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What’s the difference between buying a diamond on the internet vs. from a jeweler?
When you are purchasing a diamond from a jeweler, you will be able to see many diamonds and compare the difference in their cut, and how they sparkle. You will also be able to view the stones side-by-side so you can compare color and brilliance. This allows you to see how the light dances and reflects in each stone. Until you compare each diamond side-by-side it is hard to know your preference for cut, clarity, color & carat weight.
You can also use a loop and look at where the inclusions are (a loop is a jeweler’s tool that magnifies). Inclusions are like a fingerprint, no two stones are exactly the same, even when the grade is the same. When you can see them, and recognize them, you will be able to choose and identify your stone at any time. We are here to educate you on the 4C’s (cut, clarity, color & carat weight) and answer all your questions.
Would you choose your wife or husband online only knowing their height weight, hair, and eye color? Probably not, there is so much more to know. Let Dynamic Designs Jewelry help you select the diamond that will mark the start of your life together and become an heirloom in your family.
What is the difference between 24K, 18K & 14K gold?
- 24K (karat) gold is pure gold. “Alloy” metals are added to increase the strength of the gold and can also change the color of the metal.
- 18K is 18 parts pure gold and 6 parts alloy.
- 14K is 14 parts pure gold and 10 parts alloy.
The alloy metals add strength and can also change the color of the metal.
- Nickel and Zinc are added to make white gold.
- Yellow gold is usually alloyed with copper and nickel.
- Rose gold is a the result of adding higher portions of copper.
The total parts always equal 24 karats.
What is the difference between white gold and platinum?
Platinum and white gold are both very strong white metals. White gold is made from yellow gold and can sometimes have a very slight yellow undertone. Often a rhodium plating is applied to white gold to give it a bright white finish, but it may wear off over the years and may need to be re-applied, usually every 1-4 years. Platinum is a heavier denser metal, so when you compare two rings that are identical, the platinum ring will weigh more than the identical ring in white gold. Platinum also tends to get a matte finish over time, where white gold maintains a polished finish longer.
Platinum has a higher melting temperature and requires special casting equipment which can add to the overall price of an item. The prices of gold and platinum fluctuate with the stock market. Most prong settings for diamonds are in white gold or platinum because they are strong and wear well plus the white metal keeps your focus on the diamond.
Why do you work by appointment?
As your personal jeweler, I want to be able to focus on you and give you my full attention. Please contact us at Dynamic Designs Jewelry for your personal appointment.
Does custom designed jewelry cost a lot more than buying jewelry already made?
At Dynamic Designs Jewelry, it usually runs about 10-30% more to create a one-of-a-kind design for you. Every custom piece is hand-made one at a time making sure it is unique for you. We work with you to create the design, select the stones and give choices of ways to set them to fit your lifestyle. We will also discuss the metal choices. If we are designing a ring, we make sure it fits your hand shape, size and angles to fit your finger comfortably.
Please contact us to discuss your custom design jewelry.
What can I do with my old or broken jewelry?
Dynamic Designs Jewelry can repair most of your broken jewelry or re-size it to fit your finger. If you do not like the style or design of your jewelry, we can redesign it into something new. Even if it is yellow gold and now you like white gold, we can trade in the gold value towards new jewelry. Please visit Our Services page for further information or Contact Us for a consultation appointment.
Can you help with estate jewelry?
Yes. If you have inherited jewelry or need to find out the estate value to divide between family members, Dynamic Designs Jewelry can help. Some items that have higher values may need a written appraisal, others we could do a verbal evaluation. I will also go through all the items and let you know which are real and which are costume jewelry. All items have sentimental value, but it is good to know for sure what the current value is.
Please visit Our Services page for further information, Contact Us to make an appointment, or view our Estate Jewelry page.
How often should jewelry appraisals be updated?
Every 5 years. Since gold, platinum, diamond and gemstone prices fluctuate, it is good to have your appraisals updated every 5 years. Your jewelry should be brought in to be cleaned and checked every 6 months, to make sure your stones are tight and your prongs are secure. This is the best way to prevent losing your stones. Please visit Our Services page for further information.
What price ranges do you carry?
We have items starting as low as $25. Sterling silver earrings and pendants with cubic zircinia, diamonds or colored gems from $29 -$130. We try to keep our overhead as low as possible so we can offer you the best prices everyday.
How can some stores offer 50-80% off their jewelry prices?
Some stores know that people will buy on an impulse if they think they are getting a really good buy. So they will mark up their jewelry to prices that is 3-4 times what it is worth, then give you a “discount” to make it seem like you are saving money. The truth is our prices are 20-30% below retail prices everyday so you know that you are getting the best quality at the best value.
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