Diamonds As Bad Investments
Buy Like a Guy
Episode Overview Andy takes on the YouTube critics and industry cynics head-on, delivering a family legacy perspective on why dismissing diamonds as "bad investments" completely misses the fucking point. From his grandfather's 1919 start in the business to today's lab-grown revolution, this episode cuts through the financial advisor bullshit to reveal what diamonds are really worth. Key Takeaways The Investment Reality Check: Not once has Andy heard someone say "I'd like your finest appreciating asset, please" Diamonds end up on fingers of teachers, truck drivers, accountants - people marking...
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The Four C's (Part 2)-Clarity and Carat Weight
Buy Like a Guy
Chapter 2: The Four C's (Part 2) Episode Overview Andy finishes the Four C's conversation with Clarity and Carat Weight, delivers his legendary Diamond-to-Steak conversion chart, and cuts through the industry's microscopic bullshit to give you what actually matters when you're standing in that jewelry store. Key Takeaways The Clarity Reality Check: She doesn't need a flawless diamond unless she specifically asked for one - she just wants it to look that way Clarity grades are determined by gemologists with microscopes, not naked eyes in natural lighting The difference between...
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The Four C's (Part 1)
Buy Like a Guy
Episode Overview Andy breaks down the diamond industry's "sacred scripture" - the Four C's - but cuts through the BS to give you what you actually need to know. This is part one of a two-part deep dive into diamond grading, focusing on Cut and Color. Key Takeaways The Bottom Line on Diamond Education: You'll spend roughly 2 hours of your entire life discussing the Four C's Don't overthink it - learn enough to have an intelligent conversation with a pro Find someone you trust to guide you through the rest Why the Four C's Exist: Created by GIA in the 1940s to standardize diamond grading...
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Finding Your Guy on the Inside
Buy Like a Guy
Episode Overview Andy reads Chapter 1 from his new book, "The Inappropriate Guide to Buying An Engagement Ring" - a no-bullshit diamond and ring buying guide for guys who'd rather be anywhere else than a jewelry store. This episode covers the single most important piece of advice for buying an engagement ring without getting screwed over. Key Takeaways The Golden Rule: Find a jewelry store where you feel comfortable going. That's it. That's the secret. Why This Matters: Walking into most jewelry stores feels unnatural for guys Everything's behind glass, salespeople hover like vultures...
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The Inappropriate Guide to Buying an Engagement Ring
Buy Like a Guy
This is the first installment of the audiobook version of my book The Inappropriate Guide to Buying an Engagement Ring. I’ll be releasing one chapter a week, right here in the podcast feed. If you'd rather read the whole thing now (because waiting is for people in line at the DMV), you can grab the full book on Kindle or paperback by clicking . Full transcript below (Oh and hey! This is all copyrighted so don't steal my shit.) This is the "Inappropriate Guide to Buying an Engagement Ring- Irreverent Wisdom From an Industry Insider. Short, Simple, and Straight to the Point."...
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Ep. 88 - Taking A Break
Buy Like a Guy
Andy here with an announcement. I'm taking a break for the next couple of months so I can line up some guests I plan on having on the show. I plan on being back in October, ready with new episodes hot off the press so stay tuned for that. I want to make sure I'm delivering value in these episodes, so if you've learned something or know of someone who would be a great fit for the show definitely let me know! If you'd like help finding a jeweler closer to home, email me at and I'll do my best to put you in touch with some of the best jewelers on earth. Music credits: Preacher Man by Miles...
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Ep. 87 - Ask Andy: A Quick and Easy Way to Ruin The Moment
Buy Like a Guy
I'm going to share something I learned first hand about what you should not do when you buy and give something as special as an engagement ring, an anniversary gift...hell...any gift for that matter. I get right to the point when I tell you, "Don't tell her how much it cost. Not even a hint." Telling her what you paid for something can quickly turn a special moment into an awkward one. She's not going to feel cherished, loved, or appreciated if you disclose the price tag. It'll be more along the lines of uncomfortable embarrassment. I want to be clear, this isn't one of those...
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Ep. 86 - Love Unscripted: Bridging the "In-Between" with a Commitment Ring
Buy Like a Guy
In this episode, I'll talk about the concept of the commitment ring, that beautiful bridge between dating and engagement. Whether you’re sipping beers at a cookout or pondering your future, this episode dives into the emotional significance of giving and receiving a ring that says, “We’re in this together.” Join me as I discuss why a commitment ring is more than just jewelry—it’s a powerful declaration of love and dedication. Here's the link to If you want to talk with me personally you can email me at . Or if you'd like help finding a jewelry store closer to home,...
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Ep. 85 - Ask Andy: Lab-Grown Diamonds or Natural Diamonds?
Buy Like a Guy
In this episode we're going to dip our toes into the realm of lab-grown diamonds. I'll shed a little light on the ever-evolving diamond industry, exploring the distinctions between lab-grown and natural diamonds, their formation processes, and the ongoing debate surrounding their place in the fine jewelry world. Lab-Grown Diamonds: A Historical Perspective It may come as a surprise, but lab-grown diamonds trace their beginnings to the 1950s when General Electric crafted the first industrial-grade diamond crystals. Technological advancements have propelled the creation...
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Ep. 84 - Ask Andy: How Much Should You Spend On An Engagement Ring?
Buy Like a Guy
One of the most common questions I get is, how much does an engagement ring cost? Or how much should I spend to get a decent ring? Now there is no single answer to that, but today I'll share some numbers that might help you and then give you the single best answer I know of. If you want to talk with me personally you can email me at . I'm happy to personally help you find the right jewelry for your special occasion, or put you in touch with a jewelry pro that's closer to home. Music credits: Preacher Man by Miles Neilson and The Rusted Hearts, used with permission. A killer band with...
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Episode Overview
Andy reads Chapter 1 from his new book, "The Inappropriate Guide to Buying An Engagement Ring" - a no-bullshit diamond and ring buying guide for guys who'd rather be anywhere else than a jewelry store. This episode covers the single most important piece of advice for buying an engagement ring without getting screwed over.
Key Takeaways
The Golden Rule: Find a jewelry store where you feel comfortable going. That's it. That's the secret.
Why This Matters:
- Walking into most jewelry stores feels unnatural for guys
- Everything's behind glass, salespeople hover like vultures
- You suddenly don't know what to do with your hands
- It's a special kind of hell for men who've fallen in love
Finding Your Unicorn Jewelry Store:
- Ask friends who actually know you and get your style
- Search for independent jewelers online
- Check their reviews, website, and social media
- Look for their vibe - stuffy/formal vs. laid back/approachable
How to Find Your "Guy on the Inside"
Three Methods:
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Email the store - Tell them you need help. If the response feels too formal or generic, move on.
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Call them - A good jeweler on the phone is like a good first date - there's either chemistry or there isn't.
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Walk in and get down to business - Most terrifying but nothing beats face-to-face. You'll know within 5 minutes if it's your place.
What Your "Guy" Should Do
- Ask questions about her taste and what you want to give her
- Address your budget head-on (it's part of the equation)
- Guide you like that bartender who remembers your drink and steers you toward the good stuff
- Make you feel like a human being, not a walking wallet with commitment issues
Andy's Controversial Advice
When it feels right - buy it. Don't do the "I need to look around" dance that fear makes you think you have to do. When it clicks, it clicks. Pull the trigger and be done with it.
Why this works:
- Saves weeks of second-guessing
- Prevents comparing minute details that won't matter in 5 years
- You don't need to become a diamond expert - you need someone you trust who does this for a living
The Bottom Line
Find a jewelry store where you don't feel like you're standing there with your zipper open (but check that before you go in, just to be safe). Connect with someone who speaks your language, not "diamond-ese." When it feels right, trust your gut and pull the trigger.
About the Book
"The Inappropriate Guide to Buying An Engagement Ring" is available on Amazon. Andy is creating an audio version while keeping the podcast going by reading chapters on the show.
Warning: Contains raw language, unfiltered advice, and the kind of talk you'd get from your most honest friend after a few drinks.
Next Episode
Chapter 2 coming soon - more straight talk and war stories from the jewelry trenches.
Connect with Buy Like A Guy:
- Available wherever you get your podcasts
- Book available on Amazon
Show notes compiled from episode transcript