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; 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

Buying and Selling Diamond Jewelry (Engagement Rings)

Style # YJS6501

If you’ve been reading the paper, watching television or even your in-box you’ve seen and heard, ‘Sell your diamond and gold jewelry for a profit!’  And I’m sure that many have noticed that these commercials are on the rise.   I’m sure the one question that runs through everyone’s mind;  how do you know that you’re getting the right price, a good deal, etc.  Well, it can be tough to tell.   

Retail prices for diamonds and for gold jewelry like most commodities rise and fall based on market demand and availability.   In most cases, large stones will appreciate but only those that are deemed extraordinarily rare or are in short supply.  The bottom line?  Buy jewelry for sentimental reasons not as an investment.   If your intention is to invest in diamonds, seek out professional assistance and make sure you read all the fine print. 

Below are a few tips to consider when purchasing or should you choose to sell your diamond engagement ring or diamond jewelry.

One:  For an engagement ring, make sure the diamond is certified.   This will assist you later whether its lost, stolen or should you decide to upgrade.  The certification aids in determining the value of the diamond.    

GIA (Gemological Institute of America) is the leading authority on diamond grading and certification but EGL (European Gemological Institute) and AGS (American Gem Society) are all other reputable organizations that provide diamond certifications. 

Two:  If selling a piece of diamond jewelry,  do you your homework.  Check current pricing trends and seek out professional advice.   As mentioned above during times of economic recession prices for larger stones may actually drop because they are becoming more plentiful on the market.   If should you decide to sell a piece of diamond jewelry; it is strongly recommended to seek out professional advice. 

Three:  If you’re in the market to purchase a diamond engagement ring.  During economic recessions larger diamonds become more plentiful and thus market prices tend to drop.   While this is not an absolute, shopping around will help you save money in the end.  Compare prices for similar diamonds be certain to also take into account if the diamond is certified and by whom.    The price will fluctuate slightly between a GIA, EGL or AGS certified diamonds, make certain you are comparing apples to apples. 

Style Code GR1519

Four:  Decide on a budget and stick with it.  I know this sounds simple enough but, this is an exciting time.  You’ve decided to get married!  It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of the moment.   Keep in mind, most retailers will allow to upgrade your diamond engagement ring.  Check with the retailer about their upgrade policy if you think that you would want to upgrade in the future. 

Five:  If you are forced to sell your diamond engagement ring.  Seek out professional advice as the diamond may actually be worth more out of the ring’s setting.   A professional can guide you through these waters.  Please keep in mind, the ring you purchased 3 years ago may not be as valuable today due to market conditions.  Keep an open mind and ask what factors are affecting the diamond and gold pricing. 

Please know these tips are not meant to replace professional guidance. These are some of the factors to consider if you should decide to sell your diamond engagement ring or if you are purchasing a diamond engagement.   If you are in the market for a diamond engagement ring, check out our five tips to find the ring of your dreams in a not so sparkling economy.  If you have further questions, please feel free to contact us and we can expand upon the information provided. 

We’re also available to help, send any inquiries to Sales@alexarosejewelry.com  We’ll be more than happy to help you find the diamond ring of your dreams.   Feel free to stop in our North Scottsdale Boutique, located at 9917 E Bell Rd #140, Scottsdale, AZ 85260 or call us at 480-656-0735.

Shoppping for your Engagement Ring

Let’s face it, when we go shopping no one likes to feel as if they have overspent for an item or god forbid been taken.     Regardless of economic conditions this aspect to shopping for goods and services remains constant.    We all want to ensure that we are receiving value for the money we are spending.  We prefer products that are priced fairly while ensuring quality, service and selection.  This is the concept behind Alexa Rose Fine Jewels; we believe in fair pricing, a wide selection, personalized service and, of course, quality should be at the center of a customer’s experience. 

As direct importers of certified diamonds and fine jewelry, we are in a unique position to offer you fine jewelry with an extensive selection of products, all at reasonable prices plus true personalized service.   We get to know you, our client and understand your preferences.  

When it comes to our diamond engagement ring  selection, we pride ourselves in exceptional styling, unique designs and all at great prices.   We’ll even help you create your own diamond engagement ring; whether its a custom design or taking two styles and merging them into one fabulous ring.   Best of all – it won’t break the bank!   We encourage you to come in and talk with us about the engagement ring of your dreams.

We don’t stop with just our engagement rings, we are also direct importers of certified diamonds.  We go directly to the source to ensure quality, pricing and selection.    In short, we bring the mine to you.   We’re able to do this by utilizing our long standing relationship with the Premier Mine near Johannesburg, South Africa.   This particular mine has many fabulous finds to its credit and is one of the few facilities with a cutting facility on site.   Thus “cutting” out one more layer of the diamond buying process which enables us to help you save money on your loose diamond purchase.  Further. we are able to ensure that all of our diamonds are both certified and follow the Kimberly Accord Process. 

We pride ourselves on not being your ordinary jewelry store, so we invite you to visit us in our North Scottsdale Boutique to experience the Alexa Rose difference.

 

 

Shopping for Diamond Jewelry

Shopping, some love it and others tolerate it.   Shopping is something we all do, we have different ideas of customer service, of selection and what represents a good deal.    We all love to find a smoking deal no matter what the item and we all hate to feel like we have been taken for a ride. 

We at Alexa Rose Fine Jewels feel the same!   We offer our clients the best of all worlds,  competitive pricing, large selection of merchandise and all with first class service.   As our location is a non-traditional retail space we are able to offer our client personalized attention and since we’re direct importers are prices are hard to match.   We invite you today to come and visit us  so you can see why shopping with Alexa Rose Fine Jewels  is different.    

You need not take my word for it, below are a couple of the testimonials from some of our customers.   

“You only have one change to truly surprise your spouse (in my case my wife) with a special gift and have your expectation of their reaction meet the quality of the gift.  Without my wife ever knowing it, Alexa Rose Fine Jewelry perfectly coordinated with me using every trick in the book (I think they even came up with some new ones!) as I was traveling in and out of town during the weeks preceding my wife’s 40th birthday.  The result was exactly the reaction I was seeking, and the necklace has brought my wife much joy and many compliments.”

“I arrived at Alexa Rose Fine Jewelry at the recommendation of a friend who purchased his fiancé’s engagement ring.  I wasn’t sure what to expect as I arrived but I was amazed that 20 minutes later I had an engagement ring!  It was so easy and painless.  Elan, the owner, definitely needs to receive some praise for recommending my setting.  I surprised her with the ring and she loved it!  She gets so many complement about how amazing it looks and people can’t believe I picked out the ring myself without her input! People are just amazed how the ring turned out and words cannot explain how happy we both are.  The entire experience was just so easy ,painless and best of all convenient!  Again thank you for all you did and thank you to your staff for all of their help!”

Let us help you select the perfect gift or engagement ring!  You’ll be surprised at how easy, convenient and affordable shoppping for diamond jewelry really can be. 

 

 

Attitudes about Engagement Ring and Jewelry Purchases Survey

Everyone knows that knowledge is king and especially in today’s market.  In an effort to ensure that we are offering products and services that are of value to our clients we have created a brief  consumer survey.  We would appreciate if  you would take a few minutes to answer our questions.  Please click the link below to begin your survey. 

We would like to Thank you for your time by giving you a $150 gift certificate.
 

View Survey

Diamond Engagement Ring Pays Dividends!

Example of Fancy Yellow Diamond Engagement Ring

Recently, Leslie Hindman autcionaers in Chicago sold a 5.44  yellow fancy diamond engagement ring for $144,400.00; four times the expected price.   The ring was inherited by a Chicago area family from their mother who wore the ring as her wedding ring.

We would all love to inherit a diamond engagement ring that we could auction with Sotheby’s or Christie’s.  However, this is a rare occurrence as engagement rings carry more emotional dividends than cash dividends.

We routinely receive the question from individuals;  Is jewelry a good investment?   Our answer, as a general rule, no.

If your heart is set on investing in diamonds, art or other tangible items consider the following point.  Investing in any kind of passion investing (art, cars, diamonds) is tricky and one needs to take their own level of expertise into account prior to investing.   As with any investment proper education of the risks and rewards is essential; especially with diamonds or other precious objects, its best to work with an expert in the field.   They can provide guidance on pricing, trends in the market and holding periods. 

Tracy Efune with a client

 

So, our advice buy jewelry because of the emotional dividend rather than the monetary one.  In time we believe, you’ll find that its worth more than the dollars earned.

Your Diamond Engagement Ring

Engagement rings come in all shapes, sizes and price tags.   So, how can you get the ring of your dreams but still stay with in your budget?  In previous posts, we discussed the 4 C’s (Cut, Clarity, Color and Carat) and how each can affect the price of your diamond engagement ring.

We recommend when beginning your search for a diamond engagement ring to keep a few items in mind.  Start with a budget, set a limit for what you are able to spend and be honest when shopping.  If you’re not comfortable let them know.   Most companies will help you find something in your price range or offer alternatives for you to review.

We consistently receive questions about engagement settings vs. completed rings.   This is a personal choice.  We have very few engagement settings complete as we prefer to let our clients select their own diamond based on their own criteria.  It also helps if a client already has a diamond (a family heirloom, gift or earlier purchase) as we’ll help them select a ring for the stone.   We will either custom make the ring or a semi-custom job to suit their needs, in either case, our preference is flexibility for our clients.

But what about complete sets?  We have very few of these and there is nothing wrong with purchasing a complete set.   You should ask for a the certificate validating the diamond’s qualities as this will assist you later if you should choose to upgrade your engagement ring.

If you are selecting your diamond for your engagement ring, consider which items are most important to you.   Are you willing to sacrifice a little on the clarity to obtain a better cut and possible a slightly better color?  Or do you really value the color and clarity over the cut?   Sit with a jeweler and look at a few diamonds with them.    For each one, take notice, is the color better than the previous one, or is it the cut that is better?  If you were unsure what is truly important to you, going through this process when selecting your diamond will help you for as they say seeing is believing.

Depending upon the jeweler, they may have lots of inventory on site or they may have diamonds brought in for your inspection.   As direct importers we opt to store our diamond inventory off site partially for security purposes and partial for spacial considerations;  so please be aware if you’re using our diamond search, please alert us of any diamonds that you would like to review so we can be certain to have it available for your inspection.

I’ve mentioned in previous postings about how to save money when shopping for an engagement ring, some of the options are checking pricing for 14K gold rather than 18K or even palladium, rather than purchasing a diamond; using a family diamond, i.e. grandmother’s engagement ring, dad’s tie tack, an diamond earring that has lost its mate.  Just because it’s now set as an earring or pendants, etc.  doesn’t mean that you can not breathe new life into it.    You’ll be amazed at the new life the diamond will take being set into a new mounting.  We’ve done several of these and each have turned out beautifully and our customer’s thoughts –  each were thrilled.

Another money saving idea, consider the purchase of a gemstone or manufactured diamond for your engagement ring.  Typically,  a colored gemstone or manufactured diamond will be cheaper than a diamond of comparable size; you will be able to afford a larger stone for the same price of a diamond.

In the end, make sure what ever you choose that you are 100% satisfied after all you are spending a great deal of money.   Make sure you ask questions, feel comfortable with whom you’re dealing and most of all try to have a little fun as it really is an exciting time!

Your Diamond Engagement Ring – The Diamond’s Clarity

The clarity of a diamond, what does it really mean to me,  the consumer?
A diamond’s clarity is a term used to describe a diamond and any blemishes or flaws that may or may not be present.   The clarity is like a finger print as there are no two diamonds that are exactly alike.   These  flaws occur naturally during the diamond’s creation.   As diamonds are created under intense pressure below the surface of the earth it makes sense that some of these tiny imperfection may exist.

There are two kinds of flaws that diamond graders are looking for and those are  inclusions and blemishes.  An inclusion can be an air bubble, cracks, tiny spots of non diamond material and/or colored and uncolored crystals.   Blemishes are scratches, pits or chips found on the diamond’s exterior surface.  These two items when graded together assist in the over all evaluation of the diamond.

GIA Clarity Scale

A diamond’s clarity is graded in a similar fashion to that of the color scale.   This scale grades a diamond by whether its Flawless (extremely rare) down to those stones graded as Included.  That is diamonds that have blemishes and inclusions that are visible to the naked eye.    See the GIA scale to the left wit a  brief description of each.

Now, how does this affect your purchase of a diamond for your engagement ring setting?  Keep in mind that the over all appearance of your diamond will not diminish until you start to reach the I1-I3 range.   We do not recommend buying diamonds in this range as you can see the blemishes and inclusions in the diamond.   Let’s take a brief look at each of the grades for a little deeper discussion.

FL – Flawless, there are no internal or external flaws.   Diamonds graded FL are very rare and yes they are quite expensive.

IF – Internal Flawless, there are no internal flaws and only slight surface blemishes.  Diamonds graded IF are very rare and like Flawless diamonds also quite expensive.

VVS1, VVS2 – Very, very slightly included, there are very minor inclusions and are difficult for an experienced diamond grader to detect under a 10x loupe.    Diamonds graded here and as VS are excellent choices for both value and appearance.

VS1, VS2 – Very slightly included, there are minute inclusions that are not easily seen by an experienced diamond grader.  Diamonds in this range like VVS1 and VVS2 are an excellent choice for both their value and appearance.

SI1, SI2 – Slightly included, the inclusions are noticeable to an experienced grader.  These diamonds are more affordable and are a great choice for your diamond engagement ring for appearance and for their affordability! Diamonds in this range are considered “eye clean” diamonds.  The inclusions are not visible to the naked eye.  The inclusions only become visible when viewing the diamond under a 10x loop or strong  jewelry magnifying glass.

When purchasing a loose diamond, we recommend shopping around before you buy.  Decide what you like and what you don’t and ask questions.  Sit with a trained jeweler and weigh out each of the 4 C’s and base your decision on your comfort level for all 4 C’s.  This will help ensure that you’re not only getting the diamond of your dreams but also staying with in your budget.

Our last area to discuss will be the carat weight and then we’ll compare and help you make sense of the alphabet soup of the 4 C’s and your diamond engagement ring.

Bah-Humbug to Holiday Shopping Lines

It’s that time of year again – the long lines (Ugh!), the lights, the decorations, the holiday cards, the parties  and when children mind their P’s and Q’s a little more than through out the year.

This is also the time of year when it seems that service is on the fore front of everyone’s mind.  They’re a bit more attentive and accommodating with their customers.  My question, why only this time of year?  A mere 4 weeks?

Our belief is that service excellence is not just through the holidays; it’s year round.  It’s part of the Alexa Rose experience, whether you’re purchasing an engagement ring, a necklace or a pair of earrings we want you to be completely satisfied with every aspect of the fine jewelry buying experience.

Our shopping environment  is totally new and unique.   Imagine coming into a boutique where you’re a friend – a welcome friend.  Where you can sit back, sip on a warm cup of coffee, soda or water and discuss what brought you to us.  Where you’re not hurried or rushed out the door to be left wondering is this what I really wanted or is it what they wanted to sell to me?

Do you realize that buyers remorse accounts for more than 2 billion dollars in returned sales a year!  It’s an astounding figure and it crosses all product category lines, designer jewelry, clothing, electronics, etc.

It is for the above mentioned reason that we prefer to work with our clients via appointments.  This enables us to spend as much time with you as you desire and to really get to know you.   Assuring that we will help you find the perfect piece of fine jewelry.    Buying  fine jewelry should be a pleasurable experience,  not a frustrating one!

As  mentioned in a previous post,  jewelry is unique purhcase  —  items of fine jewelry are treasured and there is an emotional attachment that isn’t like you’re favorvite pair of jeans.  It’s usually celebrating a milestones in one’s life, i.e. getting engaged, celebrating a promotion, an anniversary gift or birthday gifts.

While we may prefer appointments they are not an absolute; we understand the busy lives people lead so, feel free to stop in and chat with us in our North Scottsdale Boutique.  We’ll be glad to sit down with you and discuss what pieces of fine jewelry you’re searching.

Once you’ve shopped with us, you’ll wonder why you didn’t do it before!  We look forward to working with you in the near future – feel free to stop in today.  Check us out on-line at alexarosejewelry.comto browse our on-line collections or Click here to contact us in our North Scottdale Boutique.