Engagement Rings; Did you know?

Every since Maximilian I gave Mary of Burgundy a diamond ring as an engagement present millions of men the world over have maxed out their credit cards, have learned the language of diamonds and rings to ensure that they  purchase the perfect engagement ring for their future fiance.

The old adage, as the royals so do the common man hold try as we are still holding to this tradition.    The moral of the story,  find the perfect ring for you even if it’s not a diamond engagement ring.  We’ve done engagement rings with emerald, sapphires and aquamarines.

Purchasing an engagement ring is one of the more emotional purchases that you will ever make; it’s important to feel 100% satisfied with your selection.   So, do not be afraid to color outside the lines, if purchasing an engagement ring means more to you and your future fiance with an emerald or other gemstone then do not be afraid to ask your jeweler.    There is an added benefit as a many gemstones are less expensive than diamonds, you will have a cost savings.

If you have your heart set on a diamond but, maybe the budget is a bit tight at the moment.  Then consider a mossanite, it has the same look of a diamond but once again at a much lower price point.  Remember, you can always upgrade later and have a diamond set into your engagement mounting.

These are just a few of the ideas for you to consider, if you have other questions about engagement rings, gemstones or diamond engagement rings, please feel free to call (480.656.0652)  or email us.  We’ll be glad to assist you.

7 Money Savings Tips Engagement Ring

Want to scare a man?  Mention shopping for an engagement ring or shopping in general. Obviously, this is in jest however there is an element of truth as I have yet to see anything else elicit more anxiety than a few grams of gold and a diamond.    We work with a lot of  men purchasing engagement rings; they all have the same symptoms; excitement, anxiety and joy.    Our goal is to ensure that every customer leaves here happy in love with their purchase no matter if its a birthday gift, engagement ring or anniversary gift for their wife.   In each instance we strive to educate our customers on the finer points of purchasing jewelry.

Some of the tips we give customers:

1.  This is an exciting time!  Enjoy it!  We suggest;  do a little reconnaissance; do your research and set a budget for your purchase.   We recommend setting a high and low amount to use as your guideline.  This way when you’re looking at engagement ring, you have a base line to keep in mind.  And speaking of rings….

2.  Engagement rings come in so many different shapes and sizes that its important to have an idea of what you would like to purchase.    Do you want something that is classic, contemporary or antique inspired.    Our suggestion, look through magazines, online and other women’s rings.   If you can bring photos with you or email your sales rep; we love have the photos ahead of time as this helps us select items we believe will most closely match our client’s needs.     The bottom line, having an idea of the style of ring will help you simplify your search.  And then we come to the center stone…..

3.  What kind of diamond or gemstone would you like to place in your ring?  Do you want a round brilliant cut diamond, a cushion cut, a princess cut diamond or do you want a semi-precious gemstone?  A diamond is the standard for an engagement ring but its not the absolute.    The tradition of a diamond engagement ring actually has its roots in the late 18th century with Maximilian presenting his bride Mary of Burgundy with a diamond ring as a wedding gift.  This essentially started the tradition of a diamond engagement ring.   And be certain you have done the research on the 4C’s of diamonds.  However, if a diamond isn’t in the budget then consider a gemstone.

4.  So, if you go the gemstone route, then which one?  We suggest doing something meaningful to both of you; for example, her birth stone or yours or the month in which you met or had your first date.     Remember, an engagement ring is one of the single most important pieces of jewelry you’ll ever purchase; be certain that you are 100% satisfied so we recommend asking questions.

5.  Remember to ask questions – don’t be shy.  As the old adage goes; if something seems to good to be true then it probably is.  So, while your asking questions take notes and even do some comparison shopping.   We routinely recommend to our customers to shop around and make sure that they are 100% satisfied with their engagement ring/fine jewelry purchase.

6. And what about choices of metals?  One has a wide variety of choices of metals for engagement rings; platinum and 18K white gold has long been the standard for engagement rings.  This can also add to the cost of the ring as platinum is more expensive that 18K white gold.   Other metals to consider, 14K gold or palladium.    There are pluses and minuses to each metal be certain that you understand each.

7. Commitment rings vs. an engagement ring; a commitment ring is similiar to a promise ring.  Just as engagement rings can take a variety of shapes, styles and sizes so can promise rings.   In short, you could select just about anything for a commitment ring.  The only item could be an eternity ring, a claddagh ring or even a completely lovely black diamond fashion ring.

Please let us know your thoughts or if you have suggested topics.   We want to be your information source as well as your jewelry store.  We look forward to your comments.

Alexa Rose Fine Jewelry

9917 E Bell Rd #140

Scottsdale AZ 85260

480.656.0652

888.302.5392

www.alexarosejewelry.com

Pink Tourmaline; Did you know?

October, the month of  Halloween and all things black, orange and pink?    Along with Opals;  Pink Tourmaline is this month’s star.   So, for today’s post, I thought we’d look at a few myths, facts and interesting trivia about Pink Tourmaline.   Many know the story of the opal but few have been introduced to the brilliance of tourmaline….

Tourmaline has been known by a wide variety of names and has even said to have magical properties.   Tourmaline occurs in all the colors of the rainbow and in some cases is even composed of 2 or more colors.   Tourmaline is one gemstones that can be found in all the colors of the rainbow, why? Well, I could give you the scientific explaination but, I much prefer the legend.   According to ancient legend the reason tourmaline is found in all colors is because the gemstone traveled along the  rainbow and gathered all the rainbow’s colors.   So, along with diamonds, tourmaline maybe the best fashion accessory available!  Gotta love it!

Over the millennial, tourmaline has been known by a whole host of names from tsiaisite, dravite, chromdravite, achroite and rubellite; this is the short list!   And interestingly enough, philosopher Theophrastus noted its magnetic properties by its ability to attract bits of straw and wood.   This effect is called pyroelectricity; this occurs when the crystal is heated causing it to have a positive charge at one end of the crystal and a negative on the either end of the crystal.   This might be a cool party trick and if pressure is applied a different effect known as piezoelectricity occurs.    This allows tourmaline to be utilized in instruments that measure pressure.

In addition to the pragmatic qualities,  Tourmaline has been credited with the following mystical powers:

Increasing self-confidence

Inspiring creativity in the wearer

Helping one amplify their physic energies

Help to neutralize negative energies

Gain deeper understandings of situations

Dispense grief and fear

and has been known to relax the mind and body.

So, we’ve proven that Tourmaline is not only practical but also has positive effects on the wearer.    Isn’t it about time that you added tourmaline to your jewelry wardrobe?  Stop in today to check out our unique line of pink tourmaline, green tourmaline and rubellite jewelry.

Alexa Rose Fine Jewelry

9917 E Bell Rd #140

Scottsdale, AZ 85260

480.656.0652

877.302.5392

Selecting your Perfect Diamond Engagement Ring

The economy is still taking center stage and there has been a fundamental shift in this country.   At least by my estimation; as I am a student of people, its been interesting to watch the shift in this country.  No longer is it en vogue to say ‘if you have to ask the price, you can’t afford it.’   Its chic to save, to find a bargain and obtain quality for the money spent.

Americans, have always been savvy consumers; we tend to do our research, price compare and know what our hard earned dollars are buying.   In the current economic condition of this country we’re all a bit more price conscious.   This is extraordinarily true with any big ticket purchase and I would argue even more so for an engagement ring, anniversary band, or other piece of fine jewelry.

Most people find the world of fine jewelry a bit daunting.   The vision for Alexa Rose was to create a different kind of jewelry shopping experience.  We strive to ensure our customers are well educated and understand their purchase.   We recommendation for anyone who is contemplating an engagement ring purchase to start out with some price comparisons;  look at different styles and quality of items presented.

Check the 4 C’s of the diamond and check the metal selection; be a bit discriminating.  Jewelry like clothing -  quality does matter and price does not always determine quality.  Quality is especially important with diamonds.  A diamond’s grade or its pedigree will affect the price and its future trade in value; be certain that you understand each one of the components and how it will affect your final price.

We recommend that you try to obtain a diamond with an ideal cut or excellent cut.   It is in our humble opinion, the most important of the 4 C’s as if a diamond is too swallow or too deep the light as it enters will either be trapped or will escape too quickly causing your diamond to be lackluster or dull in appearance.    For example, you could have a F color, VVS1 clarity diamond with a poor cut and have it  be less than spectacular.   So, be certain that  you take some time to research the 4 C’s – its usually a good idea to have a rough understanding how each of these items affect your overall price.    When you are finally shopping for a loose diamond; take your time, ask questions and make sure you are comfortable with the final decision.

Now, how does metal affect your final price?  Is it 14K, 18K gold or platinum?    Remember, the metal is almost as important as the diamond quality and will affect the final price of your diamond engagement ring.    Be sure you’re aware of those trade offs, i.e. Platinum is probably the most durable of all of the metals and will last a lifetime (75 years) vs.  gold may become brittle after about 15-20 years (18KW) this will be determined by how the ring was worn more than anything else.   Gold while a durable material is a softer metal than Platinum.

Style # YJS6501

So, now we have the basics of engagement rings, now let’s chat a moment about style.  Engagement rings like all items come in different shapes, sizes and styles.  One of the most difficult questions to answer is  – ‘Is this in style?’   I firmly believe that this should be the last item to consider – I personally believe that you need to select a ring mounting that best suits your personality and (potentially) the personality of your relationship.    Our experience, brides tend to gravitate towards, ‘the ring,’ at least the style of the ring.  We then craft the ring around the diamond and also order it in the correct finger size.

You may also want to consider recycling a family diamond, the half pair of diamond stud earrings you’re hanging on too or the diamond 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 jewelry 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 and look absolutely amazing.

Engagement Rings, Bridal Jewelry and Diamonds; Tips, Thoughts and Suggestions

Style # YJS6501

Love never takes a  break because of a recession and why should it?  Love makes our hearts sing, our steps lighter and our lives easier!  I invite you to read our earlier posts about buying an engagement ring as they will have more detailed information than today’s post.   Today’s post is meant to remind you of some money saving ideas, tips on how to buy a diamond and thoughts about industry.

Getting engaged is an exciting time!  And if you’re like most – you start looking around and the first thing you get?  Sticker Shock!  It’s natural especially if you’ve never looked at diamond rings before or purchased bridal jewelry before.    Please, don’t get intimidated!  I know it can be a lot to take in but remember to take your time and make sure that you are comfortable at every turn and every step of the way.

The first thing anyone should do is a little research and I am certain that you’ll find the phrase the 4 C’s – but what does it really mean?  Carat, Clarity, Color and Cut seems fairly straight forward until you get to the measurement scales and the different combinations.     While these four items are important to the selection of a diamond its not the only items that should be considered – it however a solid foundation on which you can build while searching for your diamond engagement ring.

We recommend before you go to purchase a diamond, to start with your budget do some research and have a rough idea of the size or carat weight, the color and the clarity of the diamond.   This will help simplify the process for you a bit.    One additional note about the Cut.  Normally, the Cut for most is the shape of the stone.  While this is true its not the whole story.  The Cut of the diamond has more to do with the brilliance of the diamond.  While we do not have the space or the time to get into the all the intricacies at the present moment, we can give a short description.   The Cut allows light to refract or bend inside of the diamond so it really shows the brilliance of the diamond.   If the Cut is too deep or too swallow the light will either escape or become trapped and not let the brilliance of the diamond shine.

An additional consideration is whether or not the diamond is certified.  A certified diamond acts like an insurance policy.  Its a form of protection or buyers insurance for you.   This guarantees that the diamond has been reviewed by an expert to determine its rating.  This certificate will should something ever happen to your diamond engagement ring or you decide to upgrade will make your process easier.   This is another item to consider when purchasing a diamond certified vs. uncertified.  We prefer to only sell certified diamonds but from time to time if a customer is well informed we will sell an uncertified diamond.

Style # CRW0103

Next, when considering your purchase.  Think about the mounting.  Are you classic, bold or leading edge contemporary?  We all have a personal style and we recommend to take a moment and think about your style and how you want that reflected in your jewelry purchase.   And believe me – you will have plenty to choose from no matter which category you select.

Now, what about the dollars and sense?  This is an emotional time – make sure you use some common sense?  This means think about your budget, be honest with yourself and the sales person with whom you work and if you’re not comfortable then walk away.

Do you have a piece of jewelry that was bequeath to you with a diamond or gemstone that would be perfect to have reset?  This could be a tie tack, earrings, pendant or even cuff links.   Or is there a family diamond?  If there is – think about having it set for your beloved?  You’ll be amazed at the transformation of the diamond in the new setting.   Let’s be honest – we love to sell a complete set but we also love to hear the stories behind family diamonds!  We have set several that have been handed down for many generations and it was lovely to be included in the special occasion.  This is a little bit of the romantic coming out  in us.

As mentioned, please check our history b/c we do have more in-depth posts on diamonds and buying fine jewelry.    Or stop in at our Boutique in North Scottsdale

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.

Your Bridal Jewelry……

You’ve been working for months on selecting the perfect venue, the flowers, the caterer, the music and yes even the perfect set of wedding bands and your wedding day is suddenly upon you.   Do you feel ready?  Or are you suddenly remembering some of those little things that had slipped your mind?  Well, you’ll be happy to know that if you’re like most of us; you’ll suddenly remember a flood of items right before the wedding!  Unfortunately, they usually pertain to either your jewelry or shoes or both.  

 Hopefully, what I am about to type here will be of assistance or at least make you feel better.   I was reading an article recently that described which items are most often purchased at the last minute – would you like to guess what topped the list?  It was (drum-roll, please) the little black clutch, followed by earrings and necklacesfor a special occasion.  I found this fascinating,  as most of us, plan our outfits to the office, the gym and even weekend wandering down to the T, including the jewelryso, why do we so often forget it for special occasions?  Well, we all know the answer, it’s so very simple; we’re consumed with all of the other details that our thought process becomes this will get done during this outing or that outing but somehow it always manages to get pushed to the 11th hour.  At least, it does for me?  I can not tell you how many times, I have rushed out to find the perfect little bag or the perfect earrings or pendant. 

While, I have not been married, I have several friends who have been brides and each one of them shared with me that they felt their jewelryfor their ceremony was rushed and more of an impulse buy rather than something thought out and even tried ahead of time.    After speaking to my friends, I asked the question, what if you could have tried on your bridal jewelry ahead of the ceremony; would it have made a difference? 

A resounding, YES was my answer!  So, with the input of quite a few of my friends; we’ve added this service to assist our brides.  In short, this is how it works,  you come in to our boutique and look through the wide variety of styles we have available.  You select up to 7 different pieces, let us know the date of your next fitting, its location and we’ll meet you there so you can see which items will look best with your gown.  Once you’ve made your selection; we’ll make arrangements for payment or need to rethink your look, we can do that as well.  Best of all, you have flexibility in styling, selection and as we’re wholesale to the public, we can assure you’re getting the best possible price.  So, regardless of your desired look, we can help you ensure your perfect day has the perfect bridal jewelry as well. 

Check out some of the different options available.  If you don’t find what your searching for on our website, give us a call at 480.656.0652.  I’m certain we can help you create the perfect look for your wedding day.

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

The 4 C’s and affording your perfect diamond engagement ring

We can never stress enough the importance of ensuring quality when purchasing and diamond engagement ring.   Further, you need to remember to do your homework before and when you’re out shopping keep an open mind.  Shop around and work with people with whom you feel comfortable.  Jewelers are very much like your banker or financial adviser, you’re spending a great deal of money with them, you might as well work with someone you actually enjoy working with……

 

So, keep in mind the following tips. 

Style # YJS6501

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.  

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?  I think its partially because usually diamond purchases are like doctors, lawyers, etc.  We ask our friends and they refer us to someone with whom they had a pleasant experience.   This adds to the level a comfort and trust.  While this is good to follow you may not be completely comfortable with their consultant, don’t be afraid to look around.     However, in the end make sure you’re dealing with a reputable company.  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.

Ensure that you’re dealing with 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 and exchange 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.  

Grandma's Ring

Six – Recycle a diamond!

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