Michigan, Alabama Jewelers Hit by Scandals

By Rob Bates, Senior Editor -- JCK Online, 11/1/2004 2:00:00 AM

Two local independent jewelers are in hot water for alleged stone-switching.

In Killen, Ala., Craig Jewelers has been the subject of three investigative stories on station WAFF in Huntsville, charging the store with selling cubic zirconia misrepresented as a diamond, and switching an elderly woman's 18k wedding ring for a 10k ring.

Investigative reporter Melissa Meagher of WAFF says that every time they air a report, they hear from customers worried about something Wallace sold them.

"Local jewelers have been swamped with appraisals," she said. "The police are definitely investigating, and we have a couple who will likely file a lawsuit against [the jeweler]." So far, however, no formal charges have been brought.

Craig Jewelers referred JCK to its lawyer, Tim Case, who did not return a phone call for comment.

In Paw Paw, Mich., Randy Block, 43, of Block Jewelers, has been charged with one count of larceny by conversion after allegedly replacing a customer's diamond with moissanite.

Local prosecutor Juris Capps says he is investigating "some cases along the same lines that may or may not be charged."

Block declined to comment to JCK.