Finding and Affording Your Perfect Diamond Engagement Ring

It’s a time honored tradition – buying an engagement ring.   Many come to us bewildered by all the choices.   It is for this reason, we recommnend doing your homework – this will save  you time and money in the long run.  Below are a few tips to keep in mind while you’re shopping and what you can expect from us at Alexa Rose Fine Jewelry.   

One – Get to know your perfect diamond.

Before you go shopping for your diamond engagement ring be certain to have done some research.  Begin by researching the 4 C’s (Cut, Clarity, Color and Carat) and start to understand how this will affect the final price.  This will help you to develop your budget for your diamond engagement ring. 

Each one of the 4 C’s lends something special to your diamond for your engagement ring be certain to have a basic understanding before beginning your search.  When you’re sitting with your sales consultant, remember, ask questions and have them clarify anything you do not completely understand. 

If shopping for other pieces of fine jewelry, you can still loosely apply the 4 C’s, ask your sales consultant about the quality of the diamonds, the total carat weight and if it’s a large pendant, see if there is a smaller size available.  

As for your experience with us – We’ll gladly answer any question you have about diamond quality and/or construction of a piece of jewelry. 

Two – Don’t be afraid to shop around and compare prices. 

We shop around for the best prices on computers, televisions and cars why not diamonds?  My belief (to a certain degree) is that diamonds have their own mystique that has been branded over the years with DeBeers, Cartier and Tiffany.  Also, just very much like your attorney or your physician this relationship is usually based on a referral.    While this system is great sometimes, you may not jive with the person with whom you’ve been referred.   So, this is another great reason to shop and compare prices.  This gives you an opportunity to discuss with other sales consultants and find what best for you.  In the end make sure you’re dealing with a reputable company, the last thing you would want is to have the person from whom you’re purchased your engagement ring to up and disappear.   Even if you have to pay a little more,  in the long run its usually worth it. 

Three – Time to Upgrade?

During down turns in the market, larger diamonds (those defined as 2.0ct or greater) usually experience higher levels of inventory.  As a result the larger stones typically drop in price, so if you’ve been waiting to upgrade; this could be the best time for you to upgrade and receive a great price.  

Four –  Deal with a reputable company.

I mentioned this earlier but, double check the firm with the BBB, etc.  Ensure that they’re a  reputable company.  Just like your mechanic, you need to be certain that you’re dealing with someone who has a good track record and who is honest.  Check with the Jewelers Board of Trade as this firm rates jewelers according to several different factors.   Also, checking with the local BBB is another great way to check on a business and its reputation. 

Be certain to also check the company’s return, exchange policy and upgrade policy, this could affect you later so be certain that you have a complete understanding before you buy. 

Five – Look for jewelers who extend credit or offer payment terms. 

This dove tails with item four.  Most reputable jewelers will have financing options available for customers.  In today’s market, some jewelers are starting to offer layaway options for clients as well.  

Six – Sustainable diamonds!

Grandma's Ring

Do you have a ring that was bequeathed to your or a tie tack, pair of earrings or even a pendant?  Consider using that stone for your diamond engagement ring.  You’ll be amazed at the new life a diamond will take on when placed in a new setting.  This will save you thousands and potentially allow you to purchase a more expensive diamond mount that you had originally planned.  

Seven – A final word – the 4 C’s

We’ll close this as we began.  We routinely are asked about the 4 C’s (Cut, Clarity, Color and Carat) and what one can successfully sacrifice in the interest of their budget.  This truly is a personal preference, let your sales consultant know your budget.  Do not be shy about it as they should be able to provide you with enough choices for you to make an informed decision.   In short, let your eye and your pocket book be your guide. 

An engagement ring is one of the single largest purchases that most couples will ever make – Alexa Rose Fine Jewels is here to help you, however, if you’re not in our area  we would like to be certain that you’re able to make an informed, smart and quality purchase.   We invite you to visit our showroom in North Scottsdale for your engagement ring consultation.   We look forward to working with you, please feel free to call us at 480.656.0652 or email us at sales@alexarosejewelry.com

Men’s Engagement Rings

We all know that diamonds are a girl’s best friend but,  what about the guys?  We’ve looked at customs of other countries when it comes to engagements and marriage.    In some countries, men and women wear wedding bands from the date of engagement and in other countries not only does the bride to be receive a ring the groom to be does as well.  Engagement gifts for men vary widely from wrist watches, cars to an actual engagement ring.

We, here in the US, tend to think of a diamond engagement ring as something solely to be given to the bride to be and that’s great but, again what about the guys?  Most men prefer not to wear jewelry for a whole host of reasons from finding it a bit effeminate, to their profession and/or they just find it uncomfortable.  I can relate to the latter as at times wearing a ring, a bracelet or necklace even gets on my nerves and I love it.   So, its no surprise that men would prefer not to wear jewelry.

So, what does one do?  Well, I would say let your man choose his perfect wedding band.  Men’s wedding bands can be custom made just like your diamond engagement ring.   And Dora Bands has a whole host of men’s diamond wedding bands or men’s gold, men’s titanium or men’s platinum wedding bands.  With Alexa Rose you have almost an endless supply of ideas from which to draw.

We’ll help you select an existing style from our showroom or we’ll help you create your groom’s wedding band.    As a side note, if you have a family diamond we’ll re-set it for you in either a new diamond engagement ring, new diamond pendant or your own custom design.  The hardest part will be finding the perfect ring or piece of jewelry.  So, do not be afraid to ask us about options or being a bit creative.  We’re glad to help.

When you think about it, one has almost as many options for a men’s wedding band as one does for a diamond engagement ring.  Call us today at 480.656.0652 or email us (Sales@alexarosejewelry.com).  We look forward to working with you.

An Engagement Ring that gives back…..

We all love when we have an opportunity to give back to our communities or to others. 

Wouldn’t it be nice to know when purchasing an diamond engagement ring that part of the proceeds were actually being donated to charitable organization?  Now, you can!  Alexa Rose Fine Jewels is a proud corporate partner with the Phoenix Children’s Hospital and upon request we will donate a portion of the sale of your fine jewelry purchase to the hospital. 

We believe in giving back as we are a family owned and operated business.  We know the importance of family and community.  We have been blessed with 2 beautiful and healthy children.  However, we have had the opportunity through minor childhood illnesses to experience,  the kind and giving nature of the Phoenix Children’s Hospital.  It is for this reason, that we are giving back to the Phoenix Children’s Hospital. 

So, now when you’re searching for the perfect engagement ring, earrings or diamond necklace not only will you be certain of getting a great deal but you’ll also have the warm fuzzy feeling knowing that you are indeed giving back to your community and to a sick child.   So, let us help you create a lasting memory with your fine jewelry purchase and allow us to help give back to our community. 

For further questions, please contact us at 480.656.0652 or visit us on line at alexarosejewelry.com 

 

 

 

Creating your own engagement ring

We all like that special feeling, when we find the perfect pair of shoes, the perfect little black dress and better yet – is it the only one of its kind?  Yes, even better!  It’s human nature to have something that is completely and totally unique to you.   Enter, custom design or numbered collections for shoes, jewelry, art and other apparel.

Over the past months, many of you tuning in have learned some of the finer points of buying diamond jewelry, have come to understand the 4 C’s and have learned that one needs not to break the band to have an absolutely fabulous engagement ring or a piece of fine jewelry.

Well, I’m (we’re) at it again – we’re here to help you navigate the waters of custom designing your ring or other piece of fine jewelry (Necklace, pendant, earrings, etc.).   No matter what you choose to call it, creating your engagement ring, designing your engagement ring or making your engagement ring or substitute ring, for necklace, earring, pendants, etc.  The process can be a bit overwhelming and quite costly if you’re not careful.

As I’ve mentioned before we are essentially wholesale jewelry to the public.    We are not to fond of this phrase as it conjures up images that are not exactly positive or inviting.   Yet, as we are wholesale jewelers,  we do not have the wholesale jewelry feel nor do we have the wholesale jewelry  mentality or austere showroom.   Our boutique is semi-private (we prefer to work on appointments), we’ll offer you a soda, we’ll sit with you and discuss your options for an engagement ring, pendant or earrings and then you decide which way you’d like to proceed.   In short, its kind of like sitting with a friend;  quite a different approach to purchasing fine jewelry.

So, what  is involved when you’re designing your engagement ring or an independence ring or other piece of fine jewelry.   Well, there are 3 distinct phases for creating your piece of diamond jewelry; one, the design or sketching phase, two, the CAD drawing phase and adjustments and third and final phase, production.   Obviously, once these three phases are completed, your fabulous new ring is delivered.    So, let’s take a brief stroll through custom designing a piece of jewelry.

First,  the sketch – we’ll sit with you and hand sketch the details of the ring.  This usually involves photographs of rings you’ve seen in magazines, live samples or even your own hand drawings.   We’ll sit with you make recommendations based on our experience designing jewelry and then we’ll take all of our notes to our CAD department who will then take our drawing(s) and render it into a 3-D computerized version of your ring.

Example of CAD Ring

Second,  the CAD drawing  – this is a 3-D computerized version of your ring.  It is key to remember that CAD drawings will not take into account the details that may have been requested during the sketching phases.  Some of these details include miligrain, etchings and under-carriage design.  All of these items will be handled in the production phase and unusually close to completion of  your piece of jewelry.

Third, the production – once you’ve given your blessing to produce from the CAD drawing, we will instruct our designer to start production of the ring.  Depending upon the complexity of the ring, this phase can take as little as a few days but could potentially take up to several weeks.   This phase is marked by patience – the old adage good things come to those who wait comes to mind.

Now that we’ve covered the essentials, let’s have a look at the cost of creating a ring from scratch.   Depending upon the designer or the firms practices – you may find that a sitting fee is required before a sketch of your ring is completed, followed by CAD drawing fees and then finally the production quote/cost.     Today, many firms have been able to eliminate some of these costs as the market has become so very competitive but, it is wise to ask about other fees associated.

As for us, we do not charge a sitting fee, nor a CAD fee to our clients as we’re essentially wholesale jewelery manufacturers.  We utilize our extensive network of artisans and manufacturers to ensure quality, creativity and timely delivery for all of our jewelry regardless if its a custom designed ring or a semi-custom job.  We take pride in all the jewelry that we produce for our clients because we understand that its not just a ring – its a symbol of love, fidelity and it has more sentimental value to you, no matter what the cost.

While this posting does not cover all of the intricacies with regard to custom design.  My hope is that it will help provide a basis and a better understanding of what is involved with regard to custom designing of jewelry.  Still have questions?  Please do not hesitate to contact us at 480.656.0652 or email us at sales@alexarosejewelry.com.  We look forward to working with you.

Engagement Rings; Price and perception…

Tracy Efune with a client

Your wedding day, a day that most women have been dreaming about since they were small children.  I, on the other hand, well, let’s just say I  think that I am not truly from Venus but rather from Mars.    I never dreamt of my wedding day or even my engagement ring nor did I play with Barbies as a child.  I was too busy outside, playing ball, climbing trees and being an all around tom-boy.  In fact, my Barbies slept for months on end and then ended up missing.  

Ah, I know, this begets the question, how on earth did I end up in the jewelry business?  A business that is driven by love and the white dress; in short the whole enchilada.   Well, the vote is still out how I ended up in this business but the consensus, I fell into it.  And no regrets, our customers are great and I love showing people how they can get the engagement ring of their dreams and not break the bank! 

Well, if I have to count my blessings and I do, I am grateful that we are not the typical jewelry store.   We’re for the most part wholesale to the public and this translates to our to diamonds, finished jewelery or even gemstone jewelry.  While we may be wholesale to the public we do not have that wholesale feel, our environment is comfortable and inviting.  We offer personalized service and a large selection of jewelry for you to choose.  It is our commitment to service that we believe sets us apart from the other guys.   However, as I’ve said before, you’re spending a great deal of money and you need to be comfortable and confident with whomever you choose to do business.   So, be a little selfish – shop around. 

We’ve spent a lot of time talking about the finer points of selecting  jewelry and diamonds.   Given the current economic conditions,it is imperative that you are smart about your purchase and shop around.   While I am not an advocate of using the words cheap to describe jewelry,  we do offer a wide range of engagement mounts that are inexpensive.  Ones that yes, can be described as cheap engagement rings.  We also have expensive designer engagement rings and as we do custom designed engagement rings we have something that will appeal to everyone.   I must say that I prefer to use the phrase inexpensive to describe an engagement ring rather than the word cheap to describe an engagement ring.   If you’re viewing our website and do not see something that fits your budget, give us a call or email us at sales@alexarosejewelry.com,  as we do have other options available.  We just are unable to get every style available onto the website.   

Style Code GR1519

As I have mentioned previously, some cost saving options are as follows;  consider setting a CZ  until you are able to afford a diamond or even consider a mossiante.   You may also want to consider a gemstone rather than a diamond.  There is no law out there that says you have to buy a diamond.  Do what is comfortable for you and your budget.  We’re glad to help you, what ever you decide.   Just be certain of one thing – that you and not the store are 100% satisfied with your diamond engagement ring purchase.  As always we are here to help, feel free to give us a call at 480.656.0652 or email us at sales@alexarosejewelry.com

Mythbusters – Diamonds at home?

Urban legends come in all shapes and sizes, some are scary and some funny and some just out right unbelievable!  This springs to mind after watching Mythbusters, the program started with testing the banana peel and the slippery factor of said banana.   They did eventual prove that lots of bananas could indeed be a bit of a hazard but it would require about 100 bananas or more.  I actually do not remember the exact count but it was a lot and very rotten bananas at that.    You may be wondering why on earth I would bring this up when we’re supposed to be talking about jewelry? 

 What caught my attention was this evening,  they included a segment on making diamonds at home!  I had never heard of such a thing and after seeing the methods they were testing, I can see why, they were a bit outlandish.   One even claimed that you could turn ordinary Peanut Butter into a diamond!  Wow, this gives new glow to the PB&J. 

The long and short of it.  Peanut butter, coal and water in a microwave or coal and water in a pressure cooker, does not make diamonds.  So, if you see an infomercial claiming that you can make diamonds at home, it would be a good idea to save your money.  

My personal preference;  Mother Nature makes diamonds; not a microwave in your kitchen or the barbecueoutside.   However, while researching for this posting, I did come across some interesting concepts in synthetic diamonds or what they are dubbing ‘cultured diamonds.’  There is a company in Florida called Gemesis that is producing synthetic diamonds and they are just like the real deal according to the article and their website.  As I have not had contact with this firm nor have I had an opportunity to review their product I can not comment on their quality, but I must admit that the images and information presented on their website was quite thought provoking and interesting.   

In short, it would seem that science fiction and reality have met!   I find the technology fascinating but for me I would still prefer mother nature’s brand.  My ultimate concern is the quality, with diamonds one knows what they are getting and are assured that the diamonds will not change color or grow cloudy over time.  However,  CZs and moissanites will sometimes  discolor or become cloudy.  I mention this becuase if you’re purchasing an engagement ring or other piece of jewelry, you need to know exactly what you’re getting.    This may sound cliche but, you get what you pay for; jewelry (at least in my opinion) falls squarely into this category.    Please know, I am not suggesting that one has to spend a fortune to obtain a beautiful piece of jewelry but, please understand the elements that comprise your purchase.  Take some time to understand, to research and to be informed; it’ll pay dividends for you in the long term.  This goes back to a few of my earlier posts in which, we discussed some cost saving ideas and also how to judge the value of diamonds with the 4 C’s; be sure you’re educated and have done some price comparison so you know what you are ultimately purchasing in the end.  

As always, please know that we are available for assistance and any questions or concerns via sales@alexarosejewelry.com or give us a call at 480.656.0652 or feel free to stop in to visit with us.  You’ll be glad you did as you’ll find like so many others already have, we’re not your typical jewelry store.

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.

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