Jeweler Peter Reines was intrigued by the diamond ring that had been dropped off by Ashley Gibson for his inspection. The center diamond was certainly more than three carats, the cut was old European, and the setting was exquisite. A friend with an impressive collection of antique jewelry, who came by the store, offered $30,000 for the ring. That offer translated into a maximum price to Gibson of $27,500 if she were interested in selling it.