About Me

My name is Jake Levy. I retired last year – as of January 2004 -- leaving my New York-based diamond business to my two very capable sons

Since my college graduation, diamonds have been a large part of my life. I realized I could never really leave that part of me entirely behind, so I decided to develop this website and share my knowledge with anyone who is interested in buying a diamond. (I really believe I can help you make the right choice.)

My career as a “diamantaire” – the professional term for a diamond craftsman – began as an apprentice. My father-in-law owned a mid-sized diamond polishing company and encouraged me to join the business. I worked for a year with an expert diamond cutter and polisher before I was given responsibility for cutting diamonds on my own. I stayed “at the bench” – meaning the cutting and polishing bench -- for four years. As it turned out, I had a real talent for it and loved the artistry and intensity the process requires.

During my hands-on training, I learned how to assess rough diamonds. That means, looking at a piece of rough to determine what kind of yield it will give, as well as making an educated estimate of the color and clarity of the finished diamond. A beautiful diamond is cut it so that there are the fewest inclusions and so that the faceting pattern captures and makes the best use of light to deliver maximum brilliance. During the cutting process a lot of carat weight is lost in diamond dust, which is why diamonds of high grading are so expensive. It takes a very well-trained eye to select good rough with an understanding of the value the finished stone will command, and years of experience to bring the most out of the diamond.

During that time, I managed the cutting and polishing factory and traveled to Antwerp, London, Moscow, and Africa to buy rough diamonds. Obviously, these responsibilities are critical to running a successful business. But, truth be told, my heart is still at the bench, because nothing is more exciting than crafting a magnificent jewel from a rough stone.

I hope you'll find this site helpful. The more you know about diamonds before you go to buy one, the more likely you are to find the most beautiful stone at the best value. If you have any questions, feel free to contact me (provide email address?).