Frequently Asked Questions
Questions we hear most often at the counter. If yours is not here, call (727) 491-3344 or write us on the contact page.
Where is Florida Diamond Center located? +
Florida Diamond Center is at 2338 U.S. Highway 19, Holiday, FL 34691. We are on the west side of U.S. 19, roughly fifteen minutes north of Clearwater and ten minutes south of Tarpon Springs.
What are your store hours? +
Monday through Friday, 10 AM to 6 PM. Saturday, 10 AM to 5 PM. We are closed on Sunday. Holiday hours may vary. Call (727) 491-3344 if you want to confirm.
How long has Florida Diamond Center been in business? +
The Valdes family has been in the jewelry trade for four generations. The store is run by Steve Valdes III, with more than thirty years of combined experience at the counter and the bench across the family.
Do you have a certified gemologist on site? +
Yes. We have a GIA Graduate Gemologist on staff who grades diamonds, appraises jewelry, and consults on engagement ring purchases. Walk-in appraisal days are scheduled throughout the year.
Do you buy diamonds? +
Yes. We buy loose diamonds, engagement rings, estate jewelry, watches, and gold scrap from the public every day. Bring the item in for a free evaluation. We grade diamonds with you present, price against current wholesale values, and make a cash offer on the spot. You are free to accept or decline.
How much do you pay for a diamond? +
We pay based on current wholesale market values, which depend on the stone's carat weight, color, clarity, cut, and certification. GIA certified stones typically get higher offers than uncertified ones. Bring the stone in and we will show you how we arrive at the number.
How does a jewelry appraisal work? +
On an appraisal day, you walk in with the piece, our GIA Graduate Gemologist grades and documents it, and we provide a written appraisal for insurance, estate, or resale purposes. For simple pieces we can often give a value on the spot. Initial evaluations are free. Written insurance appraisals are a flat fee.
What is a collateral loan on jewelry? +
A collateral loan lets you borrow cash against a piece of jewelry without a credit check. We evaluate the piece, make a loan offer, and you walk out with cash the same day. You hold a ticket and have a set window to repay and redeem the piece. If you choose not to redeem, we keep the piece. No application paperwork, no credit pull.
Do you repair jewelry bought somewhere else? +
Yes. Our in-house jewelers repair any piece regardless of where you bought it. Ring sizing, re-tipping prongs, stone replacement, chain repair, and more. Most repairs are quoted the same day and completed within the week.
Can you service a Rolex? +
Yes. We are certified to service Rolex and other luxury brands. We handle full movement service, crystal replacement, bracelet and case refinishing, and pressure testing. Bring the watch in for a written estimate before any work begins.
How long does a custom engagement ring take? +
Most custom rings take two to four weeks from approved design to finished piece. That includes CAD rendering for your approval, wax carving, metal casting, stone setting, and final polish. Tighter timelines are sometimes possible, call us to discuss.
Do you offer financing? +
Yes. We accept cash, credit card, debit card, and offer financing for qualified buyers. Ask about current options at the counter.
Do you serve customers outside of Holiday, FL? +
Yes. Most of our customers drive in from Tarpon Springs, Palm Harbor, New Port Richey, Clearwater, Dunedin, and points across Pasco and Pinellas counties. Some come from Tampa and St. Petersburg for specific services like Rolex repair or custom design.
Do I need an appointment? +
No, walk-ins are welcome during business hours. For custom design consultations or complex appraisals, an appointment helps us set aside time for you. Call (727) 491-3344 to schedule.
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