San Diego Wholesale Diamonds
Buy Natural, Lab-Grown, and Fancy Colored Diamonds at Near Wholesale Prices
The Best Place to Buy a Diamond
When shopping for an engagement ring, most couples focus on the 4 Cs — Cut, Clarity, Color, and Carat. But there’s a fifth “C” that matters just as much: Cost. The truth is, no one should overpay for a diamond when starting a life together.
That’s why C. Blackburn Jewelers in La Jolla, San Diego offers the finest diamonds at the lowest possible price. Our process is designed to make sure you get the perfect diamond at the best possible price, whether you’re looking for a classic round, a fancy cushion, or a large 3+ carat stone.
Here’s how it works:
1. Free Consultation: Visit our independent boutique jewelry store in La Jolla Cove, San Diego for a free, no-obligation consultation. You’ll sit down with the owner, Carl Blackburn, a 2nd-generation jeweler and nationally recognized jewelry designer with over 30 years of experience.
Carl will ask about the diamond you’re looking for – your desired carat size, shape, color, clarity, and budget. If you’ve already done some homework on sites like Blue Nile or James Allen and have screenshots or links of diamonds/prices you’re considering, bring them along (not required, but it helps us understand the market benchmark you’re seeing).
2. Wholesale Diamond Search: After understanding your needs, Carl taps into his extensive network of diamond wholesalers, cutters, and estate jewelry dealers across the country. He essentially goes “shopping” on your behalf among wholesale diamond inventories not available to the public.
Because Carl has long-standing relationships in the industry (and is himself one of San Diego’s most prominent diamond buyers), he can source wholesale diamonds at prices lower than ordinary buyers can find. He also checks estate diamonds and private collections for available gems. This process typically takes just a few days.
3. Curated Diamond Options: Carl will get back to you (often within 48-72 hours) with one or more hand-picked diamond options that match your criteria. For each option, he’ll provide the specifications (carat, cut, color, clarity, certification details) and the price he can offer.
In nine out of ten cases, the diamond he finds will save you a significant amount compared to retail or online prices for a similar stone.
You’ll be able to see the diamond (either in person or via detailed photos/videos if it’s not yet in-store) and review its certification (such as GIA or AGS lab reports).
4. Review and Decision: You’re under no pressure to buy any diamond presented. Carl will answer any questions and educate you on the pros and cons of each option. If you love one of the diamonds he found, fantastic – you can purchase it confident that you’re getting great value. (If not, you haven’t lost anything except a little time, and you’re now more informed. It’s truly a no-risk process for you.)
5. Setting and Aftercare: If you do purchase a diamond we found, C. Blackburn Jewelers can also help you set the diamond into the perfect custom engagement ring. Whether you want a unique, modern design or a vintage style, Carl can accommodate you right in La Jolla.
This means you get not only the diamond at a wholesale price, but also expert craftsmanship for the ring, all in one place. Plus, you’ll have a local jeweler for future cleanings, appraisals, and any maintenance.
Savings in the Thousands
Carl’s diamond search often finds the exact same or very similar diamonds that you see listed on big websites, but at a lower cost.
Traditional jewelers often charge a hefty premium, and even online retailers have margins to meet.
By comparison, C. Blackburn Jewelers is a one-man operation with low overhead, and Carl passes the savings onto you, operating with transparency and a commitment that no couple should overpay for a diamond.
In fact, when it comes to large diamonds over 3 carats, clients routinely save thousands of dollars using this service – money that can go toward your wedding, honeymoon, or new life together.
📞 Schedule a free diamond consultation. Call 858-251-3006. Or send us an email with our contact form.
La Jolla Diamond Store
Why Buy a Diamond from C. Blackburn Jewelers in San Diego?
C. Blackburn Jewelers isn’t a typical mall jewelry store – it’s a locally owned boutique in La Jolla with a reputation for integrity and expertise. Here are a few reasons San Diego couples choose Carl Blackburn for such an important purchase:
• Trusted Experience: Carl is one of California’s most prominent diamond buyers and a recognized expert in the jewelry industry. He’s a second-generation jeweler who has been designing custom jewelry and dealing in diamonds for decades.
• Sterling Reputation: C. Blackburn Jewelers boasts a 5.0-star rating on Yelp and Google, with clients praising Carl’s honesty, knowledge, and no-pressure approach.
Many reviews mention that he offers higher value and a better experience than other buyers or sellers. “Knowledgeable, honest, and transparent… with the best prices,” as one reviewer noted. This consistent positive feedback has made C. Blackburn Jewelers one of the top-rated jewelers in San Diego County.
• Personalized Service, No Pressure: At our jewelry store, you’re not just another sale. Carl works one-on-one with clients by appointment, meaning you get his undivided attention. He’ll discuss diamond quality, show you how to read a lab certificate, and even explain the pricing in detail. Whether you end up buying or not, you’ll walk away more informed.
Customers often comment that the experience is friendly, respectful, and accommodating – a far cry from high-pressure sales tactics.
• Local Craftsmanship & Aftercare: Beyond finding your diamond, C. Blackburn Jewelers can custom design your ring or provide a beautiful setting from our collection. All work (sizing, setting, engraving) is done by skilled artisans with Carl overseeing the quality. And since we’re local, you have a lifelong jeweler relationship for cleaning, insurance appraisals, and future upgrades or repairs.
Choosing a diamond is a big decision, but it doesn’t have to be stressful. Our goal is to make the process easy, transparent, and even fun – with the end result being you have a gorgeous diamond ring and confidence that you made a wise purchase.
Lab-Grown Vs. Natural Diamonds
In recent years, lab-grown diamonds have become a popular option for engagement rings, especially for couples who want a larger diamond on a smaller budget. These are real diamonds (chemically identical to mined diamonds) grown in high-tech labs. C. Blackburn Jewelers can assist you in buying lab-grown stones as well.
Here’s what to consider, and how we help you decide:
• Cost Advantages: While many retailers price lab-grown diamonds at around 50-60% less than natural diamonds of the same size and quality, Carl Blackburn prices lab-grown diamonds at 80-90% less. This means you might be able to buy a high quality 6 carat lab-grown diamond for the price of a 1 carat natural diamond with the same specs. If getting the biggest possible diamond for your budget is the goal, lab-grown can be very appealing.
• Quality and Appearance: Visually, lab-grown and natural diamonds of the same grade look identical to the naked eye. They are both genuine diamond. Lab diamonds also come with certifications (there are specific lab-grown grading reports) so you know the 4Cs quality. Carl can source high-quality lab-grown diamonds that are beautifully cut and graded by reputable labs.
• Long-Term Value: One difference is that natural diamonds tend to hold value better on the resale market, whereas lab-grown diamonds’ prices have been declining as technology improves. Carl will be candid about this aspect – if you think you might ever upgrade or resell, it’s something to weigh. However, if your main focus is getting a gorgeous stone for a great price now, lab-grown might be the right choice.
• No Compromise Option: Some clients choose to go lab-grown for the center stone to maximize size, and then use natural diamond side stones, or vice versa. We can discuss hybrid approaches. The goal is to get you a ring you’re thrilled with, within your comfort zone financially.
• Our Support: Whether you lean towards a natural mined diamond or a lab-grown diamond, our process is the same: we’ll hunt through our network to find the best examples that fit your specs.
Carl stays updated on the lab-grown market as well, given its rising popularity. We’ve added gorgeous lab-created diamonds to many San Diego engagement rings for clients who specifically requested them.
You’ll receive full disclosure and documentation (so there’s no confusion; a lab-grown will always be clearly noted as such on its cert and receipt). We believe in empowering you with information to make the choice that’s right for you.
Our priority is that you feel you got the perfect stone for you. If you’re curious about lab-grown options, we’re happy to include those in your diamond search results and compare them side by side with natural diamonds of similar specs.
You might be surprised at what the price difference can be – and then you can decide if the trade-offs are worth it.
📞 Schedule a free diamond consultation. Call 858-251-3006.
Fancy Cut & Colored Diamonds
Buy a Fancy Colored Diamond
Through Carl Blackburn’s network of wholesalers and estate jewelers, we can help you buy a fancy colored diamonds in a variety of cuts and carat weights at a price near wholesale.
Whether you are seeking a certified natural fancy diamond or a lab-grown colored diamond (which offers similar beauty at a fraction of the price), Carl will present you with options that fit your budget and style.
Each fancy colored diamond carries its own symbolism and personality, making them an exceptional choice for those who want an custom engagement ring that truly stands out.
• Yellow Diamonds (Canary Diamonds): Bright and sunny, yellow diamonds are among the most sought-after fancy colors. They pair beautifully with yellow gold or platinum settings and are often chosen by those who want a vibrant, joyful look.
• Pink Diamonds: Rare and romantic, pink diamonds are highly prized for their soft blush tones. They symbolize love and tenderness.
• Blue Diamonds: Associated with elegance and depth, blue diamonds are extremely rare in nature. Even smaller stones carry prestige and sophistication.
• Champagne & Cognac Diamonds: These earthy-toned diamonds offer warmth and uniqueness at a more approachable price point than vivid pink or blue natural diamonds, making them increasingly popular among San Diego couples seeking individuality.
• Other Fancy Colors: From green to orange to red, fancy colored diamonds exist in a spectrum of possibilities, with lab-grown options making them affordable for all couples.
Affordable Fancy Cut Diamonds
Every couple envisions their engagement ring differently. Some are drawn to the timeless sparkle of a round brilliant, others to the romantic softness of a cushion cut, or the elongated elegance of an oval. Still others want the dramatic flair of a marquise, a very attractive shape that makes a diamond look even larger than its weight.
At C. Blackburn Jewelers, you can buy virtually any cut, size, or style at a price near wholesale.
Popular Shapes for Today’s Brides
Round Brilliant – The classic favorite, with 58 facets engineered for unmatched brilliance and fire.
Cushion Cut – Vintage yet modern, with rounded corners and large facets that give a soft, romantic glow.
Oval Cut – Graceful and flattering, this shape creates the illusion of a bigger stone while slimming the finger.
Marquise Cut – Distinctive and bold, with pointed ends that maximize spread across the finger, giving impressive size presence.
Rare & Designer Cuts
For those seeking something beyond the mainstream, Carl can also locate specialty cuts such as the Ashoka, Royal Asscher, or Lily Cut. These unique stones bring artistry and exclusivity to an engagement ring, and are rarely found in standard retail or online inventories.
All Shapes, All Sizes
From pear and emerald cuts to radiant, Asscher, or heart-shaped stones, Carl will track down the best version for your budget. Whether you’re after a delicate half-carat solitaire or a dazzling five-carat showpiece, the search receives the same level of precision and care.
Perfect Match for Custom Rings
If you’re designing a custom engagement ring, sourcing the right diamond is critical. Carl works with you — and with your designer, if you have one — to ensure the diamond’s proportions perfectly complement your chosen setting.
This personalized approach guarantees that your one-of-a-kind ring is crowned with a truly one-of-a-kind stone, something mass-market jewelers simply can’t deliver.
📞 Schedule a free diamond consultation. Call 858-251-3006.
La Jolla Wholesale Diamond FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does “near-wholesale price” actually mean?
A: It means you’re paying only a small margin above what a jewelry store or diamond dealer would pay when buying the diamond from a cutter or wholesaler.
Carl’s business model is built on lower margins, because he has a lower overhead and is a designer of custom engagement rings, so you pay dramatically less than traditional retail.
For example, a diamond that might retail for $10,000 in a store could be sourced for thousands of dollars less via our wholesale network – and we would then offer it to you with a modest margin on top of that lower cost.
Q: How much can I really save by buying a large diamond from C. Blackburn Jewelers?
A: Savings vary, but they are often significant. On average, clients save around 15%–30% compared to normal retail or designer store prices for the same quality diamond.
For a large diamond (2–3 carats or more), this can translate to thousands of dollars in savings. We’ve had clients save over $5,000, $10,000, even more on very high-carat or high-quality purchases. We will happily show you the comparable listing prices vs. our price so you see the difference clearly.
Q: Is it cheaper to buy a diamond online or from C. Blackburn Jewelers?
A: In many cases, our price will be as low or lower than what you’ll find online, especially once you factor in things like sales tax (which you have to pay for online purchases shipped to CA) and the ability to see the diamond first.
Online sites can have good deals on certain stones, but because we search across many sources (including those same suppliers), we can often find an equivalent or better diamond for less.
Plus, you get the advantage of our vetting – we might disqualify a “cheap” diamond because it has a hazy appearance or a poor cut, even if the stats looked good online. We ensure you’re getting a beautiful stone for the price, not just a good paper spec.
Q: What if I have a very specific request, like a 4-carat oval diamond of a certain color grade?
A: That’s exactly where our service shines. The more specific your request, the more value we provide because searching for a rare combination can be like finding a needle in a haystack on your own.
Carl loves a challenge – he will tap his worldwide industry contacts to find a selection of diamonds that meet your criteria. If it exists in the market, we’ll do our utmost to find it for you. And if it doesn’t exist exactly (for instance, you want a 4.00 carat D color flawless oval – extremely rare), we might find a close alternative (like a 3.90 carat D VVS2 that looks identical to the eye but costs far less).
We’ll present options and discuss the trade-offs so you can make an informed choice.
Q: Are the diamonds certified? How do I know I’m getting what you say I am?
A: We only deal in certified diamonds from reputable gemological labs such as GIA, AGS, or IGI (IGI is common for lab-grown diamonds). Every diamond you consider will come with an official grading report detailing its carat weight, color, clarity, cut grade (if applicable), and other characteristics.
Carl will go over the certificate with you and also personally inspect each stone to ensure it meets quality standards. We stand by the authenticity and grade of every diamond we sell – guaranteed.
Q: Do I have to pay for the wholesale diamond search upfront?
A: No – the initial consultation and search are completely free. We do not charge any upfront fees to find diamonds for you. You only spend money if you decide to purchase a diamond that you love. It’s a risk-free inquiry.
We do this because we’re confident in the value we provide; the vast majority of people who use our service end up thrilled with one of the options we find. If not, you owe nothing and can walk away or continue your search elsewhere, no hard feelings.
Q: What about ring settings? Can I buy just the loose diamond from you?
A: That’s up to you. We have clients who come to us solely to source an excellent loose diamond (some are jewelers or out-of-town buyers who only need the stone). We are happy to provide just the diamond. However, most engagement ring clients also want a beautiful setting for their diamond.
We offer full-service engagement ring creation right here in La Jolla. You can choose from our selection of classic and modern settings, or work with Carl directly to design a custom ring from scratch.
Carl is a well-known San Diego jewelry designer, and our craftspeople will bring your vision to life. By sourcing the diamond and setting through one place, you ensure the final ring is perfect. And yes, we can often bundle the diamond and setting for an even better overall price.
Q: I’m not ready to buy yet. Can I just get information?
A: Absolutely! We know buying a diamond is a big decision that might take time. If you’re in the early research phase, feel free to schedule a consultation just to ask questions and explore options.
Carl can help you understand what quality of diamond fits your budget, the pros and cons of different choices, and even tips on how to plan for the purchase. There is no obligation or pressure – we’re here as a resource.
When (and if) you’re ready to move forward, we’ll be here to help and prove that we are the best place to buy a diamond in San Diego.
📞 Schedule a free diamond consultation. Call 858-251-3006. Or send us an email with our contact form.
Serving All of San Diego County
We welcome clients from Del Mar, La Mesa, Rancho Santa Fe, Carlsbad, and other San Diego communities.
Find the perfect diamond now
You don’t have to settle for less or overspend to get a diamond you’ll love forever. If you’re in San Diego (or even beyond) and looking for the best value on a large carat diamond, take advantage of the personalized service at C. Blackburn Jewelers in La Jolla.
It’s like having a personal diamond concierge who is 100% on your side.
Here’s how to get started: Simply reach out to us by phone or through our website to book a consultation with Carl. Let us know a little about what you’re looking for (or even if you have no idea and need guidance – that’s fine too!).
We’ll schedule a time for you to visit our La Jolla jewelry store, or set up a call if you prefer. From there, we’ll guide you step by step. In just a few days, you could be looking at hand-selected diamonds that meet your wish list – and feeling amazed at the prices we found for you.
Don’t spend more than you have to, and don’t wander San Diego’s jewelry stores or the internet alone, wondering who to trust. Join the many savvy couples who have discovered a smarter way to buy a big, beautiful diamond.
Whether it’s a 1-carat princess cut or a 5-carat oval, we’re here to ensure you get the absolute best diamond for your dollar. We’ll can also help you buy colored gems like sapphire, ruby, emerald, aquamarine, morganite, and tanzanite at a near wholesale price.
Contact C. Blackburn Jewelers today to start your diamond search. We can’t wait to help you save money and walk away with the diamond of your dreams – shining on your finger, not straining your finances. Here’s to finding your perfect diamond, at your perfect price!
📞 Schedule a free diamond consultation. Call 858-251-3006.
C. Blackburn Jewelers
Buy high quality diamonds and precious gemstones for the lowest price in San Diego.
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