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.

Diamonds, Engagement Rings and Social Awareness

I’m an optimist by nature and tend to believe that people are inherently good.   It’s why most of us give spare change to those requesting donations, hold a door for a stranger and smile when met on the street.    In short, it makes us feel good when we do something positive.   

Recently, doing the right thing seemed to be exempt in big business.   However, with the current political and social climates in this country I firmly believe that this is shifting.  Our president, Barack Obama, urges all Americans to get involved with in their community.    In short, the message, change the local level to start a larger shift.  I believe that this is happening and once again, Alexa Rose Fine Jewelry is ahead of the curve.   For some time, at our clients request we have donated a portion of the sale to the Phoenix Children’s hospital.  We’re hoping that we can start to expand this program.  It is for this reason we are turning to our more public platforms to disseminate this information. 

So, whether you’re in the market for an engagement ring, a loose diamond or another piece of fine jewelry you can feel good about your purchase with Alexa Rose Fine Jewelry for a number of reasons, the great selection, the great prices and the knowledge you’re helping a child in need.  

Visit us online at www.alexarosejewelry.com or email us with any questions.

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

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.

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