Although they’ve only been around a short time, they’ve already made an impact and have quickly become a noted player in the jewelry scene. Let’s take a look at VRAI’s strong points, and what to consider before shopping there. Let’s also take a look at how VRAI compares to some of the heavy hitters in the industry, and the reasons to choose VRAI over some of its more established competitors. 

Who are VRAI? 

VRAI was originally founded as Diamond Foundry back in 2012 by Martin Roscheisen and Jeremy Scholz. The company was started with a massive $315 million investment coming from numerous sides. This included companies such as Sun Microsystems and Fidelity, celebrities like Leonardo DiCaprio and Jean Pigozzi, and various tech giant figures such as the founders and co-founders of Google, Twitter, eBay, Facebook, and others. 

With that solid of start, Diamond Foundry immediately began making waves and even acquired two other jewelry brands in 2016 – Vrai and Oro. Four years later, in 2020, Diamond Foundry was officially rebranded as VRAI and opened their Los Angeles showroom. Thanks to all these investments and proper steering by its founders, VRAI/Diamond Foundry had grown to a $1.8 bn valuation in less than a decade.   

Since its founding and especially since its rebranding, VRAI has opened numerous other showrooms across the US, Europe, and China. It has greatly developed its online presence and has worked quite diligently on the production, logistics, and customer service sides of the business.  

VRAI Characteristics And What Makes Them Special 

VRAI diamonds and jewelry certainly look luxurious, so it’s no surprise that they’ve been catching people’s eye in this niche. The brand is also focusing on sustainability as a big selling point, and it’s advertising its lab-grown diamonds and ethically sourced metals, which is certainly something we can get behind. Customer service is also another positive from everything we’ve seen and tested. 

Yet, there are some questions to be raised when it comes to diamond quality and the lack of credible certification. The absence of light performance imaging on VRAI’s online store is also an issue we should investigate. So, let’s explore all the aspects of VRAI’s merchandise and service below and then sum it all up in a Pros and Cons list. 

VRAI Natural And Lab-Grown Diamonds 

VRAI prides itself on offering only conflict-free diamonds – both natural and lab-grown. In this day and age, this may not sound all that special. After all, The Kimberley Process occurred about two decades ago and all diamonds in the US and the Western world are touted as conflict-free anyway. 

As we’ve discussed before in another article, however, the distinction between “blood diamonds” and “conflict-free diamonds” isn’t exactly black and white, even 20+ years after the signing of the Kimberley Process. A lot of the natural diamonds sold in the US today are labeled as “conflict-free” because they don’t come directly from war-torn countries. Yet, there are many indirect routes in various other countries that are frequently used by blood diamond suppliers.  

In other words, when a brand says that its diamonds are “conflict-free” that doesn’t necessarily mean those stones may be actually conflict-free. Most brands don’t know where their diamonds are sourced from or where the mines are located. They may genuinely be conflict-free if the brand is doing something extra to guarantee their authenticity, or they may just be like all others – with dubious origins.  

So, where does VRAI seem to fall on that scale? 

The brand does rely on and promotes its lab-grown diamonds. This is great in terms of sustainability as lab-grown diamonds are the ultimate “conflict-free” stones. That being said, a lot of other retailers sell lab-grown diamonds too. So, while having such stones in your store is pretty much a must-have nowadays, it’s not enough to stand out. 

As for the natural stones sold by VRAI, here we can point out some things that aren’t true for all major brands. VRAI is certified by the Responsible Jewellery Council – an international membership body that aims to ensure the retailers’ diamonds are genuinely 100% conflict-free “from mine to retail”. 

What About VRAI Sustainability? 

On the topic of sustainability, VRAI should also be commended for their zero-emission foundries. They also have a Carbon Neutral Certification from Natural Capital Partners since 2017. We’ll touch on VRAI’s certifications and a potential issue you’d need to be wary of a bit further below but suffice it to say that if you’re looking for genuinely conflict-free and sustainable diamonds, VRAI is a good place to check out. 

VRAI Metals And Settings 

Metals are another point to explore when it comes to sustainability. The vast majority of VRAI’s rings and jewelry are made of either platinum or gold (yellow, rose, or white). Those metals too are conflict-free and recycled, which guarantees the ethics of their sourcing. 

Price- and quality-wise, VRAI’s gold and platinum are up to par with other major retailers too, so there should be nothing to worry about in this regard. 

As far as VRAI’s settings are concerned, the retailer does offer impressive variety. Anything from Solitaire, Prong, and Cathedral settings to Three Stone, Halo, Hidden Halo, Bezel, Floral, and other settings. You can also check out the VRAI V setting design that the brand uses for all types of jewelry, such as earrings, pendants, bangles, and not just rings.  

How Competitive is VRAI’s Pricing? 

Both VRAI’s diamonds and their jewelry seem to be adequately priced when compared to other leading luxury brands. That said, when it comes to diamonds, it’s not so much the flat price that matters but the value, i.e. – whether you’re getting the right quality for your buck or not. 

So, while VRAI’s pricing seems to be good on paper, it’s worth noting that there are reports of VRAI’s diamond clarity and color not being up to par. 

This can be difficult to parse when it comes to their lab-grown diamonds, as they are – by definition – virtually perfect. VRAI’s natural diamonds, however, can be seen to have such a discrepancy because of an issue with the diamond certifications we mentioned earlier. Let’s delve into that below. 

The Problem with VRAI’s Certification 

While VRAI, as a brand, has all the right certifications you’d want from a jewelry retailer, there is one missing link that shouldn’t be ignored – VRAI’s diamonds don’t come with independent certificates from recognized institutions such as the GIA (Gemological Institute Of America) or others. 

Instead, VRAI does its own certificates. In them, VRAI lists all the diamond characteristics and specifics you’d expect to see in an independent GIA certificate, but their validity or accuracy can understandably be put into question. VRAI tries to alleviate people’s concerns by pointing out that their certificates are made by “GIA-trained gemologists”.  

This may very well be true and we’re not calling anyone’s expertise into question. However, the obvious benefit of having a third-party certification is simply not present here. This might be what explains the apparent discrepancy between the price and value of VRAI’s diamonds that some people report. Or it could just be that the brand is still relatively new and it’s easy for a few negative reviews to get overrepresented. 

Either way, VRAI does have a great return and refund policy which we’ll discuss in more detail below. That is key as it can fully compensate for any certification and/or quality issues. 

How Good is VRAI’s Website 

The VRAI website is quite impressive, beautiful, and user-friendly. If you’re new to the diamond shopping experience and you want a place that’s easy to browse and doesn’t feel overly complicated, you should check out VRAI’s website. 

Yet, when it comes to online diamond retailers, we know we need to look for something extra. That’s why we’re always happy to see quality HD 3D videos of a retailer’s diamonds on their online store – because of how intricate diamonds’ characteristics are, clients need to be able to inspect them up close and in detail. 

Nowadays, even just offering a 3D video of each stone isn’t enough. A lot of other retailers are doing much more to showcase the quality of their merchandise. This is one area where VRAI’s website lags behind. The lack of light-performance images is a major drawback, especially when coupled with the aforementioned lack of independent certifications. 

Retailers such as Whiteflash have stepped up their online store presentation by adding light-performance images for each of their stones. These images are key for ensuring the client of the true clarity and brilliance of the stone you’re buying. 

VRAI Showroom Locations 

Of course, if you don’t feel comfortable shopping online, you can always just visit a nearby physical location. This way you can check out the diamonds and jewelry in person, and talk with a professional consultant in person. 

Naturally, VRAI doesn’t have showrooms on every corner of every town but they do have quite a few places to visit for a new brand. Here are the cities where VRAI has showrooms at the time of writing: 

• In North America – Los Angeles, New York, Toronto, Boston, Chicago, and San Francisco 
• In Europe – London and Madrid 
• In China – Beijing, Xi’an, Chongqing, Shanghai Longfor, Shanghai Cloud 9, and Shanghai K 11 

Is VRAI’s Customer Service Good? 

Another bright spot for this retailer is its customer service. Both in-person and online, VRAI’s professionals offer excellent assistance, and the brand’s packaging, delivery, and return practices are all top-notch. 

Some of the highlights we should mention include the 30-day return policy, lifetime warranty, free shipping, jewelry exchanges for clients that rethink after purchasing, complimentary resizing of VRAI rings, and more. Another frequently-ignored plus is the packaging – that’s often very lackluster with many retailers but it’s excellent here.  

All that, together with VRAI’s 24/7 customer service, makes shopping from this retailer a joy. What’s more, it largely compensates for the few drawbacks we mentioned earlier – after all, when you can always just return or exchange a product you’re not happy with, everything is likely to end up well. 

VRAI Pros and Cons 

If we are to sum up all of the above in a neat Pros and Cons list, it’d look like this: 

Pros: 

• Great variety of diamonds and jewelry designs 
• Truly conflict-free gemstones and sustainable metals, including lab-grown diamonds  
• Excellent customer service and customer-friendly policies 
• Competitive prices, at least as far as other luxury brands are concerned
• User-friendly and practical website 
• Over a dozen showroom locations worldwide 

Cons: 

• Lack of independent diamond certification from the GIA or other authoritative institutions 
• Lack of light-performance imaging  
• Reports of sub-par diamond clarity/color compared to other brands and compared to what’s reported in the stones’ VRAI certificates 

Wrapping Up 

Overall, VRAI certainly is an exciting brand to check out while browsing for diamond jewelry, even if they wouldn’t be our first pick. Despite some potential issues with the stone’s presentation and certification, that’s mostly counteracted by the brand’s excellent return policy and overall customer service. 

So, while we generally recommend other brands for online diamond shopping, such as James Allen, Blue Nile, or Whiteflash, if you see something you really like on VRAI’s online store, we certainly wouldn’t advise you against giving this brand a try. 

In recent years, minimalistic jewelry styles have been coming to the forefront, championed by brands such as Stone and Strand. Stone and Strand has made a name for themselves as a provider of fine, high-quality modern jewelry. But does this mean that they’re worth the money, and how good is their jewelry quality? Let’s take a deep dive into this jewelry retailer, and highlight their pros and cons.  

What is Stone and Strand? 

This fine jewelry brand was founded in 2013 by Nadine McCarthy Kahane in New York. At the time, Nadine was still working on her MBA at Wharton, but she didn’t want to wait before making her mark in the jewelry world. 

Nadine’s focus on elegant and minimalistic designs made with high-quality and sustainable materials at affordable prices was a major differentiator in the market. Until then, it was difficult to find high-quality pieces in minimalist, modern styles.  

Stone and Strand’s jewelry emphasizes the inherent beauty of using smaller gemstones and more delicate and feminine designs. The brand also prides itself on offering its products at competitive prices, with reasonable profit margins.  

What Type of Jewelry Can You Get from Stone And Strand? 

If you take a stroll through Stone and Strand’s website, you’ll find all the classic jewelry types – rings, eternity bands, bracelets, earrings, necklaces, charms, and others. All these pieces are crafted in elegant designs, typically from recycled yellow or white 14K gold or platinum. These pieces incorporate small colorless diamonds or other gemstones and pearls.  

Stone and Strand doesn’t offer lab-grown diamonds. But this isn’t an issue because the brand uses inexpensive natural melee diamonds or other small natural diamonds. This helps Stone and Strand keep their prices low while still offering unique and gorgeous jewelry designs.  

Take a look at this white gold Sophia ring design, for example. It has a classic clean design with a prong-like setting but instead of featuring a large and pricey 2-carat diamond, it has numerous tiny melee diamonds arranged inside the prongs to create a cool and brilliant look at a fraction of the price. 

Are Stone And Strand’s Jewelry Pieces Really High-Quality? 

Designed in NYC, all of Stone and Strand’s jewelry pieces are of impressive quality. The delicate and minimalistic designs feel very elegant and beautiful, but the quality of their craftsmanship still ensures longevity. Stones and Strand’s jewelry is intended for everyday use, after all, so excellent craftsmanship is a must. 

That being said, we would recommend taking some of the more delicate pieces off when you’re doing manual labor or sports. This is particularly key for rings and bracelets – no matter how well they are made, regular knocks and scratches will take a toll on the small melee diamonds and the metal body of the jewelry pieces. 

How Are Stone and Strand’s Products So Affordable? 

Stone and Strand advertise themselves as one of the few jewelry retailers to keep their profit margins low, as purposefully and consistently as possible, for the customer’s benefit. This very well may be true, but it isn’t the only explanation for the brand’s affordable prices.  

Other big factors, as we’ve already mentioned, include the use of melee diamonds instead of larger stones, as well as the use of recycled metals crafted into thin and lightweight minimalistic designs. In other words, the production costs for each piece here simply aren’t as significant as the production costs of other manufacturers that make bulkier jewelry pieces with large and expensive diamonds.  

Stone and Strand Website, Customer Service, and Policies 

Stone and Strand’s website is as appealing and modern as it is user-friendly and easy to navigate. The different product pages don’t have any 360-degree HD imaging, which is usually a big red flag, but it doesn’t matter that much when the jewelry piece is made with melee diamonds instead of large and expensive stones. 

As for the retailer’s customer service, we’re impressed with what we’ve seen so far. Stone and Strand offers free shipping, a 100-day return period, as well as a 100-day warranty. The direct customer service isn’t exactly 24/7, but it’s quite expedient and thorough.   

Stone and Strand Pros and Cons 

To sum up all of the above points, here is a quick Pros and Cons list, showcasing all the strong sides of Stone and Strand, as well as the few things you should keep in mind when shopping there. 

Pros: 

• Stone and Strand jewelry is made to be as sustainable as possible by utilizing recycled materials and ethically sourced gemstones. 
• Few retailers offer high-quality fine jewelry at more affordable prices. 
• Stone and Strand’s minimalistic jewelry style is not only in style now but is likely to remain trendy for decades and even generations to come, making these pieces really smart investments. 
• Excellent customer service and services, including free shipping, 100-day returns, 100-day warranty, and more. 

Cons: 

• Not all products are available at coupon/discount prices. 
• Many products bought at promotional prices of 50% off or more aren’t eligible for returns and refunds. 
• Not all pieces on Stone and Strand’s website are in stock, as many are made-to-order. 

In Conclusion – Is Stone and Strand the Right Jewelry Retailer for You? 

If you like Stone and Strand’s minimalistic jewelry style, there isn’t much of a reason not to shop from them. The brand’s quality, prices, and overall services are all top-notch, and the only thing to dislike there is if you’re just looking for a different style and larger gemstones.  

That’s, of course, understandable, but it’s also purely subjective and a matter of taste. So, as long as you’re into that contemporary minimalistic style, Stone and Strand are certainly a retailer you should check out.

But do they actually deliver all of that, or is it just marketing? Let’s take a look at how Quince delivers quality, affordable, and sustainable products.  

What is Quince? 

Quince is a 2018 brand founded in San Francisco by Sid Gupta. From its very inception, Quince was set up as a direct factory-to-consumer brand that aimed to eliminate the middlemen, including sourcing agents, warehouses, retail stores, tariffs that usually follow the switching between middlemen, and so on. 

In doing so, Quince has always tried to lower the end cost for the consumer as much as possible while maintaining high quality. They’ve also put a strong focus on only using recyclable and environmentally-friendly materials. Together with that, the brand has made efforts to only work with factories that pay fair wages, ensure safe working conditions, and are committed to responsible production.  

How Does Quince Operate And Keep Its Prices So Competitive? 

So, does simply cutting a few of the middlemen really allow Quince to achieve all of the above whilst maintaining low prices? As far as we can tell – yes.  

We don’t generally consider just how big of a percentage of an item’s price goes to the middlemen involved in logistics and marketing. Even for high-quality products, the actual manufacturing costs are usually in the low tens of dollars, if not in the single digits. Almost everything else goes to multiple middlemen and each of their respective profit margins. 

Quince has managed to largely bypass that and is able to provide high-quality luxury goods for prices in a very competitive range.  

If you have some experience in retail or simply shopping online, however, this can sound suspiciously similar to another business model – dropshipping. 

Is Quince a Dropshipper? 

Dropshipping is the practice of online retailers acting as middlemen between factories and consumers. In this niche, a “dropshipper” simply makes an online store and lists various items on it that aren’t actually kept in stock.  

Instead, when a customer orders something, the dropshipper buys that item from a producer and then resells it to the client at a higher price.  

In that sense, the “service” performed by the dropshipping business is that it potentially saves the client some time and effort. The dropshipper doesn’t actually design or own the products listed on their website, and typically doesn’t care or have any say in what’s produced – they just choose what to buy and resell on their website. 

Does this mean Quince is a dropshipper? No – quite the opposite in fact.  

Whereas a dropshipper is just a middleman who buys and resells things, Quince is the actual designer of its products. This means Quince decides what will be manufactured, where, from what materials, in which factory, and so on. 

So, while the business model appears similar in some ways – both dropshippers and Quince don’t keep products in stock, and both work with independent factories – Quince is a proper brand that controls its production process and chooses to minimize the number of middlemen it works with. 

What Does Quince Sell? 

Quince designs and sells a wide catalog of both men’s and women’s clothing, jewelry, and home fundamentals, all of which are listed rather neatly on the brand’s website. Here are some of the categories you can explore there: 

• Women’s tops, sweaters, blouses, tees, tanks, jackets, outerwear, bottoms, dresses, skirts, sweatpants, sweatshirts, loungewear, activewear, intimates, swimwear, bags, scarves, sunglasses, fine jewelry, and more.  
• Men’s sweaters, activewear, jackets, outerwear, shirts, polos, pants, shorts, loungewear, tees, underwear, sweatpants, sweatshirts, socks, hats, scarves, bags, sunglasses, tech accessories, fine men’s jewelry, and more. 
• Baby and kids’ sleepwear, sets, tops, bottoms, accessories, backpacks, and more. 
• Travel bags, suitcases, organizers, backpacks, and more. 
• Home fundamentals such as bed linens, duvets, quilts, coverlets, blankets, bath mats, robes, shower curtains, towels, rugs, pillows, mirrors, wall art, decorations, and more. 
• Quality materials such as real silk, cashmere, linen, leather, and more. 

As you can see, there is a wide range on Quince’s website. This makes them an easy go-to for a lot of people’s needs – whether you’re just looking for one or two additional articles of clothing, for a cool and affordable jewelry piece, for a major wardrobe overhaul, or for a whole new set of bed linens, or you want to upgrade your hotel’s interior, Quince is a good place to check out. 

Quince Sustainability 

As we mentioned above, Quince doesn’t just focus on lowering its prices by cutting middlemen – the brand also makes sure its clothing and other products are as sustainable and eco-friendly as possible. Quince does this in several ways: 

1. Quince uses natural fabrics and eco-friendly dyes. Their clothes and other products are made out of natural leather, cashmere, alpaca wool, 100% recycled polyester, and organic linen and cotton. 

2. By working as a DTC (direct-to-consumer) business, Quince has drastically reduced its carbon footprint compared to other brands. That’s because there is no excess energy expenditure when transporting the merchandise between warehouses or middlemen – just the single trip from the factory to the client’s door. 

3. This DTC model also means using as little packaging as possible. What’s more, Quince has also made great strides in transitioning to 100% compostable packaging with zero virgin plastics by the end of 2023.  

4. Another huge factor people often overlook is the very nature of Quince’s designs – unlike many other luxury brands that focus on trendy fashion pieces, Quince prioritizes evergreen designs. This means that people are significantly more likely to wear Quince’s clothing for years and even decades rather than throw them away after a season or two because “they are not trendy anymore”. 

By sticking to these 4 points, Quince is making sure that it’s a significantly more eco-friendly and sustainable option than many other brands that contribute greatly to environmental pollution.  

Can Quince Be Considered A High-Quality And/Or Luxury Brand? 

While you wouldn’t expect a $20-$30 linen shirt to be considered “luxurious”, Quince’s products have all the hallmarks of a luxury brand as far as quality is concerned. From the design and materials to the production quality, Quince’s products rival those of the largest and most expensive modern luxury brands. 

Of course, “luxuriousness” is subjective, and people are unlikely to mention Quince in the same breath as Prada, Louis Vuitton, or Armani. Still, if you want the quality of a luxury brand at affordable prices, Quince does seem to offer that. 

Naturally, there are aspects in which you wouldn’t consider Quince a “luxury” brand. Jewelry is the first to come to mind here – while Quince offers a nice and affordable fine jewelry selection that has good value for its price tag, you can hardly consider Quince a competition for industry giants such as James Allen, Whiteflash, Blue Nile, or Brilliant Earth. 

Take a look at this 14K gold diamond ring, for example. There are some things we’re used to from other jewelry retailers such as 360-degree HD imaging, more details on the stone’s exact characteristics, and independent certification. But having said that, these factors are mostly necessary for expensive pieces that boast 4- or 5-digit price tags and above. Instead, Quince offers affordable jewelry that’s above what’s expected for such low price tags – and that’s great in and of itself. 

Quince Wholesale And Partnership Programs 

Quince is a DTC business first and foremost, but that doesn’t mean that it doesn’t have partnership programs or sell wholesale. Quince partners with dozens of other brands in numerous industries that Quince sees as “best-in-class”. Shopping from these brands through Quince’s website earns you Quince credit that can be spent on your future orders from the Quince store. 

As far as wholesale is concerned, Quince readily works with clients that require larger merch volumes. People and businesses from the hospitality, interior design, and gifting niches are welcome to work with Quince, and the brand even gives $100 gift cards for any successful referral to a client from these industries.  

Additionally, Quince readily offers white-label products to clients who want to utilize Quince’s products in their hospitality or interior design businesses and present them as their own.  

Shopping From Quince – Website, Customer Service, Return Policy, And More 

Buying and enjoying any of Quince’s products is also quite simple, thanks to their smooth and user-friendly website. Each product page comes with detailed descriptions, reviews, instructions for proper care and maintenance, a price comparison between Quince’s price and the price tags you’d get for similar products from traditional retailers, and more. 

What’s more, Quince also offers secure payment methods, free shipping, and free returns. That last part is especially noteworthy as Quince’s free return periods tend to be much greater than anything you’d get from most other retailers – often up to 365 days after the purchase instead of the 30 or 90 days most other brands offer.  

Wrapping Up – Is Quince Worth It? 

All in all, Quince does seem to live up to its hype and deliver on its three core promises – sustainability, quality, and affordability. Especially as far as clothes and home fundamentals are concerned, Quince has indeed managed to strike a fine balance between products that are both high-quality and eco-friendly while still maintaining some of the lowest prices possible for that amount of value. 

In this comprehensive review, we cover everything you need to know about purchasing diamonds and fine jewelry from Brilliant Earth. Let’s take a look at the pros and cons of shopping with them, what they offer, and whether they’re worth the money.

Quick Overview – Brilliant Earth Pros and Cons

What we like about Brilliant Earth:

• Great inventory with large selection of natural and lab-created gemstones
• One of the largest online stores for high-quality lab-grown diamonds
• Certificate of origin provided for diamonds through blockchain tracking
• Wide range of unique designs and settings
• 30 showrooms throughout the US
• Clear and easy-to-navigate website with specific search filters
• High-quality, classy, and unique packaging
• Free shipping both ways and free resizing within 60 days
• Lifetime warranty and upgrade policies
• Friendly and supportive customer service

Some things that could be improved:

• Not all diamonds have images/videos
• Consistently changing stock, nothing stays listed for too long

How Are They Different to Other Retailers?

Founded in 2005, Brilliant Earth aims to create a more conscientious, transparent, and sustainable jewelry industry. In fact, the company has been credited for creating a market for ethically-sourced jewelry and shining a spotlight on such issues.

In line with their values, Brilliant Earth only offers products that have been ethically sourced, including recycled metals, lab-created diamonds, refurbishing jewelry, and sustainable packaging.

The company guarantees that their diamonds are:

• Beyond Conflict-Free^TM
• Free of Human Rights Abuses
• Harmful Environmental Impacts Reduction
• Humane Labor Practices

Brilliant Earth makes an effort to make positive contributions to community development, through the Brilliant Earth foundation which started in 2021 and has given over $518,000 in 2022. They support fair trade in artisanal mining, community development, human rights protection, and child labor prevention, education and training, and environmental restoration such as rehabilitating land that has been destroyed by unregulated mining.

In addition, the company has allied with various organizations focused on principled practices. These include the Diamond Development Initiative, which works to improve conditions for small-scale miners worldwide. Brilliant Earth is also a certified and audited member of the Responsible Jewelry Council, an organization that prides itself on top-notch standards for jewelry.

They are also pushing for changes in certification in the diamond industry and leading by example. With rigorous standards of sourcing, verification and certification. With all this, the company has established a reputation for being transparent and dedicated to addressing common issues in the jewelry industry.

Are Brilliant Earth’s Diamonds More Expensive Than Other Retailers?

The short answer to this question is: Not really. Here’s why.

There has been some criticism that Brilliant Earth’s diamonds are more expensive than other retailers, and that their ethical stance is a marketing gimmick just to jack up prices. The argument goes that while they may have an edge when it comes to offering ethically-sourced natural diamonds, they lose that edge when it comes to lab-created diamonds. Because all lab-created diamonds are ethical, so why should you pay a higher price at Brilliant Earth, when you can buy an equally ethical lab-created diamond elsewhere at a lower price?

However, when we compared their lab-created diamonds to other popular retailers, we found that Brilliant Earth’s pricing was actually really quite competitive. For example, take a look at this 1 carat lab-created diamond by Brilliant Earth and compare it with this diamond of similar specs by James Allen. The prices are almost the same, but Brilliant Earth’s diamond comes in a little cheaper.

Ok, but what about natural diamonds? Let’s compare a 1 carat round natural diamond from Brilliant Earth with this similar natural diamond. This time, Brilliant Earth’s diamond is around $100 more, but the diamond description tells us its a Canadian diamond, which are known to be more expensive. The other diamond doesn’t have any origin information.

So what do we think of all this? Brilliant Earth has very competitive pricing and a wide range of products that are ethically sourced. They know where their diamonds come from and they can trace them back to the source. Based on this comparison and search, we can’t say that their diamonds are over-priced.

Where Do Brilliant Earth Source Their Diamonds?

Brilliant Earth offers Beyond Conflict-Free diamonds and stones, sourcing their diamonds from countries such as Canada, Botswana, South Africa, and Namibia. They audit, track and verify their diamonds’ origins and provide customers with this certification. Their suppliers can track and segregate diamonds by origin. What’s more, they only work with suppliers who follow internationally recognized labor, trade, and environmental standards.

You can find information about the diamond’s origins in the Diamond Details section. You can also filter the diamonds based on country of origin in the advanced search filter. In comparison, most other diamond retailers don’t know the origins of their diamonds, unless it’s from a country like Canada.

But what we like about Brilliant Earth is that they are committed to ensuring their diamonds are ethically sourced. They’re not just talking the talk, but their actions show that they’re also walking the walk. One example is that they were one of the first jewelers to offer block-chain tracing of their diamonds throughout the mining, cutting, and polishing process. There are thousands of block chain enabled diamonds searchable on the website.

What About Brilliant Earth’s Lab-Grown Diamonds?

Brilliant Earth is currently one of the largest online vendors of lab-grown diamonds, and they were also one of the first who recognized the value of these synthetic stones. Lab-grown diamonds cost 15-20% less than natural diamonds because it’s not nearly as expensive to make them as it is to mine them. This makes these diamonds not only humanely sourced, but also a far better and more sustainable practice.

Are Their Metals Sustainable?

When we talk about ethical jewelry, we tend to focus just on diamonds. Movies like Blood Diamond have highlighted the issues that diamond mining is mired in. But what about the metals we use?

Brilliant Earth acquires 100% of their gold, platinum, and silver, from recycled precious metals. They make use of recycled jewelry, industrial products, and components from electronics.

Precious metals maintain their integrity through endless recycling cycles, ensuring that creating sustainable jewelry doesn’t compromise quality or beauty.

So, not only will people not notice the earth-friendly make up, but it will last for a lifetime.

Brilliant Earth’s Sustainable Packaging

Brilliant Earth scores high with their unique, creative, and classy ring box! It is not the typical kind we have come to expect from most retailers. Why is it different?

Well, the gorgeous ring box is made from wood sourced from Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certified forests. These are responsibly managed to protect the forests for future generations. The packaging is also 100% recycled and sustainable to reduce carbon emissions.

We also really like that all ring orders over $1000 with diamonds or gemstones include a biodegradable and non-toxic jewelry cleaner.

How User-Friendly Is the Brilliant Earth Website?

The Brilliant Earth website is easy to use and dynamic. The search interface is convenient and provides many filters to narrow results. There are sections devoted to engagement rings, wedding rings, jewelry collections and jewelry education. You can sort by skin tone, recycling, setting, carat size, price, and many other features.

When using the advance search function, you can choose the country of origin fo­r whichever gemstone you’re after. There is also the option of choosing between recycled, used or lab-grown diamonds obtained from secondary sources. The focus of the education section is broader than most other vendors. It gives detailed and easy-to-digest information on a range of jewelry-related topics.

However, while all this is great, we found the images and videos of some of the competition to be on a higher level than Brilliant Earth’s. On the flip side, Brilliant Earth offers more information about their diamond.

What Products Do Brilliant Earth Offer?

Brilliant Earth offers their wide range of niche products at any one of the 30 showrooms across the United States or direct from their website.

• Natural Diamonds: Brilliant Earth is very particular about the mined diamonds they sell and only .01% of the world’s diamonds can pass their criteria on quality and ethics. There are about 115,000 mined gemstones in their inventory at the time of this writing.

• Lab-grown (Cultured) Diamonds: Brilliant Earth has one of the largest inventories for lab-grown diamonds and is a go-to place for anyone interested in mined diamond alternatives. They have about 235,000 lab diamonds currently listed on their website.

• Colored Diamonds: You can also find natural and lab-created colored diamonds in blues, yellows, greens, and pinks.

• Settings: Brilliant Earth has a range of settings, gemstones, and metals for engagement and wedding rings, earrings, necklaces, bracelets, and even men’s jewelry.  You can mix-and-match designs or try out your jewelry in a temporary setting for 30 days. They also carry an unusual selection of vintage and antique style settings to give engagement rings classic appeal.

• Gemstones: Brilliant Earth is not just a diamond dealer, they also offer sapphires, emeralds, aquamarines, morganites, and moissanites. These are gorgeous alternatives to the traditional diamond engagement ring.

• Diamond and Gemstone Jewelry: While some people prefer to design their own jewelry, there are large arrays of pre-made fine jewelry available. You can find rings, earrings, necklaces, bracelets, and more. Many of these are ready to ship, so you can have a beautiful piece in no time.

How Good is Brilliant Earth’s Images and Videos?

At the time of writing, 90% of Brilliant Earth’s natural diamonds and 80% of their lab-created stones have images and videos to accompany their stock. For diamonds that don’t have photos and videos, they list all the details clearly but only show a diagram and sample photo for most gemstones. If you want to see the actual diamond when searching, ensure that you select the ‘Real View Available’ tab to filter the diamonds with real images.

If you like the features of a diamond but require more support for the sale, you can ask customer support for any assistance or guidance. They also provide comprehensive diamond verification, certification, light details/ASET maps upon request, and offer blockchain enabled diamonds for transparency.

What About Brilliant Earth’s Customer Service and Care?

Brilliant Earth provides a personalized customer service experience. When we got in touch with them, we found the sales representatives to be friendly and not pushy. They assist customers with every aspect of the purchase and they’re also quite knowledgeable. Because they have 24/7 customer chat service, you can contact them regardless of where in the world you’re located.

Brilliant Earth’s online customer service experience is as close to walking into a brick-and-mortar store and having a chat with the friendly salesperson there. Their showrooms are equally as customer-friendly and accessible.

The sales reps also take extra pains to accommodate your requirements to ensure that your engagement ring remains a surprise.

What Services Do Brilliant Earth Offer?

• Shipping and Returns: For customers in the US, Canada and Australia, Brilliant Earth offers free shipping both ways through FedEx. So if, by any chance, you find that you have to return you ring, they will cover the cost as long as you send it back within 30 days. However, there is a 10% goods and services tax for Canadian and Australian shoppers. Also, they will not accept returns on personalized or engraved items.

• Payment Options: Brilliant Earth gives customers flexible payment options. There is the Wells Fargo Jewelry Advantage credit card, which gives you 12-month interest free if paid in full within that period (only for US customers). Bank wiring is available for any order over $500. If you choose this option, you are eligible to receive a 1.5% discount on the total price of your purchase (US and Canada). There are also lay-away options to give you a chance to make monthly installments (US and international customers). You can also go with their Affirm Financing program too. Of course, you can always use your standard credit card, PayPal or Apple Pay.

• Lifetime Upgrade Policy:  For any loose stone purchased, you can get an upgrade at anytime. But, this applies only to mined colorless diamonds and it must be at least 50% more in value. Also, you have to ensure that you have all the original documents and the stone must be saleable.

• Lifetime Warranty: Their lifetime warranty covers all manufacturing faults, which should give you peace of mind. So, when you receive your piece, you can have it repaired free of charge if the fault is due to manufacturing defects. Plus, they offer an extended warranty service plan for added protection. This includes regular inspections and cleanings along with repairs.

• Complimentary Resizing: Within 60 days of purchase, you can get one free ring resizing with free shipping. This is very convenient and takes worry about the ring’s size and fit. Remember, you can also order a free ring sizer from their website. They send this to you directly.

Does Brilliant Earth Have Showrooms?

Currently, Brilliant Earth has 30 showrooms throughout the United States. You can make an appointment to browse their collections of rings and to chat with their jewelry experts about any questions you may have. So, if you tend to prefer an in-store experience, this will tick that box for you.

Should You Shop at Brilliant Earth?

So, is Brilliant Earth the right retailer for you? All things considered, we believe they’re an excellent place to take your diamond and jewelry search.

For one thing, Brilliant Earth’s prices are competitive and comparable with other diamond giants in the same space. They also have a range of stylish and high-quality settings and jewelry, so you will have lots of options to choose the right jewelry piece for you.

What’s more, most customers today care about the impact of their purchases on the environment, so knowing where their diamonds come from and how their jewelry is made offers them greater transparency and peace of mind. No one wants an engagement ring with a diamond that was mined through human exploitation or to fund conflicts that kill and displace people, right? Brilliant Earth offers this information, which is excellent.

The company is constantly evolving and moving with the times in terms of trends and technology, but their core values have remained the same from the start – providing ethical jewelry at reasonable prices.

With all that said, would we recommend Brilliant Earth? Yes. But don’t just take our word for it. Check out their site, and browse through their products to see if it’s the right fit for you.

Wrapping Up

Brilliant Earth offers beautiful and unique jewelry that you can trust. They go through rigorous standards to ensure they derive every aspect of their jewelry from ethical and sustainable sources. You will have to be patient and work with the sales reps to find what you need, but it’s well worth the time and effort. Click here to browse diamonds at Brilliant Earth.

That’s where we come in. We’ve scoured the market to find the best of the best, taking into consideration both quality and fair pricing. Whether you’re in the market for a one-of-a-kind piece or a simple everyday luxury, these brands have got you covered.  

1. Brilliant Earth 

Check Their Website

Brilliant Earth has emerged as one of the leading luxury jewelry brands that places sustainability at the forefront of their practices. With the use of ethically sourced and recycled gold and silver, they offer a guilt-free shopping experience for customers. The brand also offers high-quality natural diamonds and gemstones, carefully selected for their brilliance and uniqueness. Their engagement rings and wedding bands feature stunning designs that are truly one-of-a-kind. Brilliant Earth’s commitment to social and environmental responsibility makes it a popular choice for those seeking a luxurious yet ethical jewelry option. 

2. Tiffany & Co. 

Check Their Website

Tiffany & Co. is a name synonymous with luxury and elegance, and it’s not hard to see why. Established almost 200 years ago, the brand has continued to be a top choice for those seeking high-quality luxury jewelry. Tiffany & Co. has a range of jewelry types that are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a classic engagement ring or a statement necklace.  

One of the things that set Tiffany & Co. apart is their focus on craftsmanship and quality materials, which is why their designs are consistently sought after. So if you’re looking for a timeless piece that will last a lifetime, Tiffany & Co. is definitely a brand to consider. 

3. James Allen 

Check Their Website

If you’re searching for an engagement ring but prefer to shop from the comfort of your own home, James Allen is the perfect online luxury jewelry store for you. They offer high-quality materials and excellent craftsmanship, making them a top choice for many couples looking to tie the knot.  

Their vast collection of engagement rings offers limitless options to choose from, and their prices are quite competitive compared to other high-end vendors. James Allen also offers one of the best 3D 360-degree imagery features, allowing you to effortlessly shop for your perfect engagement ring online. 

4. David Yurman 

Check Their Website

David Yurman is a top choice for those seeking luxury men’s jewelry and especially high-end bracelets. Their unique designs are crafted with the finest materials and are available in an extensive online collection. David Yurman’s signature cable-twist cuff bracelet is a popular and iconic piece, but their collection also includes other notable items, such as elegant rings, necklaces, and watches, that are sure to catch your eye. With its stunning designs and impeccable craftsmanship, David Yurman is an excellent choice for anyone looking to add a touch of luxury to their jewelry collection. 

5. Blue Nile 

Check Their Website

Blue Nile is a renowned online jewelry retailer that has been offering high-quality jewelry at reasonable prices since 1999. They pride themselves on their vast collection of fine jewelry, which includes everything from diamond engagement rings and wedding bands to gemstone earrings and necklaces.  

With a focus on ethical sourcing and customer satisfaction, Blue Nile’s jewelry pieces are crafted with precision and care. Their user-friendly website makes shopping for luxury jewelry easy and convenient, with plenty of customization options available.  

From classic and timeless designs to contemporary and trendy pieces, Blue Nile has something to suit everyone’s taste and budget. 

6. Vrai & Oro 

Check Their Website

For those looking for luxury jewelry made with lab-grown diamonds and gemstones, Vrai & Oro is a brand that should be on their radar. They offer a variety of stunning and simple designs that incorporate high-quality, lab-grown gemstones, which are both affordable and eco-friendly.  

Their pieces are available in 14k and 18k gold and include engagement rings, wedding bands, earrings, necklaces, and bracelets. Vrai & Oro is committed to ethical sourcing and sustainable practices, using recycled gold and minimizing waste in their production process. Their jewelry is made to last and comes with a lifetime warranty. 

7. Chopard 

Check Their Website

Chopard is a premier brand known for its exquisite women’s diamond gold jewelry. With a wide range of jewelry types, including watches, rings, bracelets, necklaces, pendants, and earrings, Chopard caters to all of your luxury jewelry needs.  

Their jewelry pieces come in perfect antique styles with delicate features and a perfect combination of minimalism and luxury. Chopard is a brand that values sustainability and fair mining practices. They also actively support various philanthropic causes such as the Cannes Film Festival, Happy Hearts Foundation, and the Elton John AIDS Foundation. 

8. Swarovski 

Check Their Website

Swarovski has established itself as a renowned brand for luxury crystal jewelry since its founding in 1895. With a rich history in the industry, the brand has remained consistent in offering jewelry pieces that are both luxurious and unique.  

Swarovski has collaborated with famous designers such as Jean-Paul Gaultier and Yoko Ono to create jewelry collections that reflect their individual styles. The brand also has a variety of sub-collections, such as their “Swarovski Remix Collection” which allows wearers to mix and match different pieces to create a unique look.  

In addition, Swarovski offers a range of customization options for their jewelry, allowing customers to create personalized pieces that cater to their individual tastes. 

9. Sarah Chloe 

Check Their Website

For those in search of a luxury jewelry brand that offers a diverse range of pieces at varying price points, Sarah Chloe is an excellent option. Their collection features a wide array of jewelry types, from diamond rings to necklaces, bracelets, cufflinks, and bangles. Whether you’re looking for a special piece for a special occasion or simply want to treat yourself to some high-end sparkle, Sarah Chloe has something for everyone.  

And while the brand offers plenty of luxurious options, they also have a range of pieces that are more budget-friendly, making it easy for anyone to add a touch of sophistication to their jewelry collection. With such a well-balanced collection, Sarah Chloe truly has something for every taste and budget. 

10. Mateo 

Check Their Website

When it comes to high jewelry, Mateo is a name that demands attention. With a focus on quality craftsmanship, Mateo’s pieces are created with the utmost care and attention to detail. From stunning diamond earrings to breathtaking necklaces and bracelets, each piece is a true work of art.  

But it’s not just about the beauty of the designs, it’s also about the materials used. Mateo sources only the finest materials for their jewelry, including top-quality diamonds and precious metals. So if you’re looking to add some high-end sparkle to your collection, look no further than Mateo’s exquisite designs. 

11. Bulgari 

Check Their Website

Bulgari is a renowned luxury jewelry store that has been in operation since the 19th century. Known for their high-quality materials, timeless designs, and exquisite craftsmanship, Bulgari has become a household name for those seeking luxurious and glamorous jewelry.  

From rings and necklaces to bracelets, watches, and more, the store has an extensive collection of jewelry items that are perfect for special occasions or everyday wear. Additionally, Bulgari’s commitment to sustainability and ethical sourcing of materials has made it a favorite among socially conscious consumers.  

12. Cartier 

Check Their Website

This French luxury brand has been synonymous with elegance, sophistication, and luxury, offering a wide range of high-end jewelry pieces that have become iconic over the years. Cartier’s collection includes exquisite diamond rings, necklaces, bracelets, earrings, and watches, among others, crafted from the finest materials and designed with impeccable attention to detail.  

The brand’s jewelry pieces have adorned royalty, celebrities, and other influential figures, cementing its reputation as one of the most prestigious and sought-after luxury jewelry stores in the world. 

FAQs about Luxury Jewelry Brands 

Wrapping up 

Luxury jewelry brands offer a vast selection of high-quality, exquisite, and timeless pieces that serve as a testament to the craftsmanship of skilled artisans. Whether you’re looking for a stunning engagement ring, a luxurious bracelet, or a statement necklace, luxury jewelry brands provide an unparalleled shopping experience. Investing in a piece of luxury jewelry is not only an expression of personal style but also a wise investment in a timeless and enduring piece of art. 

What makes Forever One Moissanite stand out and are they worth the money? In this comprehensive review, we’ll look at what moissanite is and what makes Forever One special, its pros and cons, and how you can figure out if this is the right pick for you.  

We’ll keep this review short and to the point. For more information, check out our related articles: 

A Review of Charles and Colvard – The Creators of Moissanite 

Difference Between Lab Grown Diamonds and Moissanite 

7 Best Places to Buy Moissanite Rings Online: Expert Picks 

What is Forever One Moissanite? 

Forever One Moissanite was created by Charles & Colvard, an American company known for introducing moissanite as a jewelry gemstone to the wider public. Forever One Moissanite came out around 30 years ago and remains the most premium moissanite brand. 

But what does it mean when we say that Charles and Colvard introduced moissanite to the public?  The reason this is the case is because moissanite used in jewelry is synthetic.  

Is Moissanite a Real Gemstone? 

Moissanite can be found in nature, as it is a type of naturally occurring silicon carbide. If you are lucky enough to find a piece of moissanite in nature, it’ll be more than understandable if you mistake it for a diamond – that’s how much these two gemstones look alike even though diamonds are made of carbon and not silicon carbide. 

In fact, the person who first discovered natural moissanite in 1893 in a meteorite crater in Arizona – the Noble Prize-winning chemist Henry Moissan – also thought that he’d found a piece of diamond. It took Henry Moissan 11 years to realize his mistake and reveal this new type of gemstone to the world. 

Because natural moissanite gemstones are so incredibly rare, it wasn’t used in jewelry. Its unavailability made it unviable as a jewelry gemstone. It was Charles and Colvard that changed this.   

Using their 6H polytype silicon carbide, Charles & Colvard managed to create lab-grown moissanite stones that look exactly like natural moissanite and are chemically identical to it, thus giving birth to the Forever One Moissanite line. 

This brings us to the question – is lab-grown moissanite real? Yes, just like lab-grown diamonds are real and chemically identical to natural diamonds, lab-grown moissanite is the same as natural moissanite.  

However, as already mentioned, because natural moissanite is rare, all the moissanite you’ll find on the market is synthetic. 

Moissanite is a highly durable, brilliant, and affordable gemstone that makes for an excellent alternative to diamonds. We’ve discussed the benefits of moissanite in comparison to diamonds in this article. 

How Is Forever One Moissanite Different? 

When assessing the quality of moissanite, it’s important to consider the 4Cs – the color, clarity, cut, and carat weight of the stone.  

Forever One Moissanite is truly high-quality and follows the original patented process created by Charles and Colvard. The technical process used by Charles and Colvard to create this brand of moissanite ensures high grade color and clarity. These stones are colorless, free of inclusions, and brilliant in their cut and faceting structures.  

Each Forever One stone over 4mm carries Charles and Colvard’s signature engraving on the stone’s girdle. Because of its exceptional quality, the stone’s hold more fire and brilliance than traditional mined diamonds.  

In contrast, most moissanite on the market don’t pass these strict standards.  

Pros and Cons of Forever One Moissanite 

We’ve established that Charles and Colvard pioneered the synthetic moissanite industry with their Forever One Moissanite line and that these stones stand out from most other moissanite types. As a result, the brand has been associated with the highest quality moissanite. But are the stones worth the hype? Let’s take a quick look at its pros and cons.  

Pros of Forever One Moissanite  

1. Quality Moissanite 

Charles & Colvard’s moissanite is made with the highest quality and offers clarity, brilliance, fire, and sparkle that few other moissanite jewelers can provide. As is (or should) be the case with any good moissanite, the Forever One stones have brilliance and sparkle that can rival any diamond and even better fire. They also hold excellent clarity and are colorless.  

Note that Charles and Colvard also offer Forever Brilliant (referring to their original line of Forever One Moissanite) and Forever Classic (referring to their line of second color grade quality). 

2. Hardness  

Forever One moissanite has excellent hardness – 9.25/10 on the Moh scale, as should be the case of all good moissanite – not quite as hard as a diamond but as close as any other gemstone can get. Thanks to its high durability and tolerance to temperatures close to 2,000o Fahrenheit (over 1,000o Celsius), moissanite jewelry can easily and safely be resized and repaired.  

3. Heirloom Value 

Forever One moissanite has long-term and even heirloom value, especially when crafted and set into beautiful jewelry. All these stones need is the standard common-sense care you’d give any other diamond or gemstone jewelry and the moissanite will have no problems lasting decades. 

4. Several Options 

Charles & Colvard’s moissanite collection is divided into several different sub-sections. These include the original and highest quality moissanite stones of the Forever Brilliant collection, the new collection of the nearly colorless moissanite Forever Classic collection, as well as the current Forever One colorless collection. All three are of excellent quality but with some variation in the color (or lack thereof), fire, and price tag which gives Forever One’s customers more budgetary options. 

5. Affordable Pricing 

By virtue of being a lab-grown gemstone, moissanite is much more affordable than natural diamonds, similar to lab-grown diamonds. Having said this, moissanite is not inexpensive like cubic zirconia – a high-quality stone can still cost thousands of dollars. In the jewelry world, the word ‘affordable’ is relative.  

6. Range of Jewelry Options 

Forever One Moissanite offers a range of types of fine jewelry, including earrings, necklaces, bracelets, and fashion rings, as well as different styles and settings of engagement rings and wedding bands.  

7. Excellent After Sales Policies 

Charles & Colvard offers competitive financing options, 30-day free returns, free shipping, warranty options, repair & resize services, and more. 

8. Bespoke Options 

Custom-made Forever One Moissanite jewelry of all types is available at Charles & Colvard’s stores. This offers the option of creating the type of jewelry you require.  

9. Eco Friendly  

Naturally, as with any other lab-grown gemstone or diamond, Forever One Moissanite is eco-friendly by definition as its origins are traceable to the lab in which it was created. The environmental as well as the human impact are low.  

Cons of Forever One Moissanite 

1. Fewer Design Options in Stock 

Charles & Colvard have limited options when it comes to moissanite engagement rings and fine jewelry pieces in stock. Most custom orders will require some time to be made and shipped – you’ll need to plan accordingly. 

2. It’s not a Diamond 

This is obvious, but for those who have their heart set on a diamond, it’s important to remember that moissanite isn’t diamond. While we’d definitely recommend Forever One moissanite – and moissanite in general – moissanite isn’t a diamond substitute. If the person you’re buying the moissanite jewelry for has their heart set on a diamond, they may be unhappy with moissanite even if it’s similar in appearance and of similar durability and value. 

3. Premium Pricing 

Forever One’s Moissanite jewelry is more expensive than most if not all, other moissanite jewelry brands and varieties. It is still relatively affordable compared to diamonds, but there is a noticeable price difference compared to other brands. 

Wrapping Up – Is Forever One Moissanite for you? 

Forever One Moissanite is ideal for virtually all types of customers, as long as you don’t have any hangups about lab-grown gemstones.  

These moissanite stones are of the highest possible quality, look as good as the best-looking diamonds or natural moissanite stones in the world, are exceptionally beautiful and can work with all types of fine jewelry. They’re also durable and can last lifetimes, they are eco-friendly and truly conflict-free, and they are quite affordable, at least for the quality you’d be getting. 

However, if you’re looking for affordable moissanite, you can find less expensive stones. The quality may not be the same, however.  

Throughout this time, they’ve managed to thrive and redefine fine jewelry, opening up hundreds of physical stores and thousands of happy customers.  

What sets them apart is their well-defined policies regarding renting, leasing, and financing, helping prospective buyers buy now and pay later for their engagement rings and bridal sets. 

So, how does this all play out? Is Zales the best at “sales” when it comes to retail jewelry? Let’s find out.   

Highlights 

• Offers jewelry repair services 
• Lifetime diamond commitment policy 
• Over 700 physical stores located in North America and Puerto Rico 
• Easy-to-use custom jewelry design tool 
• Specializes in lab-grown and earth-grown diamonds and gemstones for engagement rings 
• A dedicated section for gifts and birthstones 
• A well-cataloged collection of costume, semi-fine, and fine jewelry ranging from $50-$5,000 
• Branded watches for men, women, and children  
• A dedicated “Diamond credit card” for financing jewelry 
• Constant sales and promotions on their website
• Solid upgrade policy for diamond jewelry 
• Jewelry rental service 

History and Background

With almost a century of experience under its belt, Zales Jewelers is a well-known retailer in the United States. Founded in 1924 by Morris (M.B.) Zale, William Zale, and Ben Lipshy, as a small retail store in Wichita Falls, Texas, Zales has expanded into a major international jewelry corporation, with over 700 stores located across North America and Puerto Rico. 

In 2014, Zales was acquired by Signet Jewelers Inc., a multinational specialty retail jeweler headquartered in Akron, Ohio. Signet Jewelers owns several other popular jewelry brands, including Kay Jewelers. 

Zales is renowned for its collection of gemstones and fashion jewelry. That said, they heavily emphasize diamonds, making it one of the go-to destinations for customers looking for bridal jewelry.  

What You Can Expect to Find at Zales 

Engagement Rings 

With an exceptional selection of styles and diamond shapes to pick and choose from, customers can shop for ready-to-order engagement rings or customize one based on their favorite diamonds and designs.  

The “Bridal Customizer” tool on their website is simple to use and is an excellent visualization tool. With well-displayed graphics that update in real-time, you can customize not just the diamond and gemstone shape but also details such as the prong setting, shank carving, and the metal for the shank.  

However, when compared to sites like James Allen and Blue Nile, which offer higher levels of customization and better imagery, it’s clear that Zales online shopping is still somewhat limited.  

For those looking for something more unique, Zales offers several famous collections, including Kleinfeld x Zales, Vera Wang Bridal, and Enchanted Disney Fine Jewelry. Each collection has a distinct style and offers a range of engagement ring options to suit different preferences. 

Fine Jewelry

Although not their specialty per se, Zales has a vast selection of rings, necklaces, earrings, bracelets, and watches. Customers can choose from different materials, including diamonds, gemstones, gold, platinum, silver, and stainless steel.  

There’s something for everyone as prices can range from $50 to over $5,000. So, whether it’s fashion jewelry or an eternal heirloom piece, you’ll definitely find what you need at Zales. 

Besides that, women’s, men’s, and children’s designs are available for all traditional jewelry types, allowing customers of all ages to find pieces that suit their style and budget.  

Engagement rings, personalized (custom engraved) rings, and promise rings for couples are some of the most popular ring designs. Meanwhile, custom-engraved necklaces and solid chains rule the necklaces section. 

Although they’ve got dozens upon dozens of earrings to offer, the solitaire studs and drop earrings are some of their best items. Bracelets are also available in various styles, and you can find anklets, tennis bracelets, layering bracelets, and personalized engraved bracelets, to name a few. 

Zales offers a wide selection of men’s and women’s watches. Famous brands such as Citizen, Casio, Invicta, and Movado are also available. 

Jewelry Gift Ideas

Zales has a section purely dedicated to gift-giving. They’ve got dozens of jewelry gift ideas that are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re shopping for Mother’s Day, a wedding, a graduation, a birthday, or any other special occasion, Zales has got you covered. 

On top of that, Zales has detailed gift-giving guides and assorted selections. Customers can shop by occasion, budget, or recipient, making it easy to find something that suits their needs. Also, with prices ranging from under $250 to over $1000, there is a gift for every budget. 

Zales’ bestsellers include jewelry sets, diamond studs, and personalized engraved jewelry.  

For those who prefer to give gifts that are specific to a particular month, Zales also has a range of birthstone gifts for different months of the year.  

The Problem with Zales Diamond Quality 

When selecting an engagement ring, one of the most important factors to consider is the quality of the diamond. The quality of a diamond depends largely on the 4Cs. So, how do Zales’ diamonds compare? 

The Zales website offers a good education section that covers the quality factors of diamonds. While this is all good, what’s most important when shopping for a diamond online is the ability to see the actual stone.  

Unfortunately, Zales doesn’t offer this option. In many cases, what you will see is a stock image of the diamond. Diamonds are very individual in their appearance, and it’s important to check the actual stone prior to purchasing. Are there visible inclusions? How good is the sparkle of the stone? Has it been cut to proportion? Is there a bow tie? These are important questions to ask.  

Zales does offer a Chat with an Expert option as well as free appointment bookings, where you could ask your questions.  

Another point to note is that not all Zales diamonds are certified by an independent lab. They do offer some GIA diamonds, but not as many as you’d like. For example, out of 5277 rings available on their site right now, only 381 have certified diamonds. That’s an appallingly low number. 

Zales doesn’t offer enough information about their diamonds, most notably the cut quality. This is a huge disadvantage and makes buying expensive diamond jewelry from them a hit or miss. What’s more, most of their diamonds are of low clarity, although the stock images they feature can be misleading.  

Take a look at the diamond ring featured above. While the stock image features a beautiful, clear diamond, the product listing notes that it’s an S12 diamond. Here’s what an SI2 diamond really looks like: 

It’s clear that the image featured on Zales is misleading. There is no way an SI2 diamond is going to look that perfect!  

But here’s the real issue. The 1-carat SI2 three-stone diamond ring on Zales costs $7999 – an online exclusive, no less. Now compare that to this SI2 diamond three-stone ring setting that we created on James Allen – it’s a whopping $4500 less expensive.

What’s more, this diamond is certified by the IGI and there are also images of recently purchased similar rings to give you a clearer idea of what you’re purchasing.  

This is why it’s difficult to recommend Zales for high-quality diamond jewelry when there are other much more transparent and better value options like James Allen.  

Should You Buy Jewelry from Zales? 

Zales has an exquisite collection of fine jewelry, no doubt about it. What puts them one step above the rest is they’ve managed to cater to both the financially green-lit returning customer and the slow investor.  

So regardless of the budget, you can find pieces for anybody, and if you’re strapped for cash, you can still use their solid financing options to rent, lease, or reserve an amazing piece. 

While diamond jewelry, specifically engagement rings, is their forte, we find that other online retailers offer more value. Zales are not as affordable as they like to make out, and similar items can be found on their competitors’ sites for better prices.  

Check out our article on the pros and cons of the best online retailers.  

Other Things to Consider 

1. The Diamond Credit Card 

Apart from Affirm and the Lease Purchase Program, Zales Jewelers offer a range of financing options to help customers purchase their dream jewelry pieces. One of the most popular is the Zales Diamond Credit Card. This card provides exclusive financing options and perks, making it an amazing choice for anybody hoping to finance their jewelry purchases. 

Customers can leverage the zero-down special financing promotion to enjoy 6–18-month financing with zero interest if paid within the allotted period. 

Besides that, Zales Diamond Credit Card holders also receive exclusive perks. These include a welcome gift, cardholder-only special events, everyday free shipping, inspection and cleaning reminders, and many more. 

2. Trade-in and Upgrades Policy 

Zales has a robust trade-in and upgrade policy to help customers move up to better pieces.  

Sadly, only Zales diamond jewelry can qualify. Colored gemstones, pearl jewelry, and diamonds that have been damaged are not eligible for an upgrade. 

The price of the upgrade piece you wish to buy must be at least double the original purchase price or more. Besides that, trade-ins can only be conducted physically, so you must take your old pieces and visit a physical store. 

3. Jewelry Rental Service 

Partnering with Rocksbox, Zales has a new service allowing you to rent diamond jewelry for special occasions. 

You can rent pieces for 14 days with prices starting at $100 (nearly one-tenth the original purchase price). You can rent diamond necklaces, earrings, bracelets, and matching sets. 

To rent, you must schedule an in-store appointment and reserve the pieces you want. Also, if you wish to purchase this piece at the end of your rental period, Zales will happily deduct the rental fee from the purchase price. 

4. Delivery Options 

Zales Jewelers offers multiple convenient delivery options for customers to choose from. You can pick up your purchase in-store or have it delivered right to your doorstep. 

Store pickup allows customers to purchase items online and pick them up at their local store. Any purchase made online can be shipped free to the local store for pickup. 

Besides that, curbside delivery is available for off-the-shelf items. Customers can also ship to a UPS Access Point.  

Zales also offers Same Day Delivery on select products. However, you need to place your order by 1 PM local time. 

An Estimated Delivery Date will be provided at the time of order placement. 

Sadly, Zales doesn’t ship internationally. They can only ship jewelry and watches within the US territories.  

5. Returns and Exchanges Policy 

Zales has a pretty reasonable returns and exchanges policy. You can return the items within 30 days, while exchanges can be carried out within 60 days. However, you need to visit one of their physical stores to confirm an exchange. 

Watches and jewelry must be in their original condition with all certificates and accessories intact. Specialty items such as custom designs and leased jewelry are not eligible for a return. 

Wrapping Up 

From what we’ve seen so far, Zales offers a good range of jewelry and can be a great place to check out fine jewelry and access a range of styles. However, if buying engagement rings and diamond jewelry, we wouldn’t recommend Zales, as they fall short in terms of value and options. There are much better options out there if you’re looking for high-quality diamonds and jewelry. 

Join us as we explore Catbird’s exceptional design philosophy, services, and selection, and discover why this brand is one of the best in the business. 

Highlights 

• More than 18 years of experience designing semi-fine jewelry 
• Symbolic stacked rings and dainty engagement rings 
• Offers welding services for creating permanent bracelets 
• All pieces are designed and produced in-house 
• 95% of pieces are made from recycled 14K/18K gold 
• Diamonds, gemstones, and pearls are all ethically sourced and conflict-free 
• Highly accessible website and physical storefronts 
• Gift Finding and in-house jewelry consultation services 
• Ability to Book Virtual Appointments for styling advice and wedding jewelry consultations 
• Complementary resizing for engagement rings for the first year 
• Lifetime polishing and matting 

The History of Catbird  

In 2004, Rony Vardi had a dream and a small storefront in Williamsburg, Brooklyn. Fast forward a few years and her vision became the Catbird brand, which has taken the jewelry world by storm. With a team of over 100 people and a second store in Soho, Manhattan, Catbird is a designer brand that has become a household name. 

But it all started with Rony’s unique sense of design and the exceptional quality of her pieces. She began selling her own clothes and jewelry, alongside pieces from other chosen designers, before eventually opening a dedicated storefront for jewelry in 2006. Catbird quickly gained momentum, and it’s not hard to see why. 

From knockout knuckle rings to sizzling stacked rings, Catbird’s exquisite earrings and 14K gold jewelry have gained a huge following and have been featured in prestigious publications such as Vogue, ELLE, and Insider. 

But Catbird is more than just a jewelry brand. They also offer home and beauty items like fragrances, candles, and other unique tidbits. And the company is committed to giving back, with a dedicated charity fund that has donated over $1.8 million to organizations such as Planned Parenthood, ACLU, and local charities. 

It’s no wonder that Catbird has become a member of the prestigious Council of Fashion Designers of America and is a part of organizations like No Dirty Gold and Made in New York. From a small storefront in Brooklyn to a thriving designer brand, Catbird continues to set the standard for exceptional quality and design in the jewelry industry. 

Focus on Sustainability and Community 

Aware of the impact they have on the environment and the community, Catbird has set the perfect example for future jewelry brands. They always resort to recycled 14K gold jewelry and ensure the remainder of their gold, diamonds, and gemstones are ethically sourced and lab-grown.  

Catbird also takes care of its 100+ employees, offering them the most optimal working conditions and employee benefits. They also highlight other local businesses and organize regular events to create a tight bond with their customers and employees.  

Focus on Accessibility and Customer Satisfaction 

Catbird is constantly striving to improve customer experience and satisfaction. Their website has a fully-fledged accessibility setting by AccessiBe and the online storefront is well-optimized for different regions. They go so far as to offer blog guides and an option for international buyers to switch prices to their preferred currency.  

That said, if you don’t prefer ordering online, you can always head to their flagship store in Williamsburg or the second branch in Soho to partake in the definitive Catbird experience. Their customer service team is always available to chat and if you visit in person, you can get a salesperson to help you find the perfect piece.  

Catbird has several positive reviews from independent reviewers and hundreds of positive reviews on Yelp. 

Here’s what some of their customers say: 

“This is such a cute place if you’re wanting to find something special with a bff. I went here to get a forever bracelet. They’re so cute! The aesthetic in there is so nice and the customer service is amazing! The whole process itself was so fast too.” 

“I was in the market for a gold bangle and most of them were too thick and heavy looking. I got the threadbare bangle (6.5″) and am so happy with my purchase. I love the minimalist look and that I can barely feel it on my wrist. I can’t wait to add two more in the future!” 

What You Can Expect to Buy from Catbird  

Even if Catbird started out specializing in stacked rings, they also boast a wide collection of earrings, bracelets, necklaces, and charms. On top of the intricate 14K gold base alloy, they also incorporate gemstones, diamonds, and even pearls. 

Let’s go through some of their most iconic design pieces along with the conventional options. 

1. Get Zapped Forever Bracelets 

Currently, Catbird is leading with their trademarked Forever Bracelets with a campaign titled “Get Zapped.” These are exclusively carried out via appointment and the process includes soldering a permanent bracelet of your choice. 

Compatible bracelets are offered in either white, yellow, or rose gold. Caratage is 14K with prices starting at $144. For an extra fee, you can incorporate letters, diamonds, stars, and heart shapes into the bracelet itself.  

2. Stacked Rings 

As the de facto trendsetter for stacked rings, you can never go wrong with their “Anatomy of a stack” guide and collection. 

Here you can find made-to-order and ready-to-ship stacked rings of various designs and sizes. Knuckle rings are also available here.  

In this section, prices average around $100 per ring and several allow monogramming or switching up the gold alloy. 

Klarna financing is also supported, making it more than easier to “build up a stack.” We recommend starting out with a Full Tomboy or Grand Cygnet as a base and stacking up as you see fit.  

3. Wedding and Engagement Rings 

Since they’ve already set up a dedicated Wedding Annex, Catbird has a special section for wedding and engagement rings.  

Here, you can browse their signature Swan Collection which either features a solitaire or triple stones with a claw-prong setting. From this collection, we just can’t get enough of the “Leda the Swan,” which we wholeheartedly recommend 

In addition to that, they’ve also got traditional engagement rings, wedding bands, and a home Try-on Kit. The Try-on Kit comes with three separate sterling silver rings and helps you get a feel for a 14K gold wedding band before you go through with a purchase. And last but not least, you can book a ring consultant or check out their detailed guides on purchasing Catbird-style wedding jewelry.  

4. Gifts and Gift Cards 

Catbird also has several options for customizable gift cards and novelty gifts. Celebrating someone’s birthday or graduation? Catbird has several sections showcasing timely gifts, including jewelry, chocolates, and other bits and baubles. 

They also offer gift sets, gift-wrapping services, quizzes, forms, and consultations for these kinds of scenarios. So if you’re ever stumped or rushing to get something for a loved one, Catbird will definitely oblige.  

Besides these, Catbird also sells home and beauty items along with a handful of jewelry collaborations with celebrities such as Phoebe Bridgers, Cassi Namoda, and Leith Clark.  

What to Consider  

Catbird Jewelry is a reliable place to purchase 14K semi-fine jewelry. They’ve got a neat collection of pieces that are designed and fabricated in-house. Here’s what to consider if you’re looking to buy jewelry from Catbird.  

1. Jewelry Purchasing Guides 

Apart from running a blog on its website, Catbird has an extremely well-detailed FAQ and several guides to introduce beginners to its iconic pieces. 

These are well-designed and would help a beginner to get to know the different alloys, sizes, and aftercare procedures. On top of that, they have a clear guide outlining their warranty policies and how you can work with their consultants to score an impeccable diamond engagement ring or gift.  

2. Booking Appointments 

If you need more personal advice when it comes to finding the perfect gift, engagement ring, or personal style, you can also book one of their experts to help you out.  

Styling and gifting advice can be booked for virtual appointments only for a maximum of 30 minutes. Meanwhile, your engagement rings and wedding band-related concerns can be consulted with an expert either virtually or in person for a total of 45 minutes. 

You can almost get the same experience from a casual walk-in but you’ll often have limited time. Besides, an expert won’t be able to lend themselves since they’ll be unavailable without a proper reservation.  

So, if you’re desperate for some styling advice, especially if you’re buying jewelry for someone else, we recommend creating an appointment. Otherwise, a walk-in to their flagship store or Soho branch will suffice. Either way, you’ll get a chance to look up and get a feel for the different pieces available. 

3. Shipping 

Catbird ships internationally via DHL Express. Shipping fees will cost around $25 anywhere (except Canada, which only costs $15) and will take around 2-7 business days for successful delivery. In-store pickups, same-day delivery, and next-day delivery options are available for customers within the contiguous US, but they have varying shipping fees. 

Standard shipping costs $5 and takes around two business days for off-the-shelf products. US territories such as Alaska, Hawaii, and Puerto Rico will incur a $28 fee and take 2-3 days. 

4. Warranties 

Catbird has an extensive warranty section highlighting the different warranties imposed on various pieces. Basically, international items are not eligible for warranties. Standard jewelry items are covered by a two-year workmanship warranty, whereas wedding and engagement rings have a one-year complimentary resizing policy (on select items) and a one-year workmanship guarantee. 

Also, it’s worth mentioning that their permanent bracelets have a 30-day grace period to help you get them rewelded or readjusted for a better fit.  

5. Returns and Repairs Policies 

Catbird offers a 10-day satisfaction guarantee for items purchased online and domestically within the US. The item must be in its original packaging and you’ll incur a $5 shipping charge. For repairs, you’ll have to fill out a special form and arrange for a UPS shipping label. Fortunately, this whole process is explained in their FAQ. 

If you’re in the Brooklyn or Manhattan area, you can just get all of this covered within a day by heading out to either of their physical locations.  

Should You Buy Jewelry from Catbird? 

Catbird emphasizes jewelry as something you wear on yourself all the time. This is why they advocate their permanent bracelets, engagement rings, and stacked rings as eternal heirloom pieces. Besides, these are made of 14K/18K gold jewelry, and will naturally stand the test of time. However, it’s not for everyone. 

Primarily, if you’re a very physically active person, who’s often involved in track sports, weightlifting, and gymnastics, we don’t recommend sticking with the slim Catbird jewelry pieces. They will require constant maintenance and the dainty designs aren’t the best at handling abuse. 

Secondly, they aren’t the best choice if you’re considering jewelry as investment pieces, particularly if you’re hoping to resell them to go for an upgrade or handle a financial emergency.  Also, with the lack of support for international orders, Catbird can seem off-putting for customers ordering outside the US.  

All that aside if you’re moved by their designs, by all means, go for it. Their craftsmanship and sustainability practices are never in question, and you’ll always get a flawless piece designed to last for decades. 

FAQs about Catbird Jewelry  

Wrapping Up 

Catbird Jewelry makes some incredibly glamorous pieces. They’re the epitome of lightweight flawless heirlooms and have maintained a solid reputation. This store is a good choice for those of us living in the US and is more favorable if you’re living in the Big Apple. It’s not the most ideal for international buyers, but you can still get them safely delivered. 

If that sounds like something you’d be interested in or, if some of their classic diamond jewelry has caught your eye instead, we’ll go over a quick review with the pros and cons of Angara Jewelry and everything it has to offer. 

What is Angara Jewelry? 

Created and based in Los Angeles, US about a decade and a half ago, Angara is the brainchild of Ankit and Aditi Daga. The couple, both of whom come from families in the jewelry industry, decided to create Angara as an answer to the overly uniform jewelry world that often seems to offer the same designs, settings, stones, and jewelry pieces over and over again, with only the slightest of variations. 

So, Angara’s founders set it up with a focus on both colored gemstones and individualism and customization. They named the company Angara after the Sanskrit word for “the fire within” as they wanted their jewelry to inspire with both vivid colors and the ancient energy of classic Indian jewelry designs. 

What’s also interesting about Angara is that it’s a fully vertically-integrated company. This means that it handles everything from the sourcing and cutting of the gemstones, through the design and production of the jewelry, to sales and post-sale services. This is key and is often sought-after in the jewelry world as it tends to ensure both quality and competitive prices. 

What You Can Expect to Buy From Angara Jewelry  

If you are looking for high-quality and elegant fine jewelry pieces, Angara Jewelry can be a great place to shop. Here are some of the things you can expect to find when browsing their collection: 

1. Earrings 

Angara Jewelry offers a stunning collection of earrings that are both elegant and timeless. Here are some of the types of earrings you can expect to find in their collection: 

Stud Earrings 

Angara offers a wide range of stud earrings featuring different gemstones, metal types, and designs. Whether you’re looking for classic diamond studs or colorful gemstone studs, Angara has a variety of options to choose from. 

Drop Earrings 

Drop earrings are a popular choice for special occasions or for adding a touch of elegance to your everyday look. Angara’s drop earrings come in a variety of styles, including chandelier, teardrop, and cluster designs, featuring different gemstones and metal types. 

Hoop Earrings 

Hoop earrings are a classic jewelry staple that can add a touch of sophistication to any outfit. Angara’s hoop earrings come in a range of sizes, designs, and metal types, from small and delicate to large and statement-making. 

Threader Earrings 

Threader earrings are a unique and modern type of earring that features a chain or thread that threads through the earlobe, creating a floating effect. Angara offers a range of threader earrings featuring different gemstones and metal types. 

Huggie Earrings 

Huggie earrings are small, hoop-style earrings that sit close to the earlobe, giving a snug fit. Angara’s huggie earrings come in a variety of designs, including diamond-studded, gemstone-encrusted, and plain metal. 

2. Necklaces  

Angara’s necklace collection features a variety of styles and designs to suit different tastes and occasions, all crafted with high-quality materials and expert craftsmanship. 

Pendant Necklaces 

Angara offers a wide range of pendant necklaces featuring different gemstones, metal types, and designs. From classic solitaire pendants to colorful gemstone pendants, Angara has a variety of options to choose from. 

Chain Necklaces 

Chain necklaces are a versatile jewelry staple that can be worn alone or layered with other necklaces for a unique look. Angara’s chain necklaces come in a variety of lengths, styles, and metal types, from delicate and dainty to bold and statement-making. 

Choker Necklaces 

Choker necklaces are a popular style that sits snugly around the neck, giving a stylish and modern look. Angara’s choker necklaces come in a range of designs, including diamond-studded, gemstone-encrusted, and plain metal. 

Station Necklaces 

Station necklaces feature a series of gemstones or pearls spaced evenly along the chain, creating a delicate and sophisticated look. Angara’s station necklaces come in a range of designs, featuring different gemstones and metal types. 

Customizable Necklaces 

Angara allows you to customize many of their necklaces, so you can create a piece that is uniquely yours. You can choose the metal type, gemstone type and quality, and even the engraving on certain pieces. You can also build your own personalized piece using their online customization tool. 

3. Rings and Bracelets  

Angara Jewelry offers a wide range of rings and bracelets to choose from. Their ring collection includes engagement rings, wedding bands, fashion rings, and customizable rings featuring various gemstones and metal types.  

Their bracelet collection includes tennis bracelets, bangle bracelets, and cuff bracelets featuring different gemstones and metal types. All of their pieces are crafted with high-quality materials and expert craftsmanship, making them a perfect addition to any jewelry collection. 

Angara Jewelry Pros and Cons 

As usual, the best and easiest way to go through Angara Jewelry’s characteristics, draws, and drawbacks, is to present them in a simple Pros and Cons fashion: 

Pros: 

• Angara has a vast collection of colored precious and semi-precious gemstones in addition to the traditional diamonds every other jeweler also offers. 
• The quality of Angara’s colored gemstones is quite impressive, especially for some types such as sapphires and tanzanites. 
• As a former distributor-only, Angara has great vertical integration – everything from the rough stone cutting to the manufacturing, quality control, and sales is done in-house, which helps ensure the sourcing, quality, and reliability of the service. 
• Angara’s gemstones are neatly divided into quality categories – A, AA, AAA, and AAAA, with the latter being the highest “Heirloom” quality grade. This is helpful as it both helps customers orient themselves and it offers plenty of different budget options. 
• Angara’s engagement rings and their settings are very well made, all with great classic and contemporary designs. 
• There are free shipping and free 30-day returns for all customers within the US.  
• The big draw of Angara is their cocktail rings which impress with unique and captivating designs, especially in combination with some of their best-colored gemstones. That, together with the good prices of some of the semi-precious gemstones means that you can find something truly spectacular for a low 3-digit price with relative ease. 
• Angara has a pretty great enhanced warranty plan – in addition to its good standard warranty – which covers things such as ring repair, replacing lost/broken ring and chain components, diamond/gemstone tightening, re-plating services, jewelry cleaning and polishing, and more. 

Cons: 

• Angara’s diamond collection isn’t as good as its colored gemstone collections. What’s more, the presentation of and information about said diamonds is quite insufficient and untrustworthy, with very little being said about the diamonds’ certification (or lack thereof), no performance reports, no high-res and/or 3D imaging, and so on. Take this simple solitaire diamond engagement ring, for example – it does have a “certificate” of sorts, but it’s just a 1-page PDF report from Angara itself and not a credible third party certification. 
• The engagement ring section is somewhat limited, especially when it comes to setting variety. 
• While Angara specializes in colored gemstones, there are better vendors for many of the colored gem types when it comes to quality and hue. 
• Angara may offer lots of options for people with different budgets but their quality/price ratio isn’t really all that competitive with many of the other big names in the jewelry world, especially as far as diamond jewelry is concerned. That is somewhat surprising and disappointing, given Angara’s vertical integration as that is typically expected to lead to more competitive prices.  

What to Consider When Shopping from Angara  

When shopping for jewelry on Angara, here are some important factors to consider: 

• Quality: Angara prides itself on using high-quality materials and expert craftsmanship in all of their jewelry. Consider the quality of the metal and gemstones used in each piece to ensure you’re getting a durable and beautiful piece. 
• Style: Angara offers a wide range of styles and designs to choose from, including classic and timeless pieces, as well as trendy and modern designs. Consider your personal style and the occasion for which you’re buying the jewelry to find the perfect piece. 
• Budget: Angara offers jewelry at a variety of price points, so it’s important to consider your budget when shopping. Use their filtering options to narrow down your choices by price range. 
• Customization: Angara offers many customizable options, such as choosing the metal type, gemstone type, and quality, as well as engraving certain pieces. Consider whether you want a unique and personalized piece when shopping. 
• Reviews: Reading customer reviews can give you a good idea of the quality and experience of other customers who have purchased from Angara. Look for reviews that mention the quality of the jewelry, customer service, and shipping experience. 

Overall, shopping for jewelry on Angara requires consideration of quality, style, budget, customization, and customer reviews. Taking these factors into account can help you find the perfect piece of jewelry that meets your needs and exceeds your expectations. 

FAQs about Angara Jewelry  

Wrapping Up  

There are quite a few pros and cons to Angara but our quick conclusion from all of them is that Angara is a great choice if you want a budget-friendly colored gemstone cocktail ring but it isn’t really competitive when it comes to high-quality diamond engagement rings and fine jewelry. 

This doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t take a look at their diamond jewelry collection – there are good things in there. But we’d advise you to also look for alternatives before you make your purchase. 

In this article, we’ll be exploring Ana Luisa Jewelry reviews to give you a better idea of the quality, style, and overall experience of buying and wearing their jewelry. Whether you’re considering buying your first piece of Ana Luisa Jewelry or just curious about what others think, this article will give you all the information you need. 

Ana Luisa Jewelry – The Highlights 

• Carbon Neutral Organization 
• 70% of base metals are recycled 
• Specializes in Brass and Sterling Silver Plated Jewelry 
• Uniquely stylish and versatile earrings and necklaces 
• 100% Lab-grown diamonds and freshwater pearls 
• 30-day satisfaction guarantee 
• Two-year warranty standard warranty on most pieces 
• Affordable pricing  
• Unique designs 

History and Background  

In 2018, two jewelry enthusiasts Adam Bohbot and David Benayoun embarked on a mission to transform the jewelry industry by making high-quality pieces affordable and accessible to all. Fast forward to the present, and their e-commerce platform, Ana Luisa, has become a household name for anyone looking to add a touch of luxury to their everyday look. 

From their studio in Greenpoint, NYC, Ana Luisa designs and delivers their jewelry collection exclusively online, cutting out the middleman and ensuring that customers get the best possible prices. Their inventory boasts an array of stunning gold-plated brass and sterling silver pieces, including a few authentic 14K gold items, with lab-grown diamonds and stainless silver recently added to the mix. 

Ana Luisa offers a wide range of semi-precious fashion jewelry that can easily elevate any outfit, but don’t expect to find traditional wedding or costume jewelry on their website. While they don’t cater to these markets, they have dozens of conventional pieces that are sure to catch your eye. So, whether you’re looking for a statement necklace or a delicate pair of earrings, Ana Luisa has got you covered. 

Dedication to Sustainability and Transparency 

Taking inspiration from the textile industry, Ana Luisa is on a mission to develop the standards of the jewelry industry for the better. In that regard, they’ve adopted several practices to hold themselves to a higher standard and be precariously mindful of their environmental impact and become more transparent about their production facilities and materials. 

In an industry that’s rife with competition, conflict, and ethical violations, Ana Luisa is setting the perfect example for new and existing jewelry producers, designers, and retailers. Their focus on treating the people, planet, and jewelry with equal priority must be commended.   

Already halfway through this goal, they’ve set up sustainability and transparency frameworks to ensure they source ethical materials and maintain the quality of life for their employees and those of their partner companies.  

Currently, they are certified as carbon and water neutral by the independent label of the same name. To offset their impact, Ana Luisa has managed to source 70% of their base metal alloys from recycled materials and hopes to be fully independent of virgin base metals by 2025.  

They also made the shift to create 100% recyclable shipping materials with boxes and pouches that can be reused. Also, resorting to lab-grown diamonds while tracing and auditing their supply chain so their tier 1,2, and 3 partners all see eye to eye.  

Intent on Providing the Best Online Shopping Experience 

With no physical stores to rely on, Ana Luisa fulfills the entirety of their sales through their website, Analuisa.com.  

Despite some minor hiccups with annoying pop-ups and a lack of optimization on mobile devices, their website is exquisitely crafted and simple to navigate. You can easily pick out a jewelry type to browse and check out their product pages to get a bigger idea about the pieces you’re invested in. 

On top of that, they support almost every major currency out there, so if you want to view prices in Japanese Yens, Pakistani Rupees, and even Tanzanian Shillings, you’ve got the chance to do so. 

Search filters are simple and comprehensive, highlighting all the different designs, materials, and price ranges. If you were to head over to the earrings section page, you can browse through dozens of each collection/design and filter via price and base metal alloy. 

Also, Ana Luisa has a near-perfect product information page for each piece of jewelry and accessory on their website. They’re highly transparent about the materials, weight, dimensions, and country of origin, and provide a heap of photos, individual reviews, and pairing advice.  

Here’s what some of their customers have to say about their best-selling pieces: 

“This ring is such a beautiful addition to my everyday ring collection. It’s dainty and subtle and it was exactly what I wanted. This is my third purchase and each time I love what I ordered more than the last.” 

“These are awesome, perfect for everyday wear. They work great both ear lobe & cartilage. Quick & easy to put on and take off. Definitely my most-worn earrings.” 

What You Can Expect to Buy from Ana Luisa Jewelry 

It’s no surprise that Ana Luisa has considered all the ins and outs when it comes to reasonably priced semi-fine jewelry. Their sustainability practices are a novel trendsetter for the industry. 

That said, does their sustainability and design philosophy bleed well into their actual pieces? Are their designs beautiful, hypoallergenic, and long-lasting as promised? To find out, let’s consider several of their signature pieces.  

1. Earrings 

Earrings form a major part of the identity of Ana Luisa Jewelry. Their designs incorporate rounded shapes, pearls, and gemstones to bring about a sleek and modern aesthetic.  

They’ve got several design trends, ranging from drop earrings, hoops, studs, and a few statement pieces. These fulfill their purpose and have a minimal design that doesn’t stray too far from conventional norms. 

What caught our eye was the unique selection of delicate and signature “Huggie” earrings. The dinky studs and mini Huggies are extremely comfortable and perfect for everyday wear.  

Besides, they pair well with other pieces, so if you’re looking to build up a stacked lobe that you can wear and forget about, these are just perfect. Prices average around $50 for a decent pair of earrings and they’re mostly 14K gold plated on recycled Sterling Silver. 

2. Necklaces 

The best thing about Ana Luisa’s necklaces is that they are so easy to wear. They are lightweight, secure, and fit comfortably around your neck, making them perfect for everyday use. Plus, they can be effortlessly layered with other necklaces without taking away from their understated beauty. 

Whether you’re looking for a statement piece or a solid chain, Ana Luisa has got you covered. However, we must admit that their pendant necklaces are the true standout pieces. From petite lab-grown diamonds to freshwater pearls, these pendants are crafted to perfection, with every detail carefully considered. 

The price point for Ana Luisa’s necklaces is reasonable, with most pendant necklaces costing around $75. They are made from high-quality materials, including 14K gold/Rhodium plating on Brass, ensuring that they last a lifetime. 

If you’re looking for a piece to invest in, we highly recommend the simple diamond pendant. However, if you’re on a tight budget, the Mini Naomi with its wispy pearl is also an excellent choice. Either way, you can’t go wrong with Ana Luisa’s collection of stunning pendant necklaces. 

3. Rings and Bracelets 

Ana Luisa may not be a household name yet, but their collection of rings and bracelets is nothing short of amazing. While their designs may be inconsistent, there are some true gems to be found in their collection. 

If you’re looking for a ring that truly stands out, Ana Luisa’s statement rings and band rings are where it’s at. These pieces offer the best variety and value, with designs ranging from minimalist to quirky. 

While chain rings, stackables, and delicate rings have their place, some of them fall short of creating a unique impact. On the other hand, Ana Luisa’s bracelets may not be statement pieces, but they offer a touch of elegance that is perfect for gifting or keeping as a personal memento. Plus, you can even customize them with your own engraving! 

For those looking for something even more exquisite, Ana Luisa has a dedicated section for fine jewelry. These pieces are crafted from 14K/18K solid gold, often adorned with small diamonds and pearls. However, the selection is not very extensive, and the designs aren’t vastly different from their semi-fine pieces. 

Things to Consider 

As a renowned e-tailer of semi-fine jewelry, the pieces on offer by Ana Luis offer good value for money. Even so, we must consider some of their policies and other aspects of their brand to gain a better understanding. Let’s take a quick look at these below:  

1. Shipping 

Ana Luisa ships domestically within the US and internationally through their studio in New York City. Standard domestic shipping is USPS First-Class Mail which delivers within 5-7 business days free of charge.  

International orders are shipped via DHL Express. This incurs a fee (ranging from $5-$15 depending on the region) and would take around 3-5 business days to fulfill.  

Certain regions such as Canada and the UK allow for standard shipping but take roughly 10-15 working days. There’s a detailed breakdown in their shipping FAQ, so don’t forget to check that out if you have any concerns. 

2. Returns and Exchanges Policy 

Thankfully, Ana Luisa has a generous return policy when it comes to domestic and international orders. You can apply for a return or exchange if the original tags and packaging are intact and you’re within the 30-day window.  

Specialty items such as the jewelry care kit, items on the “Last Chance” sale, chain extenders, engraved jewelry, and the like are not eligible for a refund. 

3. Warranty 

With a two-year warranty in place, Ana Luisa jewelry is protected against workmanship defects. Besides that, they also state they guarantee the products will never tarnish, cause allergic reactions or suffer water damage. 

However, Ana Luisa won’t cover items purchased via in-person events and they aren’t willing to repair or replace broken and damaged jewelry.  

4. Sustainability and Ethical Practices  

Ana Luisa is committed to sustainability and ethical practices throughout the entire production process. They use recycled materials whenever possible and ensure that all their jewelry is ethically sourced and produced. They also work with suppliers who share their values and adhere to strict sustainability standards. 

Furthermore, Ana Luisa uses eco-friendly packaging for their products, which includes recycled and recyclable materials. They also partner with One Tree Planted, a non-profit organization dedicated to reforestation, and plant one tree for every piece of jewelry sold. 

Should You Buy Jewelry from Ana Luisa? 

If you’re looking to add some fashionable semi-fine jewelry to your collection, Ana Luisa is a good choice. Their designs are modern, sleek, and versatile, making them perfect for everyday wear and layering with other costume jewelry. 

However, it’s important to note that their pieces may not be suitable for those with an active lifestyle or who live in tropical climates, as the plating may wear off more quickly. Additionally, Ana Luisa does not offer repair or maintenance services, so you may need to rely on a local jeweler for upkeep. 

While their prices are affordable, it’s worth considering the potential costs of maintenance if you plan to wear their jewelry regularly. 

Ultimately, if you appreciate Ana Luisa’s commitment to ethical and sustainable practices in the jewelry industry, and their comfortable yet stylish designs resonate with you, we recommend giving them a try. 

FAQs about Ana Luisa Jewelry  

Wrapping Up 

Ana Luisa’s commitment to sustainability, ethical practices, and affordable yet stylish jewelry makes them a great choice for anyone looking to build up a collection of semi-fine fashion jewelry. While their pieces may require some maintenance over time, their timeless designs and commitment to responsible business practices make them a brand worth supporting.