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A Guide to Birthstones
Each month of the year has been assigned one or more gemstones. A person’s birthstone is the stone associated with the month in which the person was born. This idea can be traced back to ancient times, some say as far back as biblical times.
Since then, the National Association of Jewelers standardized birthstones. The American Gem Trade Association and Jewelers of America last updated the list in 2016. Birthstones are unique and each holds a symbolic meaning.
January – Garnet
Garnet is found in a rainbow of colors. However, it is most commonly known for its red color. Garnet symbolizes a deep and lasting friendship. Legends suggest that garnet brings goodness to those who wear it and do good deeds themselves.
February – Amethyst
Amethyst is a variety of quartz and often appears purple. However, it can range from light pink to deep purple. Historically, Amethyst has been a symbol of royalty, often adorned by royalty and the clergy. Legends say that wearing amethyst can keep the wearer’s mind clear and focused.
March – Aquamarine and Bloodstone
Aquamarine was named for the sea. It’s no wonder why as this gem is found in a range of blues, like the sea. This serene-colored stone has had many symbolic meanings throughout history. It was believed to bring protection to sailors, mend friendships, rekindle love, and cure physical, mental, and spiritual illnesses.
Juxtaposed to aquamarine’s serene, calming colors, is bloodstone. This dark green stone features specks of red. The legends surrounding bloodstones and their “abilities” are somewhat varied. It was believed to possess healing powers and was used as a lucky charm.
April – Diamond
While most popular in a clear form, diamonds can be found in a variety of colors. The purest colors are the most rare. Due to their unique properties, diamonds have the ability to “sparkle” more than any other gemstone. Diamonds were once believed to hold great healing powers. However, they popularly symbolize eternal love, making them a common choice in engagement rings.
May – Emerald
Emeralds come from the same mineral as aquamarine. Rather than shades of blue, emeralds are found in shades of green. This green gemstone symbolizes rebirth. It is believed to bring the wearer luck, youth, and foresight. Emeralds were originally made “famous” by being a favorite gemstone of Cleopatra, and more recently Elizabeth Taylor.
June – Pearl, Alexandrite, and Moonstone
Gemstones are naturally occurring. The pearl however is the only gemstone made by a living organism (mollusks). Pearls have a creamy luster to them, but can be dyed various colors. Once a rare gemstone, only worn by the wealthy, pearls are now cultured for greater production, making them more affordable for everyone.
Alexandrite is a unique gemstone that changes colors. In the daylight, it appears blue-green and in florescent light it appears purple-red. Historically Alexandrite symbolizes learning, creativity, and intuition.
The final birthstone of June, moonstone, also exhibits unique coloring. Different layers of color create a cloudy illusion. Prominent colors include blue and white. Additional colors range from yellow, pink, green, and gray. This stone is known for fertility, protecting travelers, and encouraging sleep and dreams.
July – Ruby
Rubies are easily recognized by their red hue. This gemstone has been admired since ancient times. It was particularly popular in Asian countries. It stands for protection, prosperity, and passion. The second most durable gemstone next to diamonds, rubies have been utilized in medicine and technology, most prominently in lasers.
August – Peridot, Sardonyx, and Spinel
Peridot is identified by its lime green tint. Referred to as the “evening emerald”, it maintains its hue in any light. It comes to the surface by volcanoes and is occasionally found in meteorites. Historically, peridot protects against nightmares and brings peace and happiness.
Sardonyx is made up of layers of sard and onyx, ranging from yellowish red to reddish brown. Unlike many other gemstones, sardonyx has been affordable for many people throughout history. It is said to promote communication, courage, and happiness.
Spinel is often mistaken for other gemstones, due to its variety of colors and cuts. Most commonly, it is mistaken for rubies and sapphires. One variety of spinel has magnetic properties and has been used in compasses.
September – Sapphire
While sapphire is most commonly recognized as blue, sapphire can be found in every color except red, which are considered rubies. Sapphires symbolize integrity, loyalty, sincerity, and nobility. Sapphires have been popular in recent years, possibly due to the attention on Princess Diana’s sapphire wedding ring, which Prince William has now given to Kate Middleton.
October – Opal and Tourmaline
Opals have a mystical folklore. Legends claim that opals fell from the sky or that rainbows left opals where they touched the earth. Since they reflect different colors, people believed that opals possessed the qualities of all the gemstones. Opals are said to bring good luck to people who wear them, but only if opal is your birthstone.
Similar to opals, tourmaline also reflects a myriad of colors. Tourmaline has the ability to be electrically charged and act as a magnet. Black tourmaline was once used as an amulet to protect people from evil. Even today, tourmaline is used to rid a person of toxins, pollutants, and radiation.
November – Topaz and Citrine
Topaz is commonly thought of as yellow and other gems have been mistaken for topaz for that reason. Topaz is actually colorless, but often tinged with other colors. Topaz is viewed as a calming stone, which has the ability to relax people, alleviate nightmares, and cure mental illness.
Citrine is a variety of quartz that takes a yellow-orange hue. Like topaz, citrine has been considered a comforting stone with the ability to soothe and heal. It is also supposed to bring prosperity, wealth, and new beginnings.
December – Tanzanite, Zircon, and Turquoise
Found only in Tanzania, tanzanite is a more modern gemstone. These gemstones were found in 1967. With a similar appearance to sapphire, tanzanite has rapidly increased in popularity.
Zircon dates back 4.4 billion years, making it the oldest mineral. While zircon can be found in many colors, blue has been the most popular color. Zircon is believed to dispel evil and promote sleep, wealth, and prosperity.
Turquoise has been a popular gemstone in many cultures including the Persians, Turkish, and Native Americans. It has been used to adorn both jewelry and weapons, believed to provide protection and power.
Armentor Jewelers has been serving Acadiana for 78 years. Our mission is to provide quality, value, and 100% customer satisfaction. Stop by today at either our Lafayette, LA or New Iberia, LA location and let us help you find a piece of jewelry featuring your birthstone. For more information, contact us today.
*Photos and information credited to the American Gem Association.
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Armentor Jewelers’ 2017 Christmas Gift Guide
Christmas is just around the corner, and we know how difficult it can be to find the perfect gift for someone. Whether you are looking for a gift for your girlfriend, fiancée, wife, mother, sister, or daughter, this guide will offer suggestions on jewelry gifts for any woman in your life.
Here are our top 5 picks for 2017 Christmas gifts:
1. Diamond Solitaire Earrings Diamond studs are always a hit as Christmas gifts. Simple and classic, diamond solitaire earrings are a staple in any wardrobe. We offer the added benefit of a trade up program. Get full credit on your first pair of diamond earrings when you upgrade to a larger pair.
2. Layered Gold Necklaces Can’t decide which necklace to get? Great news – she can wear both! Layered jewelry is a huge trend right now (as you will notice throughout this guide). We suggest picking out 2-4 thin necklaces at different lengths. We also recommend going with gold, another big jewelry trend right now.
3. Diamond Station Necklaces For the woman who has a simpler fashion style, we suggest going with a diamond station necklace (pictured in the middle). This style is classy, but still an attention-getter, with diamonds stationed evenly around the necklace.
4. Stackable Band Rings Stackable rings are trendy right now. Women are wearing band rings that can be stacked 3-4-5 wide. Some women just like the look of stackable rings. For other women, the bands have significant meanings. Each band can represent a milestone, anniversary, or the birth of a child.
5. Diamond Bangle Bracelets Similar to stackable rings, we predict bangle bracelets to be a huge hit this Christmas. More specifically, diamond bangle bracelets. Diamonds dress up the bangle style and give the bracelets that subtle sparkle.
We hope this guide is a helpful starting point for your Christmas gift list. At Armentor Jewelers, we strive for 100% customer satisfaction. Our staff is here to help you select the perfect gift for that extraordinary woman in your life.
Armentor Jewelers has been serving Acadiana for 78 years. Our mission is to provide quality, value, and 100% customer satisfaction. Stop by today at either our Lafayette, LA or New Iberia, LA location and let us help you pick out the perfect Christmas present. For more information, contact us today.
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Lab-Grown vs. Earth Mined Diamonds: An Important Choice
There are so many choices when picking out an engagement ring for your significant other. But before you decide on the shape, color, size, setting, and so on, you must first decide between a natural diamond and a lab-grown diamond.
Whoa. Wait. What is a lab-grown diamond? Is it a fake diamond?
No. On the contrary, a diamond grown in a lab is just as “real” as a diamond that is created in the earth. It possesses all the same qualities and properties as a naturally grown diamond. A diamond grown in a lab is also referred to as a synthetic or man-made diamond.
How is a synthetic diamond made?
There are two ways that a diamond can be created in a lab. The first is called the high-pressure high-temperature (HPHT) process. Diamonds are formed by placing carbon under high-heat and high-pressure. The second process is called chemical vapor deposition (CVD). CVD starts by placing small diamond crystal seeds into a chamber that grows the diamond layer by layer.
Why would I want to buy a lab diamond?
There are many benefits to buying a man-made diamond. The top two reasons to buy a lab diamond are that they are considered to be more ethical and they can be more cost-efficient. A synthetic diamond can cost approximately 30% less than a mined diamond of similar size and quality.
Can you tell a difference between a mined diamond and a man-made diamond?
It is extremely difficult to distinguish between a mined diamond and a diamond made in a lab. Remember, lab diamonds are real diamonds. Synthetic diamonds do tend to be clearer since they are created in a controlled environment of a lab. The best way to determine whether a diamond is natural or synthetic is by the certificate that accompanies it. Gemological Institute of America issues certificates to all diamonds. You should never buy a diamond without documentation.
Where can I find a lab diamond?
Lab diamonds are becoming more popular. As more people become educated about this new way of growing diamonds, a synthetic diamond is considered an ethical and less expensive option. Any reputable jewelry store should be able to acquire diamonds grown in a lab.
If you have questions about lab diamonds or would like to see the difference yourself, contact Armentor Jewelers. Armentor Jewelers has been serving Acadiana for 78 years. Our mission is to provide quality, value, and 100% customer satisfaction. Stop by today at our Lafayette, LA or New Iberia, LA location. For more information, please visit Armentor Jewelers.
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6 Jewelry Trends for Fall 2017
Fall is right around the corner. Here are 6 popular fall jewelry trends to help you stay fashionable this season.
Stackable Jewelry.
Mix and match jewelry is very popular right now. Most often we are seeing stackable rings, or bangle bracelets. Women are wearing band type rings that can be stacked 3-4-5 wide and thin bangle bracelets that can be worn the same way.
Geometric Shapes.
Simple shapes have been making big statements. Geometric shapes, especially triangles, are being featured on necklaces, rings, and earrings. Designers have been molding thin metal into perfectly shaped designs.
Yellow Gold.
Yellow gold is making a come back. Yellow gold was a classic metal, but its popularity died down around the late ‘90s. Now it’s back and experts predict that it is here to stay.
Morganite.
Morganite is a very trendy gemstone. This light pink stone is a favorite choice amongst younger women. It is being used more and more often in class rings.
Ovals.
One of the most popular trends in engagement rings this year is an oval shaped center stone. This elegant shape elongates the fingers. An oval stone can be set beautifully as a solitaire or encircled by a halo.
Solitaries.
Requests for diamond solitaire engagement rings are also on the rise. A larger, round stone set on a metal band without decoration. This “new” trend is classic and traditional.
Armentor Jewelers has been serving Acadiana for more than 78 years. Our mission is to provide quality, value, and 100% customer satisfaction. Stop by today at either our Lafayette or New Iberia, Louisiana, location for a free personalized jewelry consultation. Let our team design a custom jewelry piece at no cost to you. For more information, contact us today.
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Customizable Jewelry: It means more when it’s made for you.
At Armentor Jewelers, we believe that you should be able to get exactly what you want. We offer customizable jewelry for that special occasion in your life, or when you found a piece that is perfect…except for that one little thing.
It starts with an idea.
You can come in and speak with one of our design team members to explain what you are looking for. Whether you have a complete design in mind, or just a few elements, we can help you bring your design to life. Our team will research ideas and materials to create a design that can be manufactured.
Design process.
After the initial design consultation, our expert designers will create 3D computer rendered images of your jewelry. These images show what your product will look like as a finished piece. We can make any needed adjustments to your design without any additional cost to you. Lastly, we create an exact replica of the final product using a 4D wax model of your jewelry item.
Finished product.
Once we have your final approval on your custom design, you should receive your item within three to four weeks. Armentor Jewelers uses only the finest quality materials and manufacturing processes to give you a flawless piece.
Post purchase.
Once your vision has come to life, we offer a variety of post-purchase services to maintain the quality of that item. These services include complimentary cleanings, in-house appraisals, re-sizing, and repairs. Rings purchased at Armentor Jewelers are eligible for resizing for life, should there be any issues or changes to your ring size.
Armentor Jewelers has been serving Acadiana for more than 78 years. Our mission is to provide quality, value, and 100% customer satisfaction. Stop by today at either our Lafayette or New Iberia, Louisiana, location for a free personalized jewelry consultation. Let our team design a custom jewelry piece at no cost to you. For more information, contact us today.
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Father’s Day: Gifts for Dads Everywhere
There is no one quite like dad. He taught you how to ride a bike and then how to drive a car. He held your hand as you learned how to walk and then as you walked down the aisle. On June 18, we will celebrate dads everywhere. Show your father how much he means to you with a special gift from Armentor Jewelers.
Watch There isn’t a more timeless or classic gift for fathers than a watch. Simple and functional, watches are one of the most popular accessories worn by men. Armentor Jewelers carries two top of the line watch brands. For quality and craftsmanship, stop in today to view our selection of Oris and Citizen watches.
Citizen Founded in 1930, Citizen prides itself on craftsmanship and evolution. Citizen pushed the boundaries of innovation by creating a solar powered watch. This Eco-Drive technology now allows a watch to be powered for six months, even if the watch is stored in the dark.
Oris Designed for the man who appreciates simple luxury, Oris offers the best overall value in the Swiss Watch industry. Established in 1904, Oris creates only mechanical watches with practical features using time-honored Swiss manufacturing techniques and new technological innovations. Oris provides luxury watches that can be worn every day.
Cuff Links If your father likes to dress up, cuff links make for a stylish and personal gift. Armentor carries a wide variety of cuff links in white and yellow gold. Pick out a design that is unique and meaningful, whether it is a symbol of his favorite hobby or incorporates his birthstone.
Ring For a truly customizable gift, Armentor Jewelers can help create a custom ring for your dad. Our designers can help you select the right materials and design. Perhaps you might incorporate the birthstones of his children or grandchildren. Armentor can also engrave a family, school, or fraternity crest onto a signet ring. Maybe you just want to recreate his wedding band that was lost or no longer fits. Whatever ring you want to make, Armentor can create it for you.
From a one-of-a-kind, personalized piece to a pre-set piece that is ready to go, Armentor Jewelers has a Father’s Day gift to fit any budget and timeline. Whether you need a gift for your father, grandfather, or husband, our staff can help you find the perfect piece for that special man in your life.
The best way to get answers to specific questions, or to see all of your options, is to visit a jewelry store. Armentor Jewelers is a family-owned-and-operated jewelry store since 1939 and continues to strive for 100% customer satisfaction. Our team will work with you to customize a ring that fits any style and budget perfectly. Contact us today for more information.
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Mother’s Day: Give Mom the Best
Mother’s Day is just two weeks away. Whether you are celebrating your own mother, or honoring the mother of your children, make this year special. Show moms how much you appreciate them with a special gift from Armentor Jewelers.
Birthstone Jewelry Without a doubt, our most popular gifts for mothers incorporate their children’s birthstones. What mother wouldn’t want to wear a constant reminder of her child? Whether it is a ring or a pendant necklace, Armentor Jewelers has several options in birthstone jewelry.
Remember that if you are looking for a personalized piece, customization takes time; however, if you are looking for a last-minute gift, Armentor Jewelers currently carries pre-set, stackable birthstone rings.
Customized Necklaces Give the mother in your life a customized necklace with the names or initials of her children or grandchildren. Armentor has bar necklaces in white, yellow, and rose gold, as well as sterling silver.
Pearls Nothing is as timeless as pearls. Armentor has many options in pearl necklaces, pearl earrings, pearl bracelets, and pearl rings. If you are unsure of your mother’s style, you can never go wrong giving pearls. Pearls are an easy choice if you are shopping at the last minute.
Diamonds Another classic choice for Mother’s Day is diamonds. Just like pearls, diamonds are a great choice for almost any woman. Diamonds are simple, yet refined, and match any style. Swing by today to pick up a diamond pendant or diamond stud earrings.
From a one-of-a-kind, personalized piece to a pre-set piece that is ready to go, Armentor Jewelers has a Mother’s Day gift to fit any budget and timeline. Whether you need a gift for your wife, mother, or grandmother, our staff can help you find the perfect piece for that special woman in your life.
The best way to get answers to specific questions, or to see all of your options, is to visit a jewelry store. Armentor Jewelers is a family-owned-and-operated jewelry store since 1939 and continues to strive for 100% customer satisfaction. Our team will work with you to customize a ring that fits any style and budget perfectly. Contact us today for more information.
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How to Choose Wedding Rings
In last month’s blog, Getting Engaged 101: How to Choose An Engagement Ring, we discussed what factors to consider when choosing an engagement ring. This month, we will evaluate what to consider when picking out a wedding band for yourself and your partner. Some engagement rings come in a wedding set, the wedding band already paired with the engagement ring; however, some engagement rings are sold individually or are custom made. Perhaps your engagement ring has a pre-made, matching wedding band, but you would prefer something else. Whatever the case, here are some elements to factor in when choosing a wedding ring.
Budget
Just as with an engagement ring, the first thing you will want to consider is your budget. Sit down with your new fiancé(e) and discuss how much you would like to spend on each ring. Will one ring have a higher budget?
Style
As far as a style goes, pick a wedding band that will compliment your engagement ring. This can include the type of metal, the band design, and the stones used.
Metal
Your wedding ring should be made from the same metal as your engagement ring. You wouldn’t pair a rose gold engagement ring with a yellow gold wedding band. If you are choosing rose gold, which is a popular choice at the moment, be sure to pay close attention to the coloring. Depending on the way the gold was mixed, the shade of “rose” can be different. It is best to get the wedding band made by the same jeweler as the engagement ring it will be paired with.
Band Design
Your wedding band is going to sit right next your engagement ring. Don’t let a wider wedding band overpower a more delicate looking engagement ring. If your engagement ring has a pavé or channel setting, choose a wedding ring that has the same feature.
Stones
If you decide to use stones in your wedding band, they should be the same shape and color as the stones in your ring. Even “clear” diamonds can vary in color. (Remember the 4 Cs from last month’s blog?)
Matching with Your Partner
When picking out wedding rings as a couple, remember that your partner’s wedding ring does not have to match yours. Let them pick out their own style; they are the one who has to wear the ring. If you and your partner like the idea of matching rings, but you don’t want the same type of metal, you can opt to incorporate another element of your ring into your partner’s ring. If your ring has a twist or engraving, the same design element could be placed in your partner’s ring without the rings having to look like a matching set.
To Solder or Not to Solder?
When wearing both an engagement ring and a wedding ring, you can choose to solder them together. Soldering is a process that binds the metal bands of the two separate rings together so that they are, essentially, one ring. There are pros and cons to this process. The choice is left up to the individual’s preference.
Pros of Soldering
Some jewelers advise soldering two rings together to minimize wear and tear on the rings as they rub together. Another reason would be to keep the rings in place. You would not have to worry about your rings turning, especially if your engagement and wedding rings both have a pavé or channel that goes halfway down the ring and are meant to “match up.”
Cons of Soldering
There are certain situations when you may only want to wear your wedding band, such as when traveling, doing yard work, etc. If there are times when you will want to only wear one ring, soldering would make it impossible. Most often, people who receive an inherited ring do not wish to solder, so that the ring can maintain its heritage, or so that the ring can be passed on in the future.
What happens next?
Get It Insured
Just as with the engagement ring, the first thing you should do after your purchase is get the rings insured. This protects your investment.
Congratulations!
Congratulations, you just got married! We wish many years of happiness for you and you partner. The best way to get answers to specific questions, or to see all of your options, is to visit a jewelry store. Armentor Jewelers is a family-owned-and-operated jewelry store since 1939 and continues to strive for 100% customer satisfaction. Our team will work with you to customize a ring that fits any style and budget perfectly. Contact us today for more information.
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Getting Engaged 101: How to Choose An Engagement Ring
So you’ve found the one and you’re ready to pop the question, “Will you marry me?” That means it is time to pick out a ring that your significant other will love and cherish for the rest of their life. This can be a daunting task, especially if you are new to the jewelry buying business. Here’s a guide to help you when shopping for that perfect engagement ring.
Give Yourself Enough Time
Once you have made the decision to propose, keep in mind that it will take at least six weeks to make your ring. If you have an elaborate proposal in mind on a specific date, make sure to shop early.
Budget
We have all heard the old saying that an engagement ring should be equivalent to three months of earnings. This is not a hard and fast rule. You should decide how much you can reasonably afford or are willing to spend on an engagement ring.
Ring Style
Some would prefer to pick out an engagement ring on their own to make the proposal a complete surprise; however, some couples frequently shop for engagement rings together. By going together, it takes a lot of the guesswork out of determining your significant other’s ring size and style.
If you would prefer that they didn’t know you were even looking, it is still possible to pick out an engagement ring they will love on your own. Ask the people they are closest with, which chances are they have previously discussed what they like with at least one of them. Just make sure to ask someone you trust who will not give away the big surprise.
Ring Size
Like the style, ring size can be very difficult to guess. The safest route is to have their ring finger measured at a reputable jewelry store. You can also bring in another ring that they have to be measured. (Just make sure it is a ring they wear and that fits properly.) Other aspects of choosing a ring size include if their fingers change size. Do their fingers swell in the heat or shrink in the cold? Again, this is difficult to determine without their direct input. Not to worry, minor adjustments can be made after the proposal, should the ring not fit properly.
The Stone
New or Heirloom
First, you will have to decide what kind of stone to use. Are you buying all new stones or has a family member gifted you with heirloom stones to use? If you already have stones to use, you may now skip to the next step: the setting.
Gemstones
An engagement ring traditionally features a clear diamond, but that isn’t always the case. Is your significant other traditional or more unique? If they are more traditional then go with a diamond, but maybe they want something more unique such as a pearl, emerald, sapphire, or ruby. Even if they do want a diamond, they come in a variety of colors ranging from clear to canary or chocolate. Pick a stone that matches their style and personality.
The 4 Cs
If you are buying a new stone outright, there are four words you need to familiarize yourself with: cut, color, clarity, and carat.
Cut: The cut is not the same as the shape. (i.e. princess, round, teardrop, etc.) The cut determines how the facet reflects the light and makes the diamond sparkle.
Color: Diamonds range in color from colorless to light yellow or brown. The less color a diamond has, the higher the value.
Clarity: The clarity of a diamond refers to how many blemishes or imperfections the diamond has. These blemishes are usually not seen with the naked eye and require a jeweler to evaluate with magnification lenses.
Carat: A diamond’s physical weight is measured in carats. Many people fixate on getting a larger carat diamond, but carat alone does not guarantee a higher quality diamond.
The Setting
Metal type
There are several different metals you can choose from, including: white gold, yellow gold, rose gold, platinum, and titanium. Each metal has its own style and characteristics such as strength and resistance to scratching.
Solitaire
Simple and classic, a solitaire setting features a single stone set on a metal band with no additional embellishments.
Pavé
A pavé setting has smaller diamonds, held in place by small prongs, on both sides of the center stone. The smaller diamonds can go all the way around the band or stop halfway down both sides. In this setting, very little of the metal band can be seen.
Channel
A channel setting is very similar to the pavé except that the smaller diamonds along the band are held in place by metal running along both sides of the diamonds instead of using prongs.
Halo
A halo setting can be an excellent option to increase the appearance in size of a smaller diamond. A halo is simply accent diamonds that surround the center stone. Many people pair a halo with a pavé band.
What happens next?
Get it insured
You just made a big investment on a very precious piece of jewelry. You want to make sure that investment is protected. Your jeweler should provide you with an appraisal of the ring. From there, take it straight to your insurance provider and make sure the ring is covered, should a prong break or a diamond fall out.
Celebrate!
Congratulations, you just got engaged! Now it is time to sit back, enjoy your engagement, and start planning your wedding.
The best way to get answers to specific questions, or to see all of your options, is to visit a jewelry store. Armentor Jewelers is a family-owned-and-operated jewelry store since 1939 and continues to strive for 100% customer satisfaction. Our team will work with you to customize a ring that fits any style and budget perfectly. Contact us today for more information.
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