4 REASONS TO CHOOSE AN INDEPENDENT DESIGNER + GOLDSMITH FOR YOUR ENGAGEMENT RING

Tell me if this scenario sounds familiar: You’re browsing jewelry stores with your one and only, but all of the engagement rings seem to look the same. In fact, you could swear you already saw that exact ring at three other stores. Yet none of them stand out – none of them are really you. The reason for this is that there are only a handful of manufacturers in the U.S. So if those generic, mass produced engagement rings just aren’t wowing you, getting a custom engagement ring designed by a trusted local designer + goldsmith like Stephen Kris might be the way to go.

Here are some helpful tips to think about when getting a custom handmade design made specifically for you.

You might be able to transform a family heirloom into a modern masterpiece. At Stephen Kris Designs we often remove diamonds from old family jewelry to create a new design. We melt down the metal, take out the stones and create a custom handmade design. If grandma’s antique ring isn’t quite your style, you can still keep the heirloom stone in the family while wearing a ring that’s much more your taste.

When you work with an independent designer + goldsmith like Stephen Kris, you’re getting years of expert experience and knowledge. Often, when you visit a retail store, you’re dealing with a sales clerk as opposed to a custom jeweler. With all of that expertise Stephen Kris can help you bring your dream ring to life from your sketches and photos – a truly custom piece, designed from scratch and made by hand. You can also pick one of his handmade ring designs and add some custom touches to make it uniquely your own.

An independent designer + goldsmith can create your ring in any metal you like – gold, platinum, or silver because each ring is custom made by hand. At Stephen Kris Designs we are very well versed in the current metal prices and will be able to advise you on how to get the best bang for your buck.

Getting a custom design and working with an independent designer + goldsmith is important because you’ll be getting highly personalized customer service and more value on your investment. One of the attributes our customers enjoy most often is the individual attention they receive. Talking directly with the designer + goldsmith who will be making your ring is the best way to get exactly what you envision in the end. This doesn’t always happen in the retail environment because you are most likely talking with a salesperson who is assigned with the task of simply moving inventory. While price may be a consideration, the relative value you receive should take precedence. You can spend a lot on that little blue box and a ring that is cast by the hundreds or you can create a unique, handmade heirloom that you will enjoy for a lifetime. There is a lot of truth in the adage ‘The bitterness of poor quality remains long after the sweetness of low price is forgotten.’ www.stephenkris.com