Choosing a jeweller can often be a confusing process, particularly if the purchase of a handmade engagement ring is your first foray into the world of fine jewellery.
It is important to identify high-quality Australian jewellers who are trustworthy and whose style and interpretation of your requests guarantee the desired result.
When purchasing fine jewellery pieces, especially engagement rings or wedding bands, it is comforting to know that the jeweller you are working with has a good reputation, and whose service and end products can be trusted.
Read on to learn what you should do before choosing a jeweller…
Do your research
Considering how competitive it is to be an independent jeweller, it’s always a good idea to do some background research online and check for feedback and testimonials before you fall in love with their range. A poor review and how the jeweller responds to these reviews can often be a red flag.
Also, look at the qualifications the jeweller has and how long they have been in business.
Australian jewellery brand Rod Valenz has been in business since 1988. He is a third-generation jeweller and was admitted to the gold and silver smith of Australia in 2012, having demonstrated a high proficiency as a professional gold and silversmith.
Check their certifications
When researching your Australian jeweller, be sure to enquire about their certifications. This will ensure you’re receiving the best service possible and that their jewels and products are made using high-quality, authentic materials like natural and lab-grown diamonds, gold, sterling silver, platinum and palladium.
In addition, always ask to see a legitimate diamond certificate (also called a diamond grading report or GIA) when purchasing diamonds to guarantee you’re getting the quality you’re paying for.
Many jewellers will also offer complimentary cleaning for the piece in the months and years following your purchase. At the Rod Valenz studio, we offer a lifetime complimentary cleaning service for all items purchased and recommend that you begin this at least once a year.
Consider your budget
One of the most common areas we find clients require the most assistance with is in learning the value of the diamonds, gems and materials of a ring and marrying this with their vision to find or create their perfect piece. The first part of this is being aware of your price range.
A simple way to do this is to contemplate what you think you might spend along with the maximum you can really afford to spend. This will not only ensure you are prepared for the purchase but it also helps your jeweller understand your needs and provide you with a selection of options that best suit you and your budget.
A common theme among clients is the concept of what should be spent on an engagement ring. Traditionally, this has equated to three months’ pay, however, ultimately it is up to you to decide what is right for you and your soon-to-be spouse.
It is also worth considering the style of jewellery you are after as many jewellers vary in their methods and the type of jewellery designs they create. This will greatly affect the end product and also the value of the pieces they make. Here at Rod Valenz, we have an array of engagement ring styles to choose from.
Get a consultation
Once you have chosen your Australian jewellery designer, the next step will be to make a free appointment. If you have yet to visit the jeweller in-store, this is your opportunity to browse the full collection of unique pieces on offer.
Most jewellers will have a selection of engagement rings and wedding bands on display, but also other items like diamond dress rings, diamond earrings, diamond necklaces and pendants, and this can help you to gauge their craftsmanship whilst also providing inspiration.
Our team are experienced in working with clients to determine their unique needs and desires and then providing them with a range of options to match.
We also recommend that you take some time to think about the type of diamonds, gems and metal you would like your ring to be made of. If given these details in advance we can prepare a selection of pieces tailored to your taste for you to view on your arrival at the studio to further assist you in the selection process.
If the pieces currently on display in the boutique do not meet your personal requirements and you’re looking to develop a truly unique item, the team at Rod Valenz can work with you to develop an original, bespoke piece. It’s what we specialise in!