Well, I bounced off this game. I think the game core is solid, but there were numerous things that turned me off, now that I reflect on it. The diamonds thing was the tip of the iceberg.
I really did want to like the game, and I tried to explain why the rule gap threw me off the game, and I only bother to engage like this when I think a game could eventually shine for me. But I think I will leave things here, because it sounds like any critiques I have wouldn't be useful to you, and that's good to know.
I like a lot of games, and usually am able to adapt things on my own even with loose rules or rules that don't fit what I want to do, so I think it isn't a lack of ability on my part to improvise.
Sometimes we just bounce off games, and there really isn't anything else to it. I won't leave a review, it would really not be fair. I think this game will find a good audience in the end.