Frequently Asked Questions

How often should my diamond and setting be checked?

You want to be sure that the stone is secure in its setting. Everyday wear and tear can jar the stone a bit, and you don't want to look down at your finger to find your stone is missing. Have your setting checked by a jeweler every six months. We perform this service for free on all the jewelry we sell; you only pay for shipping and insurance.

Is it important to have insurance?

Absolutely. Insurance companies will cover your jewelry for loss, theft and damage. Consult
your insurance agent about adding a jewelry rider to your homeowner’s or renter’s policy.
You will need an appraisal for coverage, which we provide with every item we sell.

How often should I have my jewelry appraised?

For insurance purposes, on large value items you should renew your appraisals every
2-3 years to be current with inflation. If you purchase a jewelry item from us, we keep
your appraisal information on file, so you may simply call to have us reevaluate the items.

Does it matter who appraises my jewelry?

Appraisals should always be performed by a qualified gemologist.

Is a diamond a good investment?

Over the years, diamonds have either retained or increased in value. They will not lose value. But a diamond is only a good investment if you get a good deal on it. It's not like a car: when you wear it out of the showroom it doesn't lose value instantly. You can always trade up a diamond and get full purchase price towards your new stone with our Diamond Upgrade Program. A diamond is millions of years old by the time you get it, and it will continue be around years after you are gone.

Is it necessary to buy a graded stone?

Buying a graded stone protects the purchaser. The independent grading ensures that you are getting what you pay for. There are many laboratories that grade diamonds, so make sure that the certificate comes from a reputable grading lab such as the Gemological Institute of America (GIA).

Are graded stones more expensive?

No. With a graded stone, you have proof of a true and proper grading; therefore, you know what you are paying for. The GIA is a non-profit gem grading lab, so the report will not add cost to the stone.

Why is platinum more expensive than gold?

Platinum is a heavier and harder metal than gold, and the price per gram on the open market is higher. Also, it is much more difficult to work with and requires more highly trained craftsmen to make jewelry.

Can a platinum ring be sized like gold?

No. It's a much different process and must be done professionally. It is not good for platinum jewelry to be sized, so it is always better to order the correct size to start.

How do I care for my diamond jewelry?

Soaps, lotions and other everyday items can leave a hazy residue all over your diamond and setting, reducing the brilliance of the stone. There are jewelry cleaning solutions in the marketplace that you can use to clean the stone and setting, but an easy household solution is to use a bit of ammonia and water with an old toothbrush. Just scrub and rinse in lukewarm water. Dry with a lint-free cloth.

What is the best way to store jewelry that I don't wear day-to-day?

Diamonds and other stones can scratch each other if they rub together, and this damages the polish characteristic. It is best to store your jewelry items in a soft jeweler's cloth so they don't come in contact unnecessarily. And be sure to store valuable items in a safe place. Even if you have insurance, jewelry loss can be a very emotional experience, and you may never be able to replace some pieces.

What do I do if I don't know my girlfriend's ring size?

If there's no way that you can slyly get that information from her, we suggest that you order a size 6, our standard stock size, for gift giving purposes. After the surprise, and you know her correct size, you can return it to us, and we will size it free of charge. You will only pay for shipping and insurance.

What is your return policy?

All returns are accepted for in-store credit. If any jewelry item is not to the perfect satisfaction of the person you’re gifting, we will exchange it, no questions asked. And if you’ve purchased the item for yourself, but have second thoughts, no worries. Bring it back. You’ll only be responsible for the difference in the price of your new selection.