Diamonds, a solid investment or just pretty stones?

In today’s world, what makes a good investment?   In today’s world’s its hard to say – in the not to distant past the answer would  have been everything!   However, investing in anything takes practice, patience and certain level of expertise.  We routinely receive questions regarding investing in diamonds and/or when purchasing a stone what should one sacrifice?  In the latter situation, when purchasing a diamond(s) it all comes down to personal preference.  When you’re sitting with someone looking at stones be certain to start weighing out the different options and ask questions.   This will help you determine what is most important to you.  

However, in the industry,  the cut is always the one aspect we deem the most important and we routinely encourage our clients to heavily factor in the cut when making a decision.  It’s the cut that really provides a diamond with its brilliance and the sparkle.  The cut affects how light is refracted with in the diamond.  If the cut is too shallow or too deep, light either escapes or is trapped, thus affecting the over all appearance of a diamond.  This is true for any cut of diamond (princess, round, cushion, square, emerald cut, etc). 

Further, when you’re looking at diamonds, keep in mind that its your decision.  We’re hear to guide you through the process.  So, we come back to the basics, do your homework- search on-line for information on diamonds, many companies including ours – have an on-line diamond search that provides an excellent starting point.   Familiarize yourself with what your preferred shape of the diamond, do you want a princess cut, an oval, a marquis, an emerald cut, an asscher, etc.   Once you’ve established what you would ultimately like to end with in your engagement ring, you will be able to establish a budget for your purchase. 

Now, to the more interesting question of investing in diamonds.   As I have noted in previous posting, diamonds are not typically the best investment.  Diamonds and diamond jewelry should be more of an emotional purchase – a purchase to commemorate a special occasion or to celebrate the beginning of a life shared.   In you are investing in diamonds, seek out an expert’s opinion.  Diamonds that are of investment grade quality will be your larger diamonds/stones that are nearly perfect and carry quite the price tag as well.  Diamonds like art or antique vehicles fall into a category of passion investing.   We would strongly recommend seeking an expert’s opinion if you are even contemplating going this route. 

In the end our best recommend, like art, buy a piece of jewelry because you love it not because you’re expecting a return on the investment.  The return on the investment is the enjoyment of the piece and joy of giving a gift that is appreciated. 

As noted, we’re here to help you – please feel free to comment on this article or call us directly with any questions or concerns at 480-656-0652 or email us at mary@alexarosejewelry.com.

Pandora – Create your own jewelry

Everyone has heard about Pandora but few really know the true flexibility of their jewelry.  You have so many options when creating your perfect bracelet, necklace and they are now even getting into rings and other jewelry.   As we’re (Alexa Rose Fine Jewelry) new to the Pandora family of authorized dealers; we’ve been having a lot of fun mixing and matching beads to create our own fabulous designs.  I think this goes to the root of why Pandora is so popular.   Pandora offers almost unlimited possibilities for creating a special piece of jewelry and its very affordable! 

I think for us, we find the colors, the selection of beads and the online program to create your own bracelet; which you can print off and bring to us to be the most fun and rewarding.   For me, the creative aspect is the best part and isn’t life suppose to be fun?  We think so and its why we actually really enjoy Pandora jewelry. 

So, if you’re curious about Pandora, we invite you to come in and create your own signature Pandora bracelet or necklace.  Give us a call at 480-656-0735 or contact us via email at mary@alexarosejewelry.com.

Good ideas for Engagement Rings….

In today’s age of technological advances and information sharing its amazing what you can find at your finger tips.  One can find out what the average temperature is in the most remote areas of the planet as well as find out what the restaurant down the street has on its menu.  With this amount of information freely available its no wonder we have our clients coming to us very well educated as far as their desires and preferences in engagement rings, wedding bands and certified diamonds.   

We love working with people and helping them sort through the minutia to find the engagemet ring of their dreams.  We pride ourselves on being a non-traditional retailer.  We don’t have the fancy showroom in a major mall or large neo-signs announcing to the world,  here we are!  We’re tucked away in an office park in North Scottsdale, where we are able to offer a personalized, consultative approach to purchasing jewelry.  We realize that this is a bit off of the beaten track but, it offers a number of benefits, one, we semi-private so you don’t have to worry about someone distracting us or averting our attention; this is why we prefer to work via apopintments, two, we’re discreet so if you’re looking to shock and awe someone, we’ve got the styles to assist you, whether its a Pandora bracelet, earrings or necklace, we’ve got the perfect gift for you,  three, we’re direct importers so our prices are competitive and lastly, we’ve got all the latest styles and if we don’t have exactly what you desire, then we’ll create it for you. 

So, if you’re  searching for the non-retail experience, give us a try, we’re not your typical jewelry store.    Visit us at www.alexarosejewelry.com or phone us today at 480-656-0652.

Pandora Charms

As we recently became an authorized of PANDORA Charms, we’re so very happy to be able to bring this unique brand to the our neighbors in the North Scottsdale area.  While, we’re still new to PANDORA charms we’re enjoying discovering the variety of the charms and the variety of ways in which individuals create their own unique look. 

As we’re still new, we’ve only seen a few bracelets and necklaces from clients.  We’re looking forward to discovering more and experiencing more with this unique brand of jewelry.    We hope that you’ll share you’re creativity with us.  Feel free to give us a call to share your creativity with us; 480-656-0652. 

We look forward to working with you.

Wedding Spending up 5.2 % – Engagement rings, cakes and the all important reception.

As the economy continues to weigh on everyone minds, I found a study that is quite interesting.   

For 2008, brides wedding budget’s actually jumped 5.2% from 2007  but for the first quarter of 2009 the numbers dipped a mere 0.09%.   Many brides and grooms are skimping on certain ceremony costs like the photographers, wedding planners, caterers, and invitations.  Many couples are asking family friends to photograph their wedding, opting for a less expensive caterer and even doing the invitations themselves.   While this may not bode well  for some in the bridal industry it does for others. 

Items that brides are opting to spend more money to ensure their wedding gown is preserved properly, spending more on the band at the reception, ensuring that they have a day-of -the wedding coordinator and the center pieces at the reception.  It would seem that couples are making decisions that best suit their own personal style.  Isn’t this how it should be? 

We’ve seen quite a few couples,  who are opting to design their own engagement ring, skipping on the additional band for her and spending a little more on the groom’s band.   Many soon-to-be brides have commented that they really do not feel it is necessary to have an additional band, they would rather spend the money on their soon-to-be husband’s ring especially after he spent so much on the engagement ring. 

Our experience has  been that couples are opting to do it their way rather than the traditional route.  Further, couples are well informed and have been coming in knowing what they are looking for and what they desire.

Pandora Jewelry!

Just a quick note today!  Alexa Rose Fine Jewelry is proud to announce that we have become an authorized Pandora Jewelry Retailer.   We’re so excited to  be carrying Pandora charms and jewelry.    We’ve been going through the charms and there is one for just about anything and everything!  There is even a hedge hog and he’s so cute!  We’re looking forward to working with our clients to help them create their perfect charm bracelet or matching necklace.    Check them out at www.pandora-jewelry.com.

Engagement Rings; does it always have to be a diamond?

Engagement rings come in all shapes, sizes and styles.   An engagement ring is so much more than a piece of jewelry; it is a material symbol of love.  While most individuals prefer to purchase a diamond engagement ringthis is not an absolute.    if  you ask some, they will tell you that it is because of DeBeers and their savvy marketing campaigns that we purchase diamond engagement rings.   While there is some truth to that statement, I think that the item that is more worth noting is tradition.  It became tradition prior to the 50′s and the DeBeers marketing campaign.   The tradition was started or popularized by Maximilian I upon his gift to Mary of Burgundy a diamond ringas an engagement gift.    Through the centuries we have had a number of different items be en vogue as an engagement ring.  

Today, more than ever people are looking for cost effective ways of purchasing a diamond engagement ring.    While the diamond engagement ringis still the most popular.  We have seen a trend with individuals opting for moissanite, CZ’s and other gemstones as an engagement ring.  These different strategies allows them to get the bridal mounting of their dreams with out breaking the bank.    

Below,  I have listed those gemstones that I believe to be the most appropriate runners up to a diamond for an engagement ring.   These are merely my suggestions and there are a whole multitude of other choices out there.   Once again, an engagement ring is so much more than a piece of jewelry, it is a material symbol of love and fidelity. 

Amethysts are the gemstones of peace.  It reminds you to take it one day at a time and live life to the fullest.  This is great message for all not just those looking to get engaged.

Aquamarines are the gemstones that promotes a long and happy marriage.   

Emeralds symbolize love, rebirth and a new life.   You’re starting your new life together.    This can also apply to those that are starting a family (new mother) or if your girlfriend is starting a new career path or other endeavor. 

Garnets are the gemstones that represent a long lasting love letting your love know that she is the one and only for you.   

As mentioned, these are merely my suggestions and there are others out there that might fit your unique relationship with your significant other.  Most individuals appreciate the sentiment more than the money spent.    While we may direct importers of diamonds and diamond jewelry, we also have contacts that supply fabulous color gemstones.  We would be more than happy to assist you in finding your perfect gemstone engagement ring or diamond engagement ring.   Please email any questions or concerns to us at  sales@alexarosejewelry.com

Cost Saving Strategies for Purchaseing an Engagement Ring.

The economy is still taking center stage and everyone has become very cost conscious.  The phrase ‘if you have to ask the price, you can’t afford it,’ has fallen out of favor.  However, I tend to take the position that the American consumer has always been extremely savvy and conscious of the quality of items purchased.   In our current economic conditionconsumers are even more price sensative.    This is extraordinarily true with any big ticket purchase – i.e. an enagement ring, anniversary band or other piece of fine jewelry.

So, how do you know you’re getting a good deal?  This may seem obvious but start with research.  Look at styles, prices and quality of items presented.   While I may sound like a broken record, this really will help you in the long run.  This will not only make your shopping experience easier but it will also help guide you and the sales person helping you. 

Some other points to consider, choice of metals.  Engagement rings like all jewelry come in many different shapes, sizes and styles.   Platinum has long been a favorite for an engagement rings and bridal sets.  Historically, platinum has been much more expensive that gold.  However, in today’s market 18KW gold and platinum are almost on par with reguard to cost.   If cost is a major factor, consider a 14K gold setting as this will lower your cost; not substantially, but any reduction is always a great help.  It doesn’t hurt to have a ring quoted for you in 18K  and 14K.   This will allow you to make an informed decision.   

Style Code GR1519

Another idea, recycle a family diamond, the half pair of diamond studs you’re hanging on too or the pendant that you never wear.   You’ll be amazed at how wonderful your diamond will look in a new setting.  Remember you can use men’s jewlry too! I’ve heard stories about tie tacks, cuff links and gentleman’s rings where the diamond has been unset and re-set into an engagement ring.

If you do have to purchase a diamond, do your homework and keep your budget in mind.   Remember with a diamond its not just the carat weight but also the clarity, cut and color, your personal preferences and your wallet.   If you do have to go smaller than what you originally intended do not be discouraged.  If you purchase a center stone that is certified upgrading will be very easy when your budget allows.

And keep this in mind.  When purchasing a smaller diamond the bridal mounting will typically need to be custom made.  Do not let this deter you!  This offers several advantages, one, there should be some cost savings (a smaller setting – less gold and potentially less carat weight), two, most firms will not require full payment upfront rather just a deposit to order the ring (which does give you a little bit of time to pay for it) and three, you will have a unique piece of jewelry.   Remember that ordering a ring will take some time so, a little patience will be required.   If you do choose to go this route be sure to check what the retailers policy is for custom orders, make sure you understand th fine print and factor all of these items into your decision. 

I know I’ve spoken about this previously, but make sure you’re dealing with a reputable company.   More stable firms will offer consumer friendly services and will not be driven merely by commission.  Check for additional services such as cleanings, repairs and even additional insurance services.  These are all factors to be considered when purchasing your engagement ring. 

I’ve said this before, try to have some fun!  Enjoy, this is an exciting time and you should enjoy it and carry found memories.

Tracy Efune with a client

Diamond and Diamond Engagement Ring Trivia

The economy continues to take center stage and with less than sparkling news.   As I’m certain that others are beginning to feel a bit despondent about the news I thought let’s have some light conversation about the diamonds and trivia for your next social gathering.    I’ve been searching from the culet to the table and beyond.   The internet is a great source of information!  So, with out further delay…..

Did you know……

                                   ….that the first written notation of diamonds was around 500 B.C.?  Do you think it was a ‘Dear John,’ letter with the ring a top?  At the time of this publication I have yet to find what type of written correspondence, I will keep looking as it would be interesting to know.  
                                   …..a diamond is nearly fireproof?  For a diamond to burn it needs to be heated to 1,292 degree Fahrenheit!  Wow!

                                   ……that Australia accounts for producing the most diamonds in volume.  Hey, there’s another reason to go visit our branch location in Melbourne. 

                                   ….the largest diamond ever found here in the United States was 40.23ct.  It was found in Crater of Diamonds State Park in Arkansas.

                                   ….a law in 13th century France forbade anyone but the King from wearing diamonds. 

                                   ….an uncut or flawed diamonds carry bad luck in the Hindu religion.  While in western lore a diamond in any form carries good luck and other benefits. 
                          
                                   ….dying stars aka ‘cool white drawfs,’ actually contain diamonds at their core.
                                  
                                   ….that a diamond is the world’s hardest naturally occurring substance, but I wouldn’t recommend smashing it with a hammer.

                                   ….that a diamond can only be scratched by another diamond. 

                                   …..and a diamond is not really forever.  A diamond’s life span is only 3.4 billion years but that’s long enough for most to consider it forever. 

                                   ….in Sweden brides where three rings on their wedding day, the engagement ring and 2 bands.  One band signifies her marriage vows and the other motherhood.

                                   ….in Chile a bride and groom exchange rings from the date of the proposal.  The rings are worn on their right hand until marriage when they are switched to the left.

Hope you’ve enjoyed some of these little trivia points about the diamond that sits in your diamond engagement ring.   We’re here to help you with  your diamond engagement ring purchase or a loose diamond for an existing setting.  Feel free to contact us via sales@alexarosejewelry.com or via phone 480-656-0652.   We look forward to hearing from you.