1 /5 R.W.C: I’ve been a loyal Avianne customer online for over 7 years, spending nearly $10,000. Unfortunately, my first in-person visit left me very disappointed. I came in for a pendant upgrade and was initially quoted $2,500 by their staff. I was later quoted a $4,000 chain and pendant combo upgrade, which involved a new chain upgrade with just 0.7 grams more in 10K gold than my current one — a melt value difference of about $30. The math didn’t justify the $1,500 premium, and after checking with other Diamond District jewelers, I chose to keep the pendant only and trade in my chain as scrap — which they accepted. I was told the pendant would be dipped in rose gold as a complimentary service with only a small fee for bail resizing. With this understanding, I paid in full.
When I returned to pick it up, I was approached by one of the store’s owners- known on social media as the public face of the brand. The tone became unexpectedly personal and tense. I was told I had “exploited” the business, even though we had a mutual purchase agreement. The chain was described as “damaged and un re-sellable” despite being inspected and accepted as scrap earlier with no concerns raised. I was also told I’d changed the deal, though I had only agreed to purchase the pendant and never agreed to purchase the combo. Because I had purchased a chain elsewhere, the conversation became more confrontational. I was also told that my previous purchases “didn’t matter” and that my business meant nothing to them. This felt contradictory, especially considering that most of their items are priced under $10,000 — which suggests they rely on customers like me. Then, I was asked to pay an additional $225 for the gold dipping service, which I had understood to be included. I declined the charge and left the store without so much as a thank you.
The pendant had deep personal and religious significance to me, but the overall experience felt deeply disrespectful. I strongly encourage others to get multiple quotes, visit other jewelers, compare offers, and seek an independent appraisal before or instead of doing business here. After years of trust, this experience left me deeply regretting my loyalty.
