I did some reading on the Briolite website briolite.com and then a
retailer site for Briolite which has especially sly and concerning
wording in their educational page
http://www.shopnetwork.com/briolite_guide.php
After reading that and looking at some of the prices asked for
Briolite, I became very troubled. I then caught a little slip of the
tongue. A tiny mention of Signity within the Briolite education
page. Signity makes cubic ziconia. There is even a little bit of
duplicated text from the Signity website. I now believe that
Briolite is actually the Signity Star CZ. I have not tested these
stones in person but strongly believe this to be true.
Just as troubling is the sales tool they are using on Shop Network
to help sell Briolite. “Certificates of Appraisal and Authenticity”
by the “Diamond Institute of America”. As a consumer, be concerned
anytime you see a gem lab also giving values of gems. The Diamond
Institute site has very limited about themselves. Very
questionable.
There is nothing wrong with enjoying simulated diamonds. I am
mesmerized by them as well and enjoy studying them. But disclosure
is key. And this is bordering on fraud because of the way these
simulants are being marketed and the prices asked for them.
Be wary and enjoy your sparklies! -Carrie Nunes
www.carrienunes.com