I had a very disappointing interaction after being referred to the shop from another in the community for my specific needs in looking to have an antique Freemasonry ring appraised and have the origins established. I was referred as the item I was inquiring about was from the Victorian era potentially earlier based on who we know last possessed the ring and would have purchased it. However, to properly established provenance, the hallmarks, which, as you can imagine are very much shadows of their former selves and I would like to get an appraisal which can provide more than the value of it in its weight in gold. In forensics, there is an acoustic imaging technique, which can be used to establish the original impressions in metal marking based off changes in the metal from when the stamping occurred. This technique reveals impressions made without even having visible markings with a high degree of accuracy in providing information on the date of manufacturer and the maker themselves. This technique is used by some appraisers to establish the true origins of a particular piece, including if it’s even older than what we believe and is certainly not standard practice in the industry and the service can cost in excess of $1100 or more compared to a standard appraisal cost. After establishing that I was looking for an appraisal and receiving some of the preliminary information, I kindly explained it that I was looking potentially for this type of imaging service or if they may be able to refer me somewhere so we can accurately determine the details behind this ring. Unfortunately, the response I was met with was very disappointing and just rude, even though it was said nicely. However, awful things said nicely are still awful things. I say explain the service I was looking for the response I got was well. It seems as if you already know more than I do.” which quite plainly infer why are you asking me for help if you already know. Maybe I should have expected this as it’s somewhat typical when it comes to dealing with individuals that have extensive experience and a very well established, sterling reputation. Some individuals still have grace, regardless of how knowledgable and experienced they are well others can be more toxic with overinflated sense of self-worth and value and this was very clearly reflected in the the short conversation. A true class act is evident in someone who can extend courtesy to another even when it’s inconvenient or goes against the grain of their typical interactions and inquiries. However, some people believe that anything inconvenient is nothing worth their while so why bother? I then explained, that for a proper appraisal for something of such importance to myself genealogically it seems I would be best served with this type of imaging to be able to establish the true origins. I was then unpleasantly treated to a second response, which simply started with “well. It looks like I’m gonna have to let you go because it appears there’s nothing more I can do for you”. Based on the tone, the way that the person on the phone carried themselves, the age estimated by the voice I believe I was speaking with the proprietor of this business. Particularly when you consider the degree of entitlement in the tone and wording of everything that was said on their part. This was the response of someone who’s full after feasting and simply has no more room for another morsel. As many, no gluttony is well you know. I can assure you, I will go to the end of this earth to find a suitable alternative before giving you any future business What’s most aggravating is absolutely none of this was anywhere near necessary as she could’ve simply said. I’m sorry I don’t. I’m not able to help you rather than it looks like I’m gonna have to let you go now as if I was wasting their time. I give it two stars because she was nice to me when she was being rude to me other than that zero stars
Please do NOT bring your jewelry here!!! Let me tell you why: My father brought his and my mother’s wedding rings to this establishment to enquire if they could be smelted and made into 1 ring. My mother had just passed away, and so the sentimental value of these rings cannot be overstated. My father left the rings in Cynthia’s care, and she even made him take a photo of the rings with their identification card. Good idea, right? It all went down hill from there. After making him wait 2 months to be told that the smelting couldn’t be done, (totally fine, we understand that it isn’t possible. That’s not why I’m writing this review) she proceeded to LOOSE these rings for 4 months. 4 MONTHS of my father worrying and stressing that this woman had lost my late mother’s wedding ring and his! After she finally admitted to loosing the rings my dad would call asking for updates, asking for any information at all, and she would brush him off or just flat out lie. She would constantly assure him that she would call him back, only for no call back to ever happen. My father had to reach out to her constantly, and keep the pressure up, before she finally “found” the rings. To be blunt, I don’t think she ever really looked until recently. I’ve read some of the 1 star reviews and found similar excuses she had fed to other clients that she had given to my father as well. Workers going on holidays that had misplaced them, she moved them around or whatever. She even told my dad that they were small rings, so what do you expect?! Cynthia, you are handling incredibly precious heirlooms, why do you have such a poor system for cataloging and keeping track of your inventory My father FINALLY got his rings back after 6 months and many sleepless nights of worrying. The lack of transparency during this ordeal, as well as her own incompetence which lead to the situation, is simply deplorable. So please, avoid this business at all costs if you value your jewelry.
hello Cynthia .i am not sure if you have received some other pictures i had sent to you .it has been at least 2 or 3 months since i have been in contact with you. i have been in new york on tour with my music.anyway i have lost a bunch of stuff on my computer. so if you could get back to me . at your own convenience .i would very much appreciate that.THANK YOU RANDY MASSON .
Had the most amazing experience with Cynthia, lots of great chats and all the while she was able to take care of selling my parents sapphire pendant. Highly recommended and also has great antiques to buy.
Cynthia and George were very pleasant to deal with. I ordered a ring from Calgary and they were great about keeping me informed when it had been sized and when it was about to be shipped I’m thrilled with my beautiful ring! Looking forward to visiting you in Toronto. MLD
My fiancée and I met with Cynthia to pick out an engagement ring together and we had a wonderful experience! She was so patient and engaging; Cynthia and her husband picked out many other gorgeous options based on the few rings that we chose online, that matched our price range. Cynthia walked through the different styles of settings and eras, metals and stones, as well as ensured we were aware of practical every day hand movements with the ring (i.e putting your hand your pocket). We are so grateful and I absolutely love my new ring!
Cynthia did a wonderful job of helping me explore her selection, ultimately leading to us finding a unique and beautiful green sapphire and diamond engagement ring that was perfect for my partner. It is the perfect blend of classic yet modern. She had plenty of other fascinating options as well. She was very lovely to deal with and very prompt with helping me get it ready. Would highly recommend visiting her.
Cynthia Findlay Fine Jewellery & Antiques is a Canadian Jewelry Store based in Toronto, Ontario. Cynthia Findlay Fine Jewellery & Antiques is located at 284 King St W, Toronto, ON M5V 1J2, Canada.
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