesn’t matter if they’re fresh off the cutters wheel or 100s of years old, a diamond of this quality will always look great. The Gemological Institute of America report can be seen here. Finding a GIA certified estate diamond of perfect D colour, excellent cut and VS2 clarity is an opportunity that doesn’t come by very often. If you’re looking for great value in a 3/4 carat round diamond in a contemporary styled setting, you need to consider this one. The ring measures a finger size 5 3/4 and could be adjusted up or down a little bit. Three rows of pavé set small brilliant cut diamonds (62 in total) on both shoulders and gallery cover 180 degrees of the surface giving that fully dressed look from side to side. The white gold ring was crafted from 4.7 grams of premium 18 karat complete with a blemish free, super white rhodium plated finish covering the entire surface. If you love the diamond but have a different style ring or other jewellery item in mind the diamond by itself is available for $4,000.00. Complete ring is estate priced at $4,900.00 CAD. Stock #e12122.

SOLD

December 15, 2018

1.40ct. I2-JK European cut diamond solitaire 2.3gr. 18kt./platinum $3,290.00 CAD. e12178

Anyone can buy an absolutely perfect, modern, flawless diamond of this size, all it takes is around $30,000.00 (just for the diamond). There are dozens of such diamonds to be discovered on our database. But just try to find another one similar to this. It was manufactured over 100 years ago in the European cut style with a very small table, larger overall facet size that result in an optical display quite different than a modern diamond. Stones with warmer colour grades in the JKLM range benefit particularly well from this dispersion biased cutting style. When this diamond was new, artificial electrical lighting was practically unheard of. Sunlight and fire were the only sources of incandescent light, European cut diamonds made the most of these natural light sources. What I find most unique and exciting about this diamond is the combination dark and light inclusion patterns. As soon as I saw it I instantly recognized what looked like a translucent winged bee hovering over a springtime flower bud in the centre.Of course this is just a completely random, natural pattern of crystal and feather type inclusions that just happen to arrange themselves in the shape of an insect. You can think of it as a simple a flaw, or you can view it as a beautiful example of mother nature leaving behind a lovely beauty mark. Perfect diamonds may be rare but this one is unique. If you want a diamond that is more than just a twinkling statement of love and commitment but a genuine conversation piece I can’t think of a better example. It’s bright, full of fire and sparkle beyond what the I2 clairty grade would suggest. This diamond puts down a large footprint of 7.4mm diameter, equal to an excellent cut 1.50 carat modern round brilliant diamond. It is set in an antique 18 karat yellow gold and platinum 8 prong setting. One of our onsite goldsmiths can adjust the size 5 ring up or down as required. Estate priced at just $3,290.00 CAD. Stock #e12178.

SOLD

December 10, 2018

GIA certified 1.31ct. I1-L very good cut diamond solitaire 4.4gr. 18kt. $4,900.00 CAD. e12215

Marketing 101; “always showcase your products in the most flattering lighting conditions possible”. After all, about 30% of your brain is devoted to vision and vision processing. Well; I was never a student of marketing, I’m a student of Gemology. As a Graduate Gemologist with 30 years experience, part of my job is to identify and demonstrate the multitude of characteristics that determine the quality of gems. Not many jewellers will showcase a beautiful diamond under the worst lighting conditions possible, but it’s the best way for us to illustrate what contributes to making this diamond an I1 clarity. With dark field illumination and lots of magnification the crystal inclusion is very easy to spot in the centre of the diamond. Under normal lighting conditions without magnification the small blemish all but disappears. This diamond just returned (May 15 2019) from The Gemological Institute of America with a full grading report (not an appraisal). GIA never provide appraisals and have no interest in the commerce of diamonds or jewellery. This policy allows them to document quality without bias. You can see the full certificate online here. The report goes on to determine the colour grade a slightly warm L, overall cut grade very good, excellent polish, excellent symmetry and no fluorescence. At 1.31 carats this diamond is pretty large, but at $4,500.00 Canadian the price is pretty small. In fact we’re not shy about proclaiming that we feel this diamond is the best value anywhere. Please shop this quality around and compare with any other GIA certified diamond. We think you’ll agree the outstanding value it offers. At Bill Le Boeuf Jewellers we won’t overwhelm you with clever marketing, misleading appraisals or other fancy documents. We don’t want to “sell” you anything, we want to help you purchase something fabulous. This finished 18 karat white gold, size 7 ring is estate priced at $4,900.00 CAD. If you’d prefer a different setting or would like us to make a completely custom design, the diamond is available alone for $4,500.00. Stock #e12215.

SOLD

December 6, 2018

Custom made plat. 0.73ct. tw. 6.5gr. ring $3,200.00 CAD (never worn). e10098

Everyone knows where to find the best value when it comes to accurate, honestly graded diamonds. You won’t find it in the malls, and certainly not at one of the chain stores. Believe it or not you can usually find it at a long time independent home town jeweller. They’ve got the knowledge, experience and connections. They have usually owned their own stand alone building for decades so their overhead costs are far less. And if they’re like us at Bill Le Boeuf Jewellers their work is more than just a job, it’s a honoured tradition of service we are extremely proud of. It’s really fun to sell those really big multi-carat diamonds, but even the more attainable and affordable sizes like this one are exciting. When I know there is no better value than this it’s easy to get enthused. Looking for something a little different? How about trying a very uncommon heart shaped brilliant cut diamond. This is an excellent looking example. It’s got great proportions, not too wide, not too tall. The lobes are nice and round and the cleft is the right size. Symmetry is everything when you’re considering a heart, pear or marquise shape diamond. At just under 1/2 a carat it has good size but it’s quite a bit less expensive than a diamond only a fraction of a carat larger. The clarity is a very strong SI2 that many may call SI1. When we compared it with our GIA certified master stones the colour was determined to be a H. This picture was taken between a GIA master E color and H colour. It’s pretty subtle but you can see the very slight tint of colour matches the H colour of the right stone better than the colourless E. With measurements of 4.90mm x 5.15mm x 3.13mmm this diamond was used as a centre stone for a most unique engagement ring. This ring was custom made here at Bill Le Boeuf Jewellers but never saw any time on a finger. It was expertly crafted from over 6 grams of premium quality platinum. The split shank halo design has become one of the most popular around but you seldom if ever see it executed in a heart shape. Sixty two tiny full cut diamonds of SI-HI quality are bead set down the shoulders and surround the centre stone. We made this ring in a size 9 and it can be adjusted a size or two if needed. Brand new never worn and estate priced at $3,200.00. Stock #e10098.

SOLD

November 25, 2018

1.43ct. total weight diamond engagement set $3,900.00 CAD. e7831

Very good quality and nice design in a very comfortable easy to wear engagement wedding ring set. Measuring barely a size 5 this set is surprisingly heavy with a combined weight of 11.4 grams in 18 karat white gold. The centre diamond measures 5.73mm x 3.47mm and likely weighs a touch over 0.70 carats but since we are not about to destroy the bezel merely to satisfy our curiosity we have cautiously estimated the weight at 0.69 carat. Well cut diamonds over 0.70 carats are priced significantly more than those under 0.70 carats so this ring represents a terrific value as I would be willing to bet the centre diamond is at least 0.70 carat. The custom made set fits perfectly together with no gaps. The centre diamond is of SI2-H quality with a very good cut. 18 round shoulder diamonds of VS-GH quality add an additional 0.74 carats of weight. Looking like new with a fresh refinishing the set is estate priced at $3,900.00 CAD. Stock #e7831.

SOLD

November 1, 2018

Canadian 1.01ct. SI2-K GIA certified 1.50ct. tw. 18kt. diamond ring $4,960.00 CAD. e10793

The science of grading diamonds to a uniform set of standards has been the goal of the Gemological Institute of America since they introduced their universally accepted method of grading way back in the 1950s. GIA’s 4Cs (carat weight, cut, clarity and colour) for faceted diamonds is the international language used when discussing the quality of a faceted diamond. To this day their system of diamond grading should be familiar with anyone who is considering an informed purchase of a diamond. The procedures for accurate consistent grading is not just simply glancing at a diamond and assigning a grade you think fits. As a Graduate Gemologist who studied in residence at GIA with close to 30 years grading experience, I can tell you the saying “buyer beware” is more important today than ever. We see inaccurate, optimistically graded diamonds almost everyday. Nearly all retail and wholesale jewellery vendors sell graded and certified diamonds. Although they all use The Gemological Institute of America’s terminology, many do not use the same grading standards. The latest example of this is a beautiful 1.01 carat radiant brilliant cut diamond that recently came into our estate department. This lovely certified Canadian diamond was purchased at a major Canadian jewellery chain. It came with a Canadian Certificate of origin and a Certificate of evaluation describing the diamond and ring in good detail. The certificate went on to grade the diamond SI2 clarity, H colour and that it was cut to exhibit the coveted hearts and arrows pattern. They also determined an appropriate replacement value was $13,530.00 (for the complete ring). While the price seems really high and certainly not competitive, it was the colour grade of H that I had a big problem with. The second I saw this diamond I knew it wasn’t a H colour (or at least a H colour according to GIA standards). After we purchased the ring the diamond was removed from the setting and sent to GIA’s lab in New York city for an accurate assessment of quality. Sure enough when GIA returned the diamond and report plus an invoice of $120.00 USD not including two way shipping/insurance fees, it was determined to be a K colour. Everyone is entitled to an opinion but not everyone’s opinion is accurate despite official looking fancy documents. It’s a good idea to always get a qualified 2nd opinion from a Graduate Gemologist who is familiar with GIA’s uncompromising standards when you’re buying a significant diamond. Ignoring the appraisal and incorrect original certificate, this is a great looking ring. Made from 18 karat white gold the cushion shaped halo design contains 52 small round brilliant cut diamonds adding approximately 0.50 carats of additional SI-H bling. The size 5 ring weighs 4.2 grams and can be adjusted in size by our onsite goldsmiths in just a day or two. We feel a competitive replacement value for insurance coverage would be $6,200.00 (not $13,350.00). The October 2017 GIA certificate is included along with the Glacier Fire booklet, Canadian diamond certificate and appraisal. As an estate item in excellent condition we have priced this ring at $4,960.00 CAD. Stock #e10793.

SOLD

October 30, 2018

1.03ct. I1-H princess cut diamond solitaire 2.6gr. $3,500.00 CAD. e11812

If you are in the market for a great princess cut diamond that looks like $10,000.00 but is a fraction of that, check this one out. It’s got a nice sized footprint with measurements of 5.8mm x 5.5mm, a conservatively estimated H colour, good cut, no fluorescence and a pleasant clarity grade of I1. This particular I1 is just about as good as they get; the feather inclusion is nicely tucked away at the extreme edge of a corner and it’s white in colour. If you’re considering I1 or I2 clarity diamonds the location of a grade setting inclusion can have a huge influence on how a diamond looks. Very few I1 diamonds look this nice. With this photomicrograph it’s pretty easy to see the inclusion by the left corner. A simple size 6 1/2 14 karat white gold solitaire secures the 1.03 carat square diamond. The traditional design consists of a double gallery setting with knife edge shank measuring 3.2mm wide with a gentle taper. Included with purchase is a January 2003 appraisal describing the diamond as a SI2 with G colour. Some people think we’re too strict and harsh with our grading opinions but we’d rather be safe. We feel this diamond is an I1 with a H colour. The ring is in excellent condition showing little wear. If you need the ring adjusted is size, one of our onsite goldsmiths can accomplish the task in just a day or two. This ring looks waaaaay better than our estate price of just $3,500.00 would suggest. Stock #e11812.

SOLD

October 5, 2018

1.00ct. I1-J princess cut diamond solitaire 3.9gr. 14kt. $3,010.00 CAD. e11855

An I1 clarity can mean so many things thanks to the endless inclusion options and patterns that diamonds exhibit. In the case of this 1.00 carat princess cut the grade setting white feather inclusion is shaped in a triangular outline that almost disguises it in the facet pattern. It’s really only visible to the unaided eye when viewed in one direction. Making it an ideal outcome for an I1 clarity grade. The bright diamond is set into a geometric 14 karat white gold solitaire that weighs a solid 3.9 grams. Currently measuring a finger size 9 with plenty of room to come down in size. Estate price $3,010.00 CAD. Stock #e11855.

SOLD

September 30, 2018

1.03ct. I2-H (1.23ct. tw.) diamond ring 14kt. 2.3gr. $3,150.00 CAD. e11904

Next to a simple solitaire this is one of the most timeless engagement ring styles (in our opinion) available. It is also one of the most popular styles around. Showing only diamonds face up it doesn’t lend itself to a passing trend. The ring was made intentionally petite to enlarge by contrast the center diamond that crowns it. Fitting, as this 1.03 carat round brilliant cut doesn’t quite have the footprint you’d expect. The diamond was cut, as many are, to achieve the heaviest weight possible; sacrificing the cut somewhat by hiding extra weight in its depth. If cut to excellent standards and weighing 1.03 carats this diamond should have a diameter around 6.5mm, instead it measures just over 6.2mm diameter. Perhaps the cutter felt there wasn’t the need to maximize brilliance when the diamond was destined to be an I2 clarity. It would be a huge mistake to dismiss this based on its average cut and I2 clarity. It still has an amazing fire and sparkle for the money! The diamond has a few white feathers typical with diamonds of this quality. One of those internal feathers is stained with iron oxide and shows up as a reflective orange inclusion. Mixed in with diamonds natural dispersion it results in an almost pinkish brilliance. Even with a very weak Canadian dollar you’re going to be surprised how far $3,150.00 can go when purchasing an estate diamond from Bill Le Boeuf Jewellers. The shoulders of the ring are set with 12 petite I1-H round brilliant cut diamonds that push the total carat weight to 1.23 carats. All said the 14 karat white gold ring weighs 2.3 grams and currently measures a finger size 7 with some room to adjust up or down. This is one fantastic looking diamond ring and estate priced at just $3,150.00 CAD. Stock #e11904.

SOLD

September 21, 2018

10.30ct. tw. hand made aquamarine & diamond ring 6.0gr. 18kt. $3,290.00 CAD. e11336

Have we won you over on aquamarine yet? If not please stop by and try this vintage, hand made, one of a kind ring on. If you’ve read our posts on the gemstone before you’ll know the name aquamarine comes from the Latin word for seawater. This specially cut 10.00 carat aqua has a unique response to light. As it moves during wear, two white parallel bands of brilliance roll slowly from the base of the stone up to its top, looking just like white capped waves rolling into a tropical beach. The gem is a mesmerizing meditation. Complementing that brilliance are 10 top quality VS-G round single cut diamonds. Those 0.30 carats are hand set along with the aqua into a decorative wire work gallery that peaks around the edges of the stones. Keeping with the quality of the stones it carries, the ring itself has been made from bright white 18 karat gold. To help offset the weight of the impressive gemstone, the shank has been equipped with two sizing balls which help grip the finger. Estate price for this stunning cocktail ring $3,290.00 CAD. Stock #e11336.

SOLD

September 10, 2018

1.13ct. tw. VS1-K Art Deco inspired 18kt. 3.0gr. $4,641.00 CAD. e11606

Without question, this is one of my favorite rings. The setting is Canadian made from 4.0 grams of premium 18 karat white gold. It’s a new creation inspired by those wonderful Art Deco designs of the 1920s and 30s. Geometric details with fine filigree and milgrain are distinctive features of the Art Deco style. This brand new construction setting has been here for a while just waiting for the ideal antique diamond to show up in our estate department.  Last month we had the opportunity to purchase an antique 0.88 carat old European cut diamond that fit perfectly. The stone had a few minor impact marks on the crown from contact with another diamond worn on the next finger. Our master diamond cutter did a fantastic job preserving the unique character and optical properties of the antique diamond. The crown re-cut only lost 0.02 carats in total weight.  The freshly re-cut 100 year old diamond sits perfectly flush in the ring in a style true to the spirit of the antique design. The main 0.86 carat diamond measures 6.00mm x 6.15mm x 3.80mm and is of a very high VS1 clarity. Just a hint of colour can be observed as the diamond compares favorably to our K colour GIA certified master diamond. Slightly warmer colours are handled very well by antique diamonds. Their small table facets, tall crowns and steep crown angles promote excellent dispersion. Two modern round brilliant cut diamonds of very good SI-H quality provide 0.27 carats of extra bling on the shoulders. If you love this setting as much as we do, it is available to set your diamond in for $1,750.00 in 18 karat. This new/estate combination ring is priced complete at $4,641.00 CAD. Stock #e11606.

SOLD

September 4, 2018

2.00ct. tw. I1-HI diamond eternity ring 2.9gr. 18kt. $3,800.00 CAD. e11742

Clients are always looking for eternity rings and for good reason. They are versatile, always in style, and when they’re estate the value can’t be beat. This example is made from premium 18 karat white gold that has never been polished. The rhodium plated surface is showing some wear on the claw tops and outside claw edges but the majority on the ring is still brilliant white. Made in a finger size 6 1/4 the 2.9 gram ring could easily be made bigger by at least a size by simply boring out the centre a bit. The thick tall scalloped edge setting could easily be opened to at least a size 6 without weakening the ring. 20 shared prong set round brilliant cut diamonds circle the ring adding up to an estimated 2.00 carats. Each of the diamonds are well matched of very bright I1-HI quality. Each diamond weighs over 0.10 carats but look much bigger thanks to the robust claw size. Excellent condition showing little use aside from some wear of the rhodium plating on the claws. To make the ring look like brand new a simple refinishing and re-rhodium plating for $65.00 is all that is required. Estate priced at $2,660.00 CAD. Stock #e11742.

SOLD

August 22, 2018

1.40ct. tw. VS1-H European cut diamond cluster 4.5gr. 18kt. $3,220.00 CAD. e11836

It’s so nice to see there are people in the world who appreciate classic design and originality. The previous owner thought the same and didn’t want to see this ring broken down and taken apart. It was totally restored to like new condition from one of the best goldsmiths in Toronto at considerable cost. Every diamond in this ring is original to the setting. All 9 of the diamonds are Old European cuts from the early part of the 20th century. The centre diamond is calculated to weigh 0.44 carats; the others add an additional 0.96 carats of estimated weight. They are all very well matched with a conservative VS clarity and H colour. We wouldn’t be surprised if the total weight was actually around 1.50 carats but we have cautiously estimated 1.40 carats of sparkling bling. These old world diamonds look different than modern diamonds. Antique cut diamonds showcased tall crowns, steep crown angles, tiny tables and chunky pavilion main facets. What all this means is they sparkle with a rainbow of dispersion better than even an excellent cut modern diamond. This is a ring that needs to be seen in person. The 18 karat white gold ring weighs a significant 4.5 grams and measures a finger size 7. The fresh rhodium plating and restoration should allow the ring to be worn everyday wear for decades. Under close scrutiny and to our surprise there are no chips or signs or wear and tear worth mentioning on any of the diamonds. This ring looks like it was just made yesterday even though it is pushing 100 years old. It’s a lot of show for the estate price of just $3,220.00 CAD. Stock e11836.

SOLD

August 12, 2018

0.80ct. VVS1-D GIA certified 0.99ct. tw. 4.0gr. 18kt. $4,900.00 CAD. e11626

We could not possibly offer enough emerald cut engagement rings to satisfy our love for them! I know from an optical physics perspective the round brilliant cut is the optimal shape for returning light and creating fire within a diamond. But emerald cuts are calm glassy pools of light, a meditation space you can wear on your finger. This decorative, antique inspired engagement ring is the perfect home for an emerald cut as impressive as this. You can see in the head on picture how evenly the shoulders of the ring line up with the diagonal facet pattern of the diamond; creating movement that draws the eye deeper in. As it should, the emerald cut has an amazing GIA pedigree, listing the 0.80 carat as a perfect D colour and VVS1 clarity. The elegant 18 karat white gold ring is decorated with 16 petite round brilliant cut diamonds that come together for an additional 0.19 carats of diamond weight. The well made ring weighs exactly 4 grams and currently measures a finger size 5 with some room to adjust. The ring is accompanied by its original GIA Diamond Dossier and a 2015 Certificate of Evaluation from Gemtech listing a rather optimistic opinion of Retail Replacement Value at $18,000.00. Our opinion of a competitive replacement retail value is $7,000.00. As a like new condition estate ring our price is just $4,900.00 CAD. Stock #e11626.

SOLD

July 20, 2018

1.05ct. I2-J (1.25ct.tw) diamond ring 2.3gr 14kt. $3,080.00 CAD. e11579

Next to a simple solitaire this is one of the most timeless engagement ring styles (in our opinion) available. It is also one of the most popular styles around. Showing only diamonds face up it doesn’t lend itself to a passing trend. The ring was made intentionally petite to enlarge by contrast the center diamond that crowns it. Fitting, as this 1.05 carat round brilliant cut doesn’t quite have the footprint you’d expect. The diamond was cut, as many are, to achieve the heaviest weight possible; sacrificing some beauty by hiding weight in its depth. If cut to excellent standards and weighing 1.05 carats this diamond should have a diameter around 6.50mm, instead it measures 6.30mm in diameter. Perhaps the cutter felt there wasn’t the need to maximize brilliance when the diamond was destined to be an I2 clarity with a J colour. Please don’t dismiss this diamond, it’s still got a lot of fire and sparkle for the money! You’ll be surprised how far $3,080.00 can go when purchasing an estate diamond from Bill Le Boeuf Jewellers. The shoulders of the ring are set with 12 petite I1-H round brilliant cut diamonds that push the total carat weight to 1.25 carats. All told the 14 karat white gold ring weighs 2.3 grams and currently measures a finger size 7 with some room to adjust up or down. Estate priced at $3,080.00 CAD. Stock #e11579.

SOLD

June 10, 2018

1.22ct. tw. I1-G princess cut ring set 10.3gr. 14kt. $4,998.00 CAD. e11531

Like pretty much everything in this world, diamonds are priced in United States dollars then converted to your local currency when you purchase them. When Bill Le Boeuf Jewellers purchases new diamonds from New York, India, Israel etc. the vendors don’t want to be paid in Canadian dollars, Indian rupee or the Israel shekel. Diamond dealers only accept United States dollars. That’s all fine as long as you have USD to pay for them. If you don’t, the U.S. cash is going to cost you a few percent to buy because of bank currency exchange fees. The great thing about our estate diamonds is that they are usually bought in Canada. We buy them with Canadian dollars and sell them in Canadian dollars. It may not sound like very much but saving a few percent on a diamond purchase makes a noticeable difference. At one point or another all Canadian diamond dealers lose a couple of percent buying U.S. dollars to pay for new diamonds; they then lose a couple more selling Canadian dollars in order to buy USD so they can buy more diamonds from foreign suppliers. It’s a vicious circle that our estate inventory is thankfully not part of, making us extra competitive (let’s just keep it our little secret). This 1.02 carat diamond was recently traded in for something different. It measures a very square 5.41mm x 5.46mm x 3.85mm. The clairty grade of I1 keeps the price in check but still exhibits very good transparency and optics. Compared to our Gemological Institute of America master diamonds the colour grades a very impressive G. Some advantages of estate diamonds: they are usually bigger, sometimes better and ALWAYS less expensive than buying new. This ready to go estate diamond ring set is in like new condition showing no wear of any kind. Its fresh, scuff free rhodium finish over 14 karat white gold has it looking brand new. The Canadian made set weighs an impressive 10.3 grams in a finger size 7 1/4 and fits together with puzzle piece precision. Our onsite goldsmiths can adjust the size to perfectly fit almost anyone. Bead set across the top of the rings are 20 small brilliant cut diamonds adding a conservative 0.20 carats of additional SI-HI sparkle. These rings will be sold as a set only for the estate price of $4,998.00 CAD. Stock #e11531.

SOLD

June 6, 2018

2.16ct. tw. VS-HI anniversary ring 8.9 18kt. $3150.00 CAD. e11517

High quality and big sparkle are the name of the game for this ring. It’s a heavy weight coming in at 8.9 grams made from premium 18 karat white gold. Three perfectly cut straight channels each contain 12 matching princess cut diamonds of VS clarity and HI colour. The 36 diamonds add up to an estimated 2.16 carats in weight. 9.0mm in width made in a finger size of 7 this ring is adjustable up or down one size. Lightly worn, freshly refinished and looking like new. No dents or dings on the flat shank or the sharp crisp edges. Excellent value at the estate price of $3150.00. That’s less than $100.00 per diamond. Stock #e11517.

SOLD

June 1, 2018

Platinum 2.26ct. diamond & garnet Art Deco dinner ring $4,760.00 CAD. e9263

One look at this ring and you’ll understand why estate jewellery can be so exciting. You never know what sort of exotic rare item may turn up in our ever changing estate department. This is a good one. From overall design and condition to the high quality diamonds with small accent green garnets, this is a very special item. If you’re a little bit familiar with garnet you know that they usually occur in a reddish brown colour. While dark reddish brown is the most common hue it’s possible for garnet to come if every colour of the rainbow (except blue). The yellowish green variety in this ring are the most rare and are almost never seen or used in modern jewellery.  Demantoid-Andradite as they are known were occasionally seen in Art Deco designs like this from the 1920s. Demantoid is one of the rarest gems in the world. They were discovered in the Russian Ural mountains in the mid to late 1800s. They are quite unique not only because of the rich colour they possess but by the high refractive index and dispersion they exhibit. In fact they are more dispersive than even a diamond. With dwindling supply and the turn to communism by Russia the mysterious green garnet became less popular. Although most of the 22 square and trapezoid cut examples in this ring are well worn, scratched and chipped you can instantly recognize how special they are. When we received this ring one stone was missing. We couldn’t find a matching example anywhere so we ended up custom cutting a green tsavorite garnet that matches okay but lacks the high refractive index thus appearing a little more see through. The rest of this ring is just plain old high quality Art Deco design typical of the era. 32 bead set European cut diamond of VS-G quality supply approximately 2.26 carats of antique bling. Beautiful filigree, milgrain and hand engraving are details you won’t see in modern jewellery. Thankfully the original maker of the ring decided to use platinum. Platinum is the most durable of all the precious metals used in jewellery. Despite being close to 100 years old the ring is in great condition showing almost all its original features. The size 6.75 ring weighs 7.5 grams and can be adjusted in size if required. It’s an incredible ring that is ready to sparkle for the next 100 years. Estate priced at $4,760.00. Stock #e9263.

SOLD

April 15, 2018

1.26ct. tw. SI1-I diamond halo ring 18 karat $4813.00 CAD. e11067

This scalloped edge halo ring has always been one of our favorites. In fact it’s been a favorite even before everyone started calling them halos. 10 years ago it was part of a brand new vintage inspired line of engagement rings out of New York. We even featured this style ring in our yellow pages advertising for a few years. While we no longer spend any money advertising in the yellow pages the ring continues to be one of our most beloved designs. The scalloped edge is much more interesting and softer than a sharp edged square frame. The 62 small brilliant cut diamonds are pave set in the frame in a wave format adding to the intrigue. In total, 90 tiny diamonds contribute 0.26 carats of very good quality SI-HI sparkle. The centre diamond weighs exactly 1.00 carat, is of SI1 clarity, “I” colour and average cut. As seen through this photomicrograph a small dark inclusion at 11 o’clock just outside centre sets the grade. Notice how much nicer a properly graded SI1 looks. At Bill Le Boeuf Jewellers we have experienced GIA trained diamond graders and Gemologist to assist you with any questions you may have about diamond grading and evaluation. We love to demonstrate all aspects of diamond grading to anyone interested in learning more about them. The ring is brand new never worn. One of our favorite things to do at BLJ is remounting  previously experienced estate diamonds into new jewellery items. It’s a great way to stretch your jewellery budget. Save a ton of money on a large diamond and get a new setting with fantastic style without compromise. The 3.4 gram ring has been crafted from premium 18 karat white gold palladium alloy. Palladium alloy offers better resistance to corrosion and chemicals while offering a superior white colour. “Upcycling” estate diamonds and jewellery is efficient, environmentally friendly plus equally friendly to your budget. Protecting your wallet is what value is all about. Great design and excellent value is what we’ve been doing at Bill Le Boeuf Jewellers in the same downtown Barrie location since 1958. This half new half estate ring is priced at just $4813.00 CAD. Stock #e11067.

SOLD

January 20, 2018

18kt. 1.01ct. VS2-L (1.36ct. tw.) diamond ring 3.5gr. $4970.00 CAD. e11270

We understand the frustrations other jewellers must feel with the proliferation of online competition. If you’re trying to sell jewellery using traditional methods and margins you don’t have a chance. High rent, high markups and an ever increasingly informed consumer will be the undoing of any store that isn’t nimble and efficient. After 60 years of doing business from our building at 52 Dunlop Street West in Downtown Barrie we know quite a bit about being efficient. Did you know mall rents can exceed $300.00 per square foot in large urban areas and that doesn’t include the significant commission paid to the landlord based on gross sales. This means a 3000 square foot store can have monthly rent payments of over $80,000! Owning our own building gives us an easy advantage over most as our monthly rent has been zero for decades. The knowledge acquired by many years of experience buying/selling diamonds by our certified diamond graders and gemologist mean we know diamonds better than anyone. Our large estate inventory of loose and mounted diamonds is far better priced than anything new, including online retailers. Our latest diamond ring offering is this knockout combination of estate diamond with brand new setting. The setting has never been worn or used before. 18 karat white gold weighing 3.3 grams, bead set with 28 small round single cut diamonds of SI-HI quality. The centre diamond came to us when it was recently traded for a larger diamond in a custom made ring from Bill Le Boeuf Jewellers. This very good cut diamond measures 6.53mm x 4.02mm and weighs 1.01 carats. Many 1.00 carat diamonds of very good cut look much smaller with diameters of only 6.2mm or so. Compared with our certified Gemological Institute of America (GIA) master diamonds the colour was determined to be a slightly warmer L. Looking at it in a typical viewing situation it shows a very slight tint. Its sparkle and dispersion resulting from a very good cut overpower the slightly softer colour. Medium to strong blue fluorescence as seen in this photo help to cancel some of the complimentary faint yellow tint. The clarity of the diamond is a solid VS2. Only a couple of small white crystal inclusions can be resolved with strong magnification in dark field illumination. To a naked eye these small marks at 11:00 are impossible to resolve.  If you’re reading this post the internet brought you here. While you’e online have a look around, we’re confident you’ll not find a better value anywhere. Most jewellers tell you to avoid the dark world of “e-tailors”. Online research can be a great source of knowledge. The internet isn’t going anywhere. Have a look around then contact us. We can and do compete; we’ll exceed any offering from online diamond vendors. This finished ring is available for only $4970.00 CAD. Stock #e11270.

SOLD

January 8, 2018

1.01ct. I1-H GIA certified 18kt. halo ring (1.25ct. tw.) $4669.00 CAD. e11068

Take a bright 1.01 carat GIA certified estate diamond, set it into a brand new split shank halo setting from New York and you’ve got the ingredients for a beautiful engagement ring. Not only do you have a great current style engagement ring that has been one of our most popular, you’ve got it for significantly less compared with all new. The estate centre diamond measures 6.35mm diameter nicely filling the diamond halo frame setting. An I1 clarity with H colour and good cut provide a significant look without breaking the budget. Scattered twinning wisps with a few small white feather inclusions set the clarity grade but aren’t distracting and do little to adversely affect the brilliance. A very nice H colour is considered next to colourless. A good overall cut grade allows the rainbow of dispersion to dazzle any observer. Because it has been graded by the Gemological Institute of America you can count on an accurate non biased opinion of quality that won’t be questioned. Bill Le Boeuf Jewellers are proud to offer GIA certified diamonds on many of our new and estate inventory. The February 2010 GIA dossier report can be seen online here. The setting features 46 small round brilliant cut diamonds bead set throughout the cushion shaped halo plus half way around the split shank. All the small diamonds are of SI-GH quality and are expertly set using 4 tiny beads on each. The 3.0 gram ring is brand new and unworn from New York designer Naledi. Have a look at their website, if you see any other designs you like we can likely supply an estate diamond and do the same as this featured ring. The ring has been cast from premium quality 18 karat palladium alloy white gold. Palladium alloy offers better resistance to corrosion and chemicals while offering a superior white colour. “Upcycling” estate diamonds and jewellery is efficient, environmentally friendly plus equally friendly to your budget. Protecting your wallet is what value is all about. Great design and excellent value is what we strive for at Bill Le Boeuf Jewellers for close to 60 years. This half new half estate ring is priced at just $4669.00 CAD. Stock #e11068.

SOLD

January 1, 2018

0.81ct. VS1-F transition cut diamond solitaire ring 2.2gr. 14kt. $ 4515.00 CAD. e11324

Is a return to basics coming back to engagement ring design? The halo style has been the favorite for the past few years. Round, cushion and now oval shaped halos are very popular, but the traditional round solitaire setting has been showing a resurgence in popularity lately. Nothing displays diamonds unique optical properties better than a simple 4 or 6 prong setting with a high quality, good sized diamond perched proudly on top. I’m sure our latest estate diamond was a huge hit when it was first presented to the recipient approximately 80 years ago. Today the diamond looks fantastic set in this ultra basic 14 karat white gold 4 prong solitaire of modern construction. The ring currently measures a smallish size 4 1/3 with room to be made larger if needed. The diamond is a transition cut manufactured sometime around the 1930 to 1940s. These diamonds mark a short period in time when diamond cutting technology was “transitioning” from Old European cut geometry to what today is known as the round brilliant cut. They exhibit some of the charming characteristics of antique diamonds (wider pavilion main facets, shorter lower girdle facets) and much of the optical efficiencies of excellent cut modern diamonds. The brilliance and dispersion offered by these hybrid cut diamonds is amazing. My personal opinion; when they are well cut they face up as nice or better than a modern diamond with a certified excellent cut grade. Our example weighs 0.81 carats with a strong clarity grade of VS1. The small grade setting crystal inclusion is difficult to see even with our microscope. I couldn’t capture it with any type of meaningful scale, but from this photomicrograph it’s easy to see this diamond is of very high clarity. When judged against our GIA certified master diamonds the colour grade was determined to be a F. Dimensions of 6.00mm – 6.10mm x 3.48mm give it a footprint of many modern diamonds close weighing close to 1.00 carat in weight. In style 80 years ago, in style today and likely in style 50 years from now too. Good taste and great value never go out of style. Estate priced at $4515.00 CAD. Stock #e11324.

SOLD

December 20, 2017

Pretty in pink. 1.28ct. tw. I1-I 14kt. rose gold halo $4585.00 CAD. e10854

If you’re secretly in love with the popular modern halo designs but still want to put your own stamp on it, how about doing it in pink gold? Of the numerous halo designs we’ve done over the years I’d estimate around 95% were made in white gold or platinum with the odd one done in a more traditional yellow gold. This 14 karat rose/pink gold creation one of just a handful we’ve done in soft tone rose gold. The American made 3.4 gram setting has a tight 9.7mm diameter halo assembled set with 16 high quality VS-GH round brilliant cut diamonds. Secured nice and low in the brand new, never worn ring is a 1.07 carat round brilliant cut estate diamond of I1-I quality with a good cut and no fluorescence. Take advantage of our large collection of estate diamonds. Start with a great value estate diamond and we’ll put it in a brand new production ring like this or let us custom make the ring of your dreams. You get unmatched savings using high quality estate diamonds and the satisfaction of getting exactly what you want in a new or custom made setting. This is the type of specialty assembly that Bill Le Boeuf Jewellers does so efficiently. We’ve been doing it at the same downtown Barrie location since 1958. So believe us when we say, Nobody does “I do” like we do. This ready to go finished ring is estate priced at an unsurpassed value of just $4585.00 CAD. Stock #e10854.

SOLD

0.78ct. SI2-G (1.63ct. tw.) engagement/wedding set 14kt. 6.9gr. $4060.00 CAD. e11101

This romantic engagement and wedding band set has been covered in delicate detail. All three faces of each ring have been hand set with a total of 95 petite round brilliant cut diamonds and accented with careful millgrain. Leaving only the tips of the four main prongs as high polished accents to the 0.78 carat SI2-G round brilliant cut center. Together the set contains 1.63 carats of SI-GH sparkle, catching the light from every angle. The made in Canada 14 karat set shows off it’s excellent quality through its impressive 6.9 gram weight. Currently the rings measure 6 1/2 with  limited room to adjust up or down. Estate price $4060.00 CAD. Stock #e11101.

SOLD

December 15, 2017

1.20ct. tw. halo diamond ring SI-GH 14kt. 4.3gr. $4270.00 CAD. e11157

What’s the secret to staying in business for 60 years in the same location. Simple really, respect your customers, always look out for their best interests, know your craft, seek out the best value and control your costs. 2018 marks our 60th anniversary in downtown Barrie and we couldn’t be happier with how things have turned out. Sure we could have opened additional locations or moved into the next trendy mall, but we like it here. Even before Bill Le Boeuf opened his doors in 1958 our building housed a jeweller. Since it was built in the 1940s there has always been a jeweller at 52 Dunlop Street West. Our latest ring showcases why we’ve been able to earn the trust and respect of generations of customers. High quality and fantastic value are always what we provide. No song and dance, no slick marketing, just quality at a great price. The estate centre diamond weighs 0.82 carats and is of a nice SI2 clarity, very good G colour, good cut, an ever so slight fluorescence and a large footprint of 6.2mm give this diamond a really big look. The brand new halo setting goes a long way to making the diamond look even larger.  The setting is made by New York based manufacturer/designer naledi. Their high quality rings feature generous weight 14 karat settings using good quality SI-GH accent diamonds. We let the factory do what they do efficiently, then we supply a great estate centre diamond and do the final assembly in house. This formula lets our customers have their cake and eat it too. On point contemporary style along with a truly great price isn’t necessarily exclusive to Bill Le Boeuf Jewellers but 60 years experience, low overhead and an incredible staff of the best in the business give us a huge advantage.   The ring is ready to go in a finger size 6 1/2. If you need it custom fit our team can have it adjusted in just a day or two. Come in, give us a call or send us an email. See why our community has voted us Barrie’s best jewellery more times than I can remember. This estate ring is estate priced at only $4270.00 CAD. Stock #11157.

SOLD

November 25, 2017

1.23ct. tw. GIA certified custom diamond ring $3360.00 CAD. e11198

This one is nice enough to deserve 4 pictures. There’s a lot going on with this ring; it needs at least 4 photographs for you to appreciate the fine detail in the design. In its basic form it’s a simple cathedral shoulder solitaire engagement ring. Above the halfway point it’s covered with 46 expertly bead set small round brilliant cut diamonds of very nice VS-H quality. On both vertical sides and across the top of the shoulders these little diamonds give it the fully dressed look with sparkle to spare. For me it’s the fine milgrain detail separating the three distinct rows of diamonds that makes this ring so attractive. The 6.2 gram 14 karat white gold custom made ring measures the average lady’s finger size of 6.5. Our onsite goldsmiths can complimentary adjust the size as needed in just a day or two. The centre diamond measures 5.85mm diameter and is certified by the GIA as weighing 0.81 carats of SI1-L quality with a very good cut. Always make sure the diamond you are considering is GIA certified or comes with a money back guarantee. There are many diamonds out there and many are incorrectly graded. With a Gemological Institute of America report you can be confident your diamond has been graded with an impartial opinion by an organization who do not have an interest in the sale. The GIA report on this diamond can be seen here. This ring is in like new condition showing almost no wear. The milgrain detail, bead work, claws and shank edges are still very crisp and sharp. A high end designer ring like this could easily sell for $2500.00 to $3000.00 not including the centre stone. The entire ring is estate priced at just $3360.00 CAD. Stock #e11198.

SOLD

November 15, 2017

Tanzanite & diamond ring 1.97ct. total weight 18kt. gold $3,920.00 CAD. e9282

We’re up to our old tricks again, turning something old into something new. This excellent quality dark violet/blue Tanzanite came to us in a less than inspiring gents ring. The two shoulder diamonds were matched from our extensive inventory of loose estate stones. Over the past 60 years we’ve created countless custom designs, but the traditional trinity style is one of our favorites and most popular. Abstract and unusual are interesting for a while but a classic look stands the test of time. Our clients and customers must be of similar opinion because combinations like this always sell through. When made up from excellent quality estate components the outstanding value is obvious. For this ring we’ve used over 3 grams of premium 18 karat white gold. The shoulder diamonds weigh a combined 0.96 carats and are of very good SI1 clarity, I colour with very good cut. A 6mm 1.01 carat round faceted natural Tanzanite is the centerpiece. This rare and exotic gem is only found in Tanzania Africa and the single source isn’t going to last forever. The finest Tanzanite colour approaches that of the best Burmese sapphire but at only one tenth the cost. We’ve made the ring in average size 6 1/2. One of our onsite goldsmiths can adjust the size up or down in as little as one day. Estate priced at $3,920.00. Stock #e9282.

October 20, 2017

20.50ct. tw. aquamarine & diamond ring 15gr. 18kt. $3150.00 CAD. e11009

Most people know Aquamarine is the birthstone for March but did you know that aquamarine is in the same mineral family as emerald; beryl. Unlike emeralds which most often form heavily included, aquamarine forms mostly eye clean. That crystal clarity paired with its greenish blue to blue colour range and high sparkle form its name. Aqua is Latin for water and marina means “of the sea”, looking into the cool depths of this 20 carat natural aquamarine you can almost hear waves lapping on a white sand beach. The impressive emerald cousin has certainly been given the recognition it deserves in this one of a kind hand made ring. Solidly constructed from 11 grams of top quality 18 karat white gold the 21.45mm wide statement ring was made to turn heads. Shouldering the aquamarine are geometric stepped platforms pave set with 0.50 carats of lively VS-FG round single cut diamonds. Weighing in at an impressive 15 grams the red-carpet-ready ring measures finger size 9 with room to adjust. Accompanied by a Gem Lab 2008 Appraisal Report stating a retail replacement value of $6150.00 CAD. Our idea of an appropriate replacement value is a slightly more competitive $4500.00. Our estate price of $3150.00 CAD represents a hard to beat value. Perfect condition, hardly worn with original white rhodium finish fully intact. Stock #e11009.

SOLD

September 24, 2017

Simon G MR2173-D 0.94ct. tw. diamond ring 18kt. $3250.00 CAD.

I suppose stranger things have happened but this is the second Simon G MR2173-D diamond ring show up in our estate department in less than 1 month. This time the 18 karat white gold setting contains a bright white very good cut G colour round brilliant cut diamond with an I1 clarity. Measuring over 5.7mm diameter this 0.71 carat diamond looks larger than the actual weight suggests; especially when perched on the very thin and delicate diamond set shank. 14 small high quality VS-FG round diamonds appear as if they’re floating on the band. Each shoulder diamond is secured with 4 tiny claws covering only what is required to keep them in place. On a smaller finger the effect is quite stunning. The ring weighs 2.1 grams in the current size 5. MR2173-D has a suggested retail price of $1788.00 CAD without any type of centre stone. To get a finished Simon G ring that looks this good for only $3250.00 CAD makes for excellent value. The ring appears unworn and still carries the original factory rhodium finish. We are privileged to have Simon G as our premium designer brand. Their unique designs are manufactured with only top quality components like 18 karat gold and platinum. They only use VS-FG diamonds for accent stones to insure lots of twinkle. More of their designs can be seen on the Simon G website. Stock #e8965.

SOLD

August 25, 2017

2.00ct. total weight I1-H diamond engagement set 14kt. $3,728.00 CAD. e10426

If priority number one for your engagement set is blinding brilliance than you really need to stop by and try this set on. You’ll be stunned by how much bright white and spectral coloured light the 2.00 carats of round brilliant cut diamonds throw with the slightest movement. Those flashes make the I1-H quality diamonds appear virtually eye clean in person. The wedding band’s five diamonds have been thoughtfully graduated. The largest diamond in the center helps pull the eye in towards the engagement ring’s main stone. Both pieces have raised brushed shoulders to balance the brilliance of the diamonds. All told the 14 karat white gold set is very well made by Toronto based Libman & Co., yet another Canadian jewellery manufacturer who’s crumbled in today’s ultra competitive market. The set weighs a sturdy 8.7 grams and currently measures a finger size 5 with room to size up. Accompanied by a 2008 Gem Scan Laboratories certificate of evaluation stating an optimistic replacement value of $6,200.00 (just for the engagement ring). Our competitive estate price for the set is  only $3,728.00 CAD. Stock #e10426.

SOLD

July 10, 2017

1.16ct. I2-M 18kt. white gold diamond solitaire $3360.00 CAD. e5442

In the 1930s, during the Great Depression, very few women received engagement rings and if they did they would contain only a tiny diamond. For this antique solitaire engagement ring to hold a 1.16 carat round brilliant cut diamond says a great deal about the gentleman who bought it and the position he must have held. That unheard of size (for the times), makes the lower I2 clarity and the champagne M colour completely forgivable. Even by today’s standards this diamond is quite nice considering the paper grade. As with most diamonds you really need to see them in person. The grade setting inclusions sits dead center and is mostly disguised by the diamonds warmer colour. The delicate 2.1 gram 18 karat white gold mount still retains a good amount of fine detail with its hand engraved shoulders. The ring measures an antique appropriate finger size 5 with room to adjust. Estate price for this roughly 85 year old ring, $3360.00 CAD. Stock #e5442.

SOLD

June 29, 2017

0.79ct. I2-E very good cut GIA certified. 1.29ct. tw. 14kt. $4080.00 CAD. e10885

When I was being trained to become a gemologist, 5 words got drilled into my head when considering a possible clarity grade: size, shape, number, colour and location. On paper you may not think much of an I2 clarity diamond but you know what, this diamond looks really good. Those 5 words explain why certain I2 diamonds look much better than others. The small inclusions are not visible to the naked eye. The small size makes their shape merely an academic point. There are a good number of inclusions but not so many as they drastically affect the transparency. The inclusions black and white colour also makes them difficult to detect as they get lost in the brilliance from the very good cut. The dispersed locations of the small inclusions keep them from reflecting too much throughout the crystal. All things considered this is one hell of a good looking I2. The very good polish, excellent symmetry and no fluorescence dosen’t hurt the overall look either. The full December 2017 Gemological Institute of America report can be seen by clicking here. The bright 0.79 carat has been assigned a certified E colour (one grade from the absolute best!). We’ve decided to set the diamond into a brand new naledi round halo design. Their 14 karat round halo design contains 0.50 carats of additional SI1-GH sparkle. The 3.7 gram ring measures the average ladies finger size of around 6 1/2. Our onsite goldsmiths can adjust the size up or down within size or so. We can also order this setting to hold any size diamond you may already have. The setting alone is priced from $2450.00 (as shown on the naledi corporate website). This entire ring with centre GIA certified diamond is priced at only $4080.00 CAD. Stock #e10885.

SOLD

June 16, 2017

18kt. gold 1.03ct. tw. SI1-G Canadian diamond ring $3080.00 CAD. e10481

There is something our Canadian government has done that has been heralded across the world as a positive example for the treatment of indigenous peoples. In 2003 the government put the Yukon Act into effect which gave the Yukon the kind of autonomy the provinces enjoyed. The Yukon government, First Nations Council, and key First Nations groups were granted much greater control over their natural resources and land management. The Yukon was also given a revenue sharing program meaning they directly benefit from the responsible development of their resources. In 2013 the same rights were granted to the North West Territories and negotiations are on-going to implement this in Nunavut. The population of the territories is 52% First Nations, this devolution means that First Nations communities get to make decisions about how their land is used. They are responsible for the effects of mining on the environment and aboriginal governments earn a quarter of the revenue the territories collect from its resources. It’s not perfect but it was a bold first step towards undoing past injustices and has been used as a progress model in reform talks in many countries. That progress is one of the reasons that justifies the price premium associated with Canadian diamonds. This documented and certified 0.53 carat SI1-G from the North West Territories is bit more expensive than a generic diamond from other international locations. For many people the ethics associated with Canadian diamonds is well worth it. The slight premium for this diamond is quickly forgotten when you see just how pretty it is. It displays the sought after hearts and arrows pattern when view through polarized light that only an excellent cut diamond will. This Canadian diamond also happens to come from the Canadian retailer Charm Diamond Centers. The ring goes above and beyond ordinary quality. Manufactured from 2.8 grams of high quality 18 karat white gold which has been alloyed with allergy neutral palladium instead of nickle. It’s been accented with an additional 0.50 carats of high quality VS-SI-FG diamonds for a total estimated weight of 1.03 carats. As proof of the ethical origins the main diamond has been laser inscribed on the girdle with a unique serial number and is accompanied by a Certificate of Origin card. The ring currently measures a finger size 6 3/4 with some room to adjust. It’s accompanied by a July 2010 Gem Scan Laboratories Certificate of Valuation listing a replacement value $5700.00 CAD. Excellent condition and estate priced at just $3080.00 CAD. Stock #e10481.

SOLD

June 10, 2017

0.72ct. SI2-I princess cut custom solitaire 14kt. gold $3175.00 CAD. e7597

An exercise in simplicity. A single square princess cut diamond in a bezel setting with a flat shank solitaire setting. A clean tailored design made in Canada by T&T design Toronto. The ring measures 6.9mm wide tapering to 3.4mm. Low and out of the way the diamond sits only 4.5mm off the finger. The custom made 14 karat white gold ring weighs 6.1 grams and is made completely solid, only a small opening behind the diamond was left for easier cleaning. If you’re not one for the latest trend of halo clusters and diamond embellished settings this could be one to consider. The centre princess cut diamond weighs just under 3/4 of a carat with a good SI2-I quality and a good cut. This ring is only 1 year old and is in perfect condition. A simple rhodium plating after sizing and it would be indistinguishable from new. Any flat edge wedding ring or anniversary ring will fit perfectly. No need to buy an expensive matching ring when the time comes. Estate priced at $3175.00. Stock #e7597.

SOLD

April 20, 2017

0.82ct. tw. halo engagement ring SI2-E 14kt. $3075.00 CAD. e10847

Take a bright 0.56 carat SI2-E estate diamond, set it into a brand new split shank halo setting from New York and you’ve got the ingredients for a beautiful engagement ring. Not only do you have a great current style engagement ring you’ve got it for significantly less compared with all new. The estate centre diamond measures 5.3mm diameter nicely filling the diamond halo frame setting. An SI2 clarity with E colour and very good cut may just possibly offer the best sparkle vs. cost ratio out there. The SI2 clarity looks perfect without magnification although there is a small white feather in the 3:00 o:clock position just inside the table border. An E colour diamond offers a discount over a perfect D but looks the same once set. The setting features 46 small round brilliant cut diamonds bead set throughout the cushion shaped halo plus half way around the split shank. All the small diamonds are of SI-GH quality and are expertly set using 4 tiny beads on each. The 2.5 gram ring is brand new and unworn from New York designer Naledi. Have a look at their website, if you see any other designs you like we can likely supply an estate diamond and do the same as this featured ring. “Upcycling” estate diamonds and jewellery is efficient, environmentally friendly plus equally friendly to your budget. Protecting your wallet is what value is all about. Great design and excellent value is what we’ve strived for at Bill Le Boeuf Jewellers for close to 60 years. This half new half estate ring is priced at only $3075.00 CAD. Stock #e10847.

SOLD

March 10, 2017

14 karat white gold sapphire & diamond dinner ring $4340.00 CAD. e770

Now this is a ring with a little history. My dad sold this ring new over 40 years ago to a local lady who wore it proudly only for special events. Sadly she passed away a while back but before she did she gave us the opportunity to purchase it as she didn’t live the life style any longer to wear it very much. This ring has a hard to find high quality emerald cut blue sapphire weighing approximately 2.10 carats surrounded by two rows of round brilliant cut diamonds (36 in total) weighing 1.50 carats. The sapphire is a beautiful medium to dark cornflower blue colour with excellent clarity and the diamonds are also of excellent quality VS-FG. This ring weighs 8.1 grams and is in like new condition because it was a very cherished piece only worn when the occasion warranted. A little bit of Bill Le Boeuf Jewellers history goes with this piece. It is estate priced at $4340.00 CAD. Stock #e770.

SOLD

March 1, 2017

One of a kind hand engraved engagement set $3150.00 CAD. e6342

OK he had his chance. We custom made this ring for a customer last November and he never came in to pick it up. His loss may be your gain. This is a one of a kind 14 karat white gold solitaire containing a 0.70 carat SI1-J round brilliant cut diamond. The traditional flat shank has been expertly hand engraved on all sides by the finest hand engraver in Canada. The detail really does need to be seen to be fully appreciated. The 2 piece set is priced at $3150.00 CAD. Stock #e6342.

SOLD

February 27, 2017

0.91ct. VS2-H GIA cert. cushion halo 1.50ct. tw. $4200.00 CAD. e10524

A well made engagement ring is nothing without a deserving diamond to crown it and none are more deserving than a GIA certified center. The Gemological Institute of America is the golden standard for diamond grading and a report issued by them is your assurance of getting an accurate, independent unbiased 3rd party opinion. A GIA certified diamond above an SI2 clarity grade can be confidently purchased site unseen from anywhere in the world. This particular cushion cut is an eye clean VS2 clarity and near colourless H with very good polish, excellent symmetry and no fluorescence. The 5.50mm x 5.28mm x 3.69mm slightly rectangular cushion shape weighs 0.91 carat. The full GIA certificate can be seen online here.The ring that houses it is custom made  of excellent quality. Made from 3.8 grams of robust 14 karat white gold and 0.595 carats of very well cut VS-SI-GH round brilliants. Those additional diamonds make for a perfect total estimated weight of 1.50 carats and wrap gracefully around the halo top, sides and over half way down each shoulder. As an extra treat for the wearer the solidly built undergallery is graced by two top quality cornflower blue sapphires. The well made, carefully designed engagement ring currently measures a petite finger size 5 with some room to size up. Estate price $4200.00 CAD. Stock #e10524.

SOLD

February 15, 2017

18kt. white gold 1.64 carat emerald & diamond ring $3850.00 CAD. e9831

Most emeralds you encounter are cut to be very thick and deep. This allows gems with a weaker colour to become more saturated. This 1.64 carat emerald had the exact opposite problem; it’s colour was so deeply saturated it had to be cut a little thinner than normal to avoid the colour becoming too dark. The stone still ended up being slightly more saturated than you normally see. It almost resembles the vivid colour of created synthetic emeralds. Unlike the crystal clear look of a created emerald, inclusions that are visible with the naked eye are the norm for natural gems (especially emeralds). Eye clean, high quality natural emeralds of this size can cost up to $10000.00 and are incredibly rare. With that in mind this emerald has good clarity showing evenly dispersed “jardin” with large areas that are eye clean. To really set off the deep green the ring also features a rectangular halo of 20 scintillating VS-IJ round brilliant cut diamonds totalling an estimated weight of 0.55 carats. The ring is made from high quality 18 karat white gold in a finger size 6. Our on site goldsmiths are able to adjust the finger size up or down in just a day or two. The ring weighs 4.6 grams and is accompanied with an insurance appraisal from 1993 valuing the ring at a slightly optimistic $10360.00 CAD. Our estate price $3850.00 CAD. Stock #e9831.

SOLD

January 30, 2017

1.58ct. tw. I1-H “Celebration Grand” Canadian diamond $3735.00 CAD. e10596.

People’s Celebration Grand is so named for what they claim to be a 14% increase in the diamonds spread or footprint compared to other diamonds. A quick check of the diamonds dimensions indicate that it has the 61% depth percentage, which is standard for a very good to excellent cut diamond. I suppose in comparing it to average and poorly cut diamonds it would have a 14% larger footprint, but not compared to diamonds cut to proper round brilliant standards. Many jewellery retailors neglect to touch on a diamonds cut grade, as consumers seldom ask about this mysterious 4th of the 4Cs. By focusing their sales pitch on clarity, colour and carat weight instead they can save cost with average cut grades. Cut is just as important as any other characteristic and anyone shopping for a round brilliant diamond should spend equal energy educating themselves on that C as they do the other three. Slick marketing aside this is an excellent cut diamond and beautiful ring! It’s been cut to Hearts and Arrows standards and has had a Firetrace light analysis done to determine its level of brilliance, scintillation, and dispersion. As proof of the power of a good cut, the 0.58 carat diamond hardly shows its I1-H quality. It shows much cleaner and whiter to the unaided eye thanks to all that brilliance! The diamond is also of Canadian origin with a laser inscription across its girdle as proof of pedigree. The centre diamond is accented by an additional 1.00 carat of I1-HI accent diamonds all set into a robust 5.9 gram, 14 karat white gold halo engagement ring. The ring is equipped with a permanent ring guard that hugs the finger, preventing the top heavy ring from rolling over. Accompanying the ring is its original Peoples box and a 2014 Gem Scan Laboratories Firetrace report, diamond grading report, certificate of Canadian authenticity, and an estimated retail replacement value of $5300.00. The ring is currently listed on Peoples website for $5335.20. Our estate price $3735.00 CAD. Stock #e10596

SOLD

January 3, 2017

1.01ct. SI1-M 14kt. gold & platinum ring $3220.00 CAD. e7423

With estate jewellery it’s still possible to get a really great looking 1.00 carat diamond ring for around $3000.00. As an added bonus this particular ring was made in Canada. Constructed of 14 karat yellow gold with  platinum and enhanced with 10 brilliant cut accent diamonds running down the shoulders. Have a close look at the shoulder diamonds. They are set horizontally like a flight of stair steps, they are all facing straight up. The centre diamond measures approximately 6.2mm diameter of average cut and SI1 clarity with a M colour. The ring was made in Toronto and is of current design. The ring is in perfect condition looking brand new. Measuring a finger size 5.5 this ring should fit the average young ladies finger. Estate priced at $3220.00. Stock #e7423.

SOLD

November 27, 2016

1.34ct. total weight 18kt. halo diamond ring 5.1gr. $4025.00 CAD. e10565

We always have hundreds of estate diamonds at Bill Le Boeuf Jewellers. We often use them in combination with brand new jewellery of our own design or ready to set creations from other international suppliers. This 18 karat white gold halo design is a great example of a very popular style; it’s new and unworn. The New York manufactured ring is bead set with 30 small round brilliant cut diamonds of SI-GH quality that total 0.39 carats in weight. The antique European cut centre diamond comes from our large estate collection. Measuring 6.25mm (average diameter) x 3.72mm the 100 year old stone fit perfectly into the brand new setting. The antique European cut diamond suits the vintage inspired halo design quite well. A clarity of SI2 with a slightly warmer L colour helps to keep the price within reach despite the abundant sparkle and premium 5.1 grams 18 karat white gold/palladium alloy setting. Dollar for dollar it’s going to be pretty difficult to get more bling than this combination of antique estate diamond with brand new setting. Halo designs in all their many forms are still one of the most popular choices for engagement rings and right hand rings. Estate priced at $4025.00 CAD. Stock #e10565.

SOLD

November 22, 2016

1.12ct. I1-K diamond ring 14 karat gold 3.2 gr. $3480.00 CAD. e10514

A microscope or even a high quality camera can reveal characteristics that are practically or completely invisible to the naked eye. White feathers in this diamond are readily apparent in this magnified picture. Their location and position close to the outside circumference make them somewhat concealable with careful claw placement. When assembled in this 14 karat white gold solitaire setting they mostly disappear to the naked eye, making the diamond look more like a SI clarity As determined by our Gemological Institute of America master diamonds the colour grade is a slightly warm K. Don’t dismiss this as a yellow stone though; it’s strong blue fluorescence actually makes it face up more like an IJ. This picture was taken under a narrow spectrum of mostly long wave ultraviolet light. The filtered light demonstrates the very strong blue fluorescence really well. It’s not trick photography, this diamond will actually glows this eerie hue when exposed to filtered UV light. Weighing nicely over one carat with a diameter of 6.75mm the diamond has great finger presence. It’s currently set in a 3.2 gram, Canadian made, 14 karat white gold ring measuring a finger size 9. One of our onsite goldsmiths should be able to adjust it to fit almost any finger in just a day or two. It’s a ring that has to be seen in person to fully appreciate; for only $3480.00 I can’t believe it looks this good. If you have a different style ring in mind the diamond is a available alone for just $3180.00 CAD. Stock #e10514.

SOLD

November 15, 2016

14kt. 3 piece wedding set 1.10ct. tw. SI1-H 15.2gr. $3360.00 CAD. e10030

Most contoured bands are delicate compliments to the engagement ring they accompany. They’re typically made to match exactly or made with diamonds to contrast plain engagement ring shoulders or vise versa. Very few contoured bands do what these two do, completely change the look of the engagement ring. On its own the well made 14 karat yellow gold engagement ring is a classic take on the by-pass style. It features a very lively 0.40 carat high quality SI1-FG round brilliant cut diamond suspended between curving shoulders. Tuck the two 14 karat white gold contoured bands up against that center diamond and you have an entirely different ring. Each band features at its point one 0.25 carat round brilliant cut diamond of matching VS2-SI1-FG quality. In line with the center stone they change the focal direction of the set and draw the eye along the 0.24carat of bead set VS2-SI1-FG diamonds that adorn both bands. The contrasting high polished yellow gold and diamond studded white gold set currently measure finger size 8. The rings are accompanied by two 2009 True View appraisals listing the replacement value for the engagement ring at $3800.00 and the two contoured bands together at $3600.00. Estate price for the set only $3360.00 CAD. Stock #e10030.

SOLD

November 10, 2016

1.45ct. tw. Vera Wang “Love” 3 stone diamond ring $3150.00 CAD. e10469

  I doubt there is a name more synonymous with ‘wedding’ than Vera Wang. The renowned figure skater turned designer has had a varied career designing all manner of women’s wear and dress wear for men. Her body of work is hugely overshadowed by her wedding gowns, they’re arguably the most iconic and sought after gowns in the wedding world. Her success can be summed up with the quote from the 2009 Bride Wars “You do not alter a Vera Wang to fit you. You alter yourself to fit Vera.” She’s leveraged her bridal following by extending her empire into fine china for registries and a line of decadent bridal jewellery and engagement rings. The LOVE collection is signed with a hidden blue sapphire, the original gem used for engagement as it symbolizes truth, sincerity, and faithfulness. The two princess cut sapphires hidden in this oval three stone halo are carefully tucked into the Lucida style undergallery as a secret surprise for the wearer. As with most of Vera’s work the 5.6 gram 14 karat white gold engagement ring is head turning, measuring 12.1mm wide. The 1.45 carats of sparkling SI2-I1-I round brilliant and oval brilliant cut diamonds cover most of the ring, leaving the lower portion of the shank bare for sizing. Meaning that this particular Vera Wang can be altered to fit you. Model 19751213 is in brand new condition with its bright white rhodium finish still intact and comes complete with inner and outer LOVE box, white ribbon, travel pouch, and authenticity card. Currently listed on Peoples website for $5999 on sale for $5399 our most competitive estate price is just $3150.00 CAD. Stock #e10469.

SOLD

November 3, 2016

1.55ct. tw diamond ring 14 karat gold $3003.00 CAD. e9836

The ancient Romans believed peacocks to be a symbol of immortality and resurrection as their vibrant feathers never fade or lose their luster. The shockingly beautiful bird has been an obsession for artists all over the world in all artistic mediums for centuries. Even so, it was surprising to find those iconic tail feathers represented with 1.00 carat total weight of baguette and marquise cut diamonds. A rather subtle interpretation for such iridescent plumes as the high quality VS-H diamonds throw mostly white flashes with narrow slivers of refracted rainbow light. The eye spots or Ocellus of the feather have been represented here with marquise cut diamonds securely bezel set as the center piece of each 8.5mm wide shoulder. Not to be overlooked the center piece of the 5.3 gram ring is a 0.55 carat I1-H round brilliant cut diamond set proudly between those elaborate feather shoulders. The 14 karat yellow gold ring has had its top half rhodium plated to accentuate the brilliance of its 1.55 carats of diamonds. Estate price $3003.00 CAD. Stock #e9836.

SOLD

October 28, 2016

0.98ct. SI2-G GIA certified princess cut in platinum $4410.00 CAD (for the set). e10052

You can’t beat the look of a traditional diamond solitaire especially when its in premium platinum. The diamond just returned (November 2016) from The Gemological Institute of America with good results on certification of 0.98 carats, SI2 clarity, G colour, good symmetry, good polish and no fluorescence. The certificate can be seen at  www.gia.edu. Given the value of the diamond we opted to spend a little more and get the full report, including a plot of the grade setting inclusions along with having a unique certification serial number laser engraved along the girdle edge. The diamond is set in a simple 4 prong platinum solitaire setting weighing 4.0 grams. In addition to the GIA certificate the ring is accompanied by an appraisal from the spring of 2004. The document accurately describes the quality of the diamond and setting. The report places a rather optimistic price of $8265.00 as a retail replacement value. As an added bonus the engagement ring comes with a simple Tiffany style 2.5mm wide platinum wedding ring weighing 4.1 grams. Both rings measure just under a size 7 and are estate priced as a set for $4410.00 CAD. Diamond and settings are available separately. Stock numbers e10052 and e10053.

SOLD

October 3, 2016

3.00 carat total weight emerald cut diamond ring $4600.00 CAD. e6792

Emerald cut diamonds offer an interesting alternative to the many different shapes of brilliant cut diamonds available today. They show greater amounts of brilliance due to the step cut design of the facets. They are very tailored looking with their straight edges and parallel symmetry. The 5 emerald cut diamonds weigh approximately 2.35 carats combined weight and are of SI2-FG quality. Channel set down shoulders are 6 princess cut diamonds totalling 0.48 carats in weight of SI2-I1-H quality. 16 bead set small round diamonds along the shank edges make up the balance of 3.00 carats. The 18 karat white gold setting measures a size 5 and weighs 7.0 grams. The ring comes with the usual optimistic appraisal from Gem Grade suggesting a replacement value of $10400.00. We have this ring estate priced at $4600.00 CAD. Stock #e6792.

SOLD

September 20, 2016

2.38ct. total weight diamond ring 10.2gr. 14kt. white gold $3500.00 CAD. e10074

It’s refreshing to see a ring that’s been as thoughtfully and carefully designed as this 14 karat white gold statement of a ring. The 12.6mm wide ring looks like a soldered together wedding set, consisting of an engagement ring in the middle and contoured wedding and anniversary bands on either side. In fact the ring is, and always has been one piece. The solidly constructed ring is part of a shift in tastes that’s intriguing some brides to be, opting for one larger ring in the place of a traditional set. Whether you intend to wear it for engagement purposes or as a hardy right hand ring the 1.43 carats of well cut nice quality SI-H graduated round brilliant cut diamonds will turn heads. The crowning touch is the 0.95 carat I2-J round brilliant cut diamond that tips the total diamond weight to 2.38 carats. An added surprise for the wearer is the decorative filigree inside the band, decorated with swirling ribbons and hearts. The ring currently measures a finger size 9 with some room for adjustment. Estate price $3500.00 CAD. Stock #e10074.

SOLD

September 3, 2016

0.97ct. I1-G Celtic solitaire $4795.00 CAD. e8249

Discreet Celtic design trinity knot pattern forms the slightly raised shoulders on this popular design. The brand new 14 karat white gold ring weighs 3.8 grams and was hand made in Canada by Keltica.  It showcases a very bright G colour round brilliant cut estate diamond with a strong I1 clarity. The clarity call is due to a series of scattered tiny crystals that will go unnoticed except under extreme scrutiny. Measuring 6.28mm – 6.33mm x 3.87mm this well cut diamond weighs 0.97 carats allowing a nice discount over a 1.00 carat diamond of similar quality. Buying an engagement ring like this represents a great value. New ring plus estate diamond equals a great price. Our on site goldsmiths will size this ring if the current size 6 does not fit the recipient. Estate priced at $4795.00 CAD. Stock #e8249.

SOLD

August 15, 2016

Custom 10.6gr. 1.50ct. tw. VS-H trillion baguette ring $3150.00 CAD. e10204

Trillion cut diamonds are few and far between, when we do come across them they are often used as accent diamonds. This 0.41 carat trillion is one of the larger to come through our estate department in recent memory. Being a nicer SI-I quality, the unusual diamond has certainly earned its place as the center piece to this one of a kind custom made cocktail ring. The architecturally inspired ring spans a head turning 16.2mm wide. Each channel of top quality VS-H baguette cut diamonds has been tilted up, creating a kaleidoscope of bright light regardless of viewing direction. All totaled there are 31 baguette cut diamonds individually hand set into the ring for an estimated weight of 1.09 carats. The custom made ring is of course extremely solid, made from 10.6 grams of beautiful rich colour 14 karat yellow gold. With a strong shank and heavy channels this one of a kind wearable piece of art will last a lifetime. It’s outstanding value estate priced at just $3150.00 CAD. Stock #e10204.

SOLD

July 25, 2016

BIRKS plat. diamond ring set 1.25ct. tw. VS-GH $3000.00 CAD. e10245

These are some of the biggest baguette cut diamonds we’ve encountered. If you follow our estate inventory postings you know just how much we love baguettes when they’re used to showcase and frame a featured gem. This is the result when you assemble 7 baguettes that are the central feature. Graduated step cut baguettes assembled with geometric efficiency make for a very sophisticated and tailored look. What could possibly make us happier than showcasing an engagement ring with a conservative estimate of 1.25 carats of stunning VS1-GH baguette cut diamonds. Who better than Birks could have made such a unique statement ring from such top quality diamonds with over 7 grams of bright white platinum. The mesmerizing ring is accompanied by a narrow curving platinum band that complements without competing. The set measures a petite 4 1/4 with some room to adjust. A couple of the baguettes show a few microscopic chips on the corners but have zero effect on the overall sparkle. Included with purchase is an independent appraisal of value from Hake Jewellers of Barrie dated March 1997. Estate price for the set $3000.00 CAD. Stock #e10245.

SOLD

July 16, 2016

Custom emerald & diamond ring 1.78ct. tw. $4700.00 CAD. e9489

This ring is green in more ways than one. The beautiful natural emerald in the centre is obvious but the rest of the ring is also “green”. We’ve custom made it entirely using estate and recycled components. The two good sized shoulder diamonds weigh a combined 0.90 carats and average a bright SI2-I1-HI quality. They were sourced from trade in jewellery that wasn’t very attractive and needed remodeling. The freshly cast 4.3 grams of 18 karat white gold was obtained through the recycling of some old gold. As the area’s largest buyer and seller of estate jewellery Bill Le Boeuf Jewellers contributes 100s of ounces of gold and silver back into the world supply each year. Recycling or “upcycling” of valuable gems and precious metals is great for you and even better for the environment. You feel good knowing you’ve got the absolute best value for a custom made ring. The environment benefits as no new ground was turned over mining the gems and gold in the making of this ring. It also required far less energy to produce this one of a kind cathedral shoulder style. Finding a square emerald cut emerald is a little unusual. This one is just a little off square with measurements of 5.8mm x 5.4mm. Modern emeralds are almost universally oiled to enhance their transparency and colour. This vintage example appears to have no artificial enhancements of any kind. The cool soothing medium green colour is a textbook example of a fine Columbian emerald. We have many loose stones in stock just waiting for some creative inspiration. Consider the advantages of using an estate diamond or coloured stone for your next jewellery purchase. Everyone’s a winner. This ring is estate priced at just $4700.00 CAD. Stock #e9489.

SOLD

May 18, 2016

1.26ct. tw. diamond ring set VS-SI-GH 18kt. gold $3010.00 CAD.

One guarantee with estate jewellery is that every so often you’ll stumble upon something completely different and unexpected. This high quality wedding set utilizes one of our favorite accent diamonds, the baguette cut. They are all protectively set in a continues undulating channel of 18 karat white gold. A total of 54 baguette cuts set right against one another create a stunning prism of bright white light broken up by rainbow flashes. The 0.75 carats of high quality VS-H diamonds wrap half way across each ring so that no solid shank shows during wear. As the crowning finish, the engagement ring holds a 0.51 carat round brilliant cut diamond of sparkling SI1-GH quality and excellent cut. The engagement ring was custom made to match the existing wedding band by a Toronto designer and trade shop that Bill Le Boeuf Jewellers has had the pleasure of working with for many years. The 6.8 gram set measure a finger size 5 for the engagement ring and 5 1/2 for the wedding band. Estate price for the set $3010.00 CAD. Stock #e10255.

SOLD

April 22, 2016

Birks 18 karat yellow gold Cavelti 0.85ct. tw. diamond ring $3000.00 CAD.

Toni Cavelti is one of Birks most esteemed designers. A life long jeweller who’s Vancouver boutique workshop became part of the BIRKS brand when the premier Canadian luxury jewellery chain took over in 1999. Here’s a great article on Mr. Cavelti’s celebrated career from Monticristo magazine. This very well made Cavelti creation contains an estimated 0.75 carats of minimum VS-GH quality round brilliant diamonds secured in five graduated platinum bezel settings. The sturdy ring is constructed from 8.7 grams of 18 karat yellow gold and platinum measuring a finger size 5 1/2 with some room for adjusting the size as required. Estate price $3000.00 CAD. Stock #e9445.

SOLD

March 15, 2016

2.66ct. total weight diamond eternity ring (VS-SI-H) 14kt. gold $4130.00 CAD.

Clients are always looking for estate eternity rings, and for good reason. They are versatile, always in style, and when they’re estate the value can’t be beat. This example is a little different than the typical claw set versions we often see. 14 karat yellow gold is refreshing to see as many contemporary eternity rings are white gold. Made in a finger size 5.5 the 4.3 gram ring could easily be made bigger by at least a size or two by simply boring out the centre a bit. The thick tall scalloped edge channel could be opened up to close a size 7 without weakening the ring. 17 channel set round brilliant cut diamonds circle the ring adding up to an estimated 2.66 carats. Each of the diamonds are well matched of very good VS2-SI1-H quality. Each diamond weighs over 0.15 carats but look much bigger with the interesting bezel/channel setting.Excellent condition looking like new the ring is estate priced at $4130.00, that’s less than $250.00 per diamond. Stock #e8901.

SOLD

March 7, 2016

0.74ct. SI2-H diamond solitaire 14 karat white gold $3150.00 CAD.

There’s something to be said when it comes to the old saying “less is more”. Traditional solitaires like this push all the right buttons for many. In style today and in style tomorrow. Let’s face it, many people that come in looking for an engagement ring aren’t looking to reinvent the wheel. Sure you can do this style with a wide shank, a flat shank, tall setting or low setting but the basic design remains the same. This 14 karat white gold example was originally purchased at Jeff Walters Jewellers right here in Barrie. The simple 4 prong double gallery design measures the average ladies finger size 6.5 and weighs 3.5 grams. A typical production ring like this is available from virtually any jeweller. Expect to pay around $390.00 and up for something similar; the diamond size, shape, quality and price are up to you. Included is an original appraisal by Gem Review Inc. December 2010 report stating the diamond is of SI2 clarity, H colour with a reasonable assessment of $4995.00. The ring is in excellent condition needing nothing but an adjustment in size and a fresh rhodium plating to make it indistinguishable from new. Estate priced at $3150.00 CAD. Stock #e9005.

SOLD

March 5, 2016

1.30 carat total weight diamond ring 18 karat white gold $4700.00.

Diamonds are priced in US dollars then converted to the local currency they are being sold in. So finding a significantly sized, good looking diamond is becoming quite difficult with our falling Canadian dollar. The best way to combat a falling dollar when diamond shopping is to consider this combination. An estate diamond in a brand new setting. 2.3 gram 18 karat white gold halo style setting containing 40 small round brilliant cut diamonds of SI2-HI quality weighing a combined 0.26 carats. The estate centre diamond is a surprising bright I1 clarity, J colour with a good cut. This diamond faces up quite nice because the minor tint is an ever so slight grey compared to usual yellow hue most diamonds have. Measuring 6.30mm x 4.00mm the centre diamond weighs nicely over the carat mark at 1.04. Exhibiting no fluorescence is an added benefit. Buying an estate diamond in a new setting could be the best of both worlds. Big savings on the largest component of cost (the centre diamond) and contemporary styling offered by a brand new setting design. Diamonds don’t have a shelf life or a best before date. An estate diamond a few years old or 100s of years old is the same and quite often better than one that just came off the cutter’s wheel but much less expensive. So consider an estate diamond for that jewellery item you’ve been thinking of. It’s a great way to get more value for the same money. We have 100s of estate diamonds in the store waiting to be used in a new creation. The ring is ready to go in a finger size 6.5. Estate priced at $4700.00. Stock #e8990.

SOLD

March 2, 2016

1.13ct. SI2-L European cut diamond solitaire ring $4220.00 CAD.

Everyone knows the Canadian dollar is not too strong right now; but did you know that all diamonds are priced in US dollars making them more expensive in Canada. It’s no different than commodities like oil, wheat or steel. Even with a weak Canadian dollar an estate item like this still allows you to get a significant size diamond and keep a reasonable budget. This diamond was cut in the mid to late 1800s. Back then it would have been considered a huge diamond with a weight of 1.13 carats. 100 years ago diamonds of this size and people with the means to purchase such a luxury item were very rare. Diamonds are forever but the original ring that held the stone has long since worn out. A contemporary 14 karat white gold setting weighing 4.3 grams now secures the diamond for the next proud owner. With slightly out of round dimensions of 6.25mm – 6.50mm this stone looks quite a bit bigger than many contemporary 1.00 carat diamonds that often measure just a bit over 6mm. When compared to our GIA certified master diamonds a slightly warmer L colour was determined. Antique diamonds like this have very small table facets and taller crowns. These cutting characteristics common of the era help control softer colour grades with more dispersion making them look a grade or two better. The “eye clean” SI2 clarity means the diamond has no visible inclusions unless viewed with some form of magnification. The size 6 solitaire can be easily sized bigger or smaller by one of our on site goldsmiths in as little as a day if necessary. Polished up looking brand new but with a unique sparkle only possible from an antique European cut diamond. Estate priced at $4220.00. Diamond available separately for $3870.00. Stock #e9152.

SOLD

February 22, 2016

Antique 18 karat gold sapphire and diamond ring $3500.00 CAD.

When it comes to the most asked for colour in gem stone rings the most popular is blue. Red, green, yellow and all the other colours don’t even come close. Of the various shades of blue sapphire available this antique example contains some of the highest quality around. The colour is not the typical dark inky blue/black shade that is commonly found today. Dark colour sapphires that are almost opaque blue/green or blue/black are usually worth only around $100.00 per carat and are dull and not pretty to look at. The sapphires in this 6.1 gram, 18 karat yellow gold antique ring are bright and lively with a colour that comes close to the coveted cobalt blue that is the most cherished when it comes to sapphires. The antique Swiss cushion cut sapphires are estimated to weigh a combined 2.50 carats. Being well over 100 years old the ring shows some signs of use. The original outside claws have worn thin and have all been rebuilt. The 5 sapphires have minor scratches and some small chips along the crown facet junctions and girdles. Measuring a finger 9.5 this ring will fit a larger finger. Beautiful hand engraved details can be found along the gallery and shoulders. 5 old mine cut diamonds from the mid 1800s are set among the sapphires and are estimated to weigh 1.00 carat in total. All the diamonds are nicely matched of SI clarity and I colour. All gemstones in the ring appear to be original. Not a replaceable item. Estate priced at $3500.00 CAD. Stock #e8708.

SOLD

February 10, 2016

“I DO” diamond ring 0.71ct. VS2-EF $4994.00 CAD.

Diamonds are forever; that old saying is very true. The same can’t be said for some diamond brands. An excellent cut diamond is an excellent cut diamond. If one says Tiffany and the other says nothing they still look exactly the same. Every once and awhile a company comes along with a branded diamond trying to reinvent the wheel. Sometimes it works in the case of, Hearts on Fire, Lizare Kaplan, Canadian Maple Leaf Diamonds etc. These branded diamonds have been successful adding value with the name. Others, well not so much. The “I DO” brand of diamonds is no longer around but the diamonds they cut are forever. An excellent example is this 0.71 carat round brilliant measuring 5.76mm – 5.79mm x 3.48mm weighing 0.71 carats of very good VS2+ clarity, E colour with an excellent cut. Only the slightest trace amount of fluorescence is a added bonus. The words “I DO” along with a unique serial number have been laser engraved along the edge of the diamond. It has been set in a low four prong white gold ring weighing 6.6 grams. Eight additional high quality round diamonds have been channel set down the shoulders contributing 0.25 carats of weight. The ring comes with an original appraisal prepared by qualified Gemologist Paul Knappett from Knappett Jewellery in New Market Ontario. The high quality ring is in excellent condition refinished and looking like new. Estate priced at $4994.00. Stock #e8528.

SOLD