December 21, 2024

1.75ct. natural ruby & diamond (0.40ct. tw. SI1-I) ring, 4.5gr., 18kt., size 6. $8,400.00 CAD. 206-00588

High quality rubies are rare and the most valuable of all the coloured stones. The colour of fine ruby is often described as being blood red. Our most intense emotions can represented by colour of fine ruby; love, anger, and passion are associated with a rich red colour. From roses to fast cars, red is often represented with power and objects of desire. Early cultures believed ruby held the power of eternal life because the colour resembled the blood that flowed through the veins. Top quality ruby are very expensive, they can by many multiples the cost of a perfect diamond of the same weight. Exceptional specimens attributed to Burma that haven’t been heat treated or otherwise enhanced can have wholesale prices of over $100,000.00 in the 1.50 to 2.00 carat size range. Our estate ruby while not an extra fine example by strict definition, is still of very good quality and much nicer than what we typically encounter. This blood red estate ruby is ever so slightly cushion shaped, measuring approximately 7.2mm diameter and estimated to weight 1.75 carats. It is flanked on each shoulder by a trillion shaped brilliant cut natural diamond accent estimated to weigh 0.20 carats each of SI1-I quality. The ruby and diamonds are set in a custom made 18 karat white and yellow gold setting with a filigree pattern gallery. The ring is in perfect condition and looks unworn. Measuring a finger size 6, the ring can be adjusted up or down a size or two. This is a special ring and has been handcrafted reflecting the quality of the centre stone using over 4 grams of premium 18 karat gold. This one of a kind ruby/diamond estate priced at $8,400.00 CAD. Stock #206-00588.

December 15, 2024

Royal De Versailles 1.26ct. VS1-I GIA certified 18kt. 8.1gr. $12,000.00 CAD. e11081

It’s a difficult thing to access the value a prestigious brand name brings to a product. Especially a diamond ring or other piece of jewellery. Even when comparing two otherwise completely identical items, the premium brand product sells for more and deserves the extra value associated with the brand. A sterling silver chain from Tiffany for example sells for much more than a high quality silver chain purchased at your local home town jeweller even if the only difference is where it was bought and the box colour. The components that go into producing the item may be the same but where you buy them is a major contributor to the price you ultimately are going to be charged. This beautiful 18 karat white gold estate engagement ring was originally purchased at Royal de Versailles. They are considered one of the finest jewellers and carry all the exclusive luxury names. They operate a big beautiful store in a very exclusive and expensive area of downtown Toronto. When purchased new in 1993 RDV supplied an insurance document outlining the details of the engagement ring, suggesting insurance coverage of $20,500.00 CAD including tax. 25 years later as an excellent condition estate ring we have it priced at only $12,000.00 CAD (including a custom made matching wedding ring). The centre diamond is a very pretty 1.26 carat VS1 clarity, “I” colour diamond that has been graded by The Gemological Institute of America. GIA certificate #8404049 reports the diamond has been manufactured with very good polish, good symmetry and strong blue fluorescence. This diamond is proportioned with a very flattering, slender 1.78:1 length to width ratio. Our quarter million strong diamond database shows less than 4% of all pear shaped diamonds have a ratio like this or thinner. Almost all diamond cutters choose to make their pears closer to 1:1.40 ratio. While this ratio is efficient for weight retention the resulting plump outline doesn’t look nearly as sophisticated. Securely set on each shoulder is an additional pear shaped diamond, each estimated to weight 0.20 carats of VS-SI clarity and H colour. The rings fit together with puzzle piece precision and measure the average finger size of 6. One of our onsite goldsmiths can custom fit these up or down as required in just a day or 2. Included with the rings is the original black RDV box plus an independent Harold Weinstein appraisal from October 1998. Our estate price for the set is $12,000.00 CAD. Stock #e11081.

December 1, 2024

1.01ct. VS2-F (GIA) Tacori Dantela 2627ECMW (109=0.61ct. tw. VS-G) 7gr. 18kt. $13,988.00 CAD. 101-00396

Tacori is a brand that needs no introduction and one we’ve had the pleasure of showcasing several times. This complete wedding set is a personal favorite as it features an emerald cut center accompanied by GIA pedigree. That document can be viewed here and describes the 1.01 carat emerald cut as VS2-G quality with very good polish, good symmetry, and no fluorescence. If you’ve ever shopped for an emerald cut diamond you’ll know they tend to show their inclusions more readily than other cuts. That is due to the calmer nature of their facet pattern; where brilliant cut diamonds can hide or disguise inclusions in a kaleidoscope of busy sparkle, step-cut diamonds (emerald, Asscher, baguette) act like a hall of mirrors reflecting and illuminating anything within their depths. For this reason, diamond cutters have to be very mindful of where they’ll position an inclusion, a slight shift can cause the inclusion to be reflected and multiplied throughout the gem, reducing the clarity grade the diamond will receive. The tiny grade-setting feather in this diamond has been positioned perfectly! It is still visible without magnification to the sharp-eyed, but it has remained one single small inclusion in an otherwise dazzling diamond. For anyone who has really done their research, this emerald cut also features a 59% table and a 60.1% depth. As only round diamonds receive a GIA Cut Grade, savvy consumers should arm themselves with an understanding of the ideal proportions for the diamond shape they are shopping for. Otherwise, you could unintentionally purchase a diamond with high clarity and colour but low light return and sparkle, and then you may as well not be buying a diamond at all since their intense sparkle is what they’re prized for! For emerald cuts, the ideal table percentage range is between 61-69% and the ideal depth is 61-67%; this diamond falls just short of excellent, landing in the very good range. The Tacori engagement ring model 2627EC that bears this exceptional diamond is made from top-quality 18 karat white gold and features VS-G quality accent round brilliant cut diamonds, of high cut grade despite their tiny size. The price of the “Dantela” engagement ring without the centre diamond or matching wedding ring has a price of $7,490.00 USD according to the Tacori website. The contour wedding band partners with the engagement ring perfectly; with the addition of its diamonds, the total count for the set jumps to 109 equaling 0.61 carats total weight. The set currently measures a finger size 7 with some room to adjust. It’s accompanied by its original box, a copy of the GIA certificate, and a CJEX appraisal from 2021 stating a replacement value of $23,700.00 CAD. We feel a competitive replacement value with new would be $18,650.00 and our estate price $13,988.00 CAD. Stock #101-00396.

November 30, 2024

1.01ct. I1-H pear shaped (14=0.82ct. SI-H) diamond ring 14.6gr. 18kt. $5,600.00 CAD. 131-00165

Jewellery is one of the few mediums where you can reinvent the same piece over and over again without any real loss of material. Gold can be recast endlessly (occasionally needing a top-up of fresh casting grain), diamonds and gemstones can be unset and reset as often as you like. Even if they become scratched or chipped they can be recut and repolished. With only one document of this ring’s history, we can see that it’s undergone at least two transformations over the past 19 years. The Damiani Jewellers appraisal that comes with this ring pictures a traditional three-pear-shaped engagement ring and states the ring is custom-made. But we have before us those same three pear-shaped diamonds in a swirling 11.9mm wide dinner ring. From its hefty 14.6 gram weight and solid construction, there’s no doubt that this ring was also custom-made. In fact, it was made by premium Canadian jewellery manufacturer Platinum Unlimited.The clustered arrangement of the three bezel-set pear-shaped diamonds suggests their being caught in a gentle whirlwind or the mini whirlpool of a meandering creek. The wisping tails of graduated diamonds that swirl outward from that trio tell the same story as they draw you toward the ring’s center. The largest of the diamonds in the ring is a 1.01 carat pear of I1-H quality, the other two pears equal 0.62 carats total weight of SI-IJ quality. The additional diamonds equal 0.20 carats total weight of SI- GH quality, pushing the total carat weight of the ring up to 1.83 carats. The estate price for this heavyweight 14.6 gram, like new, one-of-a-kind custom ring is $5,600.00 CAD. Stock #131-00165.

November 29, 2024

1.59ct. SI1-E Canadian Princess cut GIA report 5.1gr. 14kt. $13,125.00 CAD. 101-00484

We are always excited to showcase a diamond with a GIA pedigree, mostly because it makes our job easier! The 1.59-carat princess cut is ever-so-slightly rectangular measuring 6.47 x 6.36mm wide with an excellent depth percentage of 72.4% and a nice table percentage of 75%. The polish is also excellent, with very good symmetry, no fluorescence, and an eye-clean SI1 clarity, with an almost perfect E colour grade. All this to say that it’s a diamond we can be proud to call a very good cut and an excellent value! The full GIA certificate can be viewed here. The diamond not only features a laser-inscribed GIA serial number but also a tiny maple leaf symbol and the words Canada Pride, as proof of its Canadian origins. The ring itself features an additional 10 round brilliant cut diamonds of SI-GH quality equalling 0.23 carats together. The custom-made 14-karat white gold ring currently measures a finger size 5 1/2 with some room to adjust. The ring is accompanied by a Gem Review Inc. appraisal stating an optimistic replacement value of $36,060.00 CAD. We feel a more competitive replacement value with new would be $17,500.00 and our estate price for this Canadian diamond ring is $13,125.00 CAD. Stock #101-00484.

November 14, 2024

0.81ct. VS1-H (1.21ct. tw.) custom made halo engagement ring 6.8gr. 14kt. $5,180.00 CAD. e13940

A one-of-a-kind engagement ring custom made to stand out! The unique ring goes against current trends by opting for a wide high polished dome shank. The choice to abandon the dainty really serves it well as that 4.7mm wide backdrop draws the eye for its bulk and contrast to the 10.6mm wide halo it supports. The contrast moves from the plain metal to the splintery pattern of petite diamonds, ending in the sparkle and fire of the main diamond. The tightly set halo is edged with frosted millgrain and features a secondary collar of diamonds set around its perimeter. All told it features 40 hand set VVS-VS-GH round brilliant cut diamonds that equal 0.40 carats in weight. The diamond that crowns the ring is a bright 0.81 carat VS1-H, taking the total weight of the ring to an estimated 1.21 carats. The 14 karat white gold ring weighs 6.8 grams and measures a finger size 6 1/2 with plenty of room to adjust. It’s accompanied by an original appraisal stating a replacement value of $14,600.00 CAD. We feel a more competitive replacement value with new would be $7,400.00. Our estate price is $5,180.00 CAD. Stock #e13940

November 6, 2024

2.15ct. VS2-F princess cut excellent GIA report & free platinum setting $26,320.00 CAD. 101-00443

If you know what you’re doing, buying a natural round diamond isn’t very difficult. Assuming you are looking at a reliable grading report, the 4Cs (clarity, colour, carat weight, and cut) make it easy to compare diamonds and prices. The key of course is comparing accurate and reliable grading reports. There are many reports and appraisals in the market place and some are simply misleading and inaccurate. When it comes to important diamonds, the industry relies on The Gemological Institute of America (GIA). GIA developed the modern diamond grading system in 1953 that jewellers and gemologists use to describe the features that affect the value. They do this as a completely impartial 3rd party. GIA is not involved in the commerce of diamonds, gems, or jewellery. The Gemological Institute of America DOES NOT appraise diamonds or jewellery. If you have a report, certificate, or appraisal with any form of value attached, you are not looking at a GIA report. ALWAYS insist on GIA documentation if you’re considering a valuable diamond. The 4th “C” of cut is confusing for people and even many jewellers are not equipped to explain why the cut is so important. The geometry of how a diamond is cut dramatically changes how it sparkles. Round diamonds have well known established standards to compare, but fancy shapes do not. This means it is more difficult to find nicely cut fancy shaped diamonds. Many diamond cutters manufacture efficiently so as to produce diamonds that weigh as much as possible at the expense of potential sparkle and brilliance. All this talk leads us to one of the best looking (best cut) princess cut diamonds we’ve ever had come through our estate department. It certainly doesn’t hurt that the diamond already had a lot going for it. Over 2 carats in weight, VS2 clarity, F colour, no fluorescence, and just 0.0027% (0.02mm) of being dead square. Those details are straight forward and easy to compare against other princess cut diamonds. It’s the geometry of the cut where this diamond absolutely excels. Of the 35,000 princess cut diamonds on our database, only 36 have the same or better geometry. When we also factor in size, colour, polish, symmetry, and fluorescence characteristics, that number drops to ZERO! We can’t find a princess cut diamond close to this size and quality anywhere this nice at any price, end of story. To see a short Youtube video of the diamond click here. My amateur video was shot without any special lighting, just regular fluorescent ceiling lights in my office with my old cell phone. This diamond is already set in a traditional platinum double gallery setting with a thin 2.25mm wide round shank. The simple and flattering setting weighs 3.8 grams (net) in a finger size of 6. This ring is included for no charge with the diamond. We can adjust the size as required. If you’d like to see the GIA diamond report number 16178230, it can be seen online here. This amazing estate diamond including the complimentary setting is estate priced at $26,320.00 CAD. Stock #101-00443.

Viewing by appointment only.

November 5, 2024

1.53ct. SI2-F Asscher cut GIA certified 18kt/platinum solitaire $11,130.00 CAD. 101-00509

They’re one of the hottest specialty cuts around and they’re almost impossible to find when cut as nicely as this example. It’s a Asscher cut and I bet you’ve never seen one before. The cut was developed by the Dutch diamond cutting Asscher family in the early 1900s. The Amsterdam family was famous for cutting the world’s largest rough diamond, the Cullinan which weighed over 3100 carats before it was cut. 100 years after the cut was developed, it has become a very sought after shape again. When cut with proper proportions they look like a series of concentric squares when viewed through the centre. Our 1.53 carat example just returned from The Gemological Institute of America in New York with very good certification results. The full September GIA report can be see here. If you’ve done some research and are looking for a killer Asscher cut you’ll recognize this opportunity. Finding an Asscher with a depth percentage of under 60 is almost unheard of and very desirable. The small 65% table is also uncommon for this cut. Its big 6.73mm x 6.71mm dimensions make it appear closer to 2.00 carats in size. A fantastic “F” colour and an almost eye clean SI2 clarity are very compelling and desirable characteristics. The grade setting inclusion is a knot with a small white feather. The semi-translucent nature of this inclusion and its proximity so close to the centre help camouflage the minor imperfection. This beautiful diamond is set in an equally impressive 18 karat yellow gold and platinum solitaire. The 2.75mm wide, heavy gauge setting does a beautiful job showcasing the rare Asscher cut. Securing the stone is a robust double gallery platinum head that will last generations. The size 6 ring weighs an impressive 7.3 grams. One of our onsite goldsmiths can adjust the finger size in just a day or so if needed. Estate priced at $11,130.00 CAD. Remember; we ship out of Canada duty free. Stock #101-00509.

September 27, 2024

1.03ct. VS2-H average/good cut, halo ring (62=1.50ct. tw. VS-H) 7.7gr. 14kt. $12,000.00 CAD. 101-00381

At 9.84mm wide this ring is certainly teetering into super halo territory! The ring’s crown is a 1.03 carat round brilliant cut of lovely VS2-H quality with an average to good cut grade, with a large footprint of 6.7mm diameter. We removed the diamond to fully assess its quality and confirm the weight rather than estimate its quality while it was in the setting. The square halo features decorative filigree accents and 20 hand set petite round brilliant cut diamonds. The 6.95mm wide shoulders are covered by an additional 42 round and princess cut diamonds, bead, and channel set halfway across the ring. Together they equal 1.50 carats of VS-H quality, perfectly matching their main diamond. The 7.7 gram 14 karat white gold ring has been solidly constructed and features a wide bottom for durability. The ring currently measures a finger size of 6 3/4 with a bit of room to adjust. The ring is accompanied by a GS Laboratories certificate stating a replacement value of $21,000.00 CAD. We feel a more competitive replacement value with new would be $17,140.00 and our estate price is $12,000.00 CAD. If you’d like to purchase just the centre diamond, it is available separately for $9,500.00 CAD. Stock #101-00381.

September 1, 2024

Rare 6.18ct. I1 Yellow-Brown diamond platinum ring with GIA report. $40,000.00 CAD. 101-00593

Just back from The Gemological Institute of America. We are super excited to be show you this natural fancy colour diamond weighing over 6 carats! GIA described its colour simply as “Yellow-Brown”, but there is so much more to it than that. The subtleties of colour are hard to describe especially in a sparkling diamond. Our amateur attempts at this YouTube video do not truly capture just how pretty this diamond is, in person this diamond showcases a much more orange/peach hue. You must see this one in person. A high refractive index and rainbow dispersion levels that are unique to diamonds modify the body colour by throwing in sparkling twinkles of red, orange, yellow, green, blue, violet, and everything in between. The soft earthy tone combined with the brilliance that only comes from a diamond results in an optical experience no ordinary coloured stone can compete with. The full August 8th, 2024 GIA can be seen online here. The colour is by far the most important characteristic in this diamond . The carat weight came in at a robust 6.18. The I1 clarity reveals a crystal, a few feathers and several other minor inclusions. The grade setting inclusion looks a little like a crab if you use your imagination and squint a bit. The cut grade is not commented on by GIA on colour diamond reports, but the depth of 62%, table of 62%, appropriate crown weight/angle, and nice pavilion depth/angle would have it grading good to very good. The polish is very good, good symmetry, and faint fluorescence. While we hesitate to call this diamond a one of a kind, it certainly wouldn’t be replaceable. After scouring our database of over 500,000 diamonds and searching the internet, we couldn’t find a round diamond of similar size and colour anywhere. This vintage diamond is set in a classic platinum setting accented with 6 thin tapered baguette diamonds on the shoulders. We estimate the baguettes weigh a combined 0.12 carats or slightly more of VS-H quality. The thin shank measures only 1.8mm wide, and the ring measures a finger size 6. This skinny shank design is right on point for modern tastes. It’s flat edge will fit with almost any wedding band or anniversary ring. Placing an accurate value on a diamond ring like this is no simple task because comparables simply do not exist. The ring is accompanied by a 1998 appraisal from Ontario Gemological Service in London Ontario and another from D.C. Taylor Jewellers in Owen Sound Ontario from 2023. We don’t know exactly how old this diamond and ring are, but the classic ring style has been around for more than 100 years. Based on the geometry on the colourful diamond we are guessing it dates from the around the 1960s. The hand made ring is in 100% original condition and shows only minor signs of use in the form of scuffs and scratches on the shank and claws. We decided to leave this ring showing its original patina. Our onsite goldsmiths can refinish it to like new in less than 10 minutes if you’d like it looking like new. There are no worn tips and the wire gallery displays no worn sections from rubbing against another wedding or anniversary ring. For a diamond ring we think is at least 60 years old, it is in remarkable condition. The GIA report doesn’t document and nicks, chips, or scratches on the diamond surface. If you love the different and unusual, you must make some time to come and visit this spectacular natural diamond with natural fancy colour. It is estate priced at $40,000.00 CAD. Stock #101-00593.

Viewing by appointment only.

August 28, 2024

1.46ct. VVS enhanced yellow diamond ring GIA $11,000.00 CAD. e737

Quite a dinner ring don’t you think? The centre is a GIA certified VVS2  fancy vivid yellow diamond with treated colour enhancement. It is surrounded by 36 small round diamonds totaling an additional 0.54ct. set in a 14 karat white gold setting. Centre stone details can be viewed on GIA’s website www.gia.edu (verify a report) with report number 5121011261. The ring is estate priced at $11,000.00. The diamond is available alone for $9,250.00 and can be seen in the estate diamond section. Stock #e737.

August 8, 2024

18kt. Noam Carver engagement/wedding set B004-03A 1.47ct. tw. Canadian centre (0.92ct. SI2-H) $7,500.00 CAD 101-00577

This premium quality engagement/wedding ring set was crafted in Canada by award winning designer Noam Carver in Montreal. Bill Le Boeuf Jewellers is proud to be the exclusive agent for Noam Carver in the area. In a previous life the centre diamond came in this white gold swirl style ring from Canadian jeweller Charm Diamond Centres. It was their finest offering, featuring an eye clean 0.92 carat SI2-H Canadian diamond as the centrepiece. This Canadian diamond was cut as well any we’ve seen, with very good polish, excellent symmetry, and no fluorescence. It has been laser engraved with a unique registered serial number confirming its Canadian origin. The ring must still be a good selling design as it is shown on their website with price of $10,990.00. The previous owner decided to reset the sparkling Canadian diamond in the Noam Carver setting in 2022. They selected traditional yellow gold but in top of the line 18 karat purity. The crossover braid design is delicate and very flattering leaving open areas between the narrow sections of shank. 58 tiny full cut diamonds decorate the engagement ring. Each stone hand set using 4 individual beads of gold, no simple shared claw settings used here. This setting (model number B004-03YS-100A) can be seen on the Noam Carver website showing a price of $2,851.00 USD without the centre stone. In upgraded 18 karat gold using SI1-GH diamonds the cost for just the engagement ring setting (no centre diamond) is $4,704.00 CAD. The engagement ring comes with a matching wedding ring. The wedding ring adds 33 additional small diamonds. They fit together with puzzle piece precision without any gaps. The current price for the wedding ring from Noam Carver is $2,808.00 CAD. Each ring is engraved with a serial number allowing Noam Carver to update any changes to the rings should they need sized or repaired in the future. The rings were made in a size 5 1/2 but can be adjusted up or down a size or two if needed. They are in like new condition, sold new from Bill Le Boeuf Jewellers in 2022 but didn’t see much use. Replacing the wedding ring and engagement ring without any centre diamond would cost $7,555.00. As a like new estate set we are offering them as a pair only including the knockout Canadian centre stone for only $7,500.00 CAD. They have been lightly polished and come with a Noam Carver ring box. Stock Number 101-00577.

July 22, 2024

1.00ct. princess cut SI1-H with GIA report. 5.7gr. 18kt. $4,690.00 CAD. e14471

When this diamond ring arrived it needed 4 new claws, as they had worn thin over more than 20 years of continuous use. We figured before making the necessary repairs, we might as well add some extra value by sending the diamond to The Gemological Institute of America for a grading report. The diamond ring already came with a DC Taylor appraisal conservatively grading the diamond an SI2 clarity with an H colour. I’m happy to say the diamond actually graded a slightly better SI1-H from the GIA. The complete October  15th, 2021 report can be seen online here. Be extremely careful buying fancy-shaped diamonds. There are no universally accepted standards for cut, geometry, and proportions for fancy shapes. Thankfully this diamond is nicely cut. The table facet of 74% is a little larger than optimum, but it is still good, all the other proportions are quite nice. The girdle edge is a pleasant medium to thick, many poorly manufactured princess cut diamonds have very thick to extremely thick girdles that add nothing but extra weight. Far too many princess cut diamonds are cut waaaaaay too deep. This example has a depth of 72.7% which is appropriate for a square/rectangular princess cut. The overall dimensions of 5.88mm x 5.32mm are much larger than many 1.00 carat princess cuts. There are 1.00 carat princess cuts out there that measure as small as  5.0mm x 5.0mm. Make sure the jeweller you are considering buying a fancy shape diamond from can explain how the cut affects the price and sparkle of a diamond. This bright and brilliant diamond is set in a simple 4 prong solitaire with a flat shank. The premium quality 18 karat white gold setting weighs in at a substantial 5.7 grams in a finger petite size 4 1/4. Fortunately, the high-quality, solidly constructed ring can be made up to 3 sizes larger if needed Our onsite goldsmiths can accomplish this task in only a few days. If you like this diamond but would prefer a different setting, bring us your ideas. We’d love to create a custom one of a kind piece of jewelley for you. The complete ring with 4 newly repaired claws (not completed yet) is estate priced at only $4,690.00. The diamond alone is priced at $4,060.00 CAD. Stock #e14471.

June 26, 2024

7.50ct. extra fine Tanzanite and diamond ring 7.8gr. 18kt. $8,050.00 CAD. e9258 206-00261

Big diamonds are certainly exciting and very sparkly, but to get a good one of 5.00 carats or more is going to cost you over $100,000.00. Coloured gems like this incredible tanzanite offer a rich splash of colour that no diamond can match for a fraction of the cost. At Bill Le Boeuf Jewellers we get some nice sized diamonds from time to time but at an estimated 7.50 carats this rare stone makes quite a statement. The slightly violet royal blue colour is as good as it gets for tanzanite it’s a 10 out 10. The 7.8 gram 18 karat white gold cushion shaped halo setting is a very contemporary looking design that’s quite delicate looking with thin split shank shoulders and a filigree gallery. 60 diamonds in the halo and down the shoulders are of very good VS-SI-GH quality weighing an estimated 0.30 carats. Tanzanite is an incredibly rare gem compared to relatively plentiful diamonds, they’re only found globally in one location near Mount Kilimanjaro Africa and this source is not expected to last. The ring was purchased new in 2009 and has seen only occasional use. The only evidence of wear is a couple of tiny nicks on the table facet (just visible in the top photo). These miniscule marks can only be seen under extreme scrutiny and only the most sharp sighted. Ready to go in a finger size 7 1/2. The saturation and intensity of the violet/blue colour must be seen in person as my photography skills do not do this amazing stone justice. Finding another Tanzanite of this size, shape and quality would be next to impossible making this ring most likely a one of a kind creation. Estate priced at $8,050.00 CAD. Stock #e9258 206-00261.

6.88ct. fine quality tanzanite & diamond 1.00ct. tw. VS-HI,11.3gr. 18kt. $7,125.00 CAD. 206-00383

Top-quality tanzanite is really something that must be seen in person! Our 6.88-carat oval displays the best of what tanzanite is capable of, partially because we just got it back from our gem polisher after a cleanup on the facet surfaces. The newly polished gem measures 13.35mm long by 10.80mm wide and is perfectly eye-clean. The very well-cut gem displays even flash across its surface and thanks to its trichroism morphs from vivid blueberry indigo to strong violet as it moves. The ring that holds it was custom-made around it and opted for a warm 18-karat yellow gold four-prong setting to set off the colour of the gem. The rest of the ring is heavy white gold deeply channel set with perfectly matched VS-HI quality princess cut diamonds. They equal approximately 1.00 carat in total weight and almost blend into the brightly rhodium-plated shoulders. The 11.3-gram ring currently measures a finger size 7 with some room for sizing. The estate price is $7125.00 CAD. Stock #206-00383.

June 24, 2024

1.00ct. I1-I diamond ring (1.50ct. tw.) 3.8gr. 14kt. $5,530.00 CAD. 101-00407

This swopping swirling decorative head is a graceful meditation in metal, drawing the eye towards the diamond that crowns the ring. Not that it needs much help, weighing in at an even 1.00 carat weight and a pleasant I1-I quality. The grade setting inclusions are only visible without magnification to the sharpest eye and under very close scrutiny. For the normal-sighted, they will not be visible without magnification. The 14 additional diamonds that cascade down the ring’s shoulders are bright SI1-I quality and bump the ring’s total weight up to 1.50 carats. The ring itself is in like-new condition, retaining its original rhodium finish over its 14 karat white gold. It currently measures a finger size 5 with a bit of room to adjust. The ring is accompanied by a GS Laboratories certificate stating an optimistic replacement value of $11,600.00 CAD. We feel a realistic replacement value would be closer to $7,900.00 and our estate price $5,530.00 CAD. Stock #101-00407.

June 15, 2024

8.00ct. cushion SI2-M with GIA report, GemScan Pre-Cert, 14kt. solitaire 5.8gr. 101-00478

If you love diamonds and you’re reading this I’m sure you know how popular laboratory-grown synthetic diamonds have become. Growing diamonds in a laboratory is nothing new, General Electric has been able to do it since the 1950s. What has changed is the readily available technology and the efficiency of scale. In the 50s the quality of lab-grown diamonds was poor and the cost to produce them far exceeded mining natural. Today, high-quality, cheap synthetic diamonds cost around 95% less than comparable natural diamonds. In the face of this monumental difference in values, natural diamonds are holding their value very well. Real is rare and finite, lab-grown diamonds offer virtually all the small attributes of natural diamonds except rarity and value retention. As technology matures, costs fall, every time. Natural diamonds are rare and significant size diamonds are very rare. Our latest diamond is a cushion-shaped brilliant cut weighing 8.00 carats. We sent this important diamond to The Gemological Institute of America for a complete report. The finished document can be seen online here. GIA determined the clarity to be SI2, and the colour to be M. The SI2 clarity is almost eye clean. A couple of small feather-type inclusions may be discernable to the sharp-sighted under close-up scrutiny. The symmetry/polish was graded as good and the diamond exhibits no fluorescence when exposed to long-wave ultraviolet light. Our in-store diamond database shows over 600,000 diamonds for sale throughout the world, but only 8 of this shape, quality, and size (or larger). This is one extremely rare diamond. It is set in a simple 14-karat white gold solitaire setting (finger size 7 1/2) that showcases this large stone in a less-is-more design. We acquired this diamond with a GemScan report (#1269465 1/6/2020) describing the diamond as 8.02ct. SI2-K with a very good cut. The discrepancy of 0.02 carats is due to the fact we had the diamond repolished to remove a few abrasions on the pavilion. It seems this diamond was worn against a diamond wedding band that was rubbing the bottom of the large solitaire. Also included is an appraisal from Canadian Insurance Jewellery Appraisals Toronto. If you’d like a private viewing of this diamond, please contact us. We’d be happy to remount this exceptional diamond in any custom design you can dream up. Stock #101-00478.

Viewing by appendment only.

June 13, 2024

0.98ct. VS1-H. (1.31ct. tw.) 7.2gr. 18kt. Michael Smiley custom halo princess cut $7,150.00 CAD. e13026

An intricate and thoughtful design from our Barrie neighbour Michael Smiley Fine Jewellery! The entire set takes its cue from the 0.98 carat princess cut diamond center. The halo’s corners have been cut off and patterned with keystone accents to help draw the eye in. Those cut off corners were set with diamonds and between them a diamond shaped gallery medallion with yet another diamond at its center. The beveled theme continues onto the shoulders and the fitted wedding band. Each ring of the soldered together set has been accented with three diamonds per shoulder; those on the engagement ring are thoughtfully graduated. All told the ring is hand set with 38 petite round brilliant cuts of VS1-H quality to match the brilliant center. To keep with Michael’s demand for high quality the set is made from 7.2 grams of 18 karat white gold. They currently measure a finger size 4 3/4 with some room to adjust. $7,150.00 CAD. Stock #e13026.

May 1, 2024

7.15ct. Natural Ceylon sapphire & diamond ring (1.65ct. tw. SI-GH) 6.3gr. 18kt. sz. 8 1/2. $17,500.00 CAD. 206-00518

The sapphires you’re likely to encounter at your the local jewellery store certainly don’t look like this, either in size, colour, or transparency. This is a very special ring that we are thrilled to showcase for you. We don’t see many 7 carat sapphires of even marginal quality normally. We think this example comes from Ceylon (Sri Lanka). The bright, sightly violet blue is typical from this part of the world, but not the size. It’s cushion shaped dimensions of 11.8mm x 9.5mm x 6.4mm suggest it weighs somewhere around 7.15 carats. Sapphires make a great alternative to diamonds when it comes to an engagement ring. They are second hardest of all gemstones, their colour is stable and doesn’t fade over time. They can also stand up to heat encountered when the ring is being sized or retipped. The most famous recipient of a sapphire engagement ring was the late Princess Diana who received her 12 carat oval Ceylon sapphire in 1981. From what we understand, Prince Charles purchased the ring as an off the shelf item from luxury jeweller Asprey in London for the equivalent of $60,000.00 USD back in 1981. Today her original ring is being worn by Catherine the Princess of Wales as her engagement ring. The only regal connection we can make with our version is the “royal” blue hue. Styled in much the same fashion as Diana’s on a smaller scale, our ring is surrounded by 14 round brilliant cut diamonds (just like Diana’s). It is also crafted in premium 18 karat white gold as is Diana’s. The shoulders on our estate ring have been pave set with an additional 68 tiny brilliant cut diamonds. All of the natural diamonds are of SI-GH quality. A decorative filigree scroll pattern keeps the ring from being top heavy and adds some delicate elegance to the design. This ring is in remarkable condition looking almost unworn. It still retains its original finish and has never been repolished or re-rhodium plated. There is zero wear on any of the claws securing the sapphire and diamonds. The ring measures a slightly larger 8 1/2 but can be made a few sizes smaller if necessary. This would be a very difficult ring to replace as Ceylon sapphires of this size and shaped are quite rare and very expensive. Engagement ring or dinner ring, this one of a kind sapphire would make the lady in your life feel like a princess for the rest of time. It is estate priced at $17,500.00 CAD. Stock #206-00518.

April 26, 2024

2.20ct. VS2-H excellent cut with GIA report (2.95ct. tw.) 6.1gr. 18kt. halo. $37,200.00 CAD. 101-00357

Where do we begin describing a ring like this? It would take a post thousands of words long for us to adequately describe the attributes of this ring and the absolute value it represents. We’ll start with the facts. When it comes to our estate diamond rings and other jewellery, wholesale is the new retail at Bill Le Boeuf Jewellers. You’d think with all those inexpensive lab-grown synthetic diamonds flooding the market, natural diamonds would be seeing some pricing pressures. Such is not the case, in fact, the opposite is true; while lab-grown synthetics are falling in price every day, properly graded, natural diamonds have seen price increases over the last year. Did you know that synthetic diamonds have fallen in price to only around 10% of their natural counterparts? If you’re considering a synthetic, laboratory-grown diamond, make sure you are getting it at close to a 90% discount compared to the real thing. The diamond in this beautiful 18 karat white gold halo setting is 100% natural in every way. The only thing humans contributed to Mother Nature’s creation was the skill to transform the rough crystal into the excellent cut, finished round brilliant cut diamond. What I love so much about this diamond is the 60/60 excellent cut (60% table and 60% depth). Almost no modern diamonds are cut like this anymore. Among accurately graded, excellent/ideal cut diamonds with reports from reliable labs, the average depth is more than 62% relative to the diameter. Two percent doesn’t sound like much, but it makes them appear noticeably smaller due to their compact diameter. Sorting through our 300,000 diamond database there are no stones of this quality anywhere near this price ($35,600.00 diamond without setting) with an average diameter of 8.45mm or larger. The other component of this 60/60 diamond is the 60% table percentage. This slightly larger table percentage contributes to the bigger look with a modest optical bias favoring brilliance over dispersion. A more brilliant diamond will display a touch more white/black flash, compared to a smaller table that shows more break up of white light into a rainbow of spectral colours known as dispersion. There is a little more to it than that, but rest assured this is a rare diamond with excellent cutting geometry compared to what is available in other excellent cut diamonds. This type of geometry was more common in 1950s and 1960s. The full 2011 Gemological Institute of America report can be seen online here. Besides the flattering excellent cut, the rest of the diamond’s attributes are very nice without being exceptional, resulting in all around great value. Its VS2 clarity appears flawless to the naked eye, the H colour is virtually colourless without a noticeable tint, very good symmetry/polish and no fluorescence finish up this diamond’s quality characteristics. The 18 karat white gold setting also makes this diamond appear larger than you’d expect for a stone weighing 2.20 carats. The ever popular “halo” design frames the centre with a string of tiny round brilliant cut diamonds, all expertly French set with a decorative beaded outline. The diameter of the halo frame bumps the ring’s diameter to just shy of 12mm. The 6.1 gram premium white setting contains 130 full cut diamonds of minimum VS-H quality that bring the total diamond weight to an estimated 2.95 carats. The ring measures a slightly smaller size 5. Our onsite goldsmiths can adjust the ring up or down a full size or so. The setting alone represents outstanding value considering it is estate priced at just $1,600.00 (without the centre diamond). Decorated on three sides of both shoulders plus the vertical sides of the halo frame and even a surprise diamond under the setting. As a final touch to love and romance, the filigree gallery of the ring consists of 6 hearts that go almost unnoticed, lost in the ornate design. The ring is in excellent condition, showing no worn areas. It comes with the original laminated GIA report from January 2011. The complete ring is estate priced at $37,200.00 CAD. Stock #101-00357.

Viewing by appointment only.

April 19, 2024

1.31ct. VVS1-F triple excellent GIA report (10=0.20ct. VS-G), 3,5gr. 18kt. sz. 6 1/4. $17,000.00 CAD. 101-00468

Among jewellers and those in the diamond trade a diamond like this is known as a “Triple X”. The 3 Xs refer to the excellent cut, excellent polish, and excellent symmetry. At no point in this diamond’s transformation from the rough crystal, to the finished gem was any part of the production compromised or rushed. No doubt, the master cutter/polisher responsible for cutting this diamond could have opted for merely a good or very good cut with a heavier finished weight but they didn’t lower their high standards. Very few diamonds stocked by most jewellers are manufactured to such high standards. Mother nature endowed this diamond with outstanding potential when it formed 3-4 billion years ago, in the form of exceptional clarity and colour. The Gemological Institute of America determined VVS2 clarity with an F colour. As an added bonus the diamond also shows no fluorescence when exposed to long-wave ultraviolet light. The full GIA report can be seen online here. Valuable and important diamonds should always come with a GIA report (there are no substitutes). If you’re considering any valuable diamond, insist it comes with a Gemological Institute of American Diamond Grading Report. GIA DO NOT provide appraisals and has no interest in the commerce of diamonds. They are an impartial 3rd party, interested only in research, education, and detailing the quality of diamonds and gems. This diamond has been laser engraved (at extra cost) with the GIA report number on its faceted girdle edge. The previous owner obviously placed a great deal of importance on quality. The white gold setting has been crafted from premium 18-karat white gold and hand set with 10 complimentary VS-GH  shoulder diamonds adding an extra 0.20 carats of accenting sparkle. This ring measures a finger size of 6 1/2 and weighs over 3.5 grams. If you need the ring adjusted in size, one of our on-site goldsmiths should be able to accomplish this task in just a couple of days. The classic 6-prong setting offers excellent security and can easily be matched with any flat-edged wedding or anniversary ring. This triple X-rated diamond ring is estate priced at $17,000.00. If you like to choose a new ring design or custom make a different jewellery item, the diamond can be purchased alone for $16,500.00 CAD. Stock #101-00468.

February 24, 2024

1.30 carat VVS1-E GIA certified (1.70ct. tw.) $16,500.00 CAD. e8067

Marquise shaped diamonds are starting to be rediscovered. 25 years ago they were a very popular choice. When you see one this good it’s easy to understand the attraction. Diamonds of this quality or better represent less than 4% of what’s available on our database. The extra length of a marquise gives the illusion of a much bigger stone than the actual weight suggests. This diamond ring was originally purchased in Amsterdam in 1993 and is described with its certificate as loupe clean of river colour. This means the original vendor felt the diamond was of flawless clarity and perfect colour. We removed the diamond and sent it to GIA for a more internationally recognized report. The finished document revealed a tiny indented natural at one point making this diamond “merely” a VVS1 with a colour of E. Symmetry and polish came in as very good with strong blue fluorescence when exposed to long wave ultraviolet light. GIA report number 2165031879 can be verified online here. A simple 18 karat yellow gold setting weighing 4.0 grams secures this diamond along with 12 high quality  graduated baguette cut diamonds.  Estate priced at $16,500.00 CAD. Stock #e8067.

January 3, 2024

1.11ct. VS2-H Tiffany diamond solitaire, 4.5gr. plat., sz. 4 1/2, $14,490.00 CAD. 101-00340

The Tiffany brand is arguably the most influential in the jewellery industry. They have a reputation of premium quality with a price reflecting attention to every detail with uncompromising standards. They don’t rely on outside grading services like the Gemological Institute of America to confirm the quality of their diamonds. When it comes to diamond quality, Tiffany’s minimum quality standards are very good on paper and exceptional in person. When the GIA introduced a standardized diamond grading system, Tiffany was celebrating their 116th anniversary and doing quite well without GIA confirming what they already knew. Although Tiffany now uses GIA’s internationally accepted system for describing diamonds quality, their conservative reputation for excellence doesn’t require a fact check through outside independent report suppliers. Tiffany marches to the beat of their own drum, choosing to set the trends, rather than follow them. In fact, Tiffany’s laser inscription would actually be considered a blemish by the GIA as they engrave the unique registered number on a star facet instead of concealing a number on the girdle like everyone else. Not to say that it is distracting, it is almost impossible to find with 10X magnification, and you can only read the serial number under 60X. Tiffany’s grading is certainly to the high standards or better of those established by the GIA, and their documents are just as thorough. The elegant Tiffany & Co. Diamond Certificate that accompanies this ring states 1.11 carat weight, VS2 clarity, H colour, faint fluorescence, excellent cut, excellent symmetry, excellent polish all illustrated along with the stone geometry. Enclosed in the robins’ egg blue portfolio shows the purchase price of $20,700.00 plus sales tax, full lifetime warranty, and insurance appraisal valuation in duplicate. It’s hard to dispute the $20,700.00 purchase price paid when you are arguing against anything that comes in that little satin-lined box. The iconic six prong egagement ring is probably the most copied solitaire on the market. Costco lost a lawsuit from Tiffany for selling generic diamond engagement rings bearing the “Tiffany” name that cost them 21 million dollars. Our 4.5 grams platinum example measures a finger size 4 1/2 with plenty of room to adjust as needed. It was purchased from the Tiffany boutique Toronto in February 2021 but never worn. It remains in perfect as delivered condition. Everything is original, complete, and in perfect condition, as delivered from T & Co. The ring even comes with the silk handle Tiffany shopping bag, documents, and books. The complete kit is estate priced at $14,490.00 CAD. Stock #101-00340

December 17, 2023

Art Deco inspired diamond ring 1.17ct. tw. SI1-GH 3.9gr. 14kt. gold $5,600.00 CAD. e12256

December 14, 2023

1.00ct. VS1-G ex. cut, GIA report (colour enhanced) 25=0.52ct. VS-G, 4.5gr., 18kt. $5,400.00 CAD. 101-00503

Technically, diamonds are the only gem composed of just a single element, carbon. In theory this is true but the vast majority of natural diamonds form with trace amounts of other elements. Nitrogen contamination occurs naturally in at least 95% of all earth grown diamonds. Nitrogen contaminated diamonds can be near colourless to light yellow in hue. The purest diamonds are known by Gemologists as type IIa. These diamond contain no measurable amounts of nitrogen, they are usually colourless but they can also be gray, light brown, light yellow or light pink. Rare Type IIa diamonds make the best candidates for colour enhancement by the application of extremely high temperature and pressures similar to what a natural diamond could have experienced when forming in the earth’s mantle billions of years ago. Only diamonds of high clarity are treaded to high pressure high temperature (HPHT) treatment, as lower clarity diamonds can be damaged during the process. Our latest estate diamond is one of these rare type IIa diamonds. It comes with a GIA report that identifies the diamond as being treated by a process to change its colour. Because the treatment is similar to what a diamond could have experienced billions of years ago, it is 100% permanent. There is no need to treat it with special care and caution. Without the GIA report we’d be unable to confidently identify that this diamond has had its colour altered. Since HPHT diamonds sell for less, this is another reason to insist on a Gemological Institute of America report for any significant diamond you are considering purchasing. The GIA report described the clarity as VS1, G colour, excellent cut, excellent polish, excellent cut, with no fluorescence. Syntenic diamond screeners and testers CAN NOT detect high pressure high temperature treated diamonds. We run all our estate diamonds through equipment to determine natural or laboratory origin. We were somewhat surprised to identify 2 of the 25 small accent diamonds in the settings were of synthetic lab-grown origin. The original owner didn’t know there were lab-grown diamonds mixed among the naturals. They are flagged by the bright their bright red appearance on the display of the screening computer. Few jewellers have lab-grown screening equipment onsite. Without the sophisticated machine it is quite possible a jeweller could unknowingly sell a lab-grown diamond as a natural. Simple diamond testers DO NOT separate lab-grown from natural, so buyer beware. The setting that holds this interesting combination of high quality, natural, natural colour enhanced, and lab-grown diamonds was made from premium 18 karat gold. The tiny size 4 1/2, ring can be adjusted larger by one of our onsite goldsmiths. This sturdy, 4.5 gram, well made diamond ring (1.52ct. tw.) is in excellent condition and is estate priced at $5,400.00 CAD. Stock #101-00503.

December 12, 2023

Tacori 2573 SM RD 0.97ct. VS2-H (34=0.12ct. VS-GH) 3.6gr. 18kt. sz. 6.5 $7,350.00 CAD.101-00439

We’re always happy to showcase a Tacori piece, and have had the opportunity to do so several times, but this is the first time we’ve had one that was completely unworn; in fact, it came in with its out-of-the-showcase cubic zirconia center stone. We of course have hundreds of diamonds patiently awaiting their “forever home” so we popped out that CZ and replaced it with a diamond from an out-of-date mounting. The 0.97 carat round brilliant cut is a lovely VS2-H quality and is accompanied by a Gemtech certificate detailing the ring that originally housed it. Now it crowns a Tacori Ribbon model 2573 SM RD in all its glory. The ring is detailed with 34 tiny round brilliant cut diamonds of high VS-GH quality, equalling 0.12 carat together. The 18 karat white gold ring retains its untouched chromy white rhodium plating and currently measures a finger size 6 1/2 with some room to adjust. The ring is accompanied by its Tacori certificate of authenticity and original inner and outer box. The estate price for the like-new ring is $7,350.00 CAD. Stock #101-00439.

December 7, 2023

0.90ct. VVS1-F emerald cut (1.10ct. tw.) 2.5gr. 18kt. GIA report. $7,125.00 CAD. 101-00395

Emerald cut diamonds offer a completely different optical experience compared to any shape of brilliant cut diamond. The step-cut facet arrangement display parallel and perpendicular flashes of reflected white light and they twinkle with long slender rainbow dispersion sparkles. They lack the busy facet pattern of brilliant cuts that disguise and conceal clarity affecting inclusions. For this reason, emerald cut diamonds require a much higher clarity grade to be considered “eye clean”. It is not uncommon for a great deal of SI2 brilliant cut diamonds to appear flawless without magnification. At the same time, many VS1 emerald cut diamonds can have inclusions that can be seen by the naked eye. No need to worry about seeing an unwanted inclusion in our latest estate diamond ring as the clarity has been graded a VVS1. This clarity grade is just one shy of flawless! The colour too has been established to be an F, only two grades from a perfect D. It has an attractive  length to width ratio of 1.35:1. Excellent polish, very good symmetry, and no fluorescence. Few natural diamonds are found of this quality. The previous owner must have valued very high quality as the setting has been hand crafted from premium 18 karat white gold with VS-G (or better) French set accent diamonds running down both shoulders. The 20 small round brilliant cut diamonds add 0.20 carats of subtle bring. The finished ring weighs 2.5 grams in a size 6 3/4. It can be adjusted up or down 1 full size by one of our onsite goldsmiths. Like many of our estate rings, this one came to us with an optimistic opinion of a replacement value. The July 2020 document suggests the ring has a retail value of $16,800.00. Even considering the Canadian dollar is much weaker today than a few years ago, we feel this ring could be competitively replaced for around $9,500.00. As a like new, previously owned, estate ring, we have it priced at $7,125.00. Included with the ring are the original laminated Gemological Institute of America report, and the July 2020 Gem Lab appraisal. This ring was hand assembled using top quality natural diamonds in upgraded 18 karat white gold. The no compromise contemporary design ring represents a terrific value at the estate price of $7,125.00 CAD. Stock #101-00395.

November 30, 2023

2.15ct. total weight VVS1-G GIA certified platinum set $16,500.00 CAD. e7483

You didn’t settle for just an average girlfriend so don’t make her settle for just an average engagement ring. When only the best will do, do platinum and do it with a fantastic diamond. This platinum set was hand made to a very high standard using 30 channel set VS-GH round brilliant cut diamonds totaling approximately 0.87 carats. The three size 8 1/2 rings weigh a combined 18 grams. The six prong Tiffany style engagement ring was manufactured by accomplished Toronto jewellers Fortunes Fine Jewellers www.fortunes.com and contains one round brilliant cut diamond weighing 1.28 carats of excellent VVS1 clarity, G colour, excellent cut and no fluorescence. The GIA certificate 1152451942 also states excellent symmetry and very good polish. The complete set is estate priced at $16,500.00 CAD. The centre diamond is available separately if you have a different design in mind for $13,200.00. More information on the centre diamond can be seen in the estate diamond section of website. Stock #e7483.

Centre diamond sold. Rings are still available.

November 24, 2023

Late Art Nouveau European cut diamond ring, 1.96ct. VS1-G, 5.1gr. platinum, sz. 5 1/2. $31,450.00 CAD. 101-00533

This is an incredible example of a late Art Nouveau diamond ring dating from around 1910. It may be well over 100 years old but it looks almost like the day the finishing touch of engraving was applied to the intricate pierced filigree design. Its longevity is partly due to the resilient platinum it was constructed from and it likely wasn’t worn every day. This style ring marks the transition period from the Art Nouveau design era to Art Deco. Art Nouveau often used styles found in natural forms and sinuous curves inspired by vines, plants, and flowers. These designs bring an impression of dynamic movement. Other characteristics of Art Nouveau are a sense of dynamism and movement, often illustrated by asymmetry and whiplash line forms. Once the basic ring has been created a master engraver decorates the soft platinum with leafy patterns, bright cutting, and milgrain edging. The bezel setting still shows evidence of the delicate milgrain outline. Secured within the smooth low bezel is a spectacular European cut diamond of very high clarity and colour. The setting makes it difficult to accurately measure the diameter but we estimate this diamond to have an average diameter of 8.1mm. The total depth of the diamond is easily measured at 4.8mm. Once a mathematical formula is applied to these dimensions we determined the weight of this diamond conservatively at 1.96 carats. There is a very good chance it weighs 2.00 carats or a touch more. Scattered throughout the 11.8mm wide dome filigree setting are an additional 12 old single cut diamonds of SI-G quality, contributing 0.25 carat of added sparkle. The ring measures a finger size 5 1/2 and can be adjusted a size or two up or down. Original examples of Art Nouveau rings in excellent condition are rather rare as many have been remodeled to newer designs over the years. We are thrilled the temptation to take this ring apart was never acted upon. For a significant diamond with this sort of value we’d normally have set it to The Gemological Institute of America to obtain a formal grading report. This would require grinding away the bezel to remove the stone and we really didn’t want to harm the setting. Our senior Graduate Gemologist (trained in residence) with over 33 years experience is confident this diamond is of strong VS1 clarity with a G colour. The diamond also displays superior cut, symmetry, and polish, not normally seen on antique diamonds of this age. As an added bonus the large centre diamond displays no fluorescence, although some of the small accent diamonds glow brightly when exposed to long wave ultraviolet light. Larger diamonds in the 2.00 carat size range are seen more often today, but 100 years ago a diamond of this size would have almost never been encountered in a store like ours. This special ring is ready to be enjoyed for many more generations for the estate price of $31,450.00 CAD. Stock #101-00533.

Viewing by appointment only.

November 9, 2023

2.11ct. VS1-F GIA certified marquise & baguette diamond ring 3.9gr. platinum $31,450.00 CAD. e12943 101-00284

Every once in a while a ring arrives in our estate/vintage department that makes our entire team stop dead in their tracks and just stare. This is that once in a while ring. Pretty much the definition of less is more luxury. Just a simple double gallery platinum setting with 2 slender baguette cut diamonds. The shoulder diamonds draw your attention to the beautiful marquise brilliant cut secured in a six claw head. When this ring arrived we immediately sent the diamond to the Gemological Institute of America in New York City for a quality report. Unfortunately, Canada has no grading service that is internationally accepted like a GIA report. It costs a lot of money for this certificate ($205.00 USD plus 2-way shipping and insurance) but it’s worth the peace of mind knowing the world’s foremost authority on diamond grading has examined your diamond. While we are fortunate to have a GIA trained Graduate Gemologist and diamond graders on staff, there is no substitute for an actual GIA laboratories report. Every important diamond should come with a Gemological Institute of America report. If you’re considering a significant diamond purchase, insist on a GIA report, there is no substitute. The full December 5 2019 report can be seen online here. In addition to a very high F colour, VS1 clarity and no fluorescence, it’s the lovely outline of this particular marquise with its length to width ratio of 1.73:1.00 plus a tiny table percentage of just 58 that makes it so pretty. These characteristics may seem trivial but collectively they make a huge visual impact that needs to be seen in person. I can’t imagine a better setting than the pure luxury of platinum with the two accent baguettes running down the shoulders. The ring is in excellent condition and ready to wear in a finger size 5 1/2. If you’d like to use this diamond in a different setting we’d love to custom make whatever you have in mind. The diamond alone is available for $30,250.00 CAD. Complete ring is priced at $31,450.00 CAD. Stock #e12943 101-00284.

Viewing by appointment only.

November 3, 2023

1.25ct. I1-D very good cut GIA certified 2.05ct. tw. 14kt. 11.2gr. 3 piece set $11,200.00 CAD. e12282

We have a little introductory course we run through with people who are buying their first significant diamond. We try to keep it as simple as possible as there are so many interchangeable factors that effect diamond value. What we mostly aim for is an understanding of the normal minimum thresholds of diamond quality. For example G colour is usually where you lose any warmth detectable to the untrained eye. SI1 clarity is the point where you are almost guaranteed to not see any eye-visible inclusions. We use these benchmarks to help customers understand what they are looking at to give them a reference point of quality. These rules are flexible and all that really matters is what a diamond looks like in person. Some people can’t see warmth in a colour even as low as J. Others can’t find inclusions in diamonds graded I1. Sometimes we get a diamond that stumps even our well trained eyes, like this GIA certified I1-D. At first look without magnification the 1.25 carat round brilliant looked eye-clean. We couldn’t find the inclusions until we looked with magnification then looked again without. Even then you can only see the feathers at a specific angle and only by looking closely for them. This is mostly due to their fantastic positioning within the facet pattern but also because of the added brilliance caused by the triple “Very Good” grade (very good cut, very good symmetry and very good polish). The stunning diamond is a fitting crown to the three piece wedding set that accompanies it. The 14 karat white gold set is all geometric trellis work and milgrain accented diamonds. Combined, the round brilliant cuts and graduated princess cuts weight an estimated 2.05 carats for the set. The trio all measure a finger size 6 1/4 with some room to adjust. The main diamond is laser inscribed and comes with its original GIA Diamond Grading Report (May 2019) which you can see here. As a finishing touch the diamond exhibits no trace of fluorescence when exposed to long wave ultraviolet light. Estate price for the set only $11,200.00 CAD. Stock #e12282.

October 27, 2023

1.75ct. VS2-I GIA cert. 2.54ct. tw. platinum halo diamond ring $13,000.00 CAD. 101-00066 e3739

If this ring looks a little familiar it should. We used this setting to showcase a beautiful 2.32 carat sometime ago. We had such a positive response from the design that we had to feature it again. This time we selected a diamond and ring combination that costs less than 1/3 of what the original did. Even though it is substantially less expensive than the original, this ring was crafted from premium platinum. In fact the ring contains almost 9 grams of the substantial ultra rare precious metal. The slightly grey colour and soft patina that platinum develops over time is a great compliment to the vintage Art Deco inspired design. Even though the ring looks like it is from the 1930s, it’s only a few years old.  We set the beautiful 1.75 carat VS2-I very good cut diamond in the ring a few years ago. Being only a couple years old and carefully worn, the ring is basically new. Just an ultrasonic cleaning was all that was needed to bring it to the condition you see here. For the perfectionist out there we’ll happily refinish and polish the minor scuffs from the shank. Over 3/4 of a carat of small, excellent quality VS-GH round and baguette cut diamonds have been bead and bezel set throughout the intricate creation. The full December 2013 GIA report detailing every aspect of the large centre diamond can be seen online here. GIA is the industry standard for the unbiased grading of diamonds and coloured gems. The Gemological Institute of America developed the now internationally accepted diamond grading standards. All important diamonds should come with a GIA certificate. If you’re considering a significant diamond purchase, INSIST on a GIA report for peace of mind and accurate grading. The ring measures a slightly larger than average 8. We should be able to adjust it up or down a couple of sizes as needed. As shown the complete ring is estate priced at $13,000.00 CAD. Stock number 101-00066 e3739.

SOLD

October 26, 2023

Simon G engagement ring LP1846-D pink & white diamonds $5,075.00 CAD. e8916

I wouldn’t necessarily call this an estate ring, it’s more like a demonstrator model. It was sold brand new to a customer of Bill Le Boeuf Jewellers only a few months ago. The original recipient needed a much smaller ring size and this one couldn’t quite be sized down enough. We installed a temporary ring guard and ordered a new ring in the correct size while they wore this one. After the new smaller ring arrived we were left with this hardly worn “demo” model. Simon G are known for their high quality and exquisite design. What makes this ring truly unique is the center stripe of tiny bead set diamonds. They’re fancy pink in colour and they’re not artificially coloured. Natural fancy pink diamonds are extremely rare and very expensive. Many rings try to accomplish this look by just setting white diamonds in rose gold with limited success. Simon G would never accept such a compromise, only 100% natural unenhanced diamonds are used by the high end California designer. Model number LP1846-D has a suggested retail price of $3500.00 for the ring without a center diamond. We just happened to have an appropriate estate diamond to compliment and give maximum contrast with the small pink diamonds. A 0.70 carat round brilliant cut centerpiece sparkles with an exceptional E colour, eye clean SI2 clarity and a very good cut. 0.98 carats of total diamond weight have been expertly hand set into the 3.6 gram 18 karat white and rose gold setting. Although we couldn’t size this ring down to the original owners size, we are able to adjust it up or down one size from the current 6.5. A natural pink diamond ring like this is a very special and rare offering. With 6 weeks of wear the ring is only showing a few scuffs and scratches on the shank bottom. After a quick polish and refinishing it will look new. Estate priced at $5,075.00 CAD. Stock #e8916.

SOLD

October 25, 2023

5.00ct. tw. VS-GH invisible set diamond ring, 26.5gr. 18kt. sz. 9 1/2, $8,000.00 CAD. 116-00079

Did you know that there was a time when diamonds were almost never worn by women? They were considered to be the most masculine of all gems due to their superior hardness. The word diamond can trace its roots back to the Ancient Greek word Adamas that translates to indestructible. While diamonds are not really indestructible, they are exponentially harder than the second hardest gem and they offer excellent durability. Until people learned how to cut and polish diamonds they were considered a nuisance as they ruined every tool used trying to polish them. Our latest one of a kind gent’s diamond ring is quite masculine and was made without cutting any corners. It was custom made using a lot of premium quality 18 karat gold. This ring weighs close to 1 ounce at 26.5 grams. It contains over 3.5 square centimeters of sparkle in the form of 77 modified square brilliant cut diamonds of a conversative VS-GH quality. These diamonds were specially cut with a groove along their edges to allow a lattice of gold to invisibly secure them in place without the need any form of claw or prong. This complicated technique to secure diamonds results in uninterrupted diamond coverage with maximum brilliance and dispersion. This one of a kind custom made ring is a size 9 1/2 and can adjust up or down about a size. It is an impressive ring by any gauge, it has a width of 16.5mm tapering to 9.6mm. Each diamond has a corresponding pilot hole visible through the back. These small holes make it super easy to clean and help to keep this ring looking great. It is in excellent condition showing only minimal evidence of use. Estate priced at $8,000.00 CAD. Stock #116-00079.

SOLD

October 24, 2023

2.00ct. SI2-G Radiant cut (GIA report) 2=0.85ct. trillions, 7.2gr. 18kt. sz. 6 1/2. $22,500.00 CAD 101-00471

Before we dig into this exceptional ring we want to discuss the documents that accompany it. It seems the original owner wanted a consensus on value as they opted to have the ring appraised by two different companies within three days. The first document is from December 2, 2003, done by Gems Appraisals Toronto, stating an estimated value of $42,000.00 including taxes ($37,168.14 before tax). The second document is from December 4, 2003, by Harold Weinstein Ltd. of Toronto, their description of the ring is identical to the first document but they present a more conservative estimated replacement value of $32,000.00. A 16% ($5168.14) difference in evaluations is actually pretty close. Although close to 20 years have passed since these documents were produced and commodities have increased significantly we feel a more competitive replacement value would be closer to $30,0000.00 plus sales tax. The ring is also accompanied by a GIA Diamond Grading Report that can always be relied upon for an unbias opinion of quality. GIA is a not-for-profit educational institution that has no interest or involvement in the commerce of diamonds, that proudly omits any monetary value from all of its reports; they simply describe what the diamond is and leave it to the industry to establish a value. The diamond is described as a 2.00-carat cut-cornered rectangular modified brilliant AKA “radiant cut” of SI2-G quality, very good polish, good symmetry, no fluorescence, 74% table (very good), and 68.2% depth (very good). Despite the diamond’s large footprint and SI2 clarity grade, the diamond is absolutely eye-clean thanks to its busy facet pattern and the grade-setting inclusions being located at the corners where they can be (and are) covered by prongs. The perfectly matched pair of trillion cut diamonds are G colour and SI2 clarity, ensuring they blend seamlessly with the radiant cut they shoulder. The pair equals an estimated total weight of 0.85 carats, pushing the total diamond weight of the ring up to 2.85 carats. The ring itself is extremely well made from a hefty 7.2 grams of 18-karat white gold. The shank is gracefully tapered where it meets the trio and widens significantly to 4.7mm towards the back of the finger, putting its bulk where the ring will experience the most wear and tear. The ring currently measures a finger size 6 1/2 with room to adjust. This ring represents a lot of bang for the buck a our estate price of $22,500.00 CAD. Stock #101-00471.

SOLD

September 6, 2023

1.29ct. SI1-D excellent cut GIA report (1.47ct. tw). 4.7gr. plat. sz. 6 1/4, James Allen, $8,610.00 CAD. 191-00175

It’s too bad the original purchaser of this ring didn’t consult with us before buying this high quality diamond engagement ring from JamesAllen.com. Had they done so, they would have paid less when new, and received more when they no longer needed it; not to mention they would have got most of the original sales tax back too. This is just the sort of ring that Bill Le Boeuf Jewellers do better than almost anyone else. A high quality diamond with a GIA report in a traditional style, premium quality platinum setting is something few jewellers do as well as us. This ring was originally purchased by a local Barrie resident in 2020. It is in like new condition and comes complete with original James Allen receipts, and documents, along with a laminated Gemological Institute of America diamond grading report from 2019. The beautiful natural diamond is a significant size weighing 1.29 carats, it is an eye clean SI1 clarity, with a perfect D colour, excellent cut, excellent polish, excellent symmetry, and medium blue fluorescence. The full GIA report can be seen online here. Bead set along the shoulders of the 2.1mm wide shank are 18 small round brilliant cut accent diamonds adding 0.22 carats of VS-SI-GH sparkle. The upgraded, 4,7 gram, platinum setting was made to fit a size 6 1/4 finger. We can easily adjust the fit up or down to suit almost any finger size. The flat edge design of this ring makes it easy to match almost any wedding band or anniversary ring. Online jewellery purchases like this from a reputable drop shipper offers better value than most ordinary brick and mortar jewellery stores, but we like to think Bill Le Boeuf Jewellers in no ordinary jewellery store. Our 65 years experience from the same Downtown Barrie location, and the unique competitive advantages of our business model allow us the ability provide better value than any online vendor. Many times our estate diamonds and jewellery sell for under their wholesale replacement cost. This like new diamond ring is a great example of just that. Wholesale is the new retail when it comes to diamond rings at Bill Le Boeuf Jewellers. The least expensive diamond of this quality on the James Allen website is over $11,000.00 and the exact setting (17182P) is on sale for $1,209.00. Including everything pictured, this diamond ring is estate priced at $8,610.00 CAD. Stock #191-00175.

SOLD

1.19ct. Internally Flawless-I, “triple X”, engagement ring, 14kt. (1.49ct. tw.), 2.7gr. 14kt. $7,750.00 CAD. 101-00479

The market is going crazy for lab-grown diamonds because they are cheap, cheap, cheap. They can currently be purchased for more than 95% less than a comparable natural diamond. I just did a search on our lab-grown diamond data base and found an equivalent to this natural for well under $400.00. We understand that price is a powerful motivation and we are happy to provide you with an outstanding lab-grown diamond at a price that won’t be beat, but our hearts will always be with the miracle of a beautiful natural diamond. Our latest natural diamond has a remarkable Internally Flawless clarity. We almost never encounter such high clarity in natural or lab-grown diamonds. The colour is a very good I. Did you know that “I” colour diamonds are the standard grade for Tiffany. Our diamond also showcases an excellent cut, excellent polish, and excellent symmetry, making it a coveted “triple X”.  When exposed to longwave ultraviolet light it fluoresces a medium blue colour. This blue glow goes completely unnoticed unless the diamond is viewed in the dark with a “black light”. If you’d like to see the full Gemological Institute of America diamond report you can click here. The diamond has been set into a popular style 14 karat white gold ring setting containing 16 bead set natural diamonds that add 0.20 carat of VS-H sparkle running down the shoulders. The ring measures a finger size 6 1/2 and can be adjusted up or down a size or two by one of our onsite goldsmiths. If you love this natural diamond but are envisioning a different style setting, the diamond is available alone for $7,250.00. The complete ring is estate priced at $7,750.00 CAD. Stock #101-00479.

SOLD

June 15, 2023

1.42ct. I1-F, 22=0.64ct. tw. SI-G, 6.0gr. 18kt. with GIA report $10,500.00 CAD (TAX INCLUDED) e14683

I1 clarity diamonds MUST be seen in person. Some are dull and lifeless, while others look better than many higher-clarity SI1 stones. It’s not just the about the “4 Cs”. When it comes to clarity, there is much more to consider than simply an assigned grade on a piece of paper. You must review the size, shape, number, colour, and location of any clarity affecting inclusion. This I1 is much nicer looking than most. The grade setting inclusions in this diamond are mostly twinning wisps. According to The Gemological Institute of America, a twinning wisp is “A series of pinpoints, clouds, or crystals that forms in a diamond’s growth place; associated with crystal distortion and twinning planes.” Twinning wisps quite often appear as thin translucent strands that have little impact on the overall appearance and brilliance of a diamond. Looking at the GIA plot, the twinning wisps would have you believe this diamond is heavily included. From a real-world viewing perspective, they go unnoticed except under magnification. Even when we intentionally highlight the inclusions in darkfield viewing with lots of magnification, these innocuous characteristics are not terribly impactful. The rest of the features affecting the appearance of this diamond are quite good. The colour is a very strong F,  and the overall cut is very good. The cut grade would likely have been graded excellent if the crown angle was only about 1 degree more shallow. Excellent polish, very good symmetry, and no fluorescence round out everything you need to know about this diamond. The full April 2023 GIA diamond report can be seen online here. The 18-karat white handcrafted setting is a version of the popular halo design. The round frame measures a full 11.3mm in diameter making the centre diamond appear even larger than it is. 10 additional bead set diamonds fill the shoulders halfway down the shank. The 22 additional round brilliant cut diamonds contribute 0.64 carats of weight and are of very good SI-G quality. Made in a finger size of 6 1/2 it can be adjusted up or down a size or two. The low profile halo setting allows for any flat edge wedding/anniversary ring to be worn without any gaps. The premium quality construction in 18 karat white gold weighs 6 grams and is in like new condition. This ring is being sold tax included. The ring comes with a 2008 GemScan appraisal and the recent Gemological Institute of America report for the estate price of $10,500.00 CAD. Stock #e14683.

SOLD

June 14, 2023

0.78ct. Internally Flawless-D, excellent cut, GIA report, 2.2gr. 14kt. rose/white gold, sz. 4 1/2, $5,999.00 CAD. 101-00562

If only the best will do, we may just have the perfect diamond you. Occasionally we have a perfect D colour diamond, sometimes we’ll have a Flawless clarity diamond here too, and excellent cut stones come and go with regularity, but we almost never have that combination in the same stone. This is one of the very few Internally Flawless, D colour, Excellent cut, Excellent polish, Excellent symmetry diamonds I can remember. This one is also accompanied with a Gemological Institute of America report documenting the compete geometry and every other important characteristic. The diamond also exhibits Faint blue fluorescence when exposed to longwave ultraviolet light; this is a property that only a natural diamond can posses. A laboratory grown diamond will never fluoresce the same way. This exceptional diamond is set into the classic Tiffany style knife edge shank measuring 2.2mm wide. The ring measures a very small size 4 1/2, but our onsite goldsmiths can easily adjust it a few sizes larger. This engagement ring design is what started it all when Tiffany introduced the concept of round solitaire perched tall in a six prong setting with no extra decoration way back in 1886. The style is still one their most popular and can come in rose gold, just like ours. The Tiffany version uses upgraded 18 karat gold with the 6 prong setting cast from premium grade platinum, ours is more a more traditional white gold setting. This screen shot (taken March 8, 2024) shows a similar style ring with the same quality diamond (0.01 carat larger) priced at $26,100.00 CAD.  The Tiffany diamond likely has no fluorescence but otherwise is the same quality. Our hardly worn estate ring is priced 77% less. If you love this diamond but not the ring, we’re happy to remount it into any design you can dream up, our new solitaire settings in 14 karat gold start at around $600.00 of similar design, for a diamond this size. The diamond can be purchased without the setting for $5,849.00 CAD. We are very confident this is the best price for a round diamond of this size/quality anywhere. The ring comes with the original laminated GIA report and our version of the “little blue box”. Complete ring is estate priced at $5,999.00 CAD. Stock #101-00562.

SOLD

June 12, 2023

1.23ct. VS2-H “triple X” GIA report, (16=0.21ct. VS-H), 3.4gr. 18kt., sz. 6 3/4. $7,350.00 CAD. 101-00523

You can buy a lab-grown diamond for a whole lot less than this but are you really getting good value? Lab-grown diamonds cost at least 90% less than their natural counterparts but often the retail price doesn’t match the lower wholesale cost. This estate natural diamond represents the best value in the business and we give you all the information to make an informed decision. This diamond has been graded by the Gemological Institute of America (GIA). The full report can be seen online here. It was determined to be a VS2 clarity, H colour, with excellent cut, excellent polish, excellent symmetry, and medium blue fluorescence. A small crystal inclusion and feather inclusion are the only clarity characteristics this diamond displays. What I like about this diamond is its total depth of 59.9%. This means it has more diameter than most diamonds of this weight, making it look larger than the weight suggests. I also like the medium blue fluorescence that confirms its natural origin. No lab-grown diamonds will fluoresce blue when exposed to long wave ultraviolet light. Despite the ongoing drop in lab-grown prices, natural diamonds with reliable grading reports have maintained their value. This girdle of the diamond has also been laser engraved with the GIA report number. Should the report ever get lost, you can easily retrieve the information online through GIA’s website. The traditional setting this beautiful diamond was set into was manufactured from premium quality 18 karat white gold. 16 bead set graduated natural diamonds decorate the shoulders and contribute an additional 0.21 carats of sparkle. The 3.4 gram ring measures a finger size 6 3/4 and can be adjusted up or down approximately 1 full size. This ring is in practically new condition and has not been polished or refinished in any way. If you’d like to set this diamond in a different jewellery item it can be purchased without the ring for just $6,850.00. Dealer inquires are always welcomed. The original 2016 laminated GIA report comes with the diamond or complete ring for the estate price of $7,350.00 CAD. Stock #101-00523.

SOLD

June 11, 2023

Antique 2.87ct. SI1-OP GIA cert. (3.30ct. tw) platinum ring 4.6gr. $15,900.00 CAD. e11519 101-00553

When was the last time you saw a 90 year old diamond with a modern GIA certificate? Almost all significant diamonds today come with a Gemological Institute of America report (or at least they should). 90 years ago there was no GIA and there certainly were no recognized standards for diamond grading. If you’re considering an important diamond purchase make sure to see the GIA certification and microscopically engraved girdle. If there is no GIA report or it comes with certificate from a different source, make sure you get an ironclad return guarantee should the diamond fall short of its quality claim. There are way too many poorly and incorrectly graded diamonds out there; make sure you get an accurate, unbiased opinion of quality. If you’re going to spend a significant  sum for a diamond please take some time and watch this video by Martin Rapaport. The short video discusses the problems with over graded diamonds and inaccurate reports. Mr. Rapaport produces a wholesale diamond price list that is widely followed by the industry. This guy knows his stuff. The diamond came to us as part of a much loved antique ring. The large centre diamond was suffering from a few minor chips along its edge. After our master diamond cutter performed the minor repair, carefully maintaining the antique nature of the original diamond, we ended up with a weight of 2.87 carats (a loss of just 0.05 carats). While the diamond was out of the setting we decided to send it to the Gemological Institute of America in New York for certification. The September 2018 certificate can be seen online here. It was important for us to maintain the antique spirit of the diamond while being repaired. They sure don’t cut them like this anymore. The steep crown angle of 38% and the tiny table of just 50% encourage way more rainbow dispersion compared to a modern round brilliant cut diamond. GIA’s cutting grade of just “fair” is due to the fact GIA compared the geometry of this diamond to a modern cut that is more bias to the white/black flash gemologists call brilliance. Antique diamonds like this display more rainbow dispersion (the break up of white light into the spectral colours). Many people, including our on staff Gemologist perfect the optical characteristics of these antique diamonds over modern cutting geometry. It was also a priority of ours to keep the diamond in its original platinum setting. The ring contains 4 antique marquise and 4 small round diamonds of very nice VS-GH quality adding a combined 0.43 carats of vintage bling. 90 years ago when these diamonds were new most came from South Africa and most of those exhibited warmer hues in the JKLMNOP range. This centre diamond is no exception displaying a certified O to P colour range according to GIA. The clarity is an eye clean SI1 showing a small white grade setting feather inclusion at 1:00 o’clock on an upper girdle facet. Original antique diamond rings don’t come in too often and originals with a diamond pushing 3.00 carats is a pretty rare occurrence for us indeed. Including the GIA certificate this 3.30 carat total weight knockout antique, size 4, diamond ring is estate priced at only $15,900.00 CAD. Stock #e11519 101-00553.

SOLD

June 10, 2023

2.83 carat natural emerald & diamond (40=0.75ct. VS-G) ring, 5.8gr., sz. 7, $5,200.00 CAD. 206-00519

Regardless of price, its rare to see a decent quality emerald. The nature of emerald causes the vast majority of them to grow heavily included. Even semitransparent emerald is uncommon and finding one with decent colour at the same time is truly a rare occurrence. Our most recent estate emerald ring exhibits fantastic clarity with only minor inclusions, and very nice green colour; not too pale and not too dark. Emeralds are a specific variety of the mineral beryl. Two other popular beryl gems are aquamarine and morganite. Pure beryl is completely colourless, under the right conditions, beryl can form in almost any colour. If there is sufficient chromium in the natural environment when a beryl crystal is growing, mother nature produces a green emerald. Sometimes the colour is so pale you can hardly see any green and sometimes they are an opaque green that is overly saturated. This one turned out great. The oval faceted mixed cut measures a substantial 10.6mm x 8.8mm x 5.6mm and is conservatively estimated to weigh 2.87 carat. There is a good chance it weighs slightly over 3.00 carat but we’re not curious enough to pull it out of the setting to find out exactly. This rare stone shows not wear, scuffs, scratches, or nicks along the edges. It has been set in an premium quality 18 karat white and yellow gold setting containing 40 round brilliant cut diamonds. The bead set diamonds on the shoulders form a braided pattern. Yellow gold claws are very flattering to the rich green gem they secure. This ring remains in original condition. The warm hue, white gold alloy of the rest of the ring is beginning to show through the rhodium plating on areas where it is wearing through. We can apply a fresh rhodium plating after the ring size is adjusted if requested. The ring remains in its original unpolished form. Inside the shoulders is a decorative lattice design that keeps this large ring from becoming too top heavy, while at the same time offering easy cleaning access to the diamonds. Emeralds are more rare than diamonds and in exceptional quality are more expensive too. If you aren’t happy with the quality of your emerald, or you want a very nice one offering exceptional value, you need to see this beautiful ring. Estate priced at $5,200.00 CAD. Stock #206-00519.

SOLD

June 1, 2023

1.71ct. VS2-M marquise with GIA report, 14kt., 3.0gr., $8,050.00 CAD. 101-00135.

The round brilliant cut diamond has always been the most popular shape. Right now, ovals are a hot shape. Square Princess cuts were trendy 20 years ago. When I first entered the business in the late 1980s, fashionable brides to be, wanted a diamond just like this marquise cut. This marquise likely dates from around the 1930s or 40s, as the description on the 1980 appraisal describes its original setting in platinum with tapered baguette accent diamonds on the shoulders. Sometime after this document was produced it must have been remounted into this simple 14-karat yellow and white gold bi-pass style custom creation. I think this is a very flattering design, that shows off the slender 2.23:1 length-to-width ratio of this diamond. This diamond ring comes with a Gemological Institute of America report where it was graded a VS2 clarity with an M colour. The slightly warm colour is quite controlled in the simple wire shank setting. It faces up much more white than the M colour would suggest. The skinny marquise and relatively shallow overall cut of 57.5% make this diamond look waaaaay bigger than only 1.71 carats. Only around 6% of marquise-shaped diamonds are cut this slender. A marquise of these proportions and size is quite unusual. The October 14th, 2021 GIA report can be seen online here. This shape diamond would make a stunning pendant. If you have another design in mind for this diamond, bring your ideas in and let our talented team of designer goldsmiths create a one of a kind piece of jewellery for you. The complete ring is estate priced at $8,050.00. The diamond by itself is $7,800.00. Stock #101-00135.

SOLD

May 7, 2023

3.00ct. SI1-N “triple excellent, no fluorescence, GIA report, 14kt. solitaire, sz. 5 1/4. $18,500.00 CAD. 101-00532

While the price of all laboratory-grown diamonds continue to fall, large natural diamonds are maintaining their value with firm wholesale pricing. There is an ever increasing supply of cheap lab-grown diamonds, but decent sized, well cut natural diamonds are still quite rare and there isn’t an endless supply of them. Our in store diamond database currently showcases over 1/2 a million loose natural diamonds yet only 1,400 are of this size and quality or larger. A search of lab-grown equivalents turns up dozens for $1,600.00 or less! Our latest mother nature created natural diamond weighs a full 3.00 carats and has been expertly cut with excellent geometry, excellent polish, and excellent symmetry. The clarity was determined to be SI1, with an N colour, and no fluorescence. The N colour displays a hint of warmth but is controlled by the exceptional cutting. The depth of 60.7 percent is a little less than most 3.00 carat round diamonds resulting in a slightly larger average diameter of 9.29mm, making this one appear bigger than many 3.00 carat diamonds. The SI1 clarity is based on several dark crystal inclusions and white feathers that go undetected except to the most sharp sighted. Crystal inclusions and feathers are the preferred over clouds when it comes to inclusions. Clouds can be inconsequential or they can make a diamond appear hazy and dull depending on the severity. This diamond offers excellent crisp sharp brilliance, dispersion, with excellent transparency. If you see it in person you’ll be amazed just how nice an N colour diamond can look when cut as well as this one. This beautiful diamond comes with its original laminated Gemological Institute of America report from Valentine’s Day 2013. We’ll continue to stress the importance of accurate recognized diamond reports (not appraisals). If you’re considering the purchase or investment of a significant diamond. Always insist on GIA documentation, there are no substitutes. This diamond has been set into a traditional 14 karat white gold solitaire, with a finger size of 5 1/4 and weighing 4.5 grams. One of our onsite goldsmiths can custom size the ring larger or smaller to fit your finger perfectly. The low set, double gallery setting will fit flush with almost any wedding or anniversary ring. It is in excellent shape looking like new. This ring costs a considerable sum but it isn’t expensive. It offers unbeatable value considering its estate price of only $18,500.00 CAD. Stock #101-00532.

SOLD

May 4, 2023

1.02ct. SI1-H excellent cut+48=0.67ct. SI-H 4.4gr. 14kt. $7,500.00 CAD. 101-00411

There’s nothing like an excellent cut round brilliant diamond for illustrating the unique optics of a diamond! Sparkle in any gemstone is caused by the gem material’s ability to bend and split light, known as refraction and dispersion. Refraction allows a gem cutter to organize the facets of a finished gem in a way that returns light back to the eye (similar to the way the dwarves of Moria use large mirrors to light their halls in Amazon Prime’s Rings of Power series). If a gem has high refraction (like a diamond) more light will bounce around in the stone instead of simply passing through the gem and out its bottom. Dispersion is a gem’s ability to split white light into its individual rainbow colours. Though a diamond is naturally good at both of these things a poor cut can still make for a lifeless diamond. This is why we prioritize cutting over the three other C’s when speaking with our customers. This 1.02 carat excellent cut diamond also happens to come with an eye-clean SI1 clarity and near colourless H. The 10.2mm wide halo and decorative split shoulders feature an additional 48 round brilliant cut diamonds of matching SI-H quality. They push the total weight of the ring up to 1.69 carats. The ring itself is in like-new condition and has been well made from 14 karat white gold, measuring a finger size 4 1/2. The ring is accompanied by a 2022 Gem Review Inc. appraisal stating an optimistic replacement value of $17,395.00 CAD. We feel a competitive replacement value would be closer to $10,000.00. Our estate price for this like new ring is $7,500.00, CAD. Stock #101-00411.

SOLD

May 3, 2023

1.24ct. VS1-F transition cut diamond ring with GIA report (6=0.38ct.tw. SI-HI) 4.4gr., sz. 5 1/2, $11,400.00 CAD. 101-00546

If you’ve never heard of a transition cut you’re not alone. A transition cut is a term that refers to diamonds from the 1920s into the 1940s. It was a time when the world was changing and technology played a larger role in life including a more scientific understanding of how optical physics related to the brilliance of a diamond. These transition cuts look mostly like old European cut diamonds but have some characteristics similar to a modern brilliant cut. They’re a bit of a hybrid and we love them. Smaller tables, taller crowns like antique diamonds but with longer lower girdle facets, and thinner pavilion main facets approaching that of modern diamonds. They have a unique look with tons of dispersion and are perfect in original antique rings or settings inspired by antique design. This diamond came in to us weighing 1.39 carats with a diameter of 7.0mm. It was showing some minor chips around its very thin gridle. Our master diamond cutting removed the minor damage, thickened up the girdle at the expense of some of the diameter and a little loss of weight. He paid close attention to leaving the vintage character of the transition cut intact. The freshly repaired diamond now weighs 1.24 carats with a 6.9mm average diameter. The repaired diamond with its thicker middle section is much more resistant to chipping. While the diamond was out we thought we should send it to The Gemological Institute of America for a full grading report. It came back with the excellent results we expected of VS1 clarity, F colour, and no fluorescence. The full report can be seen online here. GIA do not comment on the overall cut of these vintage/antique diamonds, but from the basic geometry of 50% table with a 60% depth you know this old diamond is going to throw off fantastic dispersion and brilliance. We elected to return the diamond to the setting it has called home for many years. This 14 karat white gold setting contains 6 round brilliant cut diamonds weighing an estimated 0.38 carats of SI-HI quality. The 4.4 gram, size 5 1/2 ring has a beautiful pattern of overlapping claws on the gallery. The ring is in excellent condition and can be adjusted in size up or down by one of our onsite goldsmiths. If you have another piece of jewellery in mind for this diamond it is available alone for $10,500.00. The complete ring including the December 2023 GIA report is estate priced at $11,400.00 CAD.

SOLD

April 4, 2023

1.98ct. emerald & 0.52ct. diamond ring 18kt. gold $5,926.00 CAD. e9755 206-00262

We’re being asked more and more every day to create custom jewellery for new and existing clients. It’s something we’ve been doing since 1958, but it’s part of our business we’ve really never promoted much. Here’s a custom ring we decided to make that isn’t our usual more technical sort of creation. It’s more an exercise in artistic simplicity. No fancy wire filigree, no hand engraved highlights, no milgrain edges. Just a nice quality Columbian emerald with a couple of very good shoulder diamonds. The wide low dome shank measures just over 10mm wide gently tapering to a comfortable 6.3mm on the bottom. The precise hand formed yellow gold bezel secures a substantial size 1.98 carat medium dark green emerald measuring 7.5mm x 6.5mm. We were going to leave it at that and call it a day but we couldn’t help ourselves, we just had to add some bling. Two lovely estate VS-GH diamonds were Gypsy set on the shoulders and provide just enough twinkle to draw your eye to the soothing colour of the emerald in the centre. The two diamonds add a total 0.52 carats of sparkling twinkle bringing the total gem weight to a tidy 2.50 carats. This hand made, one of a kind ring weighs in at over 14 grams. Made from premium 18 karat white and yellow gold. This is a hefty ring that feels every bit the quality piece it is. Even if a custom ring like this isn’t what we’re known for I can see more of this style coming from the minds of our talented goldsmiths. From the reactions of people who have seen it so far, I know this is a style that appeals to many. Using beautiful estate components allows us to price this artistic piece very well at $5,926.00 CAD. It’s a lot of money but there’s a ton of value in this creation. If you have an old setting with a nice stone you’re not using bring it in. I bet we can create a custom piece making it your new favorite item of jewellery for less than you might imagine. Stock #e9755 206-00262

SOLD

March 8, 2023

1.20ct. SI1-F radiant cut GIA report (75=0.68ct. tw. VS-FG) 5.4gr. 18kt. custom $9,100.00 CAD. 101-00462

The fact that this ring was custom made is no surprise, it boasts a solid heft thanks to its spare-no-expense construction and top-quality extra-dense 18 karat white gold. The ring has been handset with 75 petite round brilliant cut diamonds of VS-SI-EFG equaling approximately 0.69 carats in total weight. The large natural diamond is certainly worthy of the ring that carries it, boasting a GIA pedigree that can be viewed online here. The 1.20 carat radiant cut is an eye-clean and colourless SI1-F with very good polish, good symmetry, and an excellent table percentage of 62% and depth percentage of 63.2%. It does display strong blue fluorescence when exposed to long wave ultraviolet light, which can cause a diamond to look a bit hazy in direct sunlight (extremely high ultraviolet light content), but under almost any other lighting condition the fluorescence is invisible. Under direct “black light” it will glow a chalky blue colour and makes for a fascinating party trick. The ring is also accompanied by a AGL appraisal stating an optimistic replacement value of $21,000.00 CAD. We feel a more competitive replacement value would be around $13,000.00; our estate price is $9,100.00 CAD. Stock #101-00462.

SOLD

March 4, 2023

Tiffany platinum Soleste cushion halo diamond ring 0.68ct. tw. $5,500.00 CAD. e11797 101-00068

When you’re speaking about Tiffany it’s not always about what’s inside the little blue box. With Tiffany rings it’s what’s inside that little black box. Not many Tiffany engagement rings pass through our estate department and fewer still with a style as popular as this one. This is the Tiffany Soleste containing a beautiful 0.39-carat cushion-shaped brilliant-cut diamond of VS1-HI quality. The diamond has been laser engraved on a star facet with a registration number that is only visible with a high powered microscope. The halo design has been one of the most popular designs ever and doesn’t appear to be slowing down. The cushion-shaped outline gives the style a more antique feel. Naturally, anything from Tiffany is constructed with the finest components available. Minimum VS-H clarity small diamonds along with platinum combine to make the ring sparkle as much as possible. The ring is in perfect condition looking like brand new. Still available on the Tiffany website with pricing for a 0.50-carat center version starting at $11,100.00 CAD. Our slightly smaller 0.39-carat example likely cost around $8,000.00 when it was purchased new just a couple of years ago. The previous owner had a 6 finger. We can easily make the ring larger by a size or two if necessary. Comes complete with its original Tiffany little black ring box. Estate priced at $5,500.00 CAD. Stock #e11797 101-00068.

SOLD

February 1, 2023

9.26ct. VS2-OP (10.01ct. tw. VS-F) engagement/wedding ring set. E10891 191-00073

Once or twice a year a truly remarkable estate item turns up at Bill Le Boeuf Jewellers. The kind of thing that you almost never get to see or when you do it’s usually on a Hollywood celebrity. While not the largest diamond we’ve ever sold this is the largest round brilliant cut diamond ever to be offered at Bill Le Boeuf Jewellers. With an estimated OP colour, it’s easy to see a little warmth in the body of this diamond. The photographs appear much more tinted than in reality; it’s simply impossible to capture the brilliance and dispersion in a couple of still photographs. For a short YouTube video of the diamond click here. I can hardly keep myself from giggling as I write this post with the ring twinkling like a disco ball on my pinky finger. Big diamonds of nice quality have so much more dispersion than smaller stones. When light enters a diamond it slows down, refracted into its spectral colours, bounces around inside then exits in an explosion of rainbow dispersion. The larger the diamond the greater the distance of interior light travel resulting in even more dispersion. It’s hard to explain but it’s easy to see in person. Even though this diamond is roughly 10 times the size of the average engagement ring diamond it still retains the classic brilliant cut formula of 58 mathematically positioned facets. Each of these flat faces is strategically placed and angled to capture maximum brilliance and fire. Being a huge diamond each of its facets is sized accordingly resulting in an unparalleled optical assault on your eyes of white and black reflective flashes. It’s almost impossible to keep my train of thought looking at this diamond. It’s easy to become hypnotized by its sparkling display. The crystal is incredibly clear with a cautiously estimated VS2 clarity based on a natural located on the bottom of the girdle beside the claw as seen in this photomicrograph. The only real inclusion is this microscopic VS1 feather located on a pavilion main/lower girdle facet junction as seen through a bezel facet on the crown. The diamond comes with a December 15, 2017 certificate of appraisal stating the diamond is of VS1-MN quality with a medium cut weighing an estimated 9.21 carat. Sooner or later we will send the diamond to The Gemological Institute of America for official internationally recognized certification. We expect the GIA to grade it a minimum VS2 clarity grade, OP colour, good cut, very slight to no fluorescence, and a weight confirmation of 9.26 carats. Diamonds, in general, are not that rare with millions of carats being mined every year, but large diamonds are truly quite rare. Our in store database currently lists over 600,000 diamonds for sale. If you refine the search for 9.25 carats and larger that number drops to around 500. If you qualify the search further to reflect only round diamonds of VS2 clarity or better there are only 62 available. We have remounted this extraordinary diamond into a custom-made 18 karat white gold engagement/wedding ring set containing 25 small Canadian diamonds of excellent VS-F quality. The small diamonds contribute an additional 0.75 carats, bringing the total diamond weight in this set to 10.01 carats! The two rings weigh a combined 9.3 grams in a finger size 6 1/2. Click here for a short YouTube video of the ring set. If you have the means, this diamond ring could become a part of your investment portfolio. How much is that new Mercedes going to be worth in ten years? At Bill Le Boeuf Jewellers we like to think we can source almost any diamond you could possibly want. With close to 65 years of experience we know where to look, but finding one like this for the same price simply isn’t possible. If you have another setting style in mind we’d love to create a one-of-a-kind setting befitting such an incredible diamond. Dealer inquiries are welcome. Stock #e10891. 191-00073

SOLD

January 31, 2023

2.04ct. Asscher/emerald cut VVS1-G excellent cut GIA report. 22=0.55ct. tw. VS-GH 5.6gr. plat. sz. 8. $24,500.00 CAD. 101-00507

The step cut style of gem faceting has been used by gem cutters for well over 500 years. The common form for these stones is rectangular and known as the emerald cut. Green emeralds were often cut like this way as this design is less likely to damage the delicate gem during the cutting process. The balanced geometric shape of rectangular step diamonds became very popular during the Art Deco era that suited the trendy designs of the 1920-1930s. Pretty soon the formal step-cut name gave way to the moniker “Emerald Cut” and the name has stuck ever since. We are super excited to showcase this wonderful Asscher cut diamond. Asscher cuts are pretty much just a square emerald cut. The square cut was developed by the Dutch diamond cutting Asscher family in the early 1900s. The Amsterdam family was famous for cutting the world’s largest rough diamond, the Cullinan which weighed over 3,100 carats before it was cut. More than 100 years after the cut was developed, it has become a very sought after shape again. When cut with proper proportions they look like a series of concentric squares when viewed through the centre. This diamond comes with a Gemological Institute of America report. GIA reports are the most respected in the industry, the March 2021 report can be see online here. The clarity of this diamond is an exceptional VVS1 (1 grade from flawless), the colour was graded “G” (3 from perfect), it has excellent polish, excellent symmetry, and only faint fluorescence. Aside from the obvious high clarity and colour, this stone was cut to a very high standard. Most fancy shaped diamonds fall short when it comes to the actual cutting. Only round brilliant cut diamonds have a universally accepted standard for cut quality, so buying any fancy shaped diamond can be confusing. I’d confidently estimate only around 10% of Asscher/square emerald cut diamonds have proper cutting proportions. Most are overly deep, with shallow crowns and are thick through the girdle. The girdle is the smooth edge middle section; often this area is left very thick to add extra weight at the expense of sparkle. The girdle on our Asscher cut is medium to only slightly thick. The total depth of our diamond is a pleasant 65.5%, many diamonds are cut intentionally deeper to add non beneficial extra weight. Finally the table was cut to a flattering 62%, the smallish table encourages better dispersion many square Assher cut and brilliant cuts lack. All this means is that this Assher cut looks larger than others of a similar weight. Most 2.00 carat Asscher cut diamonds measure around 6.90mm along each side, this one measures an average of 7.15mm! This exceptional diamond has been set into a custom made platinum ring containing 22 bead set round diamonds of VS-GH quality. The hand set shoulder diamonds add additional 0.55 carats of sparkle. The size 8 ring was crafted from premium platinum and weighs a significant 5.6 grams. The ring size can be adjusted up or down a few sizes if required. This rare example of a high quality Asscher cut diamond ring is estate priced at $24,500.00 CAD. Stock #101-00507

SOLD

January 20, 2023

3.01ct. VS1-D cushion (GIA report), plat., 159=0.88ct. VVS-GH, 17 paraiba tourmalines, 3.8gr. sz. 5.5. $46,000.00 CAD 100-00219

WOW WOW WOW; now this is a masterpiece of craftsmanship and quality unlike anything we’ve seen before. This ring was commissioned about 2 1/2 years ago but was never picked up and has never been worn. The original design specifications called for an exceptional 3.00 carat cushion shaped natural brilliant cut diamond. A perfect D colour diamond was located that also possessed excellent polish, excellent symmetry, and excellent overall cutting geometry. Even the very strong fluorescence was a desired prerequisite of the original order. When exposed to a very specific wave length of invisible long wave ultraviolet light (365 nanometers), some diamonds can fluoresce various shades of colour. The most common colour encountered is a pale eerie blue hue. Sometimes the glow is almost imperceptible and sometimes it can be very strong like in this stone. There are even a few small diamonds in the shank that display this phenomenon. In most lighting conditions, the fluorescence can’t be seen. This image was taken in a minimally lit room with the diamond positioned very close to a “black light” ultraviolet light source. A diamond of this quality needs to come with the world’s best documentation and the industry benchmark Gemological Institute of America report is included with the ring. The full report can be seen online here. While the centre stone steals the show, the rest of the ring is quite remarkable in terms of component quality and incredible manufacturing standards. Platinum is the natural choice for showcasing such high quality gems. It is much whiter than white gold, more resilient, and doesn’t require additional rhodium plating bright for its natural white finish. Each of the 159 calibrated VVS-FG tiny round brilliant cut diamonds have been painstakingly hand set using 4 tiny beads of platinum holding each stone in place with an absolute minimum of empty space between each one. This folks is as good as it gets when it comes to pave diamond setting. You may have already noticed the showcase centre stone does not feature prominent claws on the corners to securely hold it in place. Instead the master stone setter selected to use dozens of tiny beads coming off the inner section of the halo frame. They are so small that they go completely unnoticed except under magnification. The effect appears to have the centre stone floating slightly above the halo. Many hours of labor went into making this ring much more than the sum of its parts. As a final interesting style element, the original design called for the addition of ultra exotic natural neon blue paraiba tourmalines to be a hidden surprise that can only be seen when the ring is viewed from the side and bottom. Paraiba tourmalines are among the most expensive of any gem; an exceptional 1.00 carat paraiba can cost as much as $50,000.00 (at wholesale). This never worn ring comes with a December 2021 appraisal stating a retail value of $186,200.00 CAD excluding sales tax. While it is truly difficult to place an accurate and absolute price on such a unique item, we feel a more appropriate and competitive replacement value would be somewhere slightly south of half of that figure. This ring is brand new, never worn, and measures a petite size 5 1/2. If required it can be made 1 size smaller or larger. This ring is among the finest quality we’ve ever seen and we are very pleased and excited to present it to you. It is estate priced at $46,000.00 CAD. Stock #100-00219

SOLD

January 5, 2023

2.47ct. VVS2-E very good cut with GIA & HRD reports $50,000.00 CAD. 101-00473

I remember my father saying, “If you don’t know jewellery, know your jeweller”. Nothing could be closer to the truth these days. The competitive pressures of modern business have never been so intense. Synthetic diamonds costing 95% less than their natural counterparts are everywhere, inaccurate/misleading appraisals are still commonly seen in the business. It certainly can be a confusing time to be considering a significant jewellery investment. As we approach our 65th anniversary on November 1st in Downtown Barrie, you can take our word that this diamond is a genuine opportunity or you can do some research based on the 3rd party documents this diamond comes with. We have a reputation for having some amazing jewellery and watches pass through our estate department and this diamond continues that tradition. It was originally given as an anniversary gift to the previous owner. It was proudly worn for over 35 years. Advanced years and a changing lifestyle meant it was time for this 3 billion-year-old gem to find a new caretaker for a while. The original purchaser obviously made high quality a priority. This diamond is almost flawless in terms of clarity and missed a perfect “D” colour by just one grade. For a diamond that was originally faceted in the 1980s or before, the very good symmetry, very good polish, and a very good overall cut grade are impressive. The slightly old-school cut with its larger 64% table and 58.5% depth provides a modest bias for brilliance over dispersion. A side benefit of the cut is its larger than expected diameter of 8.85-8.90mm, meaning this diamond actually looks more like it weighs 2.75 carats! The diamond came to us with an Hoge Raad voor Diamant (Diamond High Council) report from 1986. The retro HRD report describes the diamond as a VVS1-F with very good proportions, a very good finish, and slight fluorescence. We knew this was a really nice diamond but felt it was worth confirming its quality with a second opinion from The Gemological Institute of America. When the diamond returned from New York, the GIA confirmed everything within a grade of colour and clarity. GIA issued the diamond with an “E” colour designation and a VVS2 clarity. The full June 2023 GIA report can be seen online here. This diamond also comes with a July 2018 GemScan Laboratories appraisal describing the diamond and the platinum ring it comes with. This fully documented diamond comes with a traditional 6-prong platinum solitaire setting. The 5.7 gram ring is equipped with a hinged shank that can expand to fit over a large knuckle to help keep the ring from spinning. We can solder the hinge closed if not needed. We’d also love to create an entirely new piece of custom jewellery for you using this exceptional diamond as the centrepiece if the original setting isn’t what you have in mind. Including the platinum setting this diamond ring is estate priced at $50,000.00 CAD (please add 2% for credit card purchase). Stock #101-00473.

SOLD

December 31, 2022

1.59ct. VS1-J very good cut GIA report 18kt./plat. 5.6gr. $9,800.00 CAD. 101-00474

You can buy one hell of a synthetic diamond for $10,000.00 but what is it going to be worth if you decide to trade it in or sell it? Synthetic diamonds are incredibly popular right now. They are being aggressively marketed and when purchased from a competitive vendor they cost around 95% less than an equivalent natural diamond. Synthetic diamonds are a technological wonder and as technology advances costs fall and fall. We’ve already disappointed people who purchased synthetic diamonds a year or two ago. They are quite shocked to hear the prices have fallen so much. No such worries with natural diamonds; despite the synthetic onslaught the prices of accurately graded, well cut, mother nature grown diamonds have been quite resilient. Our latest example of a good sized, 3 to 4 billion year old, natural diamond, is another classic design showing why diamonds have fascinated people for so long. This Lucida setting features the cross over gallery/setting claws that the design is famous for. This one was crafted from premium 18-karat yellow gold and ultra white platinum. The size 6 1/2 ring has a gross weight of 6 grams with a slightly tapering shank measuring an average width of 4mm. Secured safely in the resilient platinum claws is a very pretty 1.59 carat natural diamond. This stone just returned from a road trip to The Gemological Institute of America in New York for a grading report. Always insist on a GIA report when you’re considering a significant diamond purchase. You may hear a GIA document is an expensive waste of money that doesn’t even access the value of the diamond, but that’s why it is so important. GIA has no interest in the commerce of diamonds. As a non for profit educational institution, GIA’s motivation is the accurate assessment of diamonds, other gems, and scientific research. We feel these internationally accepted reports offer our customers the peace of mind that few other jewellers do. The complete June 2023 report can be seen on GIA’s website here. The report document this diamond as a 1.59 carat, VS1 clarity, J colour, very good cut, very good polish, very good symmetry, and displaying no fluorescence. The ring is likely around 10-15 years old and in excellent condition showing little wear thanks to the premium materials it was made from. This ring measures a finger size of 6 2/3 and can be adjusted up or down a couple of sizes if needed. The estate price for this classic design solitaire is $9,800.00 CAD. Stock #101-00474.

SOLD

December 29, 2022

1.51ct. SI2-F very good/excellent cut halo diamond ring (20=0.88ct. tw. VS-FG) 4.6gr. 14kt. $16,575.00 CAD. 101-00360

At 12.2mm in diameter, this halo definitely falls onto the super(halo)-spectrum! The 1.51 carat round brilliant cut diamond at the heart of this halo would be impressive on its own but some brilliant goldsmith (yours truly) opted for a show-stopper. The 20 hand-selected accent diamonds are very well matched VS-FG quality and well-cut. We needed to pull all the stops when we put that parcel together, in order to match the SI2-F of the center diamond. The main diamond is virtually eye-clean, with a couple of grade-setting inclusions only the sharp-sighted will be able to find without magnification. The high brilliance and fire of its very good to excellent cut grade do a great job of disguising those inclusions in a kaleidoscope of white and every coloured light. The custom-made 14-karat white gold ring is in like-new condition and comes with the original 2012 appraisal for the center diamond, the original diamond paper, and an updated Harold Weinstein LTD. appraisal stating a generous replacement value of $29,500.00 CAD.  We feel a more competitive replacement value with new would be $19,500.00 CAD and our estate price is $16,575.00 CAD. Stock #101-00360

SOLD

December 22, 2022

3.68ct. tw. VS-I diamond dinner ring 11gr. 18kt. $5,950.00 CAD.131-00160

Channel settings are doubly desirable for both the protection they offer, as well as their ability to become a feature of the design. So much so that you hardly realize how well they do their job of securing the diamonds into the ring. The heavy bands of metal are much more long-lasting and protective than simple prong settings that offer relatively small stone coverage. But unlike utilitarian prong settings, channels can actually enhance a ring’s aesthetic. This 18 karat dinner ring is a perfect example, its 6 high polished bands of gold create the ultimate contrast for the diamond’s kaleidoscope of busy brilliance. Those 27 princess and trillion cut diamonds have been given the “waterfall” effect as they cascade across the ring’s top and down both of its faces. The diamonds are all of a high VS clarity and an I colour that gets whitened right up by the warm gold around it. The hefty 11 gram ring spans a statement-making 9.8mm at its widest and currently measures a finger size 6 3/4 with some room to adjust. Estate price is $5,950.00 CAD. Stock #131-00160.

SOLD

December 15, 2022

2.09ct. tw. ruby & diamond ring 18kt. white gold $6,300.00 CAD. 206-00384.

Whenever an opportunity comes along for us to buy a high quality gem we jump on it. Even if we don’t exactly know what we’re going to do with it. High quality coloured stones are becoming more difficult to find all the time. There are plenty of high quality diamonds available because they are relatively common compared to ruby, sapphire, emerald and other exotic minerals. This 1.02 carat oval ruby came to us as a EGL certified specimen. It was purchased as an investment 16 years ago but never assembled into a piece of jewellery. Which is too bad because it is one of the prettier rubies we have had. The beneficiary of the original owner didn’t have a use for it so we purchased it. After some consideration it was decided to set it in an antique inspired design; something that Bill Le Boeuf Jewellers does with great success. Beautiful hand engraved shoulders with delicate milgrain edges and 6 prong pierced gallery settings make this ring look like it’s close to 100 years old. The high quality “Life Saver” red ruby measures over 7mm x 5mm with a very nice symmetrical oval outline and of course that deep rich red colour. Two matching estate diamonds totalling 1.07 carats in weight are a pleasant borderline SI2-I1 clarity with a good HI colour. Handmade by our talented goldsmiths make this ring is a size 7, weighing 4.5 grams. It can be adjusted up or down a couple of sizes as required. Three estate gems made into a new creation; it’s the type of thing we’ve been doing for over half a century from our same downtown Barrie location. This high quality one of a kind ring is estate priced at $6,300.00 CAD including the 2007 European Gemological Laboratory certificate. Stock #206-00384.

SOLD

December 14, 2022

1.11ct. I1-F very good cut (18=1.00ct. I1-GH) 10gr. 14kt interlocking eng/wedd set $7,000.00 CAD 101-00410

If today’s styles of the super skinny shank, tiny accent shoulder diamond engagement rings don’t do much for you, here’s a throwback retro design that you may like. Less significant examples of this style were very popular 20 to 30 years ago. Interlocking, channel set shoulders were common sights at almost every jewellery store a generation ago. Much higher gold prices and sharp increases in melee diamond costs gave way to modern, lightweight settings with teeny-weeny accent diamonds measuring less than a millimeter in diameter. This 14-karat white gold ring set weighs a significant 10 grams and contains 18 accent diamonds that contribute 1.00 carat in weight and measure 2.5mm in diameter. At the heart of this interlocking creation is a very bright 1.11 carat round brilliant cut diamond measuring 6.7mm in diameter.  It has a very strong FG colour, I1 clarity, and a very good cut. The grade setting inclusions are a combination of a white feather (at 6:00 o’clock) and some small scattered salt and pepper type crystals in the centre. This is a very lively and brilliant I1 with excellent dispersion. The rings have been expertly crafted and fit together with puzzle piece precision. They measure a finger size 5 1/2 and can be adjusted up 2 sizes or down 1 size. A conservative 2.11 carats in total estimated diamond weight is a lot of bling for the estate price of $7,000.00 CAD. Stock #101-00410.

SOLD

November 27, 2022

1.23ct. SI1-J excellent cut with GIA report (20=0.125ct. SI-HI) 2.1gr. 10kt. $7,350.00 CAD. 101-00320

Diamonds are made up of a single element, carbon; but 97% of natural diamonds contain trace amounts of nitrogen. Trace amounts of nitrogen can cause diamonds to fluoresce when they are exposed to invisible longwave ultraviolet light. UV may be invisible to the human eye but what does to certain diamonds certainly can be seen in the right environment. In a darkened room with a UV light, you can see how much this diamond glows along with a few of the shoulder diamonds (left side). This is a phenomenon that lab-grown, artisan-created, synthetic diamonds will never do. It takes millions of years for nitrogen to work its way into the crystal structure of natural diamonds. Manufacturers of inexpensive lab-grown diamonds only need a few weeks to a few months to grow their diamonds; nowhere near long enough for nitrogen to work its way in. The detectable presence of nitrogen is proof positive of natural origin. Strong fluorescence in diamonds in the JKL colour range benefit from the blue glow because it tends to make them face up a colour grade better. The warmer tint of JKLM diamonds is offset slightly with the blue glow because blue is the complementary colour to yellow. Of course, it doesn’t hurt either that this 1.23 carat round brilliant cut diamond is a very pleasant SI1 clarity with an excellent cut, excellent symmetry, excellent polish, with a GIA report. The full Gemological Institute of America report can be seen online here. The ring also comes with a July 2014 appraisal from Accurate Gemological Laboratories, when it was assembled into a more elaborate setting. Their document suggests it had a replacement value of $19,000.00 (sales tax included). Including its new more modern 10-karat white gold thin shank setting, we feel it has a competitive retail replacement value closer to $10,500.00. As a hardly worn, excellent condition estate ring, it is priced at $7,350.00 CAD. The ring currently measures a slightly small 5 1/2. It can be adjusted up or down a full size or so. This is a beautiful and significant size diamond ring with excellent documentation. Stock #101-00320.

SOLD

November 3, 2022

1.50ct. SI1-G good cut diamond solitaire 2.7gr. 18kt. $12,375.00 CAD. 101-00413

Oval diamonds and halo designs are the hot sellers right now but there’s no denying the beauty of the traditional round brilliant cut solitaire. The design was first made popular by Tiffany’s in 1886. The design with its elevated prong setting really showcased the new and evolving European cut diamond’s optical properties. Before Tiffany most diamonds were low set, often in flat bezel settings. Over 130 later this style or versions of it are still some of our most requested. The diamond showcased in this 18 karat thin shank setting is a bright white 1.50 carat round brilliant cut of SI1 clarity, G colour with a good cut and no fluorescence. This diamond has a large diameter of 7.35 diameter and dominates the 1.75mm wide ring. Our team of onsite goldsmiths can adjust the size 6 Canadian made ring several sizes up or down as required. It’s a large diamond at a great price and it’s only available in Bill Le Boeuf Jewellers estate/vintage collection. Priced at $12,375.00 CAD for the complete ring. If you’ve got a different setting in mind the diamond is available alone for $12,000.00 CAD. Stock #101-00413

SOLD

September 16, 2022

5.20ct. natural emerald & diamond (20=0.75ct. tw. SI-I) 18.1gr. 18kt. $9,205.00 CAD. 206-00297

Emerald is one of the easiest gemstones to identify, not simply for its verdant colour, but its unique inclusions. The French coined the term Jardin (garden) for the striking moss-like inclusions that are almost always present to some degree within a natural emerald. In this 5.20 carat emerald cut emerald, they are on full display spread evenly across the surface and into the depths of the gem. These inclusions are unlike any moss you’d encounter in nature as each is highly reflective, twinkling an intense green as you rotate the gem. The combined effect makes the emerald appear to glow from within like some enchanted garden from a fairytale. The otherworldly stone is held in the ring by four understated yellow gold prongs but the rest of the ring is blazing rhodium plated white gold. The emerald is encircled with 0.75 carat total weight of bright SI-I round brilliant cut diamonds, adding their own sparkle for contrast. The ring itself measures a digit-dominating 16.5mm wide and is made from top quality 18 karat gold. To keep the weight at a reasonable 18.1 grams the underside has been hollowed out with a decorative honeycomb grill installed to ensure comfort during wear. The ring currently measures a finger size 8 with a bit of room to adjust. It is accompanied by a 2017 appraisal stating a replacement value of $20,450.00 USD, we feel a more realistic replacement value is $13,150.00 CAD. Our estate price is $9,205.00 CAD. Stock #206-00297.

SOLD

August 25, 2022

2.04ct. SI2-I very good cut GIA report (2.34ct. tw) plat. 3 gr. $16,500.00 CAD. 191-00108 141-00026

Anyone who loves vintage and antique jewellery will instantly recognize this classic design. Versions of this have been a popular choice for well over 100 years. The scale of this one is a little deceiving because of the extra large rectangular baguette cut diamonds (2 x 0.15 carats SI-H) on the shoulders and the slightly larger than average finger size 9. Although the complete ring is available, we’ll likely end up using the diamonds in separate creations. Diamonds of this size and quality deserve reliable documents; so we sent the centre diamond to The Gemological Institute of America in New York for a full grading report. GIA’s assessment of quality came back as predicted; SI2 clarity, “I” colour, and very good cut. The full December 2022 report can be seen online on GIA’s website. Almost all modern diamonds are cut deeper than they should be, with thick middle sections that hide extra weight, do nothing to improve the sparkle, and make them look smaller than their weight suggests. This older diamond was cut in the opposite manner. The slightly shallow cut of 57.5% helps it to look a little larger that its actual weight of 2.04 carats. Most modern diamonds of this diameter weigh closer to 2.25 carats. If the cut isn’t quite perfect, wouldn’t you prefer the diamond to look a little larger like this one? Its SI2 clarity is all but eye clean except for the most sharp sighted. The inclusions are small and scattered, hardly affecting brilliance, dispersion, or transparency. If you still prefer the miracle of natural diamonds over lab grown synthetics, this is a significant size diamond at a great value. The centre diamond is available alone for $15,500.00 CAD stock #191-00108 or complete with the platinum baguette ring for $1,000.00 extra. The ring needs a small repair to a portion of a claw and the fusing of a former sizing joint that has let go.

SOLD

June 29, 2022

2.60ct. sapphire & diamond (2.05ct. tw. VS-FG) ballerina ring, 8.2gr. 14kt. $11,760.00 CAD. 206-00329

High quality and beautiful design never go out of style. The diamond cluster has been around in one form or another for hundreds of years. Round, oval, pear, square, marquise, or any other shape you can imagine look good when built in proportion with high grade ingredients. Our latest estate ring showcases a very unusual blue sapphire. The almost perfectly square centrepiece measures a lavish 7.5mm x 7.5mm and is estimated to weigh at least 2.50 carats. Its colour can be described as medium intense blue with a hint of purple. The colour and size are immediately impressive but the radiant cut is most unique. Most sapphires are cut into oval shapes. Looking at our trade database, only around 1% of sapphire is cut in this shape. The square/octagon outline of the centre stone makes the perfect starting point to create a ballerina ring of significance. The name comes from the baguette diamonds in the cluster that are set at different heights resembling the multiple silk layers in a ballerina’s skirt. We’ve only had a few true ballerina rings over the years and this one is one of the best. 16 extra long (3.7mm) tapered baguettes make up the halo frame resulting in a substantial 16.5mm diameter. Their high quality (VS clarity with FG colour) does an incredible job of contrasting the violet/blue sapphire centre. Crafted in 14 karat white gold, the dazzling ring has a generous finished weight of 8.2 grams in a finger size 6. The ring is in brand new condition, its original bright rhodium finish is still completely intact. It is accompanied by a December 2021 GemScan appraisal document that does an accurate job describing the ring and its quality. Including a complementary size adjustment if required this one of a kind ring is estate priced at $11,760.00 CAD. Stock #206-00329.

SOLD

June 14, 2022

1.04ct. SI1-G GIA certified. Peoples Jewellers Celebration 100 facet diamond ring 18kt/plat. $7,000.00 CAD. e12516

Peoples Jewellers proprietary Celebration 100 facet diamond cut is their attempt at reinventing the wheel. A standard round brilliant cut always has 57 or 58 facets no matter the carat weight. These facets have been mathematically formulated to optimize a diamond’s optical properties. So much so that this is the only diamond that the Gemological Institute of America will assign a cut grade to. It is the only diamond shape with angles and proportions required to fit within a very specific acceptable range. Anything outside of the range and the cut grade slips down the scale. To take that cut and add facets doesn’t improve it but it certainly changes the optics. This 1.04 carat Canadian Celebration cut has a much more splintered pattern of brilliance and fire, looking more like a kaleidoscope than the standard round brilliant cut. We found the effect very pleasant and sent it to GIA as an experiment to see what they would say about this custom cut style. They didn’t; instead, they classified the diamond as a Round Modified Brilliant and didn’t assign a cut grade. The basic geometry of 62.2% total depth with a 59% table is easily within GIA’s excellent cut standards. They did however say the polish and symmetry were Very Good and assigned the diamond a better clarity and colour grade than the certificate it originally came with. This is something we almost never run into with big box certs but it was a pleasant surprise! The GIA report states this Canadian Celebration diamond is SI1-G quality with no fluorescence. The well documented Canadian mined diamond has been set into a solid 5 gram 18 karat white gold and platinum classic solitaire, a style that never goes out of fashion. The excellent condition like new ring currently measures a finger size 5 1/3 with room to adjust up or down as needed. Comes with Peoples Jewellers certificate of authenticity and appraisal from 2011 suggesting a replacement value of $11,200.00. It’s a great value for the previously enjoyed price of $7,000.00 CAD. Stock #e12516.

SOLD

March 16, 2022

3.40ct. VS2-J European cut GIA certified $55,000.00 CAD. e7247 101-00389

There was a time not long ago when a large antique diamond like this resurfaced in the trade, it would immediately be re-cut into a modern round brilliant. Little thought was given to the concept of keeping something original. The re-proportioned diamond would then be sold as brand new alongside other modern round brilliant cut diamonds. I suppose there is nothing wrong with this practice, after all, all diamonds are around 3 billion years old anyway. “Improving” the optical properties of an antique diamond should be a welcomed practice. In recent years however opinions about these old diamonds have changed. People are beginning to realize the value, rarity, and charm of these original antique diamonds. It has come to the point where an original antique European cut diamond of more than 3.00 carats is worth more than a modern diamond of equal size. In fact, there is no formal structured price list for these old diamonds over 3.00 carats that we are aware of. The only way to value them is by trying to find comparable diamonds on offer. 100 years ago any diamond was a scarce thing and a diamond over 3.00 carats was something extraordinary. Bill Le Boeuf Jewellers sold this diamond several years ago to a client who enjoyed wearing it every day. It was recently traded back to us when a larger diamond became available. We’re happy to have this beautiful diamond back and we look forward to helping the next owner discover what makes these old stones so charming. They do have a different look compared to a modern round diamond, with a smaller table facet, chunkier bezel, and crown facets. These old stones provide a unique sparkle and a distinct pattern of larger white/black flashes with increased dispersion due to a steep crown angle. Most important modern diamonds come with a Gemological Institute of American certificate, not many antique diamonds come with any documentation. A full GIA report from 2013 can be seen online here. The report outlines all the pertinent information needed to assess the quality of this diamond. If you have a look at the report you’ll notice the document details a couple of minor chips along the sharp girdle edge. After 100 years of wear and tear, you’d expect the odd chip. These small chips are not significant enough to alter the value in any meaningful way. They can easily be removed with only a couple points of weight loss. The patina of a lifetime of wear helps prove the diamond is an original and authentic antique. It is set into a 14 karat custom made white gold ring containing two large tapered baguette cut diamonds. The high quality VS-GH baguettes add 0.33 carats of subtle tailored sophistication to the classic design. Estate priced at $55,000.00 CAD. Stock #e7247 101-00389.

SOLD

March 2, 2022

1.55ct. VS1-G very good cut with GIA report & free 14kt. setting $19,500.00 CAD. 101-00367

Most large diamonds are cut reasonably well but seldom perfectly. Cutting perfection means that much of the original crystal gets left on the cutting wheel in the form of lost weight. Lost weight means lost money when it comes to diamonds. The most common shape for rough diamonds is a double tetrahedron. This shape is efficient for cutting two diamonds that are both a little deep compared to their ideal potential. Manufacturing an excellent/ideal cut is less efficient and wastes more rough crystal, so true excellent cut diamonds are encountered much less often. If a diamond isn’t of excellent cut proportions chances are they are a bit deeper than they should have been in order to maintain extra weight. This extra weight does nothing to make the stone look better, it just weighs more. That’s why I like this diamond so much. While the cut isn’t perfect, it is very good. Instead of being cut too deep, it is cut slightly shallow. The overall depth of  57.7% as compared to the average diameter, is only around 3% shy of what a perfect cut should be. The slightly shallow cut means you get some extra diameter for free, and it’s the diameter that you see. Compared to a typical good-cut deep stone of the same weight, this one looks far larger. Most 1.50 carat good to very good cut round diamonds measure around 7.00mm diameter, this one measures 7.65mm diameter. The VS1 clarity with G colour is far better than average. The independent Gemological Institute of American report is your assurance of reliable impartial and strict grading standards. The full GIA report can be seen online here. Even if you don’t purchase a diamond with us, ALWAYS insist on a GIA report. This diamond comes with a previously worn 14 karat white gold six prong solitaire weighing 3 grams (without the diamond). The setting is included for no extra charge with the diamond. If you don’t want the setting or would like a different design we’d be happy to purchase it for our gold recycling program. Finding a 1.55 carat diamond of this quality that measures over 7.6mm diameter at this price is virtually impossible (we know, we tried). Wholesale inquiries are welcomed. This diamond and complimentary ring are estate priced at $19,500.00 CAD. Stock #101-00367.

SOLD

February 20, 2022

0.77ct. VS2-F excellent cut, 13=1.00ct. SI-H, 10.1gr. 14kt. with GIA report. $6,525.00 CAD 101-00344 e12290

There is nothing like the peace of mind that comes with buying a GIA certified diamond. They are the most universally recognized and respected gemological laboratory in the world. The key to their reputation is the fact that they don’t participate in the commerce of diamonds; you will never find a GIA certificate with a value listed on it. Because the GIA is a not-for-profit educational organization all they are only concerned with is gemological research and impartial grading. This GIA certified round brilliant cut diamond weighs in at 0.77 carat of desirable VS2-F quality, excellent cut and polish, very good symmetry, and no fluorescence. With a crown like that, you’d expect good things from the rest of the ring and it does not disappoint. The soldered together 14 karat gold wedding set features 13 channel set round brilliant cuts that equal 1.00 carat together. All are of SI-H quality, showing brightly against the backdrop of high polished yellow gold. The 10.1 gram set currently measures a finger size 6 3/4 with some room to adjust. The estate price is $6,525.00 CAD. Stock #101-00344.

SOLD

February 18, 2022

2.25ct. tw. (1.59ct. VVS2-D GIA) custom Simon G ring set MR1842-A $22,400.00 CAD. e8360 101-00033

Simon G ring MR1842-A has been one of the most popular models since we introduced the Southern California designer to the Barrie market over 10 years ago. It’s usually made to hold a round centre stone. Occasionally it is requested with a princess cut, radiant cut or even a cushion shaped brilliant cut diamond. Only once have we made it to hold an emerald cut diamond in the centre and this is the one. WOW what an incredible diamond, 1.59 carats, VVS2 clarity and perfect D colour. If that wasn’t enough it’s accompanied by a fresh October 2019 Gemological Institute of America report. These characteristics make it extremely rare representing only around 0.03% of the quarter million diamonds that are available on our in store data base. A smaller sampling of around 70,000 diamonds complete with pricing in Canadian dollars can be seen on our website here. If you want to see what infinity looks like come in and gaze into this exceptional emerald cut diamond. The step cut design appears to be bottomless. Simon G 3 piece ring set MR1842-A is made from 18 karat white gold and contains 128 expertly bead set round brilliant cut diamonds set throughout the setting of minimum VS clarity with FG colour. This set was only worn for a few years and is in perfect condition measuring a finger size 5.5. Custom made in California from Simon G the 3 piece set has a suggested retail price of $6,721.00 (without the centre diamond). The rare nature of the centre diamond makes this set almost impossible to duplicate. With dimensions of 8.46mm x 6.09mm x 3.58mm the centre diamond makes for quite the show on your finger. A GIA report is essential for any significant diamond purchase, don’t settle for any other potentially biased certificates. If you like diamonds and want to see what a basically flawless diamond with perfect colour looks like you need to come in and see this ring. The three piece set is estate priced at $22,400.00. Stock #e8360 101-00033.

SOLD

December 16, 2021

1.05ct. SI2-F with GIA report (18=2.00ct. VS-H), 9.7gr., 14kt., $8,400.00 CAD. 101-00333

Location location location, it’s not just for real estate. The location of a grade setting inclusion can have a large impact on how a diamond looks and to a lesser degree affect the value. Most accurately graded SI2 clarity grades have one or more inclusions that can be seen by the naked eye without magnification. Depending on the location, sometimes an inclusion can be reflected many times making the diamond much worse than it actually is. As far as location goes, the inclusion in this diamond couldn’t be in a better position. Not only is the inclusion translucent white, but it is also located at a corner. The rest of the diamond is effectively blemish-free. The white feather inclusion in these two pictures is in the bottom left but it gets almost lost within the facet pattern. Only when viewed in darkfield light under magnification do these photomicrographs illustrate its position easier. When viewed from the bottom of the diamond is it easy to see with magnification (top right in these 3 images). We have seen way more impactful SI1 and even some VS2 clarity diamonds that only on paper looked better than this one. The rest of this diamond is quite nice. The recent (February 2022) Gemological Institute of America report describes the colour as a colourless F, polish as very good, good symmetry, and exhibiting no fluorescence. This diamond has been set into a well made 14 karat white gold ring setting containing 8 princess cut diamonds on VS-H quality. The matching channel set wedding ring contains 10 matching channel set princess cut diamonds. These 18 additional diamonds contribute approximately 2.00 carats total weight to the set. The solidly constructed rings have been made from 14 karat white gold and weigh in at a hefty 7.9 grams in total. They both measure a size 6 1/2 and can be adjusted up or down one full size. GIA describes the centre diamond as a Cut-Corner Rectangular Brilliant. This shape of diamond is more commonly referred to as a Radiant Cut in the trade. Radiant cut diamonds are pretty much the same as a Princess Cut except they don’t have sharp 90-degree corners. The pointy corners of a Princess Cut must be treated with caution as they can easily get chipped if they are exposed to a significant impact. Some weight is lost in turning a Princess into a Radiant but the superior durability is worth the trade-off. Expect to pay approximately 5% more for a Radiant cut if you are comparing it to the same size/quality Princess cut. These rings are in excellent condition and have been freshly polished to look like new. Their 3.5mm flat shanks still display a sharp crisp edge around the entire circumference. Including the February Gemological Institute of America report this 3.05 carat total diamond weight engagement/wedding ring set is estate priced at $8,400.00 CAD. Stock # 101-00333.

SOLD

December 13, 2021

4.50ct. tw. VS-SI-GH baguette diamond heart & earring set 27.5gr. 14kt. $5,500.00 CAD. e13855

We are one of the last strongholds of 80’s fashion and we’re proud of it! And if you are looking for a masterpiece that truly epitomizes the decade of glam, this is it! Oversized twisting hearts cast in warm 14 karat yellow gold and covered in tapered baguette diamonds; honestly what more could you want. The drop earrings are unlike anything we’ve encountered. They measure 39.5mm long by 19.97mm wide and the twisting tails are hinged to swing freely during wear. The pair is set with 122 tapered baguette diamonds (yes we counted) equally an estimated total weight of 3.00 carats of surprisingly high VS-SI-GH quality. The ring spans an entire digit at 20.2mm wide by 22.89mm long. It has been set with 69 tapered baguette diamonds equaling approximately 1.50 carats of matching quality to the earrings. The set measures in at hefty 27.5 grams and the ring measures a finger size 8 with a bit of room for adjustment. For added security during wear, the earrings are fastened with heavy omega backs that spring firmly into place. The estate price for this trio of statement making pieces is $5,500.00 CAD. Stock #e13855.

SOLD

November 2, 2021

1.35ct. I1-I cushion halo, 2.10ct. tw., 8.5gr. platinum. $5,950.00 CAD. 101-00278 121-00120

A cushion-shaped diamond for a cushion-shaped halo, all done in top quality platinum. The 1.35 carat rectangular cushion diamond is a pleasant I1-I with its grade-setting inclusions hidden from view by its kaleidoscope of facets. The diamond is surrounded by 34 petite round brilliant cut diamonds, extending over halfway down the shoulders, giving the impression of the ring top being covered with diamonds. The addition of these well-matched SI-H accents bump the engagement ring up to an approximate total weight of 1.85 carats. The matching wedding band brings its own 19 diamonds to the mix, making the entire set top out at 2.10 carats in total weight. The rings weigh 8.5 grams together and both currently measure a finger size 5 with some room to adjust. Both rings are accompanied by AGL Appraisals stating slightly higher estimated diamond weights, higher quality, and a somewhat optimistic replacement value of $23,400.00. Our estate price for the engagement ring is $5,320.00 CAD and the anniversary ring is $630.00 CAD. Stock numbers 101-00278 and 121-00120.

SOLD

November 1, 2021

1.17ct. SI1-G (1.49ct. tw.) 18kt. diamond engagement ring, 4.4gr. $9,800.00 CAD. 101-000193

This is one of those vintage styles that has never really gone out of fashion. The style has an old Hollywood glamour to it and combines the best of what diamond is capable of, by partnering brilliant and step-cut diamonds. This 18 karat ring takes that a step further with the use of such exceptional diamonds. The 1.17 carat round brilliant cut that the ring is built around is very well cut with an SI1-G quality that puts it exactly where you want to be for value. This SI1 is eye-clean, showing only tiny inclusions that are hardly noticeable at even 60 power magnification. The G colour means the diamond is free of noticeable colour without the price premium that comes with being an actually colourless D-E-F grade. The pairs of tapered baguettes that shoulder it are high VS-FG quality, showing completely eye-clean despite their unforgiving hall-of-mirrors optics. Set on a slight curve their flashing brilliance is always on display no matter the angle of view. To finish off the overall taper are two petite round brilliant cut diamonds, pushing the approximate total diamond weight of the engagement ring to a conservative 1.49 carats. The rest of the ring is solid 18 karat yellow gold and currently measures a finger size 6 with room to adjust. Estate price $9,800.00 CAD. Stock #101-00193.

SOLD

October 25, 2021

Hand made 4.92ct. tw. SI1-H/VVS1-I diamond ring GIA certified $49,500.00 CAD. e13046

The round brilliant cut is by far the most popular and also the most expensive of the traditional diamond shapes. Square princess cuts have been a popular choice for the last decade or so. Cushion, heart, oval, pear, marquise, and radiant cut are other less common variations of the 57 facet brilliant cut. I don’t know why this shape (the radiant cut) isn’t more admired. When well cut their brilliance and dispersion rival that of the benchmark round. They look great in many of today’s antique inspired designs. Far more uncommon they only represent about 5% of the diamonds available from our diamond search database. Of those available only a tiny fraction are nice and square like this one measuring 7.94mm x 7.87mm. It’ has been certified by the Gemological Institute of America with very good clarity of SI1 and an H colour. The full GIA report can be seen online here. It looks especially good because the centre table section is 100% free from any blemishes, only a few thin white feather type inclusions can be seen with strong magnification around the outside edges. We’ve had this beautiful diamond for a while now so we felt it was time to do something truly spectacular with it. We made the mother of all 3 stone rings adding a couple of big shoulder diamonds. The 2 side diamonds add 2.02 carats of additional bling, bringing the total diamond weight to almost 5 carats. They both are GIA certified and are identical VVS2 clarity with an “I” colour. Both exhibit strong blue fluorescence that perks the apparent colour up a grade or two in ordinary lighting situations. With exposure to long-wave ultraviolet light, the side diamonds glow an eerie blue colour. This photograph was taken in a darkened room with a “black light” close by. The blue fluorescence is hard to miss under UV light. The full Gemological Institute of America reports for the side diamonds can be seen online here and here. Hand made from over 6 grams of sturdy 14 karat gold, this ring will last a lifetime. Super strong double gallery white gold settings with split claws on the centre stone and a solid half round yellow gold Tiffany profile shank make a classic statement. It’s a traditional 3 stone design with a more modern square radiant cut centerpiece. The price for the centre diamond alone is $34,970.00. The one of a kind complete ring is priced at $49,500.00 CAD. Stock #e13046.

SOLD

September 9, 2021

6.50ct. tanzanite & diamond (0.75ct. tw SI-I-HI) ring 8.3gr. 14kt. $5,280.00 CAD. e12429

This is the most valuable colour of tanzanite available but unfortunately, it doesn’t translate well to pictures. The trick for discerning colour in this gemstone is to slowly tilt the gem until you see a subtle red flash when viewed under incandescent light. Only the top twenty percent of the world’s tanzanite display this flash. Tanzanite is also strongly pleochroic which means you can usually see different colours by looking at it from different directions. In this 6.50 carat cushion shaped tanzanite the colours are an intensely saturated blue, violet and of course that unique red flash. It’s expected that high quality tanzanite forms flawless to the unaided eye and ours is no exception. All you find when staring into its velvety depths is brilliant flashes from the unique cut. In order to maximize contrast, this phenomenal specimen has been surrounded by bright white diamonds. And I mean surrounded, 158 hand set round brilliant cuts cover the halo, shoulders, and undergallery. They’ve even been set underneath the tanzanite, ensuring the entire top half is as blindingly brilliant as possible. Together they make a perfect 0.75 carats in SI-I-HI quality. A testament to this rings’ high end make is that it was engineered to convert to a pendant. The undergallery has a hidden catch that once unlatched the halo from the shank and shoulders. There are two hidden bails under the halo and each shoulder has a ball joint tip that the halo used to snap onto. The clasp has been sealed closed but the inventive and clever design is unlike anything we’ve ever seen! All told the one of a kind 14 karat white gold masterpiece weighs 8.3 grams and has been freshly rhodium plated to look like new. Estate price $5,280.00 CAD. Stock #e12429.

SOLD

August 30, 2021

1.71ct. total weight VS1-F GIA certified $13,360.00 CAD. e7870

Is it a solitaire or is it a three stone? I guess it’s kind of both. When shoulder stones are 0.25 carat each it’s hard to call them just little accent diamonds. The pear shaped side diamonds are perfectly matched in shape, size and VS-F quality. The Canadian made 14 karat white gold setting weighs 3.2 grams and measures a finger size 8. Centre diamond weighs 1.21 carats of excellent VS1 clarity and F colour and very good cut. The GIA certificate 1152803947 can be viewed here. The centre diamond measures just shy of 7mm in diameter. More detail on this diamond can be seen in the estate diamond section of our website. Centre diamond is available separately for $11,770.00. Stock #e7870.

SOLD

August 25, 2021

Emerald & diamond (VS-GH) ring 3.00ct. tw. 18.2gr. 18 karat gold $5,250.00 CAD. e12497

Two things you never see, square baguette cut diamonds and square baguette cut emeralds. The pairing is bold and shows the best that both have to offer. For the 2.00 carats of VS-GH diamonds the cut style shows a geometric pattern that decreases as it moves toward the center of each diamond. They spill down the edges of the ring top in two uninterrupted torrents that wink brightly at the slightest movement. They set off the tightly packed channel of 1.00 carat total weight of perfectly matched natural emeralds in the truest green colour. Not to be outdone by their neighbors all 12 throw splintery flashes of vibrant green. The majority of the 14.4mm digit dominating statement ring has been made from 18 karat white gold trimmed in warm yellow gold. It’s been solidly constructed, weighing in at 18.3 grams there can be no doubt about its quality. The ring currently measures a finger size 6 3/4 with very limited room to adjust. Three of the emeralds have been chipped and have not been factored into the estate price of $5,250.00 CAD. Stock #e12497.

SOLD

August 15, 2021

1.12ct. VVS1-F excellent cut GIA certified. Noam Carver platinum ring 1.43ct.tw. $12,538.00 CAD. e12984

If quality is of paramount concern, here is a beautiful diamond ring to consider. The 1.12 carat diamond is of VVS1 clarity (only 1 grade from internally flawless) and F colour (2 grades away from a perfect D). The overall cut, polish and symmetry have all been graded excellent. When exposed to long-wave ultraviolet light the centre diamond plus a few of the 70 small decorative diamonds glow an eerie blue colour. The curious blue glow occurs when the diamond is exposed to a specific wavelength of UV light. This image was taken using filtered long-wave UV light in the dark. In ordinary lighting situations, the blue glow goes unnoticed. In direct sunlight, a very faint blue may be seen as sunlight contains a large component of long wave ultraviolet light within its spectrum. The premium platinum constructed ring measures a tiny finger size of 4 1/2 but can be made a few sizes larger if needed. It was designed by award-winning Canadian jewellery designer Noam Carver. This ring along with his other styles can be seen online here. Bill Le Boeuf Jewellers is proud to be the areas exclusive agent for his designs. This ring was purchased new at Bill Le Boeuf Jewellery only a couple of years ago and is in like-new condition. The 4.8 gram ring contains 70 tiny diamonds bead set in the tulip leaf-shaped claws and down both shoulders. The extra diamonds give some extra twinkle visible from all angles. Accompanying the ring is the original Noam Carver lifetime warranty certificate with unique serial number, Noam Carver box, Bill Le Boeuf Jewellers insurance appraisal (May 2018) and of course the GIA report 6183725340. The full September 2017 Gemological Institute of America document can be seen online here. The flat edges of this ring allow many different options when it comes time to find a complimentary wedding ring. The finished ring represents an outstanding value, priced at only $12,538.00 CAD. $12,000.00 is a lot of money but I think you’d have a hard time finding just the loose diamond online or off for less. Stock #e12984.

SOLD

August 10, 2021

1.37ct. VVS2-K marquise antique European cut (with GIA report) 4.8gr. platinum $5,968.00 CAD. e14522

After being in this business all of my life and working as a Gemological Institute of American trained Gemologist for over 32 years, you’d think I’d become immune to sentimental feelings for estate jewellery. For the most part, the beautiful items we showcase every day come and go with little emotional response, but this one is different. It came to us this past summer as a well-loved engagement ring that was 4 generations old. It had been cut off by the previous owner, whose knuckles had become arthritic and couldn’t remove it. After over 100 years the original claws had worn thin, the diamond had a few chips along its girdle edge, the shank was thin and was cracked opposite where it was cut. Old European cut diamonds are almost always seen in a round shape. This is only the 2nd or 3rd marquise shape that has ever come through our estate department. We asked our master diamond cutter to perform his magic and repair 100 years of wear and tear from the diamond. It originally weighed 1.40 carats, after the minor chips and nicks were removed the diamond lost just 0.03 carats of weight. We paid particular attention to maintaining the original charm and character of the old European cut design. The original thick, chunky pavilion main facets, short lower girdle facets, and that large culet on the bottom are still there. The crown and table were left alone with only a light repolishing done. After the centre antique stone was repaired, we submitted it to The Gemological Institute of American to obtain a full grading report, along with laser engraving the report number on the girdle. The GIA document can be seen online here. The grading report came back as expected with exceptional VVS2 clarity. We feel it could have been internally flawless or VVS1 if we had instructed the diamond cutter to re-facet the entire crown at the expense of losing a few more points of weight. The colour was graded a slightly warm K colour. This sort of colour is quite common and actually is what you’d expect of an antique diamond from South Africa. South African diamonds from the 1800s most commonly occurred in the JKLMN range. Old European cut diamonds control colour very well, you’ll be surprised how white this diamond looks in person. With a repaired  diamond and a fresh GIA report, we turned our attention to the practically “loved to death” setting. We completely restored the ring by rebuilding the 4 claw head, raising new beads for the six 0.01 carat original single cut shoulder diamonds, and replaced the original worn out thin band with something wider. We melted what was left of the old shank and added some new platinum for the new band. The finished ring is more than 25% heavier than when it first arrived here and is now as good as new. It is ready for at least 2 or 3 more generations of love. Included with the purchase is an original vintage Birks sterling silver presentation box. We have a few of these old boxes in stock but almost never let them go. For this ring we are making an exception and including it for the new owner. The solid sterling silver box with black velvet liner is also fleshly restored, polished and is in perfect condition. This antique one of a kind ring, box, and GIA report is estate priced at $5,968.00 CAD. Stock #e14522.

SOLD

June 29, 2021

2.59ct. tw. diamond ring SI-H (1.16ct. I1-GH centre), sz. 8, 13.5gr. 14kt. $7,000.00 CAD. e14068

A digit-dominating diamond ring that spans an impressive 14.8mm wide. The ring only tapers to 10.2mm wide at the shank bottom, maintaining its bulk all the way around. The ring is obviously custom-made from a collection of a previous owner’s diamonds but they certainly work well together! The main diamond is an impressive 1.16 carat I1-G round brilliant cut diamond made even larger-looking thanks to its heavy bezel setting. It has been shouldered by two SI-H quality round brilliant cuts weighing an estimated 0.67 carats together. The remaining 30 diamonds are a mix of single cuts and round brilliants, all of SI-H quality, adding approximately 0.76 carats to the ring, pushing the total weight of the ring up to 2.59 carats. Add that to 13.5 grams of 14 karat white gold and you’ve got quite a ring! Estate price $7,000.00 CAD. Stock #e14068.

SOLD

June 22, 2021

1.02ct. I1-D GIA cert. Pear solitaire 4.0gr. $5,180.00 CAD. e14443 (diamond only $4,800.00).

 This diamond is perhaps the best example we’ve seen in a long time of an I1 clarity diamond that is essentially “eye clean”; meaning, the grade setting feather inclusion isn’t visible without magnification. The size, shape, number, colour, and location of the inclusion(s) are camouflaged and disguised to the point where they practically disappear. Only with some closeup photomicrographs in darkfield illumination does the grade setting feather reveal itself at the 3:00 position under a bezel facet. This diamond is so convincing of a higher clarity than I1, both GemScan Laboratories and Gem Scope Appraisal Laboratories classified the clarity as an SI1. The truth be told, we hoped for an SI2 grade when we submitted the loose stone to The Gemological Institute of America for their unbiased opinion. The August 23, 2021, GIA report confirmed the perfect D colour and measured the weight 0.01 carat less than the others at 1.02 carat. The cut of this diamond is excellent, with a smallish 56 percent table, 62.1 depth percentage, attractive 1.55:1 length to width ratio, and beautiful outline. If you look hard enough you’ll find less expensive 1.00 carat, I1-D, pear-shaped diamonds out there, but I can guarantee they won’t look this nice. The diamond is set in a traditional double gallery, five-prong setting that weighs approximately 4 grams in a finger size 5. The diamond is available separately for $4,800.00. Accompanying the ring is the aforementioned Gem Scope certificate of evaluation suggesting a retail replacement value of $22,000.00 plus tax. Our opinion of value is roughly 3 times less at $7,400.00. As a like-new estate ring, we have it priced at $5,180.00 CAD. Stock #e14443.

SOLD

June 15, 2021

1.89ct. I2-H GIA report $7,250.00 CAD e14445. (0.62ct. tw. SI-H, 14kt. ring $1,378.00 extra)

We’ve all heard the expression “don’t judge a book by its cover”. When looking to purchase a diamond, keep that saying top of mind. Diamonds of the same grade can look significantly different in person, to the point where some diamonds of lower quality (on paper) actually look better than a higher quality stone. At first glance, you may dismiss this diamond due to its I2 clarity grade, and poor cut according to the August 23, 2021, Gemological Institute of America report. Keep in mind, the generous dimensions of the diamond allow improvement of the cut by our master diamond cutter to at least a very good or excellent overall cut, with perhaps only a 10 to 15% loss in weight. We’ve decided to leave it alone as an example of why you shouldn’t judge this diamond by simply looking at the report. In person, the diamond sparkles and twinkles just fine. Even in our most revealing darkfield and reflected light photomicrograph images, the scattered crystal inclusions are not as distracting as the I2 clarity grade would lead you to believe. We selected a significant setting to showcase this large diamond. The 14 karat white gold setting has a net weight of 5.2 grams and contains 34, bead set, round brilliant cut diamonds of very nice SI-H quality that contribute an additional 0.62 carat of bling. The ring measures a finger size 7 and can be made larger or smaller a size or two. This versatile ring is easy to match with a flat-edged wedding or anniversary ring when the time comes. Including the original laminated GIA report, the complete ring is estate priced at $8,628.00. Loose diamond only is priced at $7,250.00. Stock #e14445.

SOLD

June 10, 2021

1.71ct. I2-I Canadian princess cut halo (0.61ct. tw. VS-SI-GH), 4.5gr. 18kt. Canadian made $5,810.00 CAD. e14033

Really there are no wrong answers when it comes to selecting a diamond, it’s all personal taste. Certainly, we try to educate our customers and encourage them to what appeals to them. Whether it’s absolute perfection regardless of cost or accepting a lower quality to achieve the look without going overbudget. It’s really up to the individual as there are excellent buys at both ends of the quality range. In many cases, a maximum size priority means reducing the expectations of the other Cs, in order to maintain a certain budget. This princess cut is a perfect example of the price reduction that comes with reduced clarity. With an I2 clarity, this diamond ends up displaying a bowtie of frosty inclusions on the left side leaving an opposing bowtie of clean brilliance. Otherwise, the diamond is very bright and sparkly. It weighs an impressive 1.71 carats, spanning 6.45 x 6.37mm with an I colour. Not to mention the Canadian pedigree proudly engraved on the polished girdle. The ring has also been made to high standards, cast from 4.5 grams of premium 18 karat “pure white” gold, alloyed with palladium to guard against nickel allergies, and a whiter look without rhodium plating. The 10.8mm wide halo and diamond set shoulders bring the total carat weight of the ring to a significant 2.32 carats. The 54 round brilliant cuts are high-quality VS-SI-GH quality, throwing a lot of sparkle at the slightest movement. Like new condition, showing no signs of wear and tear. The size 8 1/2 ring can be adjusted up or down at least 2 sizes. Here’s where that clarity compromise shows its value, the estate price for the ring with its original certificates is only $5,810.00 CAD. Now that’s a great value. Stock #e14033.

SOLD

June 6, 2021

4.31ct. SI2-OP GIA cert. 6.31ct. tw. 18kt. halo diamond ring $31,025.00 CAD. e10459

What the heck; if you’ve already got a big diamond, why not go all in and make it look even bigger. The ever popular halo setting will have the girls talking for sure. This 4.31 carat just came back from New York with a fresh Gemological Institute of America report certifying the diamond as an SI2 clarity, OP colour, and a good cut. The full April 24 2017 GIA report can be seen here. If you’re familiar with diamond geometry and optics, the report should give you a pretty good idea of what the big 10.6mm diameter stone looks like in person. The very small 54% table, slightly steeper 35.5-degree crown angle, and generous 16% crown height give this stone a beautiful antique look with ample dispersion and brilliance. The slightly warmer hue of the OP colour grade reinforces the vintage look as most old diamonds exhibit a similar tint. Here is a 20 second YouTube video of the diamond. Please excuse the quality as I just shot the video on a cell phone with an eye-loupe Scotch taped to it. The luxurious 6.8 gram, 18 karat white gold setting contains 150 other diamonds. The small diamonds range in size from tiny bead set 1.1mm diameter examples set in the halo and galleries to significant 3.1mm channel set examples running down both shoulders. The additional 2.00 carats of high-quality VS-H diamonds bring the estimated total diamond weight to a dazzling 6.31 carats. While we’re hoping to keep the 4.31 carat diamond and the beautiful halo setting together as a complete ring, the supersized diamond is available by itself for $28,000.00 Canadian. One of our onsite goldsmiths can adjust the size 5 ring up or down a size or two in just a day or so. This fantastic ring is in like-new, hardly worn condition. The original bright white factory rhodium finish is still fully intact. Comes with an accurate July 2018 insurance appraisal. The complete ring is available for $31,025.00 CAD (trade-ins and dealer inquiries are welcomed). Stock #e10459.

SOLD

May 4, 2021

1.15ct. SI1-H princess cut platinum solitaire $6,300.00 CAD e10205

The perfect engagement ring can take a long time to find. You search Pinterest and Google for inspiration and finally track down the styles you love. You go into a store to find something similar, only to discover they’ve used a main diamond of “promotional” quality in order to keep the price as low as possible. Some of the most intricate and beautiful settings get stuck with a low quality diamonds; as if the companies selling them think you’ll be too distracted by the shiny mount to notice. Even simple solitaires like this are not immune from pricing pressures. Sometimes they feature diamonds looking more like frozen spit than an ancient dazzling crystal. You want to change that diamond for something better but you’re in a chain store with no onsite goldsmiths and limited access to loose diamonds. They’ll order two or three in for you taking a couple of weeks, you pick one you like and now it has to get sent out to be assembled. Almost a month later you finally have a ring you can be happy with. You won’t have that issue if you’re shopping at an established, family run jewellery store like ours. We’ve been in the same downtown location for almost 60 years. Thanks to our experience buying estate diamonds we have a large and varied inventory of loose diamonds in all cuts and qualities within our store. If you can’t find what you want onsite we’ll happily unset anything within our showcases. If that won’t get you what you want we can find you any diamond, anywhere in the world in a matter of days. We’ve never encountered a situation where we couldn’t get a client the exact diamond they wanted. We select our estate engagement rings very carefully, ensuring we have a broad offering of high quality diamonds in top quality rings at unbeatable value. Take this 5-gram platinum Tiffany style solitaire for example. It features an eye clean SI1-H 1.15 carat princess cut diamond that will blow you away with its brilliance. It looks much larger than the average 1.00 carat princess cut thanks to its generous 5.8mm x 5.9mm measurements. The high quality ring measures a finger size of 7 1/4 with plenty of room to adjust. Estate price is $6,300.00 CAD. Stock #e10205.

SOLD

April 10, 2021

1.01ct. VVS2-D GIA certified. Canadian made engagement ring $14,095.00 CAD. e9093

When only the brightest whitest diamond will do. A GIA certified D colour is the best grade a diamond can achieve and is a full 5 grades better than Tiffany’s standard colour offering with their engagement rings. The VVS2 clarity is only 2 from flawless and represents 3 grades better than Tiffany’s benchmark for clarity. With this information, you can imagine just how nice this diamond looks. You almost never encounter a perfect GIA certified D colour. Diamonds almost always form with trace amounts of elements other than carbon causing subtle tints of colour. Just a few molecules of nitrogen can cause diamonds to show a hint of yellow. This colour is expressed alphabetically on a scale from D through Z. To have a GIA certified D colour is the highest standard in the industry. The clarity of this diamond is also quite exceptional at VVS2. The overall cut, symmetry, and polish have all been graded very good as compared to GIA’s strict excellent cut standards. No ultraviolet fluorescence finishes off all the details you need to know when comparing values. Measuring 6.30mm – 6.35mm x 4.07mm will allow this diamond to easily fit into almost any style setting. The GIA certificate can be seen online here. If you want to learn more about the 4Cs of diamond grading GIA’s interactive tool will show you everything you need to know when determining the quality of a diamond (sorry, not supported by Apple devices). We thought a diamond of this quality deserved a high quality setting so we installed it in one of our newest 14 karat white and rose gold designs. The split claws and rose gold beading inside the shank give the solitaire a look you won’t likely see on every other finger. Two small “surprise” diamonds peak out from just under the gallery. Fantastic quality estate diamond in a brand new setting; it’s a great formula for fabulous design and amazing value that’s hard to beat. The complete ring is estate priced at $14,095.00 CAD, diamond by itself priced at $13,400.00. Stock #e9093.

SOLD

March 18, 2021

2.00ct. tw. VS2-D GIA certified platinum diamond ring $12,830.00 CAD. e8147

Every once in a while we receive an accurate appraisal with a piece of estate jewellery. Hats off to Gente Jewellery Ltd. located in Downsview Ontario for providing an appraisal that truly reflected the appropriate retail price of a piece of jewellery they sold in late 2002. We were happy to acquire such a beautiful diamond in a very well made platinum setting. This diamond was valuable enough and of the quality that deserved a full GIA certification. The diamond returned from New York with an even better quality grade than Gente Jewellery suggested. A GIA certified 1.20 carat VS2-D was the outcome. The report can be seen here on GIA’s website. The platinum ring weighs a hefty 10.3 grams and contains 18 round and baguette cut diamonds of very good SI-G clarity adding 0.80 carats of additional diamond weight. The centre pear shaped diamond is available separately for $11,500.00. The complete ring estate is priced at $12,830.00. Stock #e8147.

SOLD

March 1, 2021

18kt. antique inspired emerald & diamond ring 2.84ct. tw. $9,800.00 CAD. e10394

When you’ve been around as long as we have and deal extensively in antique jewellery, you tend to acquire many beautiful odds and ends. Sometimes the items that come in have been loved and used for generations. The precious stones they contain can be in perfect condition while the settings that hold them may be totally worn out. When restoration isn’t a viable option, the stones are removed and the metal work is recycled. Every component in this fabulous custom creation was rescued from a worn out piece of jewellery destined for recycling. The exceptional emerald and every single diamond are at least 150 years old. The step cut emerald measures 6.4mm x 7.0mm and weighs in at 1.10 carats. Unlike modern emeralds that are oiled to improve the apparent clarity, this antique example is 100% treatment free. It’s ultrasonic cleaner safe, the transparency will not be affected even by commercial grade cleaning solutions! 24 antique cushions and round mine cut diamond add 1.74 carats of vintage sparkle unique to this cutting style. The diamonds have all come from our vast inventory of loose stones. They are all very well matched with an average quality grade of SI-I. The beautiful design is a one off custom creation from the creative mind of one of our 4 full time, on staff goldsmiths. Executed in bright white luxurious 18 karat white gold, the size 6 ring weighs in at a substantial 6.9 grams. Despite the beautiful filigree and fine milgrain details, we’re still able to adjust the size to suit your finger (up or down a size or two). It’s a genuine privilege for Bill Le Boeuf Jewellers to be in a position to be able to offer and produce such an amazing example of our craft. The fact that it contains genuine period correct ingredients (except for the new white gold) is what makes it truly exceptional. Although not inexpensive this ring still represents outstanding value for the estate price of $9,800.00 CAD. Stock #e10394.

SOLD

February 24, 2021

2.75ct. tw. I1-I2-H three stone diamond ring, 4.0gr. 14kt. white gold $8,400.00 CAD. e14272

The three-stone ring is a balanced look that is pretty hard to get wrong. It doesn’t seem to matter if all are the same size, close to the same size, or completely different size, a three-stone ring always looks great. Even the settings on our latest three-stone estate ring are different, but that certainly doesn’t diminish its appeal. The shoulder diamonds are set in three prong gallery settings, while the centre diamond is secured by a tall 6 prong setting. It all comes together in a magnificent 2.75 carat total weight sparkler. We have conservatively graded the 1.90 carat centre stone a borderline I1-I2 with an H colour and a good cut (8.0mm diameter). A dark series of stringy inclusions are not distracting and do not affect the brilliance in a measurable way. The shoulder diamonds are well-matched SI2-H round brilliant cuts weighing an estimated 0.85 carats together. The 14 karat white gold setting measures a finger size 7 and weighs 4 grams. One of our onsite goldsmiths can adjust the size up or down as required in just a day or two. This ring is only a few years old and is in like-new condition. It offers a ton of bling for estate price of $8,400.00 CAD. Stock #e14272

SOLD

February 22, 2021

1.50ct. I1-H very good cut, 18kt. solitaire, 4.5gr. $8,043.00 CAD. e13879

Classic solitaire with a thoughtful bit of decoration, with each tapered shoulder displaying a deep valley. This subtle accent creates the impression that the shoulders are narrower than their sturdy 3.1mm width. The concave profile also resists scratches keeping the sides bright and reflective. The elongated valleys taper along with the shoulders as they move towards the center, increasing the draw to the center stone. Not that it needs the help, at a perfect 1.50 carat weight and 7.26mm diameter the round brilliant cut solitaire diamond steals the show! Mostly that is due to the very good cut allowing almost perfect brilliance, dispersion, and fire. That high level of sparkle helps conceal the I1 clarity and H colour, leaving only a faint trail of Milky-Way-Galaxy-like inclusions visible to the extremely sharp-sighted. The 4.5 gram ring is made from top quality 18 karat yellow and white gold and currently measures a finger size 6 3/4 with room to adjust. It is accompanied by its original GS Laboratories Certificate of Evaluation stating a replacement value of $16,800.00 CAD. We feel a more realistic replacement value is $11,490.00. Our estate price is $8,043.00 CAD. Stock #e13879.

SOLD

December 29, 2020

0.93ct. VS1-F princess cut, 0.39ct. tw. VS-FG Tiffany ring set platinum $11,940.00 CAD. e13865 e13866

Tiffany’s needs no introduction or explanation, making it one of the easiest brands to write about! Especially when it comes to the Tiffany solitaire, for which they reinvented the standard for laser inscription. Most engraved diamonds are inscribed across their girdles because it is the only location that won’t receive a clarity penalty when being graded by the Gemological Institute of America. But Tiffany’s doesn’t need the GIA, their in-house diamond graders are so scrupulous, and their diamonds are of such high quality, that their diamond certificates find no challenge in the business. To put off copycats Tiffany’s shrunk their laser engravings to a quarter size of the industry standard and moved them onto a star facet. Easy to miss if you aren’t in the know! The princess cut diamond that crowns this classic solitaire is a high VS1-F and weighs in at 0.93 carats. It is of course set in platinum and has been beautifully paired with a princess cut channel set band that is currently available on Tiffany’s website. The band is tightly set with 0.39 carats of VS-FG princess cuts diamonds wrapped in, you guessed it, platinum! The matched set is accompanied by their original robins egg blue outer boxes, black velvet inner boxes, and a full complement of original paperwork in its Tiffany & Co. sleeve. The band itself retails for $5,400.00 CAD new from Tiffany’s. Our estate price for the set 11,940.00 CAD. Stock #e13865 and #e13866.

SOLD

December 5, 2020

1.87ct. VS1-I ex cut GIA certified (3.28ct. tw.) 14kt. diamond halo 7.4gr. 14kt. $20,800.00 CAD. e12083

Many 2.00 carat and heavier diamonds have diameters less than this one making them appear smaller. With an average diameter of 7.93mm, this diamond looks bigger than many 2.00 carat diamonds with only an average or even a good cut. Lots of diamonds are cut by those who decide to maximum weight at the expense of a beautiful cut; this is a shame. Did you know that the cut of a diamond can affect the price of two otherwise identical stones by over 40 percent? Of all the diamond characteristics that contribute to value only the cut can be controlled. Far too often the cut is compromised in order to create that psychologically more appealing heavier stone. No compromises were taken when this diamond was cut in Canada. The Gemological Institute of America has graded this diamond 1.87 carats of VS1 clarity, I colour, excellent cut, and no fluorescence. Report #2155596018 can be seen here. Diamond only is estate priced at $17,800.00 CAD. It’s currently set in a 2-year-old 14 karat white gold diamond halo design containing 64 VS-GH quality diamonds weighing a combined 1.41 carats. The size 6 ring weighs a substantial 7.4 grams and is in excellent lightly worn condition. Just a size adjustment and fresh rhodium plating will have it looking perfect. The complete ring is estate priced at $20,800.00. Stock number #e12083.

SOLD

October 10, 2020

3.09ct. I2-H good cut GIA certified. 14kt. diamond solitaire 4.1gr. $11,025.00 CAD. e9526

Buying a diamond simply on the information provided by a grading report can sometimes be a mistake, especially if you’re considering a stone in the popular SI-I clarity range. Not to mention the accuracy of the certificate. Depending on the size, shape, number, colour, and location of the grade setting inclusion(s), “I” clarity diamonds often look fantastic, while some SI stones are dull and hazy. When buying a diamond with a lower clarity you should always have a look at it before it is dismissed. Lower clarity grades offer some incredible bang for the buck. Our latest estate diamond is a great example of this. The 2016 Gemological Institute of America grading report 5172520614 accurately describes the diamond as an I2 clarity, but what it doesn’t show you is just how sparkly it is despite the numerous scattered inclusions. We’ve seen much less attractive I1 and even SI2 diamonds before. The good cut makes the most of what this diamond lacks (at least on paper). This diamond will never be mistaken for a perfect D colour, though its N colour grade with medium blue fluorescence help control any warm hue. There are few 3 plus carat diamonds around that look as nice in this price range. Pictures do not do this ring the justice it deserves. The diamond has been set in a classic 14 karat, white gold, Canadian made, 4 prong solitaire, measuring a size 8. The ring can be adjusted up or down at least 2 or 3 sizes. If you’d prefer a flawless, natural diamond of perfect cut and colour of this size, be prepared to spend over $200,000.00 CAD to obtain one (really). For less than 6% of that price, you can have a beautiful, impressive, 3.09 carat diamond to be proud of. The 3.5 gram setting is less than 5 years old and is in excellent condition. Our onsite goldsmiths can adjust the fit in only a day or two. The ring comes with the original laminated GIA report from March 9, 2016. The complete ring is estate priced at $11,025.oo CAD. Stock #e9526.

SOLD

September 20, 2020

BIRKS 2.12ct. tw. VS-I oval 3 stone diamond ring 11.2gr. platinum $8,125.00 CAD. e13819

Despite their popularity, oval brilliant cut diamonds are still substantially less expensive than a traditional round diamond. Combining 3, well-matched, good-sized ovals together in a traditional 3 stone design like this makes for a very impressive presentation. The added length of oval diamonds provides a bit of an illusion making the diamond appear larger than its actual weight suggests. Larger looking and less expensive, it’s really no surprise fancy shaped diamonds are making a comeback. This example adds an extra degree of attraction that’s not so obvious. It was manufactured by Canada’s premier luxury jewellery brand BIRKS. It’s hard to say exactly when this ring was made. The traditional double gallery design has been a popular style for many decades, being made from long-lasting platinum the ring shows almost wear and tear. The substantial construction weighs a hefty 11.2 grams in its present finger size of 9 1/2. It can easily be brought down to a more average finger size if needed. The 3 oval brilliant cut diamonds are well matched of VS and better clarity with an “I” colour. The centre diamond measures 8.08mm x 5.85mm and weighs approximately 1.06 carats. The 2 shoulder diamonds contribute an additional 1.06 carats. All totaled the 3 diamonds weight an estimated 2.12 carats. Over the years we’ve made 100s of 3 stone diamond rings but seldom with ovals. Oval diamonds are particularly difficult to match. Not only do you need to match the quality, but you must also match the specific length to width ratios and overall outline. To make it even more challenging oval diamonds are around 10 times more scarce compared to round diamonds. Hats off to the jewellers ar BIRKS for doing such a great job with this one. With the popularity of oval diamonds and the compelling value offered by our vintage jewellery, we don’t expect this ring to last very long at the estate price of $8,125.00 CAD. Stock #e13819.

SOLD

August 27, 2020

5.80ct. I1-K good cut GIA certified 7.12ct. tw. diamond ring 8.1gr. 14kt. $55,555.00 CAD. e12278 101-00020

We’re thinking of trying out a new slogan, something like “Barrie’s Over-Sized Diamond Destination” (just kidding). Might not stick but we really are getting larger diamonds more and more frequently. For the first 20 years of our business selling a 1.00 carat diamond was the exception and certainly not a regular occurrence. 1.00 carat solitaires really didn’t become the benchmark until probably the last 10 to 15 years. The Barrie area is rapidly changing; when we opened in 1958 the city’s population was under 20,000 people, now we are almost at 200,000 residents and growing fast! We pride ourselves on our unique offerings and really we are just diamond nerds so it’s hard to pass up a great opportunity even if the price point is significant. This fantastic estate 5.80 carat round brilliant cut diamond was a fantastic opportunity! The diamond has been proportioned slightly on the shallow side, it still earned a Gemological Institute of America cut grade of Good. That slight shallowness gives the diamond its impressive 12.1mm footprint, a measurement you’d normally expect to find on a diamond weighing close to 7 carats. A short YouTube video of the rings can be seen here The diamond is an I1 clarity because there are inclusions that you may see without magnification. Considering that this is wider than some women’s fingers I think we can forgive a scattering of small inclusions that are difficult to find even in these magnified images, more visible in the second dark field contrasting picture. The clarity actually includes a few man-made laser drill holes which were probably used to remove some more noticeable black inclusions. The K colour faces up much whiter than you’d expect and we personally don’t mind a touch of warmth on diamonds this size; it adds authenticity at a glance so the ring doesn’t look like it came out of a gumball machine. We’ve set this behemoth into a brand new 14 karat white gold engagement/wedding ring set containing 22 certified Candian diamonds of excellent VS-F quality. The shoulder diamonds in the two rings contribute an additional 1.32 carats of sparkle. If your taste is for something different we can easily build something completely unique just for you, a bespoke masterpiece worthy of the wearer. As with all important diamonds, the ring is accompanied by all of its original paperwork and a GIA certificate from June 19th, 2019. The original appraisal documents reflect the full spectrum of appraisal opinions. A certificate from 1986 states a replacement value of $98,500.00; with the diamond graded incorrectly as an SI2-H. Another appraisal from just three years later suggests an appropriate replacement value of $68,100.00. Neither document from the 1980s noticed the microscopic laser drill holes. Our price for the estate diamond alone is $51,000.00. If you like the complete set it is estate priced at $55,555.00 CAD. Stock #e12278 101-00020.

SOLD

August 22, 2020

Antique ruby & diamond ring 2.40ct. tw. 18kt. $8,050.00 CAD. e11030

Excellent design and high quality are great starting points for jewellery to stand the test of time. This ring is well over 100 years old and it’s ready for more. Although it’s been around over a century it’s far from worn out. 5 of the 6 tiny antique accent diamonds have been replaced with disguised modern diamonds but otherwise, we think the ring is completely original. We have some authentic antique rose cut diamonds that could be installed making it completely faithful to the original,  down to the tiniest details. The 4.3 gram 18 karat rose gold setting is still fully hallmarked inside the shank with the maker’s mark, karat mark, city of manufacture/assay, and year of production. The highlight of the ring is of course the wonderful brilliant red natural ruby and the two high quality diamonds. The oval faceted Jell-o red ruby is estimated to weigh 1.12 carats and would conservatively rate a 7-8/10 in quality. The 2 old European cut diamonds measure an average of 5.30mm x 3.55mm and are each estimated to weigh 0.60 carats. Both diamonds are a very good VS clarity with G colour and no fluorescence. The size 5 1/2 ring has never been adjusted; it could be made a little bigger or smaller if required. A classically styled three stone antique ring with a lovely filigree gallery and beautiful precious stones; what’s not to love. Estate priced at $8,050.00 CAD. Stock #e11030.

SOLD

August 2, 2020

3.25ct. SI1-K GIA cert. 18kt. yellow & white diamonds $30,000.00 CAD. e10465

The “4 Cs” are important when considering a significant diamond purchase but I know of a few other letters that are just as critical in the world of diamond grading. GIA GIA GIA GIA GIA. I can’t stress those 3 letters enough. If the diamond hasn’t been graded by the Gemological Institute of America, purchase with caution. Make absolutely sure the diamond comes with an iron-clad money-back guarantee and get another opinion of quality and value. Unless you’re a diamond grading expert the subtle differences that contribute to proper pricing are difficult to determine. Just because the diamond you purchased is graded the same as another diamond doesn’t mean it was graded to the same uncompromising standards established decades ago by the GIA. There are many diamond certificates and appraisers who use the GIA’s terminology and language but don’t grade to the same strict standards. A GIA certificate costs more and doesn’t assign a value but the peace of mind it provides is priceless. If you’re going to spend well into 5 figures for a diamond take some time and watch this video by Martin Rapaport where he discusses overgraded diamonds and inaccurate reports. Mr. Rapaport produces a wholesale diamond price list that is widely followed in the industry. This guy knows his stuff. Our featured diamond fits the bill if you want a show-stopping look but still want to keep the price under control. Reasonable clarity, colour, no fluorescence, very good cut plus the estate nature keeps the value better than anything else out there. The fresh April 25 2017 GIA report can be seen online here. As a suggestion for a ring, how about this 18 karat white and yellow gold creation? It weighs 13.6 grams and contains 76 white and yellow VS clarity diamonds weighing approximately 0.63 carats total weight. You’ll need a tiny finger for this one as it measures just a 4 1/2. It can be made a little larger if required. The setting can be purchased separately for $2000.00 CAD. The complete ring is estate priced at $30,000.00 CAD. Stock #e10465.

SOLD

July 30, 2020

Platinum Art Deco diamond ring 1.71ct. tw. SI1-GH 3.9gr. $6,650.00 CAD. e13141

You know what antique rings are good for? Making you think you have giant fingers. This Art Deco dinner ring measures a finger size 5 which was the standard finger size in the 1800s and early 1900s. In 2020 the average woman’s finger is 6 or 7. This increase in average finger size is due to the increase in overall nutrition and advanced healthcare. But fear not, these petite antiques can be sized up to accommodate our comparatively large hands. Good thing too as it would be a shame to miss out on this 100-year-old statement piece. The ring top is a digit dominating 20.6mm long and features two old mine cut diamonds weighing a combined 1.46 carats. In the 1920s, just one of these diamonds would have been a very big purchase, two in one ring means this ring belonged to someone of substantial means. The pair are accented by an additional eight antique diamonds bringing the total diamond weight of the ring up to 1.71 carats. All are of bright SI1-GH quality, throwing those characteristic large white and coloured flashes. The ring is made from 3.9 grams of ever white platinum and has been hand engraved across its entire surface. Estate price $6,650.00 CAD. Stock #e13141.

SOLD

July 18, 2020

Tiffany diamond solitaire 0.80ct. VS1-H platinum $7,865.00 CAD. e12531

Tiffany’s doesn’t need the GIA. They’ve been around since 1837. When the Gemological Institute of America was founded Tiffany’s was celebrating their 94th anniversary. Their reputation for excellence doesn’t require that they fact check their diamonds like the rest of us. In fact, Tiffany’s laser inscription would actually be considered a blemish by the GIA as they engrave the unique registered number on a star facet. Not to say that it is a distracting engraving, you can barely find it under 10X magnification and you can only read the serial number under 60X. Tiffany & Co. wanted a place to engrave that would be difficult to replicate, so they bypassed the normal girdle engraving and invented their own position. Their grading is certainly to the high standard set by the GIA and their documents are just as thorough. The elegant Tiffany & Co. Diamond Certificate that accompanies this ring states 0.80 carat weight, VS1 clarity, H colour, no fluorescence, excellent cut, excellent symmetry, excellent polish all illustrated along with the stone geometry. Enclosed in the robins’ egg blue portfolio is the original receipt showing the purchase price of $12,100.00 plus sales tax, full lifetime warranty, and insurance appraisal valuation in duplicate. It’s hard to dispute the $12,100.00 purchase price paid when you are arguing against anything that comes in a little blue box. The iconic six prong Tiffany Setting Engagement Ring is probably the most copied solitaire on the market. Costco just lost a lawsuit from Tiffany for duplicating this setting. The 4 gram platinum example measures a finger size 4 3/4 with plenty of room to adjust as needed. The ring was purchased from the Tiffany boutique at Yorkdale Toronto in December of 2017. Everything is original, complete, and in perfect condition as if delivered fresh from T&Co. directly. The complete kit is estate priced at $7,865.00 CAD. Stock #e12531.

SOLD

July 5, 2020

0.70ct. I1-F plus 1.56ct. tw. VS-G all Canadian diamonds & 18kt. Canadian gold 8.6gr. $5,285.00 CAD. e13010

A trio of Canadians made from Canadian white gold, set with Canadian diamonds, by a Canadian manufacturer! The set is fully documented with each ring carrying its own certificate of origin. The matching bands are each set with 15 round brilliant cut diamonds of VS-H quality. One band has a total carat weight of 0.60 carats the other of 0.664 carats. All 30 of the petite 0.04 carat diamonds have been individually laser inscribed with a unique serial number and a tiny stylized maple leaf. The engagement ring portion of the set also features a laser inscribed Canadian center but this one weighs 0.70 carat of I1-F quality. The additional 10 accents are too small to be certified and equal 0.30 carats together of SI-FG quality. The rings weigh a combined 8.6 grams of premium 18 karat Canadian gold that has been alloyed with allergy neutral palladium instead of the more common nickel alloy. The well documented set measures a finger size 10 with some room to make it smaller. Being sold as a set of three only. $5,285.00 CAD. Stock #e13010.

SOLD

July 1, 2020

1.65ct. I1-J pear shape solitaire 10gr. 18kt. white gold $7,000.00 CAD. e9371

A substantial setting needs a substantial diamond. Not only is this ring made from premium 18 karat white gold it contains over 10 grams of the precious metal. Made to a finger size 6.5 the ring contains a pear-shaped brilliant cut diamond that measures close to 10mm in length x 6.7mm wide. We have conservatively estimated the weight to be 1.65 carats with an 11 clarity and JK colour. Most of the grade setting inclusions are close to the tip where the abundant brilliance conceals their appearance. While the JK colour will never be confused with a D it certainly can’t be described as anything close to yellow either. If you are a less is more person who likes the feel of a hefty ring on your finger this one might be for you. Pear-shaped diamonds always appear bigger than round or square diamonds due to the extra length the tapered point provides. If you need the ring made bigger or smaller one of our onsite goldsmiths can adjust it for you at no charge in only a day or so. Excellent overall condition, only requiring a final quick polish and rhodium plating to look perfect. Estate priced at $7,000.00 CAD. Stock #e9371.

SOLD

May 6, 2020

1.71ct. tw. VVS2-VS1-F GIA cert. custom 3 stone diamond ring 4.1gr. 18kt. $8,075.00 CAD. e13655

Here’s a trio we can stand behind! All three have been given the Gemological Institute of America’s pedigree, making their quality internationally and indisputably recognized. The main diamond is a 1.01 carat cushion shaped brilliant cut of top quality VVS2-F quality excellent polish, very good symmetry, and no fluorescence. It has been shouldered by two round brilliant cut diamonds that only differ in their VVS2 and VS1 clarity grades. Both are free of any inclusions visible to the naked eye, both are F colour, and both are perfectly matched excellent cut, symmetry, polish, with no fluorescence. The GIA certificates can be viewed here, here, and here. The ring itself was custom made around the diamonds and is made from premium 18 karat yellow and white gold. The 4.1 gram ring currently measures a finger size 8 1/4 with plenty of room to adjust. The ring has also been accompanied by an Accurate Gemological Laboratories Inc. appraisal stating an estimated retail replacement value of $25,200.00 CAD. We feel a more realistic competitive retail value is $9,500.00; our estate price $8,075.00 CAD. Stock #e13655

SOLD

April 18, 2020

1.71ct. GIA certified Burmese ruby & diamond ring 1.33ct. tw. VS-G $21,400.00 CAD. e10601

You’ve likely seen plenty of 3 stone rings before, maybe even a ruby and diamond 3 stone ring but you’ve never seen one like this. Finding a ruby in any shape other than round or oval is unusual. Finding one cut like this octagon modified brilliant cut is almost unheard of. From our research, we estimate less than 0.5% of all rubies are cut like this. If that wasn’t rare enough we recently had it certified at the Gemological Institute of America as natural originating from Burma. Burmese rubies are exceptionally rare, be wary of anyone representing a ruby as Burmese without GIA certification. Not only did GIA confirm Burmese origin, they described it as transparent, vivid red, reporting the colour as Pigeon’s blood. The term Pigeon’s blood is reserved for only the finest colour of ruby. The full (February 2019) report can be seen online here. The two flanking shoulder diamonds are square emerald cut aka Assher cut diamonds. The parallel and perpendicular intersecting facets display large sections of brilliant flashes quite different than the typical round or square brilliant cut. Components this unexpected can only be used in a completely custom made setting. That’s where we come into the formula. No one does it better than Bill Le Boeuf Jewellers when it comes to sourcing unique estate diamonds and gems then reinventing them with a brand new custom made ring. While the basic 3 stone double gallery design isn’t unique, it’s almost never encountered in a combination like this. Everything about this ring is of premium quality. The 5.8mm x 6.4mm 1.71 carat ruby exhibits a pure spectral red hue that only the best examples do. The Asscher cut diamonds are well matched weighing 0.66 and 0.67 carats, measuring on average 4.80mm x 4.95mm. With VS clarity and G colour they sparkle and twinkle like a couple of disco balls. The size 5 custom made 18 karat white gold ring weighs 4.6 grams and can be custom fit up or down to your specific finger size. It’s not inexpensive but it is excellent value. Sourcing a comparable certified Burmese Pigeon’s blood ruby like this would be virtually impossible. Looking for a one of a kind ruby ring to celebrate a special occasion? You’ll have a hard time finding a better example than this one. Estate components in a never worn Bill Le Boeuf custom creation. Estate priced at $21,400.00 CAD. Stock #e10601.

SOLD

February 14, 2020

4.61ct. Emerald & diamond ring VS-GH 5.6gr. 14kt. $5,390.00 CAD. e12500

Thanks to Pintrest and Instagram morganite is the “it” beryl right now. But long before that millennial pink, emerald cousin hit the scene this was the beryl mineral variety of choice! With its vibrant pure green colour and fascinating internal garden of moss like inclusions, it’s really no contest. Unlike the fair weather morganite, emerald has been coveted the world over since 330BC; adorning royalty ranging from Egyptian Pharaohs to Chinese Emperors, all the way to modern British Crown Jewels. If you need more convincing try this 4.61 carat emerald cut emerald on. The intensity of the green is impossible to capture in photos, in person it seems to glow from within. As far as emerald goes this one is a relatively high clarity grade, showing only a few scattered inclusions. Emerald, like anything none diamond, is prone to scratching during wear and this one shows a few across its top facet. The rest of the ring mirrors the high quality with 0.20 carats of baguette cut diamonds of bright VS-GH quality. Each has been set into a white gold plate topped with a double millgrain edge for just a touch of vintage. The rest of the ring is 14 karat yellow gold and the ring has been equipped with a hinged shank, allowing it to sit snugly on the back of the finger despite knuckle size. The ring is a finger size 6. Estate price $5,390.00 CAD. Stock #e12500.

SOLD

January 13, 2020

1.50ct. SI1-G GIA certified with free 18kt. setting $10,000.00 CAD. e11743

Lurking within this 1.50 carat fair cut diamond is an excellent cut 1.37 carat diamond. Some careful re-proportioning of the diamond will achieve a superior cut but it will weigh close to 10% less. Such is the dilemma every diamond cutter faces when considering faceting a rough diamond; cut to maximize finished weight (and potentially profit) or cut to maximize sparkle and brilliance but end up with a smaller stone. Not only will you end up with a smaller diamond in order to achieve an excellent cut, in many cases the premium cut diamond may have a psychological disadvantage to anyone comparing it to a heavier stone of lower cut grade priced the same. Compare this estate diamond to the same quality 1.50 carat or an excellent cut 1.37 carat diamond, it is still priced better than anything else currently in the market (retail or wholesale). This diamond certified by the Gemological Institute of America November 2018 with very nice results. Strong SI1 clarity, G colour, good symmetry, good polish and no fluorescence. Sure the table is a few percentage points too big, the crown angle is a few degrees too steep and the total depth is 0.15mm too deep but still it looks amazing. GIA scrutinize the geometry of diamond cut like no other. They offer completely impartial grading analysis as they have no interest in the price or the commerce of diamonds. Always insist the diamond you are considering has been GIA certified, not simply certified by someone with GIA training and credentials. This diamond is also listed on our wholesale dealer only database for the same price as you see here, so don’t think about it for too long. At $10,000.00 CAD it’s less than any equivalent GIA certified diamond anywhere! We sell wholesale and we sell retail, it’s all the same to us. We love connecting people with amazing value whether it’s a wholesale colleague or for our own retail client. From big box store to large retail chains and even the latest greatest online vendor. We’re not afraid to compete with any and all competition. Bill Le Boeuf Jewellers 60 years experience, unique business, and operational advantages allow us the enviable position of being able to offer better value than anyone. We don’t take this statement lightly, we really mean it. This pretty diamond is estate priced at just $10,000.00 CAD. With a weakening Canadian dollar, this diamond offers even more value. Included with diamond is an 18 karat white gold traditional 4 prong solitaire. The setting weighs 3.6 grams and showcases the diamond in a classic minimalist design that will never go out of style. Stock #e11743.

SOLD

November 4, 2019

2.30ct. total weight Art Deco diamond ring $12,579.00 CAD. e6795

There are few styles that define an era more than Art Deco. This style has always been in high demand and pieces like this really showcase the jewellers craft from almost 100 years ago. The pierced filigree mill grain design is made from 5.5 grams of platinum containing 16 small European and single cut diamonds. The 2 large round bezel set European cut diamonds each measure approximately 6.40 to 6.50mm diameter and are estimated to weigh a little more than 1.00 carat each. The large diamonds are well matched from a naked eye perspective with a quality grade of SI1-G and I1-G. The 6.5mm white pearl in the centre may be natural and not cultured. We do not have x-ray testing equipment to make that call but there is a good chance it is of natural origin and not cultured given the excellent overall condition of the rest of the ring This ring measures a rather small size 4 but can be sized larger. If you have an interest in antique jewellery like this please come in and have a look. It’s one of the best examples of Art Deco we have had in a long time. Excellent condition, all original and showing no signs of previous repair work. Estate priced at $12,579.00 CAD. Stock #e6795.

SOLD

October 20, 2019

Platinum/22kt. gold fancy yellow & white diamond ring $6,034.00 CAD. e8912

Every once in while mother nature produces some diamonds that display some colour. Almost all diamonds exhibit a tiny amount of yellow and brown that is described using an alphabetical scale from D (colourless) to Z (lightly coloured)When diamonds fall outside this typical range of colour they are referred to as fancy colour. When the colour is also naturally occurring the price starts to go up. Very rare saturated tones of red sell for over 1 million dollars per carat. So these fancy yellow radiant cut yellows are a great bargain at only around $1500.00 per carat. Over 10 grams of platinum and 22 karat yellow gold have gone into the manufacture of this ring. 22 karat gold on the 0.75 carats of VS clarity yellow diamonds and bright white platinum secure the 0.84 carats of high quality VVS-F emerald cut diamonds. Pure white platinum and the rich colour of 22 karat gold promote the contrasting white and yellow diamonds. Rings like this are not mass produced because of the difficulty finding matching coloured diamonds; you won’t likely find another like it. The size 5.5 ring would be a great choice for someone who loves the exotic and rare when it comes to jewellery. A 2009 Gem Review certificate on appraisal comes with the ring when the price of platinum was much less and the Canadian dollar was much stronger. Estate priced at $6,034.00 CAD. Stock #e8912.

SOLD

September 4, 2019

2.20ct. SI1-D GIA certified 18kt./platinum custom ring 2.48ct. tw. $25,600.00 CAD. e11847

The purpose of rose gold is to blend with skin tone. This allows rose gold rings to increase the impact of the diamonds they carry by making them the only contrasting element. In this modern understated engagement ring 16 graduated round brilliant cut diamonds run half way down the shoulders and appear almost to be floating. Their intense brilliance is due to their high VS-EF quality and very good make. Though the band measures a petite 2.14mm wide it weighs an impressive 3.6 grams, speaking to its sturdy build (not to mention the copper in rose gold makes for a hard durable alloy). Those narrow 18 karat shoulders tapering towards the center make the diamond appear larger than its 2.20 carat weight suggests. The GIA certified diamond is an eye clean SI1 clarity with a perfect D colour, excellent polish, very good symmetry and medium blue fluorescence. The full Gemological Institute of America diamond grading report can be seen here. As a cushion brilliant is a rather uncommon shape we’d strongly suggest you see it in person. The diamond is a true kaleidoscope of spectral rainbow light, appearing to go on forever at its depths. To avoid distracting from that mesmerizing light show, the main diamond has been set into an elegant platinum setting. The custom made 4 prong setting has been designed with delicate heart shaped outlines on all 4 gallery edges. Together the ring contains an impressive 2.48 carats of diamonds and currently measures a finger size 6 1/2. The diamond is accompanied by a copy of its GIA Diamond Grading Report. The ring comes with a May 2018 Harold Weinstein Appraisal showing an estimated replacement value of $51,545.00 CAD plus tax. Our more realistic opinion of a competitive replacement value is closer to $32,000.00. As a like new estate ring our price is $25,600.00 CAD. Stock #e11847.

SOLD

July 24, 2019

4.75ct. emerald with 0.85ct. total weight diamond ring $13,000.00 CAD. e9863

It’s hard to capture the beauty of large emerald in a simple still photo; you need to see this ring in person. The 4.75 carat natural strong slightly bluish green emerald is so vibrantly green in person that it almost looks like an advanced created synthetic. It also looks a lot cleaner in person, showing larger areas that are eye-clean. Officially it’s been graded moderately included by Harold Weinstein Ltd. in Toronto but you really must see it in person. Fortunately our photography skills are not as good as our jewellery skills, so our estate items always look better in person. The exceptional emerald is shouldered between two round brilliant cut diamonds that would each be equally at home as the main diamond of an engagement ring. At 0.42 carat each of nice I1-H quality the diamonds add a perfect finishing touch to the 7.3 gram 14 karat yellow gold ring. The solid ring currently measures a finger size 7 1/4 with room to size up or down to accommodate almost anyone. The ring is accompanied by a July 5, 2016 Harold Weinstein Ltd. Jewellery Appraisal for insurance purposes with an estimated replacement value of $20,000.00 CAD. Estate price $13,000.00 CAD. Stock #e9863.

SOLD

July 20, 2019

1.25ct. SI1-I princess cut platinum solitaire 7.1gr. with GIA report $6,475.00 CAD. e12753

Back to basics with this simple symmetrical square princess cut diamond solitaire in platinum. The Gemological institute of America report is just over 10 years old and can be seen online here. The heavyweight (6.9 gram), cathedral shoulder Lucida setting is a classic design that’s been popular for over a decade. The size 6 3/4 ring is in excellent condition; having being constructed of platinum it will last a lifetime while maintaining its naturally white finish without the need for rhodium plating. The centre diamond is a significant 1.25 carat square modified brilliant cut diamond (princess cut) measuring 5.99mm x 5.82mm. GIA have graded the diamond SI clarity, I colour, with very good symmetry, polish and no fluorescence. Including a complimentary size adjust the complete ring is priced at $6,475.00. If you’d like the diamond in different style ring or other piece of jewellery it is available separately for only $6,000.00 CAD. Stock #e12753.

SOLD

July 10, 2019

2.02ct. VVS2-M GIA certifified princess cut diamond solitaire 4.0gr. 14kt. gold $8,075.00 CAD. e12944

Just back from the Gemological Institute of America with confirmation of the Gem Scan Laboratories document along with the International Gem Assessment Inc. Certificate of Appraisal. The GIA determined the colour grade to be one lower than the other two reports; everything else was accurately described. The full December 2019 GIA report can be seen online here. GIA wisely stay away from placing any sort of value on diamonds or jewellery. In fact they have no interest in the commerce of diamonds. This is why we rely on their opinions over all others when it comes to unbiased impartial quality analysis. The traditional 14 karat yellow and white gold setting weighs 4 grams and measures the average woman’s finger size of 6 1/2.When it comes to placing a retail value on diamonds and jewellery we rely on our 6 plus decades of experience and the competitive nature of modern commerce. This ring is accompanied by a January 2008 appraisal that values this ring at $24,000.00 plus tax. We’re confident we could reproduce a new diamond ring with GIA certification of this quality for the competitive price of around $9,500.00. As an excellent condition previously enjoyed ring we have it priced at just $8,075.00, representing a truly outstanding value for a well made, attractive 2 carat diamond ring. Stock #e12944.

SOLD

June 22, 2019

2.12ct. VS1-ST excellent cut with GIA report $8,775.00 CAD. e12574

Included with diamond is a fresh Gemological Institute of America (October 2019) report, but the diamond came to us as a chipped transition cut dating from the 1920s. The extremely thin girdle on the original diamond left it prone to damaged along the edge. The original diamond measured a substantial 9.44mm diameter and weighed 2.72 carats. We instructed our master diamond cutter to repair the damaged area and improve the cut to excellent standards. The repaired diamond lost 22% of its original weight but now it’s far more brilliant, shows more dispersion and is much more resistant to future damage. It still measures a generous 8.42mm diameter and weighs nicely over 2.00 carats. This cut report illustrates the geometry needed to be considered excellent cut according the GIA strict standards. The full GIA report can be seen online here.The excellent VS1 clarity ensures there are no visible inclusions. The ST colour grade is indeed slightly tinted but the excellent cut, very good polish and excellent symmetry keep it sparkling as you’d expect. These warmer hue diamonds are seeing new interest from consumers looking for bright sparkle and good size without breaking the bank. We have the diamond currently set in a traditional 6 prong, 6.7 gram platinum setting that showcases the diamond very well. If you’d like the diamond set in a different style ring or perhaps an entirely new custom piece of jewellery the diamond can be sold without the ring. Diamond price $8,775.00 CAD. Complete ring $9,250.00 CAD. Stock #e12574.

SOLD

June 20, 2019

2.16ct. VS2-H GIA certified diamond ring 3.32ct. tw. 13.5gr. platinum $25,000.00 CAD. e12998

The quality of jewellery featured in our vintage/estate collections is unlike anything else in the area. On our larger, more important diamonds and diamond rings we focus on accurately graded Gemological Institute of America certified diamonds. ALWAYS insist on a GIA report if you’re considering investing in a significant diamond. Not all grading/appraisal services adhere to the strict standards established by the GIA over 60 years ago when they developed the world’s first standardized system for quality grading of diamonds. To guarantee you get what you’re paying for there is no substitute for a Gemological Institute of American diamond grading report. Our latest pre-owned diamond ring is a real statement piece. The triple halo design really fills the finger, especially considering the current 5 1/2 finger size. The centre and focal point is a beautiful 2.16 carat cushion shaped diamond of strong VS2 clairty, H colour with very good polish, very good symmetry and no fluorescence. The full July 2007 GIA report can be seen online here. Set on each shoulder in their own diamond accented halo frame are a couple of perfectly matched emerald cut diamonds weighing 0.18 carat each of VS-EF quality. Set throughout the setting, gallery and shoulders are an additional 100 small round brilliant cut diamonds contributing 0.80 carat of sparkling VS-SI-EF bling. The pierced, filigree detailed stunner weighs a significant 13.5 grams manufactured in ultra white platinum. Accompanying the ring is a Greg Taylor insurance appraisal (February 2009) and the original laminated GIA report. Platinum while extremely durable  is not as hard as most white gold alloys. The ring displays some surface scratches and impact marks that are only visible on the shank bottom and edges. Platinum is far more white and longer lasting than even the toughest white gold alloys making the metal an ideal choice for a large, valuable diamond. Ready to wear for the rest of your life and resilient enough to last for generations this substantial ring is priced at $25,000.00 CAD. Stock #e12998.

SOLD

May 30, 2019

1.22ct. VS1-I transition cut, GIA report, platinum Art Deco (0.25ct. tw) 3.2gr. $9,975.00 CAD. e12665

The transition cut diamond is exactly what it sounds like, the transition between the old European cut diamond and the modern round brilliant you see today. You’ve probably heard of Marcel Tolkowsky, light physicist/mathematician and father of the modern round brilliant. His formula of facet angles and proportions was inspired by the trial and error work of Henry D. Morse. Morse opened and operated the first American diamond cutting facility. He was at the heart of innovation as the steam powered diamond cutting equipment spread across the world. Many transition cut diamonds are also known as early American cuts because of his work. His diamonds favored larger tables, lower crowns, and smaller culets. Our beautiful example weighs in at an impressive 1.22 carats of high VS1-I quality no fluorescence. The fresh October 2019 GIA certificate lists the polish as good and the symmetry as fair but what else can you expect from a completely hand cut diamond from the 1930s. As luck would have it this antique Art Deco ring came in just as our transition cut got back from GIA. It was originally set with a worn down amethyst of the same diameter as our diamond. So we took the hint! The ring itself is made of platinum which explains its almost new condition despite being over 90 years old. The rings beauty really needs no elaboration beyond the images. Its been hand set with 24 tiny accent diamonds that add 0.25 carats to the rings total weight. Included with purchase is an old appraisal of the diamond when it was in a different ring from 1985. Estate price for this unique piece of history $9,975.00 CAD. Stock #e12665.

SOLD

April 3, 2019

1.50ct. SI2-G emerald cut GIA certified 2.63ct. tw. 14kt. custom halo $12,000.00 CAD. e11828

Halo style engagement rings can be seen in pretty much every jewellery store. From high end luxury retailers like Tiffany to national chain stores in your local mall, you’re going to see the halo style in one form or another. What you’re not likely to see is one with a large emerald cut diamond at its centre and almost certainly not one that’s GIA certified. The fall 2014 GIA report can be seen online here. The beautiful emerald cut is a striking contrast in optical properties compared to the dispersion and brilliance from the halo of tiny round brilliant cut diamonds surrounding it. Emerald cut diamonds consist of parallel facets that throw large reflections of light and refract white light into a rainbow of colours. They are quite different from any of the various shaped brilliant cut options. This custom made creation contains 110 tiny round diamonds set throughout the halo, down the shoulders and even in the gallery struts underneath the setting. The only way to see these extra diamonds is by viewing the ring from the side or bottom. Custom made in the fall of 2015 the size 8 ring is in like new condition. The only evidence of wear is the original rhodium plating wearing thin on the shank bottom. A quick electroplating will bring back the pure white finish. Included with purchase is a copy of the original certificate of appraisal from Gem Reveiw Inc. Toronto. We’re very lucky at Bill Le Boeuf Jewellers; we get to see some very pretty pieces of jewellery come through our vast estate department. I must say this one is one of my favorites. It has great presence on the finger, lots of bling and a sophisticated old school charm  that only an amazing emerald cut can deliver. This one of  a kind custom ring is estate priced at $12,000.00 CAD. Stock #e11828.

SOLD

March 15, 2019

1.53ct. I1-D GIA certified (2.03ct. tw.) 14kt. marquise halo diamond ring 3.1gr. $9,450.00 CAD. e12699

Marquise diamonds are the unsung hero of value! First because they are not a hot shape right now so they carry no premium for popularity. In fact they’re 40% to 50% less expensive compared to a round brilliant cut diamond of equal quality and weight. Maybe you don’t want to buy a diamond that isn’t popular? Trends change and buying at a valley instead of a peak always makes the most economic sense. Consider the princess cut diamond, the hot shape a number of years ago. Today not many are asking for princess cuts and their value has dropped by almost 20% in the last 3-4 years. As the taste for unique engagement rings increases unusual shapes are picking up steam. Its only a matter of time before your Instagram feed becomes dominated by marquise and all manner of fancy shaped diamonds. The second thing working in marquise favor is that they use their weight for their footprint more than most other diamond shapes. Take this 1.53 carat marquise for example, a round brilliant cut of the same weight would measure around 7.4mm in diameter, this marquise measures 12mm long by 6mm wide making it appear far larger. Add to that length a brand new halo and you have a whopping 16mm long by 9.6mm wide! The freshly GIA certified (Sept. 2019) marquise is a perfect D colour with good polish and symmetry and no fluorescence. Its I1 clarity brings us to the third reason marquise rock! Their facet pattern is very busy and gets so splintery towards the ends that they disguise almost any inclusion they carry. That kaleidoscope makes this I1 clarity eye-clean, its scattering of small inclusions can only be found with magnification. We special ordered this 14 karat white gold engagement ring, set with 0.50 carat of additional SI-GH quality round brilliant cut diamonds. Along with the GIA certificate and a snazzy new mount the diamond is accompanied by an older EGL certificate and an IGS appraisal from 1998 that states an estimated replacement value of $18,210.00 CAD. We feel a more realistic replacement value including the new mount is $13,500.00 and our estate price is $9,450.00 CAD. Stock #e12699.

SOLD

January 10, 2019

Custom platinum Thailand ruby & diamond ring 7.4gr. GIA certified 3.26ct. tw. gem weight $10,360.00 CAD e12553

The 1960’s to the 1990’s was a period with a great deal of strife in Burma due to a military coup. This also made the countries valuable ruby deposits (arguably the most valuable in the world) inaccessible to the world markets – which turned out to be a boon for Thailand’s rubies! This period became the peak of Thai ruby popularity until the 1990’s when the sources were depleted almost to extinction. The mining that happens today is small scale and sporadic so most Thai rubies in circulation now came from this 40 year period. Our latest vintage ruby from that prolific period came to us set into a ring suitable to the era. We felt the 1.76 carat oval deserved a more fitting mount and a proper pedigree. So we sent it to GIA for a report of origin which you can see here. The report confirmed our Thai suspicions and also our expectations that the gem was heat treated. Heat treatment is a very common practice with most precious gems on the market. The purpose of heat treating ruby can be to remove dark purple undertones, partially heal natural fractures, or remove silk inclusions to improve clarity. The practice is hundreds of years old and is usually done on the rough crystals by the miners themselves with a primitive blowtorch in the hot coals of a camp fire. It is the expected treatment on sapphire and ruby though the most valuable gems available are untreated. Our example is eye clean in three directions showing a small grouping of pin head sized inclusions on the edge of the table facet when turned in one direction. The colour is an intense brooding red with just a hit of purple flash under the table. We shouldered it with two old European cut diamonds from another worn out estate ring that came in around the same time. The two diamonds weigh 1.25 carats of SI1-K colour and show the large rainbow flashes you only get with an antique cut. To give the trio a home deserving of them we built an antique inspired platinum ring fitting of the mid to late 1800’s, when the diamonds would have been mined and cut. The brand new custom platinum ring weighs a hefty 7.4 grams and measures a finger size 7 with plenty of room to adjust in size. Estate price $10,360.00 CAD. Stock #e12553.

SOLD

December 28, 2018

1.51ct. I2-G Canadian diamond GIA certified ring set 18kt. $9,310.00 CAD. e10054

On you’re finger this diamond ring set looks like a million bucks or at least about $20000.00 worth. Don’t be fooled by the GIA certified grade of I2, this diamond really sparkles. We received this Peoples Jewellers, 18 karat white gold ring set with a Gem Scan certified grade of I1 clarity with a F colour. We felt a diamond this attractive and valuable deserved a Gemological Institute of America report, so off to New York it went. I’d be lying if I said, I wasn’t a little disappointed when stone returned from GIA graded I2-G. That being said, this is the best I2-G I’ve ever seen. Even a close up picture looks great. Yes there is a visible inclusion just off centre, plus another less significant semi transparent feather at 3:00 but they really get lost in the brilliance and dispersion thrown off by the very good cut and generous 1.51 carat size. The full November 2016 GIA report can be seen at www.gia.edu. This diamond comes from the frozen north of Canada’s North West Territories and is accompanied by a NWT Government certification. A unique laser engraved serial number and Maple Leaf logo are your assurance of Canadian origin. The engagement ring is matched with 2 perfectly contoured weddings rings. Each wedding ring contains 20 additional channel set diamonds of SI-HI quality. The extra 0.40 carats of diamond weight adds even more bling to the significant 10.5 gram set. This isn’t the typically encountered I2 you’re going to run into at the local mall. It’s an impressive set we are proud to offer as part of our estate collection. The set is estate priced at $9300.00, representing great value. For someone interested in a significant diamond with lots of documentation, here’s your opportunity. If you would like to purchase the centre diamond only for another project, it’s available for $7,600.00 CAD. Stock #e10054.

SOLD

December 16, 2018

1.46ct. SI1-K transition cut GIA certified. 5.5 gr. 18kt. setting 0.30ct. VS-I $8,155.00 CAD. e11310

If you’ve never heard of a transition cut you’re not alone. Transition cut is a term that refers to diamonds from the 1920s into the 1940s. It is a time when the world was changing and technology was playing a bigger role in life including a more scientific understanding of how optical physics related to the brilliance of a diamond. These transition cuts look mostly like old European cut diamonds but have some characteristics of the  modern brilliant cut. They’re a bit of a hybrid and we love them. Smaller tables, taller crowns like antique diamonds but with longer lower girdle facets and thinner pavilion main facets approaching that of modern diamonds. They have a unique look with tons of dispersion and are perfect in original antique rings or settings inspired by antique design. This diamond just came back from The Gemological Institute of America with fresh certification of 1.46 carats, SI1 clarity and K colour. The full report can be seen online here. This is a pretty big looking diamond. Its average diameter of 7.43mm is much larger than most 1.50 carat modern diamonds. It came to us in an antique inspired modern manufactured 18 karat white gold filigree ring, bead set with 26 modern round brilliant cut diamonds. The small diamonds are of very good quality averaging VS-SI-HI. The 5.5 gram ring measures a finger size 8 1/4 but can be adjusted down a couple sizes if needed. Included with purchase is the May 11 2018 GIA report along with a September 2006 appraisal from Hyannis Massachusetts jeweller Diamond Perfections Inc. Their idea of replacement value is $14,000.00 USD. As with most outside appraisals submitted with jewellery we see, the value attached is a little optimistic in our opinion. To replace the ring and diamond at a more competitive retail price we feel an appraised value should be closer to $11,650.00 CAD ($9,100.00 USD). Our estate price for the ring and diamond is $8,155.00 CAD. The diamond is available without the ring for $7,000.00. Stock #e11310.

SOLD

December 3, 2018

1.52ct. VVS2-G HRD certified princess cut halo diamond ring (1.62ct. tw) 7.2gr. 18kt. $13,760.00 CAD. e12271

Antwerp has been the diamond center of the world since the early 1500s. Today about 84% of the world’s diamonds pass through the city’s diamond district. For 43 years HRD Antwerp has been one of the most respected diamond grading labs in Europe. The fact that this 1.52 carat princess cut is accompanied by one of their certificates certainly adds credibility to its pedigree. The diamond is listed as VVS2-G quality, non fluorescent, excellent polish, very good symmetry and we have to agree. It is a fantastic diamond set into an appropriately high quality ring. Custom made from solid 18 karat white gold the ring has been set with 0.50 carats of equally high quality round brilliant accents. The gallery has been decorated with two diamond set tulip frames, fitting for an engagement ring as tulips are a symbol of perfect love. The thoughtful ring comes with all of its original paperwork including an original invoice with the sale price of $10,340.00 USD (from that period in 2009 when our dollar was almost on par with the USD). One month later Gem Scan Laboratories Toronto issued a certificate of evaluation with an ambitious assigned replacement value of $27,700.00 CAD. We feel an appropriate current replacement value is $17,200.00 CAD (at current $1.30 CAD = $1.00 USD). Estate price for the over-pedigreed ring $13,760.00 CAD. Stock #e12271.

SOLD

November 29, 2018

0.91ct. SI1-E very good cut GIA certified 1.21ct. tw. 2.5gr. 14kt. $6,300.00 CAD. e12206

We’re not trying to be provocative but….. how is it possible to have such a wide range of replacement values for this diamond ring? Everyone is entitled to an opinion of what a reasonable price for a diamond ring is but this seems to be bordering on excessive. This beautiful round halo design engagement ring came with a July 2017 appraisal for $21,150.00 plus tax. Our opinion its replacement value is $9,000.00. Since the diamond is GIA certified, we know it’s been properly graded and the setting is of very high quality construction with nice accent diamonds. It’s just a matter of adding up the components to formulate a price. If you used the $21,150.00 appraisal with your insurance company, you’d be charged a hefty premium calculated on $21,150.00. Using our appraisal of $9,000.00, your insurance company would charge a premium roughly 57% less. If you made a claim on the ring, your insurance company would payout on the actual cost to replace the ring. I can guarantee it wouldn’t be anything close to $21,150.00. Insurance companies are only obligated to payout what it actually costs them to replace an item up to the limit it’s been insured for. If they can replace it for 1/2 of what it’s insured for that’s all you’re going to receive. After being in the business for over 6 decades we are 100% confident a brand new ring just like this is replaceable for $9,000.00. My latest rant aside this is one great looking ring with a knockout centre diamond certified by the Gemological institute of America. The very strong SI1 clarity is touching VS2 clarity and the exceptional E colour sparkles with amazing contrast from the dispersion biased 37 degree crown angle and tall 15.5% crown. The January 2015 GIA report can be seen online here. Keep in mind GIA do not EVER provide appraisals, they only supply accurate quality reports on diamonds and coloured gems. They don’t have a commercial interest in the commerce of diamonds or jewellery. This enables them to provide a truly impartial opinion of quality. There’s an old saying in the jewellery business more important today then ever; “you better know your jewellery or you better know your jeweller. As a like new condition previously enjoyed ring, it’s estate priced at only $6,300.00 CAD. That’s true honest value. Stock #e12206.

SOLD

October 27, 2018

1.40ct. VS2-G GIA certified. 2.71ct.tw. plat./18kt. 17.5gr. $16,800.00 CAD. e11848

If you’ve never heard of Kirk Kara, this platinum and 18 karat rose gold wedding set is all you need to be acquainted with them. Every item they produce is entirely hand made; a practice almost unheard of in today’s technology driven world where pieces are rendered in CAD programs and 3D wax printed. The delicate filigree and interior lattice work is hand formed, showing petite imperfections in symmetry indicative of craftsmanship. Every surface, except for a sizing quarter left bare at each shank bottom, is covered in intricate hand engraving and millgrain. Techniques which speak to a family history dating back to 1890s Armenia. The fourth generation of the Karaguezian family business is now in partnership with select retailers across the United States. The company is operated by the founder’s great granddaughters. Kirk Kara has won the JCK (Jewelers Circular Keystone) Jeweler’s Choice Award for 10 years in a row, one of the industries most coveted accolades. Being hand made the rings come with a heft that will surprise you, weighing in at over 17.5 grams together. After spending so much time on the stunning settings you wouldn’t skimp on the diamonds that adorn them. The wedding band is protectively channel set with 9 round brilliant cut diamonds weighing 0.54 carats together with a impressive VS2-SI1-G quality and very good cut. The engagement ring is accented with 6 channel set and four prong set round brilliant cuts weighing 0.72 carats together, again at VS2-SI1-G quality and very good cut. The center diamond has a story of its own with a GIA pedigree from 2012. The 1.40 carat round brilliant is an eye-clean VS2 clarity, G colour to match its accents, very good cut, excellent polish, excellent symmetry and no fluorescence. The set is accompanied by original GIA Diamond Grading Report and Barmakian Jewelers’ Appraisal stating a replacement value of $32,000 USD for the set. We feel a more competitive replacement value for the set is $21,000.00 CAD. Our estate price for the set only is $16,800.00 CAD. Stock #e11848.

SOLD

July 18, 2018

7.74ct. tw. Rubellite & Diamond platinum ring $11,550.00 CAD. e11029

I’m so happy the direction Bill Le Boeuf Jewellers took many decades ago to always showcase spectacular examples of both new and estate jewellery. We are fortunate to have built our reputation for stocking some amazing one of a kind items in addition to our regular production and custom offerings. This hand made platinum ring is our most recent showcase estate item. It’s more than likely you’ve never seen or even heard of rubellite (aka red tourmaline). This gem is relatively common in drab overly saturated black to very dark green hues normally associated with the mineral. As with every coloured precious gem, it’s the bright intense colours that are the most valuable and sought after. Although it can be found in virtually every colour of the spectrum, the pink and red varieties seem to garner the most reaction from people. Our 5.74 carat slightly purplish pink example is the largest one that I ever remember turning up here. The octagon step cut stone measures 12.9mm x 9.0mm and is extremely bright and lively. The emerald cut design really shows off this amazing stone with large flashes of intense fuchsia. Few gems equal the chromatic impact of a fine quality rubellite tourmaline. These simple pictures taken with my point and shoot camera under regular office fluorescent lights do not do this ring justice. The colour is much more intense in person. If the exotic Brazilian centre gem isn’t enough how about the 2 large custom cut half moon shape diamonds flanking it. Each diamond is estimated to weigh a full 1.00 carat. The diamonds measure a perfectly matching 9.1mm in length and are both of I1-H quality. The expertly crafted ring was manufactured from over 10 grams of premium quality ultra white platinum. In like new condition the double gallery 3 stone design measures a finger size 6. It can be custom fit larger or smaller as required. We are accustomed to seeing some fairly large diamonds at Bill Le Boeuf Jewellers but big colour always brings out the oohs and aahs from everyone on staff. It’s fireworks for your finger; the centre provides the colour and the diamonds are the sparkle. This is one ring that would be very difficult to reproduce at any price. One and only for the estate price of $11,550.00 CAD. Stock #e11029.

SOLD

July 3, 2018

GIA certified 1.00ct. VVS2-F heart shaped diamond solitaire $6,003.00 CAD. e10794

Be the romantic hero this year and think outside the chocolate box. For a unique look completely different than the ubiquitous white gold halo style engagement ring, be brave and go for this heart shaped solitaire. Of all the fancy shape diamonds available hearts are the least likely encountered. There is a good reason for their rarity; the giant cleft that cuts way into the stone. That defining detail means a lot of diamond weight is lost during cutting. Any shape that limits the potential yield of a given rough diamond crystal is not usually selected. This diamond recently returned from The Gemological Institute of America in New York with a full grading report. The October report can be seen online here. The certificate determined the clarity to be an outstanding VVS2 with an equally impressive F colour and exhibiting no fluorescence. This heart shape looks much larger than a square or round brilliant 1.00 carat due to its large measurement of 6.65mm x 7.45mm. This large footprint is a partially a function of the shallow 43.8% total depth. On paper this depth percentage is a concern, in reality it’s nothing to worry about. A very large culet on the pavilion plays a big roll in the depth. Please excuse some of this technical analysis but this is what sets us apart from most stores. We love diamonds and we have the knowledge to speak accurately about them; we have a full time GIA Graduate Gemologist on staff plus 2 GIA certified diamond graders. If you’d like accurate technical information and would like to learn how diamonds are evaluated we are your store. What you really need to know about this diamond is that it looks great and has ample sparkle. This unusual diamond has been set in a very flattering double gallery 14 karat yellow and white gold solitaire setting weighing 2.9 grams. The minimalist ring is a classic exercise in less is more. Our onsite goldsmiths can adjust the size 6 1/2 ring up or down in just a day or two if needed. Like new condition showing no wear the ring is estate priced at $6,003.00 CAD. Stock #e10794.

SOLD

July 1, 2018

1.09ct. VS1-J excellent cut GIA certified custom made diamond solitaire. 3.5gr. 14kt. $6,900.00 CAD. e12216

Nothing remarkable here just a beautiful custom made diamond ring at a great price. Nicely over the benchmark 1 carat size, excellent VS1 clarity due to a small group in pinpoint inclusions located just outside the table border, solid J colour, excellent cut, very good symmetry, very good polish and no fluorescence and of course it’s GIA certified. The Gemological Institute of America is the only certificate to consider if you’re looking for an impartial opinion of diamond quality without bias and free from conflict of interest. GIA never issue appraisals, they are simply the most respected authority on diamond and gemstone quality evaluation. Always ask to see the GIA certificate on any significant diamond purchase you may be considering. The complete May 15 2019 GIA certificate can be seen online here. We currently have this diamond set in a brand new custom made 14 karat white gold open gallery four prong solitaire. The simple and flattering ring weighs 3.5 grams in a finger size 6. If you are a different finger size one of our onsite goldsmiths can modify the size in just a day or two. If you have an alternative style of ring or other piece of jewellery in mind we’re happy to provide just the diamond for $6,500.00 CAD. Stock #e12216.

SOLD

June 30, 2018

1.75ct. VVS2-L European cut Birks platinum solitaire 4.4gr. $11,403.00 CAD. e12217

There are not too many of these to be found. European cut diamonds haven’t been produced since the early 20th century. A few specialty 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 around 100 years ago few people could afford any diamond, never mind a 1.75 carat. A Gemological Institute of America report (May 2019) comes included with purchase. GIA paperwork is your assurance of accurate non biased 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’re considering doesn’t, 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’re looking at has a price attached, it is NOT a GIA endorsement of appropriate value. Our latest estate diamond grades an excellent VVS2 clarity with a slightly warmer L colour. Most diamonds from this era were mined in South Africa and as such usually exhibit a certain degree of colour. 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 cut 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. A tiny 51% table with a tall crown produce much more dispersion than even an ideal cut modern round brilliant. Currently set in a vintage Birks platinum four prong double gallery setting weighing over 4 grams. The size 8 ring can easily be made smaller to suit almost any finger. 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 $11,000.00 CAD. Stock #e12217.

SOLD

June 27, 2018

Natural fancy deep brown/yellow GIA cert. diamond 1.22ct. VVS2 $11,277.00. e8648

Absolutely spectacular. I just love this business because you just never know what might show up in our estate department. A while ago this diamond ring came in as an unworn, unused engagement ring. A gift for an engagement that never was. It was purchased in Europe several years ago and has sat in it’s box ever since. Important diamonds like this deserve recognized certification, so we removed the diamond from the setting and off to the Gemological Institute of America in New York it went. GIA confirmed our thoughts of natural colour describing the hue as fancy deep brown-yellow with a VVS2 clarity. The full GIA report can be seen here. The size 6.5 18 karat white and yellow gold setting weighs 6.8 grams and contains an additional 169 tiny brilliant cut diamonds of I1-HI quality totaling approximately 1.00 carat. There is a tremendous amount of labor setting all these little diamonds around the large centre diamond, on the shoulders and even under the halo cluster. “One of a kind” is a term often heard describing fairly average things. Checking our 270000 stone data base reveals not one other diamond that would favorably compare in terms of approximate size and colour. Please don’t ask us for a matching pair for earrings. Brand new, never used and truly unique. This champagne diamond would make the ultimate gift as an engagement ring or dinner ring. Estate priced at $11,277.00. Stock #e8648.

SOLD

June 10, 2018

1.00ct. VVS2-H GIA certified princess cut platinum solitaire $6,150.00 CAD. e11853

A consideration for anyone thinking of princess cut diamonds is their tiny and vulnerable corners; actually that’s a characteristic of any diamond that has a sharp point. Which is why you rarely see them set with their points or corners exposed. This particular engagement ring takes protective corner prongs a step further by making them tall and over-sized for longevity and added protection from impacts. If you describe yourself as “hard on things” this is exactly the ring for you. Not only does the setting envelop the diamond it also sits as low as possible at only 6.5mm off of the finger. The rest of the ring is equally durable being made from a sturdy 4.7 grams of platinum. Platinum is always a great choice for fine quality jewellery and especially so for diamonds with sharp corners. If a platinum claw receives a significant impact the material around the diamonds corner will actually slightly conform around the diamond because of its superior malleability. The choice of platinum for this ring is not surprising when you consider the diamond it’s made to protect. With GIA pedigree the tidy 1.00 carat princess cut is of head turning VVS2-H quality, excellent polish, very good symmetry, and no fluorescence. What more could anyone want? Currently the ring measures a stock size 6 with room to adjust up or down. It’s accompanied by its original GIA paperwork. This ring was originally sold by Bill Le Boeuf Jewellers and was only worn for a few months. Like new and estate priced at $6,150.00 CAD. Stock #e11853.

SOLD

May 25, 2018

1.91ct. I1-J clarity enhance diamond. BIRKS platinum setting 4.0gr. $6,300.00 CAD. e11358

Are you scratching your head about how this nearly 2.00 carat diamond, including the platinum Birks ring, costs less than most loose 1.00 carat diamonds? The secret to the savings is something called clarity enhancement, a favorite weapon of many Stateside jewelers. The less finicky American market is more focused on big diamonds with small price points and spend less time worrying about the other three C’s. To fill this need, I2 and I3 clarity diamonds can sometimes be treated to conceal surface reaching inclusions. Clarity enhancement is the process of filling surface breaking feathers  with highly refractive molten glass. The glass closely mimics the optical properties of diamond and makes an obvious white feather appear clear, usually invisible to the naked eye. This enhancement can be permanent if taken care of properly and disclosed to jewelers before any repair work is done. Laser drilling on the other hand is completely permanent and requires no additional care or attention. When a diamond contains a black or coloured inclusion a laser can be used to drill a tiny path to the imperfection. Acid is then forced into the hole to dissolve away the blemish, leaving a colourless void that is much less noticeable. A clarity enhanced diamond is priced based on its assumed pretreated clarity grade; meaning even though it looks one to two grades higher, you’re paying for what it really is. A pretty good deal as long as the person selling it to you fully explains the enhancement process. Unfortunately that was not the case with this 1.91 carat round brilliant cut diamond. If you have a look at the AGI (NOT GIA) Diamond Report that accompanies the diamond you’ll see that the only mention made is a petite asterisk next to the SI2 clarity grade. That asterix relates to a brief comment of Clarity Enhanced, misleadingly placed right after Natural Diamond. Not only does the document downplay the monumental change this diamond has gone through it completely mislabels the I1 clarity at SI2 and the J colour at G. Not to say the diamond isn’t beautiful and lively, it faces up very well for an I1-J, but the grading is clearly not accurate. There is also a minor chip on the culet that is not disclosed. We’ll give them the benefit of the doubt and assume the chip happened after the document was made. This document was clearing produced to help sell the diamond and not to protect the best interests of a potential consumer. In keeping with the throw-away nature of this poorly executed report, AGI crowns the diamond with an estimated retail replacement value of $14,700.00 USD. A quick look through our international diamond database for clarity enhanced SI2-G or better diamonds of 1.90 carat or higher reveals a prices range of around $8,000.00 CAD. Let this diamond be a reminder that without exception, if a deal seems too good to be true it absolutely is. The 4 gram platinum estate Birks solitaire mount is in good condition and currently measures a finger size 8 with plenty of room to adjust. It does a great job of displaying the sparkling diamond that measures nicely over 8mm diameter. The estate price for this impressive ring (with the complimentary report that will work perfect for a birdcage liner) $6,300.00 CAD. Stock #e11358.

SOLD

April 5, 2018

1.11ct. old mine cut VS1-K (1.51ct. tw.) 8.0 grams platinum $6300.00 CAD. e11249

With such solid construction, this 8 gram platinum mount sets a high standard for what it showcases. The 1.11 carat VS1-K diamond that crowns the ring certainly lives up to it. Being an old mine cut means this diamond could be well over 200 years of age. Old mine cut diamonds were the first real attempt at what later evolved into the modern round brilliant cut diamonds we see today. They were manufactured between the early 1700s to the late 1800s. You can’t help but imagine the lives this antique diamond has lived and the changes it’s seen. Our hope is that this new mount will perhaps bring the antique diamond at least another century of enjoyment before it may get set into another style ring. The heirloom is solidly shouldered by an additional 0.40 carats of bright SI-H modern round brilliant cut diamonds. Together they lift the total weight to 1.51 carats of mixed century sparkle. The Canadian made ring currently measures a stock size 7 with some room to adjust up or down in size. Estate price $6300.00 CAD. Stock #e11249.

SOLD

March 30, 2018

1.84ct. SI2-E GIA certified 18kt. 2.02ct. tw. 3.1gr. 18kt. $13,800.00 CAD. e11608

Beside the basic diamond solitaire this design is considered one of the all time classics when it comes to the less in more engagement ring. Thin tapered baguette cut diamond details on the shoulders really don’t add a ton of sparkle and bling but they certainly help focus the attention toward the centre. That centre is something rather special. An E colour diamond pushing 2.00 carats is very impressive; we don’t run into these every day. The GIA certified diamond comes with a September 2013 grading report. Gemological Institute of America (GIA) reports are the industry standard for accurate, ethical, unbiased evaluation of diamond and gemstone quality. GIA never supply appraisals, they only supply a certificate of quality. The certificate details a clarity of SI2 based upon some small crystals and feather type inclusion within the stone. The report goes on to describe the polish as excellent, the symmetry as very good and faint fluorescence. A copy of the certificate can be seen online here. The minimalist ring measures a rather small finger size 4 making the large centre diamond appear even bigger. Our onsite goldsmiths can make the ring a little larger if required. The two shoulder tapered baguette cut diamonds weigh an estimated 0.09 carats each and are of VS-GH quality. The original GIA report along with a Bill Le Boeuf Jewellers insurance appraisal from December 2013 are included for the estate price of $13,800.00 CAD. Stock #e11608.

SOLD

March 25, 2018

1.64ct. tw. VS2-G diamond ring set 6.7gr. 18kt. $6,090.00 CAD. e11543

If you follow diamond trends you’ll know that ovals and pears are overtaking princess cuts and rounds as the must have shapes. Whether you’re a slave to fashion or just appreciate the old Hollywood glamour of these fancy cuts you’ll love this unique wedding set. Though neither pears or ovals have a cut grade standard there are certain outlines that are more pleasing. With ovals its easy to tell when the stone is well proportioned but pears are more free to personal tastes. This 0.97 carat pear has a well rounded head tapering gracefully to its elongated point, in short it is one of the pear forms we are partial to. The 2018 GIA certificate for the diamond can be seen here. It states the diamond is a VS2 clarity (showing eye clean) a G colour (just the slightest tint of warmth visible) good polish and symmetry showing no fluorescence. Both the shoulders of the engagement ring and the matching wedding band are bar set with alternating baguette and round brilliant cut diamonds. All are VS-GH quality and together they top the total carat weight of the set up to 1.64 carats. The 6.7 gram set is custom made from premium 18 karat white gold and measure a finger size 7 1/2 with some room to adjust. Estate price $6,090.00 CAD. Stock #e11543.

SOLD

March 10, 2018

5.01ct. SI2-K excellent cut GIA certified 14kt. gold solitaire $59,800.00 CAD. e10670

This just could be the perfect diamond for someone like you. Sure everyone would love a GIA certified diamond with all the boxes checked off; flawless clarity, D colour, excellent cut, excellent symmetry, excellent polish and no fluorescence. The problem is exceptional quality comes at a huge price. For example; a GIA certified 1.00 carat round diamond of absolute perfection will cost you well over $20,000.00 CAD at current exchange rates. If you want a perfect diamond the same size as this estate 5.01 carat expect to pay around $750,000.00 CAD. That’s right 3/4 of a million dollars (assuming you can find one). It’s not just the 4Cs of clarity, colour, cut and carat weight to consider when buying a diamond; there’s a 5th C. The “cost” is the 5th C that everyone needs to contemplate. Whether it’s a thousand dollars or one million dollars everyone wants to get the most bang for the buck plus outstanding value. That’s why I like this diamond so much, it offers a great big look and amazing value. It’s got the size at over 5 carats with an average diameter of 11.07mm, excellent cut, excellent symmetry, excellent polish and no fluorescence. The clarity of SI2 is 7 grades from flawless but it looks perfect without magnification to anyone except under extreme scrutiny and only from those with exceptional close up vision. The small white crystal inclusions disappear under any typical viewing situation. This high resolution, high magnification image reveals the insignificant natural inclusions that have been a part of this diamond since it formed billions of years ago. As a Gemological Institute of America trained Gemologist with over 25 years experience I can say with confidence this is a really nice SI2 (closer to a SI1 than an I1). The colour grade of K is ever so slightly warm but it faces up amazing with the sort of sparkle and dispersion you’d demand from a 5 carat diamond. The K colour is very strong when compared to other GIA certified Ks we have in stock. It must have missed a J colour designation by the slimmest of margins. This diamond was recently certified (July 2017) by GIA. The full report can be seen online here. While $60,000.00 CAD isn’t a small sum of money, if you’ve ever considered a significant diamond, this one is likely the best value currently on the market. Finding large diamonds with particularly desirable quality characteristics are few and far between. Few jewellers have this size of diamond in stock. We are your diamond destination at Bill Le Boeuf Jewellers. We have the inventory and we’re confident of the fantastic value. We always display upfront pricing in Canadian dollars along with the information necessary for our clients to comparison shop. Even if owning something like this isn’t in the cards right now, please come in and have a look. Or if you love diamonds the way we love diamonds and just want to see what a nice 5 carat looks like, come on in and check it out. This one is estate priced at $59,800.00 CAD. The diamond is currently set in a brand new, 3.7 gram, American made 14 karat white gold solitaire setting included for no additional charge. Stock #e10670.

SOLD

February 13, 2018

Pretty in pink. 1.40ct. SI2-L transition brilliant cut halo $6020.00 CAD. e11604

If you’re secretly in love with 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 90% were made form white gold or platinum with the odd one done in traditional yellow gold. This 14 karat rose gold creation is one of just a handful we’ve done in soft tone rose gold. The American made 4.9 gram setting has a tight 11.3mm diameter halo assembled with 16 high quality SI-H round brilliant cut diamonds contributing 0.27 carats of framing sparkle (1.67ct. total diamond weight). Secured nice and low in the brand new, never worn ring is a 90 year old 1.40 carat round transition brilliant cut estate diamond of SI2 clarity and L colour with strong blue fluorescence. The cool glowing blue party trick only occurs when exposed to a long wave ultraviolet light source in a dark environment. This phenomenon happens only in some natural diamonds (synthetic and created diamonds can never show fluorescence). An explanation of fluorescence can be found on The Gemological Institute of America website. The eerie blue glow actually makes a slightly warmer tone diamond like this L colour appear a little more white as blue is the complimentary colour of yellow. 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. Estate diamond with a new ring, 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 more efficiently than anyone else. 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 $6020.00 CAD. Stock #e11604.

SOLD

February 10, 2018

1.80ct. tw. SIMON G engagement/wedding set MR1546 $7,000.00 CAD. e11152

Simon G has been our top of the line bridal brand since we introduced it to Barrie almost a decade ago. Since then 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 the 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  use only premium quality 18 karat gold and platinum for their jewellery. Every one of their small diamonds are of minimum VS-GH quality. Our latest estate offering is the popular MR1546 from the Vintage Explorer collection. It is proudly showcasing a 1.17 carat round brilliant cut diamond of I1-H 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 shy to show you a photomicrograph of a 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 dark field and without artificial magnification this diamond sparkles like a disco ball. It weighs nicely over a carat at 1.17ct. and has a large diameter of 6.9mm. It would be pretty hard to get a nicer looking, better value diamond of this size for less than the $4,400.00 we’ve factored into the total estate price of $7,000.00 for both rings. The very good H colour was determined by comparison with our onsite set of Gemological Institute of America master diamonds. As an added bonus the large centre diamond exhibits no fluorescence when exposed to long wave ultraviolet light. The set weighs 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 any shape of diamond you may have or want. To buy a new set in this configuration the price would be $4316.00 (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? Bring it in, we take trade ins everyday. Or, let us remodel your existing diamond into a cute pendant or other piece of jewellery and rock this new engagement set for the estate price of just $7,000.00 CAD. Stock #e11152.

SOLD

January 20, 2018

2.08ct. tw. VS-SI-HI princess cut halo 6.4gr. 18kt. $6000.00 CAD. e11516

Halos are almost considered a traditional design now. The style doesn’t appear to be going anywhere despite being one of our most popular for close to a decade. The round brilliant cut in a cushion shaped halo frame has always been the best seller. Every  once in a while we do an oval, radiant, square diamond or even heart shapes have been done. Our latest estate ring showcases a beautiful princess cut diamond that measures an almost perfectly square 5.6mm x 5.5mm and is estimated to weigh exactly 1.00 carat. Our policy of cautious and strict grading standards will limit our clarity grade to SI2, we feel most would grade it a SI1. 2 small white feathers that set the grade are invisible without artificial magnification. The colour grade is also conservatively graded as an I. A generous crown height and smaller table help in a big way to our opinion of a very good overall cut grade. Two things I love about this particular ring are the 16 small single cut diamonds that form the frame and the channel set princess cut diamonds running down each shoulder. Single cut diamonds are seldom encountered in modern high quality jewellery. Most manufactures use the more complicated brilliant cut diamonds. In small sizes a 57 facet brilliant cut looks way too busy; a simple 17 facet single cut sparkles much more as long as it has excellent proportions. Rolex still use single diamonds on their watch dials. I’ve never heard anyone complain about how the single cuts sparkle on a Rolex. Channel set princess cut shoulder diamonds perfectly match the center stone. The shoulder diamonds are perfectly matched VS-HI quality. They form an uninterrupted line of sparkle covering more than the half way point of the shank. Maybe I like this ring so much because it came from Bill Le Boeuf Jewellers originally. It was a custom design that we did several years ago. Made from 6 grams of premium quality 18 karat white gold. The size 6 1/4 ring is in like new condition showing no wear of any measurable amount. Including a complimentary sizing this ring is estate priced at only $6000.00 CAD. Stock #e11516.

SOLD

December 28, 2017

1800s antique platinum/18kt. diamond & sapphire ring $5600.00 CAD. e5217

I am posting this for a lady that came in today and really liked this ring. It’s from the mid 1800s and has been completely rebuilt. It is made from platinum and 18 karat yellow gold. The centre European cut diamond weighs approximately 1.04 carat of I1-I quality with two matching European cut diamonds on shoulders 0.29 carat each of nice SI2-I quality. The 2 cushion shaped corn flower blue sapphires each weigh approximately 0.84 carats and display a beautiful cornflower blue colour. Every claw tip has been replaced with new cast platinum to make sure the five original stones stay together for the next 150 years. I’m sure this ring was someone’s pride and joy for many decades and likely many generations of owners have enjoyed wearing it. As such the stones are showing the expected amount of patina associated with many years of use. Several small chips, scuffs and impact marks can be seen when examined under close scrutiny with magnification. It’s very tough to mimic wear and tear making this size 7.5 ring absolutely genuine and authentic.  This irreplaceable ring is estate priced at $5600.00. Stock #e5217.

SOLD

December 1, 2017

2.01ct. SI2-I GIA certified (2.50ct. tw.) 14kt. never worn custom made $15050.00 CAD. e11559

Sometimes things don’t turn out exactly the way you expected. Estate jewellery can be hundreds of years old or occasionally it’s hardly worn at all. Every once in a while we showcase something that has never even been worn. Bill Le Boeuf Jewellers custom made this ring in the summer of 2018 but it never ended up being presented to the intended recipient; remember how things don’t always turn out as expected. We sourced this diamond through our extensive international diamond search database to the original customer’s exacting standards. The centre diamond is secured in a tall four prong setting designed to showcase the stone in a tall pedestal with easy cleaning access. The specific 2.01 carat diamond was selected due to the fact it looks almost perfect without using artificial magnification. An SI2 clarity grade was assigned to the diamond by the Gemological Institute of America mostly due to twinning wisp type inclusions. Twinning wisps are usually a preferred type of inclusion because they are often semi transparent practically disappearing without magnification. Many SI2 clarity diamonds have inclusions and blemishes that can often be seen with the naked eye. The other  quality characteristics established by the GIA are: “I” colour,  very good cut, very good polish, very good symmetry, and no fluorescence. The full October 2017 GIA diamond grading report can be seen online here. The custom made ring consists of three individual sections crafted from 4 grams of 14 karat white gold. The three sections have been expertly bead set with 46 small round brilliant cut diamonds of very nice SI-HI quality. The small diamonds contribute an additional 0.50 carat of twinkle. The ring measures a somewhat small finger size 4 1/2. We can adjust the finger size and separate the rings into a traditional engagement, wedding/anniversary ring. Start with the engagement ring and you don’t need to worry about finding a matching wedding ring. Keep the 3rd ring for a future anniversary gift down the road. Brand new, never worn, GIA certified, custom made by Bill Le Boeuf Jewellers and costing 1000s less then what it would to replace. The centre diamond is available alone for $14000.00. Estate priced as a set only for the estate price of just $15050.00 CAD. Stock #e11559.

SOLD

November 30, 2017

1.72ct. tw. Simon G MR2615 platinum & pink diamonds $7200.00 CAD. e11248.

For anyone who has watched the History Channel’s Forged In Fire series on blade making you’ll understand to make a sword blade you need the high temperatures of a furnace and the beating pressure of hammer and anvil. Diamonds form under similar but even more intense conditions. Their furnace is miles below the earth’s continental plates where temperatures are a minimum of 1050 degrees Celsius. Instead of the beating pressure of steel on steel, carbon atoms are squeezed together under constant pressure from the earth’s surface. Approximately 362 tons per square inch, over 27 times the pressure a blacksmith’s hammer blow is capable of producing. These extraordinary conditions produce an almost endless variety of inclusion patterns and colour hues. Occasionally these characteristics that can alter the appearance of a diamond result in something truly unique. After nearly 60 years in business diamonds still have the capacity to surprise us with something new. This 1.50 carat old European cut diamond is like nothing we have seen before and will probably never see again. In its 3 billion year lifetime this diamond managed to lock fire inside its depths. The surface breaking feather inclusion that defines the I2 clarity grade has been embedded with what we believe to be iron oxide. As the diamond rotates on the hand it flashes a bright fiery pinkish orange so intense you’d think your eyes are playing tricks. Then just as quickly it disappears, lost in the over sized white and rainbow flashes typical of these antique cuts. Viewed head on there’s only a rosy blush visible in the near colourless G grade diamond. Making this once in a lifetime fire inclusion a secret only the wearer will know how to find. The diamond itself is estate priced for $4800.00 CAD. To bring out that blush tone we’ve partnered it with a brand new platinum and 18 karat rose gold Simon G setting (model number MR2615). The new mount is accented with 2 natural 0.015 carat pink diamonds bezel set in rose gold bezels. Those rosy shoulders perfectly match the head on colour of the diamond. The rest of the mount is decorated with 0.19 carats of premium round brilliant cut white diamonds. Accompanied by a Simon G certificate of authenticity. Take it all together for $7200.00 CAD or let us make you a one of a kind ring as unique as the diamond it carries. Stock #e11248.

SOLD

November 28, 2017

1.05ct. VVS2-E GIA certified 14kt./platinum 4.9gr. $8000.00 CAD. e10275

Every once in a while we showcase a diamond or diamond ring that was bought online. The typical online diamond retailing business model consists of displaying mount options on a website along with loose diamond options. Once a purchase is made a ring is ordered in your finger size from an outside vendor, and the diamond comes in from another supplier. This model reduces overhead as there is no need to carry any inventory what-so-ever. It’s an even more efficient model compared those stores who only carry base metal ring samples, ordering the actual precious metal ring and diamond from an outside source after the sale is made. The advantage the online business model is not having to pay for all the costs involved with store fronts. It also reduces their employee base, eliminating the need for sales staff. Online shopping has become the bane to chain stores, who with their large operating costs cannot cut prices enough to compete. The only brick and mortar stores able to effectively compete are those multi-generational family run stores like ours. Being so many years under the same ownership, most in our position own their buildings eliminating the high cost of rent and associated landlord commission fees, like those collected by the mall owners. Renting an average size 2000 square foot store in a good metropolitan mall can cost half a million dollars per year; who do you think ultimately pays for that rent? Our unique expertise and experience buying estate jewellery and watches for close to 60 years enables us to purchase inventory better than most. This means our inventory can also be priced even more competitively for you. Best of all it’s all right here for you to inspect in person if you’re lucky enough to live close by. Longevity and experience also means that we have a large stock of our own loose diamonds. Our deep, world wide connections within the industry guarantee you’ll find us more than capable of competing with any and all online operations; making a small store like Bill Le Boeuf Jewellers the bane of many, much larger operations. Ranting aside, some of those online sellers actually share our respect for diamond grading standards established by the Gemological Institute of America; selling only diamonds that have been strictly graded and certified. The emerald cut GIA certified diamond chosen for this engagement ring is absolutely stunning. It weighs 1.05 carats, with an almost flawless VVS2 clarity and exceptional E colour. The full report can be seen online here. Being such a high quality diamond it is well suited to a simple cathedral setting. This brand new American made shank is constructed from traditional 14 karat yellow gold topped with a 4 prong double gallery setting of premium quality platinum. The less is more engagement is accompanied original paperwork when it was purchased in a different style setting. The complete ring is estate priced at $8000.00 Stock #e10275.

SOLD

November 22, 2017

1.34ct. SI2-J very good cut GIA certified 14kt. lucida setting 3.9gr. $6738.00 CAD. e11311

Know your diamonds or know your jeweller. Is the diamond you’re looking at GIA certified? Truth is, unless your diamond has been truly independently certified you are dealing with a biased opinion. The Gemological Institute of America do not work for anyone, there are no wholesale discounts available to the trade, they DO NOT appraise diamonds, the diamond graders from GIA do not know who submitted the gems they are working on and most of all GIA do not have any commercial interest in the commerce of diamonds. This makes it possible for them to impartially analyze and certify diamonds without outside influence. Many diamond appraisal/reports are simply wrong, with appraised prices not reflective of the actual market and grades that are inaccurate. We are living in a time of incredible retail competitiveness as long as you are comparing apples to apples. Make sure the diamond you are considering is GIA certified or the jeweller offers a full refund if falls short when judged beside a properly documented diamond. Bill Le Boeuf Jewellers guarantee the best value in diamonds, period! Our latest estate diamond was just graded at GIA May 11 2018 and came back with a grade representing amazing bang for the buck. The full report can be seen online here. It’s a 1.34 carat round brilliant cut with SI2 clairty, J colour, very good cut, excellent symmetry, excellent polish and no fluorescence. Have a look in your local mall, specialty jeweller, online, big box store or anywhere else you think would be a good place to buy a diamond. We’re very confident this one offers the best value. First come first serve, wholesale dealer inquiries are always welcome. Honestly, you won’t find a better looking diamond for this price. We have it currently set in a 3.9 gram 14 karat white gold lucida style setting. The diamond alone including the full GIA grading certificate is estate priced at $6500.00 CAD. Stock #e11311.

SOLD

November 18, 2017

BIRKS 1.09ct. VS2-H excellent cut GIA cert. 10.0gr. plat. $10,200.00 CAD. e11178

It’s a practice that even Canada’s premier luxury jeweller seems to like participating in. Buy a diamond ring and receive an appraisal for waaaaaay more than you actually paid. You normally don’t associate a high end, brand name retailer with big discounts. We can only assume the original purchaser paid around $16,000.00 for this ring as the original price tags and documents appear to show from March 28 2001. 7 days later Birks supplied an appraisal endorsing an estimated replacement value of $23,500.00 plus taxes. I guess an appraisal like this may make the client happy but also maybe a little bit confused. Why should there be a 46% difference in the original purchase price versus appraised value? Did diamonds and platinum appreciate $7400.00 in just one week? Did Birks give them a phenomenal deal? What gives? Please don’t ask for or expect an inflated appraisal on any brand new diamond ring purchased at Bill Le Boeuf Jewellers. We respect our clients far too much to play the promotional appraisal game. It’s hard to say how much value an important brand name like Birks adds to a ring and only they are in a position to answer that question. What I can tell you is that this is a beautiful Canadian diamond that has been certified by the Gemological Institute of America as a 1.09 carat VS2-H. A copy of the GIA report can be seen online here. You’ll notice no remark on cut was provided as GIA at the time didn’t comment on this characteristic. The Birks Canadian diamond certificate (included) outlines in great detail the cut geometry showing the diamond easily falls into the excellent cut range. Doing a search on our extensive diamond database shows comparable GIA certified diamonds (not necessarily Canadian) selling for around $9500.00 CAD based on our retail pricing formula. A typical 10 gram platinum setting like this could be expected to retail for about $2000.00. Without the “Birks” premium we’d assess the value of this ring with a competitive replacement value (Bill Le Boeuf Jewellers regular price) of $11,500.00. The original price tag of $16,100.00 makes sense given Birks’ position as a premium jeweller justifying their premium price. In our opinion the Birks supplied appraisal for $23,500.00 appears a little excessive.The platinum ring is in excellent condition, measuring a size 6 with a substantial finished weight of just over 10 grams! Included with purchase is a laminated copy of the GIA report, laminated Birks Diamond Certificate, Birks appraisal, Birks Diamond Guarantee receipt, original price tags and that famous little blue Birks box.  When we spoke with a very pleasant Birks sales associate asking the cost of a 1.00 carat VS2-H Canadian diamond in a platinum setting, they replied pricing from around $16,000.00. No need to call us for a price, we always show you our diamond prices; from our online database to the small sampling of our estate diamonds. We’re fiercely proud of our products and our 60 years in the making reputation for absolute value without confusing appraisals. We encourage you to compare our prices. Very few jewellers have our strategic pricing advantages and simply can’t supply the sort of value we can. This beautiful Birks Canadian diamond ring is estate priced at $10,200.00 CAD, and only at Bill Le Boeuf Jewellers. Stock #e11178.

SOLD

November 15, 2017

1.00ct. VS2-F princess cut diamond solitaire in platinum $7648.00 CAD. e9264

Princess cuts are still the most popular choice when it comes to a fancy shape diamond. Guys are attracted to straight edges and geometric shape, ladies love the fact that it’s a bit different than what their friends are wearing. Everyone of course loves the fact that they are at least 25% less expensive than round diamonds in the popular size/quality combinations. This discount over the same quality and size round brilliant cut diamond allows you the option to buy a better ring to hold the diamond. That’s exactly what the original purchaser did with this ring. Instead of just getting the typical 14 karat white gold ring they opted for platinum. This exotic and rare precious metal can easily cost 2 or 3 times what a gold ring does but the benefits are easily seen. Platinum is far whiter metal than white gold. It doesn’t require rhodium plating to look white, just a simple polishing if it gets scratched will have it looking like new. It’s also extremely tough; claws and settings made of platinum can easily last your entire lifetime without repairs. If you have metal sensitivity issues platinum is the clear choice as it is also hypoallergenic. Its added density while not necessarily a clear benefit just feels like a more luxurious choice. Despite only measuring a size 5 this little ring weighs over 7.2 grams. The diamond is this ring is a very high VS2 clarity with an excellent F colour with no fluorescence and well cut. Measuring 5.63mm x 5.56mm x 4.07mm makes it look a little bigger than most 1.00 carat examples. Included with purchase is a 2002 appraisal from Damiani Jewellers, Woodbridge Ontario that accurately describes the ring. Bill Le Boeuf Jewellers will provide a no charge size adjustment for the new owner if the current size 5 is too small. Estate priced at $7648.00. Stock #e9264.

SOLD

October 2, 2017

Simon G 18kt. 1.22ct. I1-H rose gold diamond ring MR2514 CAD. e11204

Simon G continues to be our top brand when it comes to innovative engagement rings styles and jewellery. Uncompromising standards of quality and construction along with a keen eye for balance and design are what the Southern California manufacturer does best. This 18 karat rose and white gold example was purchased only a couple years ago from Bill Le Boeuf Jewellers. It was recently traded in for something a little larger and now it’s one of the highlights of our estate collection. The centre princess cut diamond measures 5.91mm x 5.67mm and weighs 1.22 carats. A small table and generous crown height are factors giving this example more brilliance and dispersion compared to most other princess cut diamonds. The I1 clarity grade is a result of a couple crystal inclusions that can be seen in this photomicrograph taken in dark field lighting with lots of analogue magnification. The inclusions are easy to see with strong magnification but are difficult to impossible to resolve with just the naked eye. H colour is much better than average and faces up very white. 18 karat rose gold is a refreshing choice for the reef knot shank design. It provides a great contrast against the over/under loop of white gold showcasing and additional 48 bead set VS-GH brilliant cut diamonds gracing the shoulders. The small diamonds bump the total diamond weight to 1.38 carat. Simon G style MR2514 is a current offering and can be seen on the Simon G website where it carries a suggested retail price of $2158.00 CAD (without a centre stone). The size 6 ring  can be adjusted up or down one full size. Only a couple years old and in perfect condition. Stock #e11204.

SOLD to Aleksandra & Jay

October 1, 2017

1.00ct. VS2-I very good cut GIA certified 3.9gr. 14kt solitaire $6300.00 CAD. e11312

If you’re familiar with diamond solitaires you may have seen something like this before. It’s looks an awful lot like the Tiffany’s traditional 6 prong solitaire they’ve been selling for many years. The 1.00 carat is the benchmark for size and this example is made with a very nice centre diamond of the quality you’d expect to see at a store like Tiffany. The diamond just came back (May 11 2018) from The Gemological Institute of America in New York with a certified VS2 clarity, I colour, very good cut, excellent polish, excellent symmetry and exhibiting faint fluorescence when exposed to long wave ultraviolet light. The full GIA diamond grading report can be seen online here. Tiffany no longer sell GIA certified diamonds preferring to grade their diamonds in house. It is generally accepted that Tiffany use the occasional SI1-J quality diamond for their solitaires but mostly use VS2-I or better, with excellent cut, polish and symmetry. I can’t say for sure but I would assume they would prefer no to low fluorescence. Looking at the Tiffany website reveals their version of the ring (in 18 karat yellow gold) is selling for $16,300.00 CAD. $16,300.00 would be for their standard quality virtually identical to our estate diamond ring. It’s hard to put a value on that iconic little blue box. It’s impossible for us to say what type of value the Tiffany reputation and tradition adds to the cost of a diamond ring. What we do know is you can have the same look for a cool $10,000.00 less with our 14 karat white gold example that is estate priced at just $6,300.00 CAD. The diamond is available separately for $6000.00 if you have a different style of ring in mind. This ring also has a little blue box; our little blue box also comes with our well earned reputation and tradition. Stock #e11312.

SOLD

July 15, 2017

1.00ct. I1-I European cut custom diamond ring 1.31ct. tw. $5360.00 CAD. e11250

No doubt about it, I’m a little bias in my opinion, but compared to anyone else we do a better job of taking something old and turning it into something new. Our latest estate ring project retained the original spirit of the 100 year old diamond but made it appealing to a modern customer. The original European cut diamond had suffered some chips along the sharp girdle edge after over 100 years of service. Our master diamond cutter repaired the damage while at the same time making the edge a little thicker to help prevent future harm. The unique optical properties of the antique diamond were preserved resulting in a period correct look with plenty of dispersion courtesy of a tiny table and chunky bezel/pavilion main facets. Simply adding a couple of tapered baguettes would have been easy and produced a pretty ring but that wouldn’t be in keeping with the old centre stone. Instead we searched our extensive inventory of vintage estate diamonds looking for a matching pair of small emerald cut diamonds. We found 2 with the same colour, clarity and dimensions adding 0.31 carats of additional diamond weight. The centre diamond weighs exactly 1.00 carat and measures 6.52mm – 6.68mm x 3.72mm. Its clarity is a strong I1 with a white feather type inclusion that established the grade. When viewed in dark field lighting under our microscope the inclusion is quite easy to see. In regular overhead lighting the inclusion is far less easy to resolve. Once assembled in the finished ring the small feather virtually disappears completely. The ring is a Bill Le Boeuf Jewellers original. Nothing fancy but a style that was popular 100 years ago and still attracts and deserves attention today. The step cut shoulder diamonds are a good size but not too big as to distract from the centre ball of fire. The size 6 ring was hand crafted from 14 karat white gold and weighs a comfy 3.5 grams. Our onsite goldsmiths can custom fit it for you up or down as required in just a day or two. Brand new, one of a kind setting made with antique setting components equal the kind of value only Bill LeBoeuf Jewellers can provide. Thank you for making us Barrie’s jeweller for 60 years. This new/estate ring is priced at $5360.00 CAD. Stock #e11250.

SOLD

July 8, 2017

18kt. white gold custom sapphire & diamond ring $5201.00 CAD. e8871

I don’t mean to brag, but look what we can do! Perhaps one of our designer/goldsmiths finest creations to date. With some simple instructions to “create something pretty with antique inspiration”, this is what they came up with. WOW is all I can say. They nailed it. A little while ago an extremely high quality 0.67 carat estate sapphire came in along with a couple equally impressive 0.46 carat diamonds of SI-F quality. The stones were in desperate  need of a new home. One of Bill Le Boeuf Jewellers specialties is stuff like this. Take some high quality ingredients and come up with a new design that flatters the gems and stays true to the spirit of great design from the past. Elements like raised milgrain edges, pierced filigree galleries and amazing hand engraving. Geometric shape, clean lines and contrasting colour are all enduring features that never go out of style. Executed using over 8 grams of 18 karat white gold in a finger size 7. It could be a unique engagement ring, a dinner ring or perhaps it’s best suited as a right hand ring. If you look closely you’ll discover 18 tiny round brilliant cut diamonds of SI-G quality bead set around the scalloped edges, bringing the total diamond weight to well over 1.00 carat. You’d be surprised how efficiently we can put something like this together. You don’t have to pay a fortune for a one of a kind ring creation with this detail and level of craftsmanship (if you know where to shop). The money you can save using some of our estate diamonds and coloured stones will make the exercise far less costly than you might expect. We really don’t promote our custom work like we should. Maybe it’s time to start blowing our own horn to let everyone know this type of quality is still available. Made with pride and 60 years of tradition, and only available at Bill Le Boeuf Jewellers. Estate priced at $5201.00. Stock #e8871.

SOLD

July 1, 2017

2.12ct. ruby & diamond vintage BIRKS ring $8400.00 CAD. e9483

We haven’t showcased too much colour lately so I thought it was about time to do a really nice one. This vintage BIRKS ring is around 50 years old and is still as striking as ever. The very slightly purplish red ruby is estimated to weigh nicely over 2 carats with very good clarity and colour. Its brilliant and very well cut with a slight cushion shaped outline reinforcing the vintage look. 12 excellent quality VS-GH round brilliant cut diamonds circle the ruby adding approximately 0.40 carats of sparkle. The halo look so popular with modern designs in nothing new as versions of the style have been around for many decades as this example illustrates. Even the thin shank and delicate wire 14 karat white gold setting matches the current taste for white metals and lighter designs. The ruby is in excellent condition only displaying the odd abrasion on a few of the facet junctions on crown. Knowing it’s from BIRKS is very reassuring as their reputation for high standards of quality goes back well over 100 years in Canada. Good quality rubies over 2 carats are far more rare than a diamond of similar size and are not seen very often. This ring was almost certainly custom made around the ruby as trying to obtain multiple rubies of the same size and shape would be an almost impossible task. The finished ring weighs 3.7 grams in a finger size 5. Try as I may I just couldn’t capture the true colour of this ruby. If you are able to come in and have a look at it you’ll see a stone that is more red and less purple than these photographs show. Estate priced at $8400.00 CAD. Stock #e9483.

SOLD

May 16, 2017

5.50ct. Aquamarine ring with 2.00 carats of diamonds $5250.00 CAD. e8535

For index finger use only. This is a big ring that makes quite a statement and will be the life of the party. There are 242 high quality VS-GH round brilliant cut diamonds pave set on every square millimeter of the top 2/3 of the ring. It’s impossible to exactly quote the diamond weight but we estimate it at over 2.00 carats. A beautiful square step cut slightly greenish blue natural aquamarine measuring 10.4mm x 10.9mm weighing approximately 5.50 carats is the centrepiece of the creation. Most aquamarine specimens are very pale sometimes hardly even looking blue. This is an excellent example that would cost close to $3500.00 alone. Many hours of diamond setting and labour went into the manufacture of this masterpiece. At 12.2 grams you’ll definitely know your wearing something special. The size 10 is not going to fit everyone, it’s possible to bring the size down to maybe an 8 or so, but that’s it. If you’ve got a small finger this one will not work for you. The ring is in very good condition as it is only a few years old. The aquamarine is showing a few very fine shallow scratches that are only visible under magnification. Estate priced at $5250.00 CAD. Stock #e8535.

SOLD

May 7, 2017

1.51ct. I2- G good cut GIA certified (1.92ct. tw.) $7220.00 CAD. e10884

Promotion is a powerful tool. The jewellery trade is not immune to this type of marketing. There are some very elaborate sales campaigns out there with very slick TV and radio ads promoting major national chains, department stores and even small single location jewellers. They all claim to be the best place to buy your next piece of jewellery. Various tactics are employed to sway your perception of who offers the best price. Large discounts are usually at the centre of these advertisements along with optimistic “independent” appraisals that are used as a barometer of value. These promotions rely on the fact that most people will simply buy from the vendor offering the largest perceived discounts. At Bill Le Boeuf Jewellers we respect our clients far too much to employ fictitious discounts and inaccurate appraisals. You’ll never see our diamonds on sale with big discounts, and we’ll never use inflated appraisals to promote our consistent excellent value pricing policies. When you take a little bit of time to investigate, you’ll see our regular prices are better than others sale prices. If you want an appraisal on our new diamonds it will reflect the actual price you paid. Our latest estate diamond comes with two different appraisals plus the original bill of sale. Each of these documents were issued within 4 months of one another. The values (including a ring with 12 small diamonds) range from a low of $5500.00 to a high of $17000.00. This was also at a time when the USD was trading at $1.15 CAD making diamonds less expensive compared to today with current USD valued at $1.28 CAD. Every document describes the diamond with 100% consistency, right down to 1/100th of a millimeter measurements duplicated to absolute uniformity (so much for independent opinions). The colour, cut and clarity were also identical on all 3 documents plus none mentioned the medium blue fluorescence. The diamond was recently offered to Bill Le Boeuf Jewellers for consideration of purchase. We’re always interested in buying a large attractive diamond if the price is right. Now in our 60th year of operation we know what the right price is. Although the diamond came with 3 original documents proclaiming the diamond was an I1 clarity, we felt it was an I2. In this size/quality an I2 is worth close to 40% less than an I1. To make sure we weren’t being too aggressive in our clarity opinion of I2 we sent the diamond to The Gemological Institute of America for certification (not an appraisal). Sure enough the report came back matching our thoughts of I2 clarity. The full December 8 2017 report can be seen online. Make sure the diamond or piece of jewellery you’re considering purchasing has been properly and accurately documented. Once this is done it’s a pretty straight forward exercise deciding who truly offers the best value, not simply the lowest price based on a flawed, inaccurate appraisal. For you assurance of unbiased certification insist the diamond you are looking at has been certified by the GIA. At Bill Le Boeuf Jewellers we really are a breath of fresh air, we’re not your typical jewellery store. Check out our new and estate offerings and compare them with any and all others. We want you to compare our diamonds. For this pretty diamond we decided to reset it into a brand new 14 karat white gold halo ring from New York designer naledi. This 14 karat white gold ring contains 30 small round brilliant cut diamonds of minimum SI-GH quality and weighs 4.2 grams. This style ring is available to hold diamonds from 0.50 carat with prices starting at around $2000.00 (without the centre diamond). Bringing the best of both new and estate together is a Bill Le Boeuf Jewellers specialty. We have this ring estate priced at $7200.00 CAD. Stock #10884.

SOLD

April 30, 2017

3.00ct. total weight engagement set platinum SI1-G $10150.00 CAD. e8236 e8237

Over half an ounce of platinum alloy was used in the construction of this engagement/wedding ring set. Platinum is the metal of choice to set diamonds due to its true white colour and its superior resistance to wear and tear. It’s also hypoallergenic when compared to many white gold alloys. Platinum is a far more rare metal than gold and is also quite a bit heavier. Once you’ve had a piece of platinum jewellery you likely won’t considered anything else. The diamonds in this set are also better than average. A 1.01 carat round brilliant cut of VS2-SI1 clarity, G colour and a very good cut is secured in a four prong double gallery setting. The centre diamond has the proper dimensions for a one carat of 6.43mm – 6.49mm x 3.85mm. 15 princess cut diamonds are channel set down the shoulders and across the top of the wedding ring adding 2.00 additional carats of good SI1-GH quality. The centre diamond and rings are each available separately or the complete set is estate priced at $10150.00 CAD. Stock #e8236 and #e8237.

SOLD

April 1, 2017

3.05ct. fancy dark greenish yellow-brown diamond ring GIA certified $10010.00 CAD. e8068

Don’t believe everything you read, even if it appears to come from a reliable expert source. This beautiful fancy colour diamond was presented to me with a very official looking 1995 report from the International Gemmological Institute proclaiming in big bold letters the colour of the diamond was natural. I was suspicious of their findings so the stone was removed and submitted the GIA. When the Gemological Institute of America report came back it proclaimed (also in big black letters with an asterisk even!) “This diamond has been artificially irradiated to change its colour”. No more mystery, when the world’s foremost authority confirmed my suspicions I was a little disappointed but felt good too. At over 3 carats it’s a very impressive diamond with a colour similar to green tourmaline or andalusite. Two shoulder diamonds each weight an estimated 0.25 carats and are of very good VS-F quality. A traditional 5.7 gram 18 karat yellow gold hand made double gallery setting secures the three stones. The GIA report went on to describe the clarity as an I2 due to a large feather in the table. The diamond really faces up nicer than the average I2 but this grade is the right call. If the diamond colour had been naturally occurring it would have been at least $10000.00 more expensive. The lesson to be learned from this diamond is ALWAYS get a second opinion on a product you are not familiar with and make sure a money back guarantee is available. 20 years after the original purchase makes pursuing compensation for the error impossible. Never the less this is one excellent looking diamond ring and is a excellent value at $10010.00 CAD. GIA report and incorrect IGI report are included. Stock #e8068.

SOLD

March 24, 2017

1.67ct. VS2-K GIA certified custom rose gold setting $8190.00 CAD. e9356

Custom made and worn for less than a year. This 14 karat rose gold hand made creation is in original condition. It has never been polished or refinished in any way. All the hand engraved details are crisp and sharp looking like new. Gallery, sides and shoulders are all decorated with fine milgrain details giving this practically new ring an antique look.Even the GIA certified diamond appears old with the oval outline, small table facet and softer K colour. Many antique and older diamonds have slightly warmer colours due to the geographic location where they were mined. These details along with a slightly pinkish hue of rose gold make for one of the most unique looking rings we have in stock. At 1.67 carats and measuring 8.4mm x 6.7mm the oval puts down a significant sized footprint. The VS2 clarity insures it looks flawless from a naked eye perspective. A pierced gallery makes a light delicate look and the size 5 will fit a smaller finger. The 3.3 gram setting has an area left plain on the shank bottom if you need to make it into a larger finger size. 50 bead set small single cut diamonds set throughout the ring add the required amount of extra bling. The full Gemological Institute of America report can be seen online here. Estate priced at $8190.00 CAD. Stock #e9356.

SOLD

February 25, 2017

1.23ct. tw diamond ring 14kt white gold SI2-J $5460.00 CAD. e10870

Most diamonds that weigh 1.00 carat usually have a diameter of around 6.2mm. Most diamonds that are cut specifically to weigh exactly 1.00 carat are usually not cut to ideal or excellent standards. There are many diamonds cut to appeal to the person simply looking for a 1.00 carat diamond, rather than the sophisticated customer who appreciates a fine cut rather than just a heavy stone. After all what good is a 1.00 carat diamond that doesn’t sparkle because of an inferior cut. Our latest estate ring not only has an excellent cut, it also weighs nicely over 1.00 carat at 1.09. Because it’s cut to excellent standards the diameter is much bigger than the average to good cut stone. At over 6.6mm average diameter this one looks pretty big, especially when we are showing it in this flattering a split claw setting design. A solid “eye clean” SI2 clarity grade means the small white feather located at the 3:00 o’clock position (see photo at bottom) can only be resolved with some magnification. According to our Gemological Institute of America certified master stones the colour is a J. With its superior cut the J colour looks more like an H. Cut is so important to how well a diamond sparkles. Without a nice cut, the unique optical properties of a diamond can’t be appreciated as it will appear lifeless and dull instead of like a little ball of fire. The brand new 14 karat white gold Canadian made setting weighs 3.0 grams and contains 14 bead set round brilliant cut accent diamonds. The small shoulder diamonds contribute 0.14 carat of SI-GH sparkle to the 1.23 carat total weight. If you like this diamond but have a different setting in mind, the diamond is available separately for $4460.00. As shown the combination estate diamond and brand new setting is available for $5460.00 CAD. Stock #e10870.

SOLD

February 1, 2017

1.02 carat SI2-I1-F “compression” setting $5700.00 CAD. e6292

This is what happens when you have a little original thinking. This ring was designed using white gold’s natural spring quality. The 14 karat white gold setting has no connection to each side of the ring except at the bottom leaving the diamond to float between the shoulders using nothing but the compression of the two sides to secure it. The ring weighs just under 11 grams and is polished up to look like new. The centre diamond is 1.02 carat  SI2-I1-F with a  good cut. This type of setting really does flatter this stone.  The ring is estate priced at $5700.00. Stock #e6292.   

SOLD

0.74ct. VS2-E ex. cut Polar Bear diamond ring set 18/14kt. 7.6gr. $5250.00 CAD. e10522

The now extinct Polar Bear diamonds were the trailblazers of the Canadian diamond industry. Being the first at something doesn’t always mean you do it the best as those that follow often improve upon an original idea. That in no way applies to the Polar Bear Diamonds, in fact a great contributor to the extinction of the brand was their uncompromising focus on exceptional quality at all levels. Demanding the very best of their diamond cutters who consistently delivered with ideal cut diamonds like our estate example. The 0.74 carat round brilliant not only boasts a perfect cut but a very high VS2 clarity and colourless E grade. Polar Bear are the most heavily documented Canadian diamonds with the original weight of the rough diamond documented at 1.64carat and a cut and polish date of March 2008. The diamonds are all thoroughly certified by the government and each is laser inscribed with a microscopic polar bear logo along with a unique government issued serial number. Each comes with a guaranteed birth certificate, government certificate of authenticity, Polar Bear Diamond information packets, and a Certificate of Evaluation from Gem Scan Laboratories. Another focus of Polar Bear was keeping the diamonds exclusively in the Northwest Territories until they were ready for distribution into the market. As the trademark belongs to the Northwest Territories’ government they used the brand to bolster the local economy. The diamonds were mined at the Ekati diamond mine, the first in Canada, and were cut and polished in Yellowknife, creating jobs, increased tourism, and economic growth. The government also held the companies responsible for mining the diamonds at Ekati accountable for the impact the mining had on the environment. BHP Billiton and later Dominion Diamond Corporation had to be attentive to the sensitive migration patterns of the caribou and ensure lakes and waterways were protected from contamination. After putting so much thought and effort into these diamonds you can’t fall short on the rings that house them, and they certainly didn’t with this modern wedding set. The by pass style engagement ring is made from 5.3 solid grams of top quality 18 karat white gold with a strong supportive undergallery. The matching wedding band was a later addition and is made from 2.8 grams of 14 karat white gold accented by 5 graduated SI2-GH round brilliant cut diamonds. Both rings measure a smaller size 5 1/2 with room to adjust. Estate priced for the set only $5250.00 CAD. Stock #e10522.

SOLD

December 2, 2016

2.37ct. three stone platinum diamond ring $10920.00 CAD. e8963

It’s all about the bling, and this one’s got it; big time. It’s got it today and it had it when it was new 100 years ago. Imagine how significant a diamond ring of this size would have been 100 years ago. Most people didn’t even own a tiny diamond let alone 3 side by side in one ring where each one weighed over 3/4 of a carat. This ring was made to last using the most durable of all jewellery precious metals, platinum. While the finished ring only weighs 3.8 grams it is still in very good condition especially considering it’s a century old. The traditional low profile double gallery minimalist setting is designed to highlight the diamonds; as such it doesn’t have any added detail in the form of engraved shoulders or accent diamonds. It certainly doesn’t need anything else. Three large diamonds always gives the finished look. The old European cut diamonds measure an average of 6.1mm x 3.5mm and grade SI1-FG, SI2-I and SI2-H. The centre diamond is the “I” colour. It matches the other diamonds colour much better in person where it’s easy to see the superior dispersion these old diamonds have when compared to a modern brilliant cut. The slightly larger size 8.5 ring can be made comfortably smaller by up to 3 sizes without a problem. This is one fantastic looking ring that will make a great family heirloom. A three stone ring has been said to symbolize the past, the present and the future.This ring would certainly have had a glamorous past, it’s available now in the present and it’s up to you to supply a long and happy future. Not an easily replaced item for the estate price of $10920.00 CAD. Stock #e8963.

SOLD

November 27, 2016

10.63 carat VS2-M GIA certified, Asscher cut diamond ring. e10208

First let me clarify; you are reading this correctly, it’s not a decimal point error, the centre diamond actually weighs well over 10 carats. Now in our 59th year of operation in beautiful downtown Barrie, this is the largest diamond ever to be offered for sale at Bill Le Boeuf Jewellers. For those of you who have already seen this one in person you know what a privilege it is to have it on hand, and how exciting it is for everyone here at BLJ. Our experienced and passionate staff get a little spoiled by the fantastic estate jewellery items that come in. We’re so proud to showcase some of it for you on our estate website pages. Diamonds of this size rarely trade hands anywhere, let alone in Barrie Ontario. Relatively speaking diamonds are not rare. Special diamonds of 2 or 3 carats come and go with some degree of regularity with us. They’re really exciting to display and we enjoy connecting with clients who appreciate the beauty and great value these larger estate diamonds offer. But a 10 carat diamond is in a completely different universe when it comes to rarity. Not many people or even other jewellers ever see a diamond of this size in person. Just how big is a 10 carat diamond anyway? For some comparison; a Canadian dime has a diameter of 18mm. This diamond measures 15.65mm diagonally. If this diamond was cut with its 90 degree corners intact like a square baguette, it would measure diagonally nicely over 18mm. This is a really really big diamond. Asscher cut diamonds like this one have had their right angle corners truncated. This allows the securing claws to be much more discreet and subtle. Discreet and subtle aren’t words I’d use to describe this size 7 dazzler. Every time I look at it I just have to giggle, it’s a party on your finger. It’s hard to imagine something so beautiful is 100% natural and 3 to 4 billion years old. Our online database currently shows close to 400000 diamonds but less than 40 are of this size and quality or larger. An October 2016 Gemological Institute of American certificate is included with purchase. This report cost $1029.00 USD to obtain, but for a diamond of this importance it’s well worth it for the peace of mind that goes along with it. The full report can be seen here at GIAs website.    Peace of mind is paramount when making a large purchase, but much more so when considering making an investment in a large diamond like this. The diamond also comes with a June 2006 European Gemological Laboratory certificate. The EGL report states that the colour is a slightly more white JK colour. While an error of two and a half grades may not sound like much, according to our pricing information this optimistic opinion of colour would lead to over valuing this diamond by close to 100% as compared to the accurate GIA report of M colour. ALWAYS ALWAYS ALWAYS get a qualified and unbiased opinion on any diamond you are considering. A full money back guarantee never hurts either. The ring itself has been expertly constructed to the highest standards possible. Fully hand fabricated in platinum. Over 9 grams of the rare and exotic precious white metal were used in the construction. Two custom cut, perfectly matched, step cut trapezoid shaped shoulder diamonds flank each side of the large Assher cut. The shoulder diamonds add an estimated 1.25 carats of additional VS-GH sparkle, bringing the total diamond weight up to almost 12 carats. If ever there was a case to be made for the saying “pictures just don’t do it justice” this is it. The rainbow of brilliance and dispersion coming off this remarkable diamond are incredible. For those of you who think a slightly warm M colour isn’t that great, the opinion will change the first second it’s on your finger. Wearing this diamond is guaranteed to put you in a frame of mind that few other objects can. Who knows if we’ll ever have another opportunity to showcase such a significant and important diamond ring. It’s exceptional in so many ways, not just size, beauty and rarity, it also comes with some amazing Canadian history and pedigree. We feel very honored to be able to showcase a ring of this importance. Stock number e10208.

SOLD

November 22, 2016

Antique Asscher square emerald cut 2.31ct. VS1-M $11270.00. e8462

Every once in a while a very special ring comes in that deserves extra consideration. Any antique platinum diamond ring is a special thing, a large over 2 carat example is something extra special. Now consider the diamond cut, a square Asscher or square emerald cut makes this ring a one of a kind opportunity. Asscher cuts and square emerald cuts are unusual to say the least but this is the first antique example we’ve ever had. Old European cut diamonds of all shapes have unique brilliance and dispersion properties due to the geometry of cutting preferences from generations past. The taller crown and extremely small table (50%) is an incredibly inefficient way to cut a diamond by WOW do they ever look great. Not many diamonds can rival this one for the brilliance it possesses. You won’t believe it is a M colour with a the brilliance flashing back at you. I feel the diamond could easily be a VVS or better clarity with the polishing of a tiny bruise on the pavilion and the elimination of a few extra facets on the crown and pavilion. The antique diamond measures 7.73mm x 7.47 x 3.75mm with medium blue fluorescence. The original hand made platinum setting is an excellent example of filigree with mill grain highlights. 30 small bead set single cut diamonds of very good VS-G quality add some extra sparkle on the side galleries and shoulders. The total diamond weight is estimated at 2.56 carats. Finished ring weighs 3.7 grams with a finger size of 6.75. This one of a kind ring is offered for the estate price of $10255.00. Stock #e8462.

SOLD

November 10, 2016

2.09ct. tw. Tacori/Firemark diamond ring GIA cert. $13400.00 CAD. e10274

You will not find a ring with more pedigree than this one. Lets start with the Tacori designer mount which has of course been extremely well made from over 7 grams of top quality, bright white platinum. Covering the top half of the size 6 ring are 1.05 carats of specially cut princess cut diamonds and petite round brilliant cuts, all of VS-FG quality. The impeccable ring has been covered all over with the most delicate millgrain and features Tacori’s signature reverse crescent pattern visible from the side. This ring is typically offered with a round brilliant cut center and round brilliant shoulders, and can be seen on Tacori’s website for $8660.00 USD (not including the center diamond). The real pedigree for this ring is attached to its 1.04 carat princess cut diamond graded SI2-F, excellent polish and symmetry by the Gemological Institute of America. The full GIA certificate can be viewed here. The princess cut not only bears its laser inscribed GIA serial number but also the FireMark emblem declaring it the most heavily tested, optimally brilliant princess cut available on the market. The FireMark Princess is cut far more precisely than the majority of princess cuts, ensuring it looks at least 10% larger than others of the same carat weight. This means you won’t be paying for carat weight you can’t see, as is unfortunately the case with most princess cuts. All told this Tacori, FireMark, GIA certified stunner of an engagement ring is estate priced at $13400.00 CAD. Stock #e10274.

SOLD

November 2, 2016

1.56ct. SI2-N excellent cut GIA certified diamond ring $5250.00 CAD. e10545

This is the current favorite diamond among many of the staff at Bill Le Boeuf Jewellers. We have 1000s of diamonds in the store; most are smaller, a few are bigger, lots have a higher colour grade and they run the full range from flawless to heavily included. We find this one so interesting because of the unique inclusion located close to the centre of the table facet. Under minor magnification and even without, the sharp sighted can see a small dark inclusion. As magnification increases this totally random imperfection begins to take on a life of its own. A cute little fruit fly looking insect reveals itself as a group of crystals, needle and a cloud all coming together to form the body, wing, and even the legs if you use a little imagination. When we stepped up the power even more and took a photomicrograph through our microscope you can really see the tiny intruder floating in an otherwise flawless diamond. Intricate wing structure looks amazingly realistic along with the furry body.  Natural diamonds are unique creations that formed deep within the earth’s crust under incredible pressure and heat about 4 billion years ago. Sometimes the carbon doesn’t crystalize 100% transparent and can take the form of a graphite speck completely cocooned within the diamond crystal. Inclusions like this are never seen in synthetic diamonds and along with medium blue fluorescence are proof of 100% natural origin. Without question the inclusion makes this diamond far more desirable than a similar quality diamond without such a unique imperfection. We just had this diamond certified at the Gemological Institute of America May 30 2017. The full GIA report can be seen online here. There are even those who go out of their way and seek out unusual inclusions. The diamond is available in a simple 14 karat white gold 2.9 gram white gold solitaire ring for $5250.00 complete, or we’d be happy to sell you just the diamond for $4950.00. Stock #e10545.

SOLD

October 28, 2016

1.40ct. tw. oval halo diamond ring 14 karat white gold $5250.00 CAD. e10147

Just about our favorite thing to do here at Bill Le Boeuf Jewellers is making something old or outdated into something modern and spectacular. Such is the case with this estate 1.15 carat oval brilliant cut diamond. When it arrived, it was in a 14 karat yellow gold setting with tapered baguette diamonds on the shoulders. The setting was in good condition, but the design wasn’t very flattering for the oval and the style was a bit dated. The 8.6mm x 6.0mm oval diamond looks huge in this contemporary halo setting. The brand new creation in 14 karat white gold weighs 4.4 grams and contains 66 tiny, bead set round brilliant cut diamonds of SI-GH quality. The small diamonds add another 0.25 carats of diamond weight along the shoulders, sides and of course around the large centre stone. When we removed the centre stone from the original setting we established the colour was G (according to our GIA certified master diamonds) and the clarity a nice pleasant I1. She’s got ample sparkle and brilliance, plus it looks way bigger than the verified 1.15 carat weight would suggest. Perhaps the best part of this remake is the money you’ll save because of the estate centre stone. Brand new ring + estate diamond = unbeatable value. Estate priced at $5250.00 CAD. Stock #e10147.

SOLD

October 17, 2016

1.20ct. VS-J princess cut solitaire $5750.00 CAD. e6170

A substantial ring and diamond in a modern custom made setting. The bezel set diamond weighs approximately 1.20ct. and is of good quality (VS-J) measuring roughly 5.9mm x 5.9mm. The ring weighs 7.4 grams and is made from 14 karat white gold. It comes with a free custom made matching wedding ring. This ring has been cleaned and refinished to look like new. Estate priced at $5750.00 CAD. Stock #e6170.

SOLD

September 10, 2016

0.96ct. I1-I modified brilliant cut Gem Scan certified $5595.00. e8868

Build a better mouse trap, and the world will beat a path to your door. That phrase has been around since the late 1800s. About the same time as the basic formula for cutting early brilliant cut diamonds was developed that hasn’t really changed since. Every once in a while a diamond cutter attempts to invent a “better mouse trap” or in this case a better brilliant cut diamond by adding extra facets here and there. More upper/lower girdle facets, thicker and thinner pavilion main facets etc. Many stores and many brands have attempted, all have failed to improve on the beauty of an excellent cut standard round brilliant. Most come with some very slick marketing material extolling the virtues of their new revolutionary cut. They are definitely impressive and look great but whether they actually look better than the basic brilliant cut is subjective. No mater how many extra facets you add to a diamond there is a finite amount of light available to refract and reflect. This example has roughly twice the number of facets of the benchmark round brilliant. This certainly adds to the labour cost but doesn’t do much for improving diamonds unique optical properties in my opinion. The optics are very kaleidoscopic in nature, quite different than a standard 57 facet brilliant cut. Our estate example weights in at 0.96 carats, with a strong I1 clarity and “I” colour. A Gem Scan Laboratories certificate goes on to grade the cut as excellent with measurements of 6.36mm – 6.38mm x 3.91mm. By the way, according to Wikipedia; more than 4,400 patents have been issued by the United States Patent and Trademark Office for new mousetraps, with thousands more unsuccessful applicants, making them the “most frequently invented device in U.S. history”. That should tell you something about sticking to a formula that’s been a proven success for over 100 years. In any case, this is a great looking diamond that is a little bit different and won’t cost nearly as much compared to what the original owner paid.  We thought this unique cut special diamond deserved an upgraded ring, so we set it in this brand new 18 karat white gold palladium alloy halo setting. This proprietary alloy is much brighter than traditional white gold and at the same time is hypoallergenic to those with metal sensitive skin. At over 4.2 grams (finished weight) you can immediately feel the quality in the premium high gold content setting. 28 small brilliant cut diamonds circle the centre diamond in a tight, gap free halo and supply and additional 0.29 carats of high quality VS-GH sparkle (1.25 carat total diamond weight). This new ring/estate diamond combination is estate priced at $5595.00 CAD and represents excellent value. Stock #e8868.

SOLD

August 15, 2016

Platinum Simon G ring 2.22ct. total weight $18700.00 CAD. e8679

Virtually “eye clean” I1 diamonds are difficult to find and  highly sought after. An “H” colour diamond like this looks quite white without the premium price associated with DEF colour range stones. A very good cut promotes the brilliance, fire, scintillation and dispersion that only a quality diamond can possess. It’s certainly possible to find 2.00 carat round brilliant cut diamonds for under $10000.00.  I’ll guarantee these bargain 2.00 carat diamonds will have easily visible inclusions, a noticeable yellow to brown tint or they are very poorly cut. The inclusions in this example are small and scattered, having little effect on the transparency. Measuring 8.0mm diameter, this diamond has great finger presence in the brand new platinum Simon G ring. Model MR2615 is a new style for the California based designer. With platinum so reasonably priced right now we decided to upgrade the metal from their usual 18 karat gold. The 5 gram setting contains 16 white diamonds of VS-FG quality along with 2 small NATURAL pink diamonds. That’s right 100% natural pink colour. These incredibly rare diamonds make a striking contrast when set in 18 karat rose gold against the platinum. MR2615 is available in traditional 18 karat yellow gold, white gold, rose gold, platinum or any combination with prices starting at $2200.00 CAD. Estate diamonds make wonderful candidates to reset into a custom or production ring like this. You get fantastic savings on the largest component of value (the centre diamond) and a brand new modern Simon G setting that will leave her speechless. Bill Le Boeuf Jewellers specializes certified estate and new diamonds. Nobody does “I do” like “we do” at Bill Le Boeuf Jewellers. This half new, half estate ring is priced at $18700.00 CAD complete. The diamond by itself it is estate priced at $16000.00. Stock #e8679.

SOLD

July 23, 2016

Michael Smiley 18kt. white gold 1.00ct. VS1-F GIA certified $10800.00 CAD. e6995

Of all the possible exotic flavors of ice cream available, I wonder why vanilla is the most popular. The same can be said about diamond ring designs. They can come in 100s of different forms, but the traditional 4 prong solitaire with a simple Tiffany style shank is by far the most popular; especially when it comes to displaying a significantly sized diamond. Even a highly skilled artist like Barrie designer goldsmith Michael Smiley is sometimes called upon to create jewellery items of a traditional look from his downtown studio. His 18 karat white gold version weighs 5.0 grams in a finger size 5.25. As per his usual practice, this ring has been made to a very high standard with generous full shoulders and shank that doesn’t taper on the bottom. The comfortable design contains a GIA certified round brilliant cut diamond weighing 1.00 carat of very good VS1-F quality with the very hard to come by excellent cut. A Gemological Institute of America report #1176144312 available online. The diamond measures an average diameter of over 6.6mm diameter so this diamond actually looks much bigger than the typical “thick” cut 1.00 carat diamonds  often encountered that only measure around 6.0mm diameter or less. Exceptionally high colour GIA certified diamonds like this don’t come cheap but at $10300.00 for the diamond the value is outstanding. The complete finished Michael Smiley ring is available for $500.00 extra. Stock #e6995.

SOLD

June 11, 2016

Pretty in pink. 1.20ct. total weight SI1-F diamond halo GIA certified $7250.00 CAD. e9637

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 more than 95% are 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 a first for us. 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 ring is a recently (June 2016) GIA certified 0.99 carat SI1 clarity, F colour round brilliant cut diamond measuring a full 6.5mm diameter. The full GIA report can be seen here. 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 $7250.00 CAD. Stock #e9637.

SOLD

March 25, 2016

1.03ct. “eye clean” SI2-F GIA certified 18kt. gold $7,000.00 CAD. e9024

Diamonds like this are VERY hard to find for a great price and they get snapped up quite quickly. Buying a SI2 diamond can be a frightening thing. SI2 clarity diamonds quite often have inclusions that can be seen without magnification. They are especially easy to see when the inclusion(s) is located within the octagon table close to the centre. The inclusion in this example is almost perfectly located on a star/bezel facet junction located by the top right prong. This type of inclusion is called a knot. A knot is a small diamond crystal that grew within the larger gem and shows through the surface after the diamond has been polished. Basically it’s like a knot in a piece of wood. It is usually identified by a semi-transparent border that surrounds the small exposed crystal. This diamond appears flawless without magnification. With careful claw placement the inclusion will almost disappear when set in a suitable piece of jewellery. The GIA report (July 2015) graded the colour an excellent F, with a very good overall cut and no fluorescence. Trust me when I say this is a very desirable diamond that shouldn’t last too long. If you’re looking for a knockout 1 carat diamond look no further. This one has all the right boxes checked off for the absolute best value ANYWHERE. A simple and traditional 18 karat white gold, 3.0 gram, size 5 ring secures the diamond perched in a flattering 4 prong double gallery setting. Complete ring is estate priced at $7,000.00 CAD. Diamond is available separately for $6,675.00 if you have a different setting in mind. Stock #e9024.

SOLD

March 20, 2016

1.31ct. total weight Simon G pink diamond ring $6,800.00 CAD. e9774

Premium brand diamond ring without the premium price tag. Our top designer brand is Simon G from California. Their innovative designs are copied and serve as inspiration to almost every mainstream manufacturer. Slightly modified versions of their original styles can be seen at most retail jewellery chains. This pretty little ring is one of their more current creations. Model number MR2615 is unique in their choice of natural pink diamonds that are located at the centre of each stylized flower. The beaded edge rose gold bezel adds contrast to the 18 karat white gold ring. Purchased new from Simon G the basic ring has a suggested retail price of $2,525.00 CAD (without a centre diamond). Our hardly worn size 5 estate example contains a very bright I1 clarity, G colour round brilliant cut diamond weighing 1.10 carats. This sparkling 6.46mm diameter diamond completely fills the sturdy 4 prong setting with no room to spare. The small scattered inclusions go unnoticed but help keep the total price of this ring to a very reasonable $6,800.00. The centre diamond is available separately for only $5,000.00 if you have a different ring in mind. Stock number #e9774.

SOLD