Best Engagementring Podcasts (2024)

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Ep. 88 - Taking A Break 1:54

19d ago1:54

1:54

Andy here with an announcement. I'm taking a break for the next couple of months so I can line up some guests I plan on having on the show. I plan on being back in October, ready with new episodes hot off the press so stay tuned for that. I want to make sure I'm delivering value in these episodes, so if you've learned something or know of someone w…

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Guest: Charles Stanley 54:54

1M ago54:54

54:54

In this 66th episode of the Paul Zimnisky Diamond Analytics Podcast, now-retired, long-time De Beers executive Charles Stanley joins the show. The episode begins with Charles recounting his earlier days at De Beers in the 1990’s, especially as it pertains to the marketing side of the business and the “A Diamond Is Forever” campaign. Next, Paul shar…

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Ep. 87 - Ask Andy: A Quick and Easy Way to Ruin The Moment 6:01

1M ago6:01

6:01

I'm going to share something I learned first hand about what you should not do when you buy and give something as special as an engagement ring, an anniversary gift...hell...any gift for that matter. I get right to the point when I tell you, "Don't tell her how much it cost. Not even a hint." Telling her what you paid for something can quickly turn…

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Guest: Maarten de Witte 45:07

1M ago45:07

45:07

U.S.-based “master diamond cutter” Maarten de Witte joins Paul to discuss an array of industry topics. The episode begins with Maarten explaining what it’s like being an independent diamond manufacturer in American given that the large majority of this work is now done in India and China. Next, the two discuss the process of creating a proprietary …

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Ep. 86 - Love Unscripted: Bridging the "In-Between" with a Commitment Ring 7:04

1M ago7:04

7:04

In this episode, I'll talk about the concept of the commitment ring, that beautiful bridge between dating and engagement. Whether you’re sipping beers at a cookout or pondering your future, this episode dives into the emotional significance of giving and receiving a ring that says, “We’re in this together.” Join me as I discuss why a commitment rin…

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Ep. 85 - Ask Andy: Lab-Grown Diamonds or Natural Diamonds? 7:30

1M ago7:30

7:30

In this episode we're going to dip our toes into the realm of lab-grown diamonds. I'll shed a little light on the ever-evolving diamond industry, exploring the distinctions between lab-grown and natural diamonds, their formation processes, and the ongoing debate surrounding their place in the fine jewelry world. Lab-Grown Diamonds: A Historical Per…

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Guest: Andrew Rickard 42:18

1M ago42:18

42:18

In this 64th episode of the Paul Zimnisky Diamond Analytics Podcast, Andrew Rickard from RDI Diamonds, a large diamond and jewelry wholesaler in Upstate New York, joins the show. The episode begins with Paul and Andrew talking about Oak Hill Country Club of which Andrew is a member. Next, the two analyze the state of diamond inventory in the supply…

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Ep. 84 - Ask Andy: How Much Should You Spend On An Engagement Ring? 4:50

2M ago4:50

4:50

One of the most common questions I get is, how much does an engagement ring cost? Or how much should I spend to get a decent ring? Now there is no single answer to that, but today I'll share some numbers that might help you and then give you the single best answer I know of. If you want to talk with me personally you can email me at andy@buylikeagu…

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Ep. 83 - Diamond Fluorescence: How Excited Electrons Can Save You Money and Light Up the Dance Floor 7:16

2M ago7:16

7:16

In this episode, I'll discuss diamond fluorescence, a topic that is rarely talked about. I'll explain what fluorescence is in my own words, and how it affects the appearance and value of a diamond. I'll also address the question of whether fluorescence is a "good or bad" thing and per usual, how the ultimate answer to that question comes down to pe…

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Ep. 82 - Crafting Time Part II: The Artistry, Challenge and Value of Independent Watches and the People Who Make Them 23:00

2M ago23:00

23:00

In this episode Tim Jackson, founder of Independent in Time, continues our chat about the Independent Watch world, something most people know very little about. We'll talk more about the dedication, discipline, and expertise required to excel in this field. The craftsmanship, technology, and artistry behind mechanical timepieces is impressive to sa…

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Ep. 81 - Crafting Time: The Artistry, Challenge, and Value of Independent Watches and The People Who Make Them 24:10

2M ago24:10

24:10

It was a pleasure to welcome Tim Jackson on the show again! Tim is the founder and owner of Independent In Time, and a passionate supporter and dealer for Independent Watches and they people who make them. He shares his journey into this niche industry and the unique challenges faced by Independent Watchmakers. The discussion also explores the dedi…

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Guest: Anthony Tsang Returns 37:34

2M ago37:34

37:34

In this episode of the Paul Zimnisky Diamond Analytics Podcast, Anthony Tsang, CEO of The Future Rocks, returns. The conversation begins with Anthony giving an update on the company and the two discuss Chinese consumers’ acceptance of lab-grown diamonds. Paul and Anthony then discuss the background of the company’s proprietary “The Ring II,” a lab-…

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Ep. 80 - Bourbon Slang: The Angel’s Share, The Devil's Cut, Tater's, Legs, and Other Such Things 33:42

3M ago33:42

33:42

Me and Derek, our resident bourbon expert, explore more aspects of the bourbon world, including brand loyalty, the cost of collecting bourbon, and the emotional connection people have with their favorite brands. We talk about 'taters' (bourbon enthusiasts who wait in line for rare bottles and collect them without opening) as well as some other bour…

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Ep. 79 - Men's Wedding Rings: From Gold to Breastmilk (Yes, You Read That Right.) 10:41

3M ago10:41

10:41

[Look at me. I'm your expert now.] In this episode, I'm going to talk about the different materials used to make men's wedding rings. I'll cover the most popular options like gold, platinum, titanium, tungsten carbide, palladium, tantalum, and cobalt, and touch on additional materials you've heard of, and probably not heard of. (A ring made with br…

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Amish Shah (4th Appearance) 59:04

3M ago59:04

59:04

In this 62nd episode of the Paul Zimnisky Diamond Analytics Podcast, good friend of the show Amish Shah returns. The conversation begins with Paul and Amish analyzing the current “tornado” of factors impacting the global diamond industry: supply hangover, Russian sanctions, LGDs and a possible sale of De Beers. Next, Amish explains the sentiment of…

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Ep. 78 - A Man's Guide to Wristwatches Part 2: Finding The Right Watch Style 16:46

3M ago16:46

16:46

Tim Jackson and I continue our discussion about fine watches, and what makes them "tick." Tim is the Founder and Owner of Independent in Time, a company that deals in watches made by Independent Watchmakers from around the world. We cover a lot of ground here, including different watch options, brands, and other things to consider when choosing the…

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Ep. 77 - A Man's Guide To Wristwatches: How to Choose the Right Watch 23:46

3M ago23:46

23:46

In this episode we’re going to talk about watches with Tim Jackson, the Founder and Owner of Independent in Time. He deals in watches that are made by Independent Watchmakers from around the world. When it comes to watches, he knows his sh*t. We talk about the basics of buying a "nice watch," the appeal of owning and collecting fine watches, the di…

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Ep. 76 - Thinking About Buying a Gun for The First Time? Listen to Leland Before You Do 26:03

3M ago26:03

26:03

In this episode my guest, Leland Conway, provides valuable insights on buying a handgun for the uninitiated. He emphasizes the importance of not relying solely on friends' recommendations or the advice of gun store employees, as the choice of a handgun is a personal and individual decision. (There are exceptions, and he'll cover that as well.) Lela…

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Guest: Rob Bates (7th Appearance) 1:06:37

3M ago1:06:37

1:06:37

Mystery novelist and JCK News Director Rob Bates returns to the show for a seventh time. The show begins with Paul analyzing whether the current diamond market softness is more cyclical or secular in nature. Next, Paul and Rob talk about how the retail segment of the trade is currently viewing lab-grown diamonds and whether a “pivot” back to natura…

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Ep. 75 - Glitter & Grit: Pat Finn on the Sparkle of Necessity, Bonds of Friendship, and a Chris Farley Gem 21:24

4M ago21:24

21:24

In this episode, Pat Finn and I continue our off-the-cuff exploration of the significance of fine jewelry, including a pretty sweet story about Pat's late friend, the legendary Chris Farley, and his love of gift-giving. We get a little sentimental, but it's cool, because that's one of the unexpected powers of jewelry: it can connect us to our past …

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Ep. 74 - The Male Experience of Buying Jewelry: Advice and Stories from Pat Finn 26:41

4M ago26:41

26:41

Pat Finn is a well-known actor, comedian, and writer with over 25 years of experience in the entertainment industry. He's appeared in numerous TV shows and movies, including The Middle, Seinfeld, “It’s Complicated,” and the “I Am Chris Farley” documentary. He has an almost endless list of professional accomplishments, and I wanted him on the show b…

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Guest: David Kellie Returns, Again 47:59

4M ago47:59

47:59

David Kellie, the CEO of the Natural Diamond Council (NDC), returns to the show for a third time. The conversation begins with David discussing the NDC’s recent marketing shoot in Canada’s Northwest Territories with actress Lily James. David then shares his cold-water plunge experience in minus 30-degree temperatures. Paul and David then go on to t…

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Ep. 73 - The Bourbon Brotherhood: A Beginner's Guide From "A Guy" Who Knows His Sh*t 30:57

4M ago30:57

30:57

Bourbon continues to be a "go to" for guys who want to move away from cheap beer and fruity drinks, and I support it. It's a crazy big world of choices that are mind boggling, even to seasoned bourbon hunters. My guest today is definitely a guy who can help us traverse the multi-leveled landscape of the bourbon world. Derek works in the heart of Bo…

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Ep. 72 - One for the Ladies: What NOT to Do When He's Picking Out His Wedding Ring 5:52

5M ago5:52

5:52

This is an auspicious moment because in this episode, for the first time, I’m going to address "The Ladies." Specifically, I’m going to talk about what you, as a woman, should NOT do when you and your fella go to look for his wedding ring. When it’s time to pick out his wedding ring, he just might for your opinion. (Most likely he will!) And you sh…

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Ep. 71 - Ask Andy: What is the Custom Jewelry Design Process Like? 7:01

5M ago7:01

7:01

Customer involvement in designing jewelry is a growing trend in the jewelry business. Independent jewelry stores offer a range of options, from changing metals and gemstones to adding unique touches. However, there's a crucial balance between personalization and potentially compromising the integrity of the original design when people who don't kno…

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Ep. 70 - Ask Andy: What is a "Push Present?" and Why It's a Legendary Gift 8:01

5M ago8:01

8:01

A lot of guys have no idea what a “push present” is. I have to confess that until there was a baby in my future, I never heard of it, nor did I know what it was. (And I'm in "the business!") So what is a push present? Is it something you should consider when there’s a baby on the way? First, a push present is a gift that you present to your wife or…

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Guest: Amelia Bourdeau 49:40

5M ago49:40

49:40

In this episode of the Paul Zimnisky Diamond Analytics Podcast, economic and financial market strategist Amelia Bourdeau joins the show to discuss an array of macro fundamental factors likely to impact the diamond trade. The conversation begins with Paul and Amelia discussing the Federal Reserve's impact on the U.S. economy and what this means for …

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Ep. 69 - Beyond the Carat: A New Direction for Buy Like a Guy 4:19

6M ago4:19

4:19

"The times they are a changin'..." I'm changing up the show and taking the podcast in a different direction! Buy Like a Guy will be exploring topics beyond fine jewelry to include other areas of interest for men. But before I go, I'll talk about diamond reports, and reiterate once again the importance of seeking expert guidance when buying diamonds…

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Ep. 68 - Timing is Everything: Navigating Jewelry Buying Decisions, the Paradox of Choice, and the Importance of a Plan B 9:59

5M ago9:59

9:59

In this episode of Buy Like a Guy, I revisit when the proverbial "right time" is to make your buying decisions, and the importance of having a Plan B. It's always best to buy important jewelry well before you're planning on giving it. Why? Because it's the best way to avoid undue anxiety about whether it's going to be done on time for your big reve…

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Ep. 67 - Diamonds are NOT A Lot of Money, and The Top 3 Things to Consider When You're Buying Jewelry 16:54

6M ago16:54

16:54

In Part 2 of my conversation with Shane Decker we discuss the role of jewelry in celebrating life's events and he shares the most important factors to consider when buying diamond jewelry. The conversation covers various aspects of buying an engagement ring and creating a memorable proposal. Shane emphasizes the importance of choosing the right dia…

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Ep. 66 - The Truth Behind Diamond Deals: Deciphering Beauty, Value, and Investment with Diamond Evangelist Shane Decker 15:13

6M ago15:13

15:13

It seems like most, if not all, of the information and marketing messages coming out of the jewelry industry these days are geared toward women. It makes sense because oftentimes she is the driver when it comes to what sort of style she likes, and as men, we want to give her an engagement ring, or other fine jewelry that she will love. However, a l…

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Ep. 65 - Ask Andy: The Marks of Time and Why Scratches and Dings In Your Rings are Not a Bad Thing 7:04

6M ago7:04

7:04

In this episode I'm going to talk about something that resonates with both men and women: When you glance down at your brand new ring, and see those first few scratches and dings. It can be disheartening, and you may even be surprised you even care. Whether it's a minor scratch, a ding, or a chip, it happens to everyone. It's kind of like those tim…

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Ep. 64 - You CAN Buy The Right Jewelry Without Sticking Your Head Up A Bulls A** 8:19

7M ago8:19

8:19

If you’re the kind of person that doesn’t give a whole lotta’ "you know what’s" about fine jewelry or diamonds, or where the prices come from, I’m here to tell you, that’s okay. In fact, I think it’s perfectly normal. If diamonds, gemstones, precious metals and fine jewelry don’t interest you…don’t learn about them. I believe this is true for prett…

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Ep. 63 - What's The Hardest Year of Marriage, And Why Jewelry Is The Right Gift To Give For Your Anniversary? 6:48

7M ago6:48

6:48

“So what’s the hardest year of marriage?” You may be surprised to hear that I've been asked that question more than once. (Unless you're married. Then you know it's not an uncommon question, especially when you're talking to young men who are about to get married.) I actually used to ask that same question as a young lad working behind the jewelry …

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Ep. 62 - Why Do We Wear Wedding Rings On The Ring Finger of Our Left Hand? 6:49

7M ago6:49

6:49

As human beings we have an innate need to express ourselves to the rest of the world. Whether through our clothes, our time pieces, sharing our tastes in music, wearing our favorite team's merch…and of course, wearing a ring on the ring finger of our left hand, to tell others that, “Hey! Hands off. This girl or guy is spoken for.” But how did this …

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Ep. 61 - Why It Makes Sense To Give "Impractical" Jewelry She Won't Wear Everyday 10:30

7M ago10:30

10:30

There are some fantastic pieces of jewelry that are beautiful and impactful, and they tend to cost a lot of money, and it's also the kind of jewelry that she won't wear "all the time." It begs the question, “Why would I spend a lot of money on something that she won’t wear that often? It's not 'practical.'" That makes some sense I suppose, and it c…

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Ep. 60 - Timing the Knot: Navigating the Timelines of An Engagement Ring Purchase 8:30

8M ago8:30

8:30

In this episode I'm going to clue you in on something that I learned last week after talking with the girls here at the jewelry store. First time listeners, if you don’t already know, I get a wealth of information about women from Lindsay, Susan, Kristyn, Katie, Morgan, Ali and my wife, Jenn. (Yes, I’m the only guy here.) A guy came in to meet with…

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Ep. 59 - Ask Andy: Are Diamonds A Bad Investment? Part 2 26:03

8M ago26:03

26:03

This the second half of a discussion I had with my friend and hero, Maarten de Witte, aka "The Diamond Wizard." He's a living legend in the diamond cutting world, and he decided to tackle the oft repeated (and crazy cynical) idea that "diamonds are a bad investment." Are they? Some people think there is no question that diamonds are a "bad" investm…

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Ep. 58 - Ask Andy: Are Diamonds A Bad Investment? Part 1 18:29

8M ago18:29

18:29

So I ran across a video where the guy in the video said that engagement rings were a scam and a rip-off and I just had to address it. But rather then answer it myself I brought in an expert jeweler and former director of the American Institute of Diamond Cutting to discuss this in an exclusive two-part interview. Take a listen and let me know your …

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Ep. 57 - "You're Never Broke When You Own a Rolex" and What That Means to You 9:54

8M ago9:54

9:54

I wore a Rolex as I recorded this episode. Not to impress anyone, but because I had a certain memory, and a revelation a bit earlier in the week that is wrapped up in the Rolex brand, so I thought I would share it with you in today's podcast. Certain possessions in our lives, especially the ones we’ve earned, or that were given to us from people we…

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Ep. 56 - What to Do If She Sends You Ring Pics When You've Already Bought The Ring 7:26

9M ago7:26

7:26

In this episode I'm going to address something that is rare, but it DOES happen, and if it happens to you, it can bring on a not-so-slight feeling of dread. And I don’t think I’m being overly dramatic when I use that word. I'm talking about a simple text from your girlfriend or significant other, and it’s a picture of a ring that she sends you, AFT…

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Guest: Mel Moss Returns, Again 44:39

8M ago44:39

44:39

In this episode of the Paul Zimnisky Diamond Analytics Podcast, Canadian polished diamond wholesaler Mel Moss returns. Paul and Mel begin by discussing whether the current market downturn is more cyclical or secular in nature. The two then talk about the latest developments in man-made diamonds and Mel shares why he thinks LGDs will end up being so…

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Ep. 55 - How to Surprise Her with Jewelry You Know She'll Love So You Won't Feel Like an Idiot 11:01

9M ago11:01

11:01

In this episode I'll address another great question from a listener. He asked, “What are some best-sellers or guaranteed things I can get that fall in the range of a 'safe surprise gift'? I’m asked this question in one form or another all the time, and it sounds something like this, "What sort of jewelry should I get if I want to surprise her, and …

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Ep. 54 - The Buy Like a Guy Top 10 List of Things You Should Know to Make Buying Jewelry Easy and Less Painful 10:11

9M ago10:11

10:11

Someone asked me to put together a Top 10 list of the things a guy (or girl) should know to make buying jewelry less painful, and maybe even fun. I personally believe buying jewelry should be fun. When I spend money I want it to feel good, and I'd guess you feel the same way. There is no pleasure in paying an electric bill or that speeding ticket, …

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Ep. 53 - Ask Andy: What's The One Thing You Should NOT Do When You're Buying Jewelry 3:28

9M ago3:28

3:28

This episode was originally published in December, 2022. Picking the "right" engagement ring or other fine jewelry can be unnerving as hell. Questions start flooding your head..."what if she doesn't like it?" "Is it the right color?" "Is it big enough?" Those kinds of things. A lot of guys fold at this point, and say something like, "I think I'll b…

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Ep. 52 - How Soon Should You Plan The Ring Purchase Before The Proposal? 11:00

9M ago11:00

11:00

Recently, a question was sent to me by a listener named Taylor. He asked, "How far in advance should I plan the ring purchase before proposing?" It's not the easiest of questions I've ever been asked since there are a lot of moving parts, but let me offer some guidelines that will help. First things first, decide when you want to pop the question, …

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Guest: Guy Borenstein 29:58

10M ago29:58

29:58

In this episode of the Paul Zimnisky Diamond Analytics Podcast, world-renowned gemologist Guy Borenstein joins the show. The episode kicks off with Paul and Guy talking about how many undisclosed lab-diamonds are making their way through the natural diamond supply chain. The conversation then transitions to a discussion on future consumer demand fo…

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Ep. 51 - 6 Factors That Explain Why a 1 Carat Diamond is the Best Bargain on Earth 14:26

10M ago14:26

14:26

In this episode, I'm going to summarize a brilliant talk I heard "way back when," from a legend in our industry, Shane Decker. (I got his permission, and one day I'll have him on as a guest.) His profound love for diamonds and unwavering respect for the jewelry industry are truly remarkable. Shane's talk centered on the notion that diamonds, specif…

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Ep. 50 - "The Diamonds to Steak Conversion Chart." An Easy Guide to Diamond Prices 8:44

10M ago8:44

8:44

Gentleman, in this episode I present the official "Buy Like a Guy Diamond to Steak Conversion Chart." It's a tool designed to help you relate the 4 C's of diamond quality to the final price you'll pay, using the analogy of a great steak as a reference point. It's a practical "walking around tool" that can help you navigate the world of diamonds. I …

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Guest: Amish Shah Returns, Again 1:19:35

10M ago1:19:35

1:19:35

In this episode of the Paul Zimnisky Diamond Analytics Podcast, Amish Shah of ALTR Created Diamonds and J’evar returns to the show. The conversation begins with Amish explaining how he is marketing and distributing his new lab-diamond jewelry brand. Next, Paul and Amish discuss U.S. jewelers’ relative hesitancy to stock inventory for the upcoming h…

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