Usually, when someone associates stealing and swindling in the jewelry industry, it's someone from the outside coming in to commit such a crime. Like a cat burlar, or a customer talking their way behind the corner where their fast hands can do the work, w-o any notice from the employees. Not so in this case.


On Feb. 24, 2007, my husband and I went out ring shopping for a pair of wedding rings. We never had the chance to exchange rings at our wedding. Our anniversary came and went, and we still do not have a set of rings. We came upon a local jewelry mart, not far from home. Inside this store, housed individual glass counters, proudly displaying their shiny merchandise, brightly lit by golden yellow lights. After going through all the counters, we came to the last one, as a pair of two tone bands caught our interest. A girl by the name of Han tended to us by taking out the tray which carefully held the rings. When the total amount came into play, a mature, make-up laden woman by the name of Diane introduced herself. After much haggling & negotiation w-Diane, we agreed on a total price of $345. We left $100 in cash for a deposit, leaving the balance of $245 to be paid upon pick up a week later.


March 3, 2007, we eager returned to the store the moment they opened. Upon our entrance, Diane immediately informed us that we needed to pay an additional $50 because she under-quoted our rings. She even openly admitted that this was her fault. After reasoning w-her that it's unfair for us to pay for her mistake, she simply would not release our rings. My husband and I had a special event to attend that evening & we had high hopes to have our rings that very day. We only brought $260 in cash w-us, which Diane swiftly took off our hands. We quickly left as unsatisfied, unhappy customers. It became quite clear to me right then and there, that people like Diane are no better than the crooks and thieves out there, swindling and scamming people.


I hope this reaches plenty of readers so they can avoid this establishment in particular. This business of deceit is at the Upland Jewelry Mart, located at 338 S. Mountain Ave., Upland CA 91780 . Tel# (909) 981-3087.