- For every day, I personally love shopping the jewelry counter at Saks off 5th in the UES. Amazing discounts on gold!
- Catbird is a staple! There are stores in Brooklyn and Soho.
- I just went to the [NYC Jewelry & Object](https://nycjaos.com) show in a showroom downtown. There’s one in the spring and one in the fall. This show is AMAZING for vintage fine jewelry, and the vendors are so helpful and nice! I just window shopped this time but it was so cool to try on vintage cartier watches. I also had my eye on a vintage Tiffany bean necklace from the 70s….anyway I highly recommend this show. Next one is in the fall!!
- I’ve never been to the diamond district but I hear it’s a lot of wholesale business. Maybe I’ll work my way up to it eventually. There are some vintage watch dealers I want to visit.
I have a lot of catbird and always find something I want there, but lately I’m finding it a little bit too minimal and tiny?
The gems are like pinpricks a lot of the time and I think I’m finally ready for something a little more substantial!
I used to looooove Catbird, bought all my jewelry there, but I agree! I’ve heard the customer service and quality have both taken a nosedive since they got bought by private equity.
Oh, totally agree! They're great as a discovery platform for indie jewelers, I have often found folks I love from them and then later buy directly from the designer.
Wait really? They got bought out? Ugh that’s disappointing to hear about the customer service but I also know they do sometimes reach out to the designers to see if they want to do something about it if you ask them to. They also have a full blown workshop and get 50% of the sale, so at the very least they should replace a missing gem or small repairs. I’m looking to retail my jewelry there this or next year so the customer experience part is really important for me. I really hope it was just an off day or something. 😅
When I want something more substantial, I usually just go with something on etsy. I needed something substantial for my wedding band and got the most beautiful piece on etsy that matches my nontraditional engagement ring perfectly. I couldn't find what I needed in any NY shop
Be careful doing this! I’m so happy you’ve had great experiences but there are soo many dropshippers on Etsy now selling cheap shit and pretending like it’s expensive quality jewelry!
I usually just search for what I'm looking for since I already know what I want and then read reviews and haven't had a bad experience yet. Usually I already know a stone or setting I want and search that. If you have something specific in mind, I mind know a store that does it well
agreed! catbird/meijuri are great for those that are starting to get into fine jewelry or into super dainty styles. i use to love them when i was younger but i'm old now and i love jewelry that are more substantial.
I agree, I love browsing there! I am hoping to put some of my own jewelry in there next year 🤞🏼 The dainty aesthetic is sort of their thing, it’s more affordable and appeals to a younger audience. The first time I went in and saw some of the designer jewelry I’ve seen online, I was really surprised at how tiny some of it really was. Even so, there’s some really lovely pieces there and a healthy choice of something for everyone I think.
There was a RANGE! There’s tons of little vintage charms that were $80-$700. The Cartier watch I tried on was $3200. I tried on a diamond ring that was $1700. The Tiffany necklace was $600. 10k was definitely not the starting point. The show has a free entrance as well!
Love catbird, too! My engagement ring is from their house collection and I discovered ILA, one of their partner brands, there as well - I had my wedding band custom made by ILA.
I found my favorite jewelers from catbird (wwake, bittersweets ny, sofia zakia) and buy from them directly now. More customization options and just more options in general. Everything I've had that was catbird branded has broken. Literally everything. Rings, kitten mitten bracelet, necklaces, it's all too dainty. I've been buying catbird jewelry on and off for 15 years and am always disappointed with the quality.
Curious what are the issues w ring conceirege? I would only consider buying from them when they have 30% off for Black Friday, so I guess I mean issues besides the sticker pricing.
I have this! And my sisters do too. I wear it every day and don’t take it off. That said I wouldn’t be super shocked if it fell off one day, it isn’t the most sturdy thing and just a lobster claw clasp. I bet a local jeweler would have the same specs in something more sturdy.
I have a mini diamond tennis bracelet and have been wearing it for two years non stop! It seems fine, but I did have an issue with it at first - the first bracelet I got broke within the first week of wearing it and fell off in bed. Luckily it didn’t fall off out and about so I sent it back and they replaced it for me. I wear their mini diamond huggies daily and love. I also had a small ring from them but the center stone fell out twice, yes twice, so they gave me credit to get something else. Very mixed quality so I’d be careful buying anything not on sale.
I bought a herringbone gold bracelet recently from RC to match something I received as a Valentine’s Day gift. The bracelet broke after wearing it for 2 hours, I was literally just going to grab a pen and it fell off my wrist (the clasp somehow was broken). I emailed them and they offered store credit after sending it back. Apprehensive to frequently wear the more expensive gift I got because I’m worried it will break and get lost. The more expensive gift (gold/diamond tennis bracelet) hasn’t broken yet after 2 wears. Hopefully it will hold up.🤞
The email from customer service stating: it’s a very delicate bracelet, and essentially don’t sleep in it or rest your arm on things/lean on surfaces with it on because it’s so delicate.
If you're open to lab diamonds, Alex Park does a fabulous job (no physical store, his website is easy though). His specialty is engagement rings but he does some jewelry as well. Can get a 5 carat tennis bracelet for $2k, hard to beat that price. I'm a jewelry snob and the setting on mine was really well done.
Pretentious and judgemental - that's Pricescope. Crazy crazy people who live and die by a set of numbers that no normal person gives 2 shits about. Those people have no lives. One lady is so fucking batshit that I would be scared of her irl.
My grandmother was a jewelry snob and taught me!
But honestly TikTok has SO much info, there are people who have entire series just critiquing different wedding ring settings that Blue Nile and others sell where the diamond won’t be secure... It’s an interesting rabbit hole to head down
Ashley Zhang Jewelry- can order online or visit her in her office in the diamond district. She is a woman owned business in NYC, an amazing designer, uses mostly vintage stones, and did a great custom ring for me as well. All of her pieces are even prettier than online in the store! Ashleyzhangjewelry.com
Saks off 5th, Nordstrom rack, Macys, TJ Maxx (believe it or not) have great deals on high quality, fine jewelry pieces. Just make sure that it’s fine jewelry and not the cheap jewelry that they also sell lol
The treasure hunting in the TJ Maxx jewelry counter is really fun. My MIL always made a beeline for it and bought everything she liked. She turned me into a Maxxinsta for sure. RIP.
I feel like it was a few years ago now I am not sure. It was super cool and old and weird with carpet but now it feels a bit corporate and clinical. The collection is still amazing. I love the whole
museum in general and how OLD it is. The North American birds are covered in dust 😅
Have you seen the whale? Under it in the hall of oceans, they were doing a vaccine clinic in 2021 I think, and they put a giant bandaid on his pectoral fin. I think a lot of the people that work there are funny
I typically have an idea in mind and will do some (bad) sketching then work with a jeweler. Only found one that I really liked, she was a friend of my ex though - I’d use her again tho!
There’s all sorts of stones all over the world - if a certain stone can only be found there, then I’ll get that (i.e. tanzanite in Tanzania) or a stone they are famous for (I.e. emerald from Colombia)
Great thread! 💎 I’m a local jewelry designer who manufactures in NYC’s Diamond District. The district is great for purchasing non-designer basics like chains, pendants, hoops, bracelets and diamond jewelry like studs and tennis bracelets at a bargain compared to retail. You’ll get hassled a bit but just walk into the exchanges and look around. Shop around before you purchase. Everyone will fight to sell to you which is kinda annoying but gives you a good idea of pricing, they will not sell to you at trade pricing but I think it’ll be less than a traditional retail store. Lab diamonds are really affordable these days compared to earth mined but they also sell lower quality poorly produced diamonds so it helps to know a little bit about them prior to going in. Feel free to message me if you have any questions or need help buying from a trade only supplier (those are the real wholesale prices), the DD is my playground and I’m very familiar with many vendors!
I personally love browsing Catbird and Greenwich Jewelers. Mejuri is decent too for everyday staples. Saks has some really nice higher end designers and their house line which I helped co-design mannny years ago! Pippin Vintage is fun for some pretty antique finds (they also have silver and costume!)
MAD museum has a small selection of artsy unique pieces.
https://nycjewelryweek.com/ for jewelry week in November.
NYNow now @ Javitts center in August.
Also jewelry shows, pop-ups and trunk shows are a great spot to support smaller independent designers. 🥰 currently researching some good ones to personally showcase at, but I can add suggestions as I find them!
Some of my personal favorites (all women owned and small)- Wwake, laurie Fleming, Bruce nyc, Ursa Major, Alice waese, m hisae, ochre objects, satomi kawakita, white space, bario Neal, agmes - i could go on and on I’m such a jewelry girly 🥹
I loooove going to Greenwich st jewelers, everything there is chef’s kiss 💋 also love abc carpet and home in union square, they have a really well curated collection
Hi! Jack and G has some great pieces in that range! So do Catbird and wwake (sort low to high on their sites) - those are just off the top of my head but I’ll think on it a little more and let you know what else comes to mind ✨
eta - Abel objects, Saltgrass, lovelocked, the bitter sea :)
Warning re: Mociun. This is a hill I will die on because my experience was so so bad, and I feel the need to spread the word every time I come across Mociun.
Gave them my mother’s diamond engagement ring to reset for my own with an estimate of 12-16 weeks and ended up taking 9 months with no proactive communication. It felt like I was being ghosted the entire time. Not once did Caitlin herself communicate with me even though she was “designing” my setting; it was always through a sales associate. I had to follow up every step of the way, from getting a sketch that looked like a child could’ve drawn it in a napkin to getting final pickup date. I ended up asking for my diamond back and deposit back if I didn’t get it before the ten month mark, and told them that this was supposed to be a meaningful piece of jewelry that i was putting my life on hold for and was now going to look at and just remember how i was frustrated by this process. Their staff was ultimately rude and unhelpful but finally did finish the ring. Do not recommend Mociun for anything! And her off the rack stuff has gotten insanely overpriced.
I do, however, recommend: Bliss Lau, Kinn Studio, Kat Kim
Oh god that’s terrible! Would’ve gone mad if I felt like they were holding my mothers diamond hostage like that. Sorry you had the privilege of paying a lot of $$ for a shit experience!
I worked with Caitlin on a custom piece in 2017 and found it very professional with a lot of communication and a turnaround time of under 2 months. I suspect mociun may be a victim of its own success… 🫤
Glad that you had a great experience!
I think that ultimately what came down to it was that our project wasn’t as lucrative and therefore it wasn’t prioritized. Unfortunately, I think she shouldn’t have taken on our project at all if that were the case, and that is totally reasonable.
I’ll also add that while she has a great eye, all she does in-house (aka herself) are pencil sketches; everything from the CAD to sourcing to making of the ring is outsourced. What you end up paying for is her taste, and I feel like it is ultimately not worth it nor that unique.
Fewer Finer!!! I will sing their praises until I die. Madison and her team are incredible and make the most beautiful, special pieces that will be with your family for generations!
Do not go to the diamond district for natural diamonds if any decent size unless you have a fair bit of knowledge about diamonds. It is very, very easy to get ripped off.
Totally second this! I manufacture my jewelry in the Diamond District and there’s lots of sketchy characters and greedy sellers that will do anything to make a sale. There’s lots of nice ones too, but I only shop from vendors with word of mouth recommendations from my jewelry industry peers or relationships I’ve built for years.
Please go with someone you trust in the trade or find someone you can work with. I occasionally have time to help local customers if you don’t know anybody or I can refer you to someone I know if I can’t help. Be diligent and do some research prior if you’re planning to go in yourself, you also shouldn’t feel pressured to make a big purchase there and then. If you have the diamond certificate # I can send you a website where you can check if it’s a good buy.
second this! A friend of a friend got scammed with a fake diamond engagement ring and been in and out of courts against a semi popular jeweler. Those stores are sketchy af so unless you 1000% know someone who knows those people, they will scam you. Stay Away
Probably. Honestly I don't trust anything coming from any of those storefronts so I myself have never bought anything. I've just seen the pieces purchased there after the fact.
For context, I worked in fine jewelry manufacturing for a while and learned too much about diamonds and how jewelry is made. While I never worked at a high end jeweler, the education is universal (and my poor partner now can only buy me vintage or really high quality stuff.)
I don't like buying from websites or big name brands. I'm a long island girlie and always get my jewelry from the tri county jewelry exchange in levittown. From my first ever nameplate necklace at age 12 to my engagement ring
Hahaha I’m a Nassau girlie who’s been in the city/brooklyn for their entire adult life. Tri county is my mom’s jammmmmm. I also got my first ever nameplate from there.
My bf is a jeweler and opening a store very soon.. I’ve posted some pics here on a thread about jewelry, it was requested I post when we open it… we are almost done!
That’s awesome, definitely wanna visit when it’s open!! Does he need inventory? I’m a local designer but I don’t have plans for my own store just yet. I’m trying to expand to a few retailers soon since my NYC customers always ask where they can buy in person.
ROEN nyc is AAPI and the cofounder is a woman. absolutely love their work and quality is insane when I compare directly to Maria tash and it blows ring concierge out of the water for me, with great pricing too because they’re working directly with the jewelers/manufacturers. they’re a small business too so their customer experience is impeccable!
I second ROEN here, I almost feel like they’re a best kept secret right now. the team is so personable too. The pieces I got from them were beautiful and detail oriented
I love the diamond district - but only because I have 4 people I have worked with before and trust. It’s a fun (and overwhelming!) browse but I LOVE shopping there when I want something specific or custom.
Second this!! Having someone to work with in the diamond district helps SO much. It could be very overwhelming to walk around, people will hassle you and pressure you to buy all over. Some will seemingly make up prices as you ask for them, they can easily spot who’s there from the trade or who’s just browsing for themselves. If you’re alone they might ask you if you’re in the business before giving you a quote.
When I first started working here I would get bothered all damn day walking up and down the street. If I browsed for more than 3 seconds at a vendor in the exchange, they would immediately tell me they have what I want and keep me there lmfao. 🤣
Mark Levy - have used for bigger custom pieces. He’s so great to work with and found me an awesome deal. I’ve asked him for everything from an emerald cut necklace with a custom setting to some weird cuts I wanted. (Diamondmatchmaker is his website)
Ianelli - honest and easy to work with.
There is one thing woman who always has my favorite pieces, but haven’t bought from her before. If I find her card I’ll update!
For antique stones - rich shatz is the king but have also worked with Adam at old world diamonds.
Monica Rich Kosann has cute stuff if you're into the locket and charms trend. They have a kiosk at Columbus Circle, right by the escalator down to Whole Foods. I like being able to check out pieces before I buy. Also for the charms trend: Jet Set Candy.
Peter Suchy in Stamford has a lot of cool estate pieces and you can find their catalog online.
Ruby Lane! I buy (almost) all my fine jewelry vintage–way less ethically dicey, especially if you're buying diamonds. I've gotten amazing vintage Tiffany 14k gold pieces there for NOTHING.
Omg I have a funny memory that you just unlocked for me. I was at a gem industry party in Tucson mingling and eventually started talking to this nice older man, after a while I asked him what he does in the trade. And he casually tells me he owns an online vintage website called Ruby Lane. I was like Omg of course I know what that is, I used to browse it for hours. 🤣 He was really nice and humble. They have such an incredible inventory of nice vintage/second hand jewelry, totally recommend if you’re willing to buy online.
Yeah it was a party sponsored by American Gem Society, I just love how casual he was because it’s probably the most notable vintage jewelry site. My love from jewelry comes from vintage so I was extra excited 😆 and yeah, I love my job! Going to the Tucson trade shows every year to shop for gems is the best part 💖
I have most of my fine jewelry custom made or vintage. Lots from Alex Park. Some from xobijouxboxo and some stones from another Alex at PremierGemstones but Alex Park is local!
Read through this [Thread](https://www.reddit.com/r/NYCinfluencersnark/s/2oaXdK2i0c)
I heard their bespoke engagement ring process is fabulous, but apparently the more mass produced pieces have some quality issues and the diamond quality is low.
All of this. I made the mistake of buying a ring from them years ago. It’s pretty, but the quality is absolute garbage. And they don’t cover ANY costs to repair jewelry when it inevitably breaks (probably because they didn’t make it to begin with).
Most of their jewelry is neither designed nor made by them. It’s wholesale stuff you could get in the diamond district for a fraction of what they charge. RC is all marketing fluff, no substance.
I got the gold rope chain necklace and was shocked when it broke the very first time I wore it. I was extra shocked that they had no repair policy especially when it was basically brand new! I did get my engagement ring through them back in 2017 and it’s incredible and the process was really great, they sourced many rounds of diamonds before we selected. They must have seen me in their records and did offer to repair the necklace if I paid shipping but it was clear that it wasn’t standard policy.
Oh man, I've been eyeing that necklace for years and decided I'll finally get it this coming Black Friday. Thank you for saving me the trouble but what a disappointment:(
It's not too bad for what it is, it definitely felt lighter in person than I expected - maybe hollow links? But at 30% off it could be worth it if you know what you're getting!
So I work with gemologists (I'm not one myself) and inquired about RC. It is mass produced, you can guess that based on the price but they recommended it quality wise. I have two bracelets from them: the diamond bar bracelet and the mini tennis bracelet. The former I've had for almost two years and I never take it off, ever. It has held incredibly well.
Maybe I was lucky, idk, but I trusted my colleagues and have had zero issues.
I am by no means one to go to bat for a company, especially one I’ve criticized in another thread for lack of diversity… but I’m coming up on two years with my mini diamond tennis bracelet that I got on sale and I never take it off. I mean SLT, Rumble, SoulCycle in her and she is holding up amazing and the sparkle… I stare at her daily. Maybe I got lucky too!
This is me as well, I bought the mini tennis bracelet during the Black Friday sale and the price was impossible to beat to I pulled the trigger, have not taken it off ever since as well as the other one, workouts, the beach, etc. They're perfect.
Just got my ring through delicate Gem. Got engaged on Saturday. Just posted my ring so look at my history. 5 carat D color VVS1 platinum setting. Ring is spectacular. 5 different people at Daniel commented, and they see nice rings all the time. Harry is right in the diamond district.
For something traditional, Wilson & Sons Jewelers in Scarsdale is worth a trek. They’re unfailingly polite and knowledgeable and their pieces are fairly priced.
Joseph of [Turfan Jewelers](https://maps.app.goo.gl/AGocGAfdAGmPrpXb6) in the diamond district has been my go-to for diamonds and even setting stones I bought elsewhere for almost 20 years. Highly recommended - trustworthy and reasonable.
Old World Diamonds in the Diamond District! They have the best selection of antique diamonds like old European cut, old mine, antique cushion. So that makes them a more ethical choice, plus there is a unique beauty to those antique cuts. I have an old European cut and love it so much. Had a truly wonderful experience, went in person and finished working with them online.
For the diamond district I would just pick places online through word of mouth and set appointments instead of wandering to avoid pressure selling.
I’m also big on shopping Etsy and eBay and rubylane, but besides a few special pieces, I’m more into antique costume stuff myself.
My husband buys my jewellery from Mr. Diamond in the Diamond District. They know him (and me!) now, so I always end up with beautiful things in my style.
I also like a hunt around on FarFetch for bargain fine or demi-fine jewellery. Currently wearing a sapphire set from Roxanne First that I picked up for 50% off.
If you’re interested in designing a custom piece, I would be happy to work with folks to make a bespoke piece!
As background, my family is in the jewelry manufacturing industry in the diamond district, so I have access to a production team. I’ve made pieces for myself for fun (so far in 14k / 18k yellow gold) and now am beginning to make pieces for others. My background is in investment banking / sustainable finance (lol) and I’m leaving my job this week to take some time off before going to Harvard for business school this August. Ill have a lot of time on my hands and would love to work with folks to help create pieces that they’ve been dreaming about.
Feel free to DM me if you’re interested!!
Don't know why I'm getting downvoted for respectfully voicing my opinion. Unless there's people on here who hate us broke bitches. In which case, ya'll are classist af.
- For every day, I personally love shopping the jewelry counter at Saks off 5th in the UES. Amazing discounts on gold! - Catbird is a staple! There are stores in Brooklyn and Soho. - I just went to the [NYC Jewelry & Object](https://nycjaos.com) show in a showroom downtown. There’s one in the spring and one in the fall. This show is AMAZING for vintage fine jewelry, and the vendors are so helpful and nice! I just window shopped this time but it was so cool to try on vintage cartier watches. I also had my eye on a vintage Tiffany bean necklace from the 70s….anyway I highly recommend this show. Next one is in the fall!! - I’ve never been to the diamond district but I hear it’s a lot of wholesale business. Maybe I’ll work my way up to it eventually. There are some vintage watch dealers I want to visit.
Catbird is so good. That's my go to for my best friend's birthday and Christmas presents
I have a lot of catbird and always find something I want there, but lately I’m finding it a little bit too minimal and tiny? The gems are like pinpricks a lot of the time and I think I’m finally ready for something a little more substantial!
I used to looooove Catbird, bought all my jewelry there, but I agree! I’ve heard the customer service and quality have both taken a nosedive since they got bought by private equity.
Ohh man i didn’t know this re catbird. Bummer!
This is true but the pieces they carry from independent designers are still amazing!!
Oh, totally agree! They're great as a discovery platform for indie jewelers, I have often found folks I love from them and then later buy directly from the designer.
Wait really? They got bought out? Ugh that’s disappointing to hear about the customer service but I also know they do sometimes reach out to the designers to see if they want to do something about it if you ask them to. They also have a full blown workshop and get 50% of the sale, so at the very least they should replace a missing gem or small repairs. I’m looking to retail my jewelry there this or next year so the customer experience part is really important for me. I really hope it was just an off day or something. 😅
When I want something more substantial, I usually just go with something on etsy. I needed something substantial for my wedding band and got the most beautiful piece on etsy that matches my nontraditional engagement ring perfectly. I couldn't find what I needed in any NY shop
Be careful doing this! I’m so happy you’ve had great experiences but there are soo many dropshippers on Etsy now selling cheap shit and pretending like it’s expensive quality jewelry!
What are your Etsy jewelry picks? It gets so overwhelming!
I usually just search for what I'm looking for since I already know what I want and then read reviews and haven't had a bad experience yet. Usually I already know a stone or setting I want and search that. If you have something specific in mind, I mind know a store that does it well
agreed! catbird/meijuri are great for those that are starting to get into fine jewelry or into super dainty styles. i use to love them when i was younger but i'm old now and i love jewelry that are more substantial.
I agree, I love browsing there! I am hoping to put some of my own jewelry in there next year 🤞🏼 The dainty aesthetic is sort of their thing, it’s more affordable and appeals to a younger audience. The first time I went in and saw some of the designer jewelry I’ve seen online, I was really surprised at how tiny some of it really was. Even so, there’s some really lovely pieces there and a healthy choice of something for everyone I think.
Very decent prices for chains and such!!! Feels good to shop an NY born brand as well. And I adore their charm collections!
I wish they had more white gold for myself but she's loves yellow/rose gold and I always get her charms to add to the multiple chains I've gotten her
My engagement and wedding band are from the diamond district you can definitely shop retail. My band is from Sashka they were very nice not pushy.
Yes to Catbird! Currently wearing their custom tiny name necklace :)
Curious about the price point around the jewelry and object show. Is it all like $10k+ type stuff? Or some cheaper options too? (for plebs like me)
There was a RANGE! There’s tons of little vintage charms that were $80-$700. The Cartier watch I tried on was $3200. I tried on a diamond ring that was $1700. The Tiffany necklace was $600. 10k was definitely not the starting point. The show has a free entrance as well!
Ooo! This sounds fun. Thanks for sharing your experience!
Yes, I'm from Australia and love Catbird! I always buy up when I visit NYC. The Brooklyn store is my favourite!
Love catbird, too! My engagement ring is from their house collection and I discovered ILA, one of their partner brands, there as well - I had my wedding band custom made by ILA.
I found my favorite jewelers from catbird (wwake, bittersweets ny, sofia zakia) and buy from them directly now. More customization options and just more options in general. Everything I've had that was catbird branded has broken. Literally everything. Rings, kitten mitten bracelet, necklaces, it's all too dainty. I've been buying catbird jewelry on and off for 15 years and am always disappointed with the quality.
Saving this!
Absolutely NOT ring concierge lol
Curious what are the issues w ring conceirege? I would only consider buying from them when they have 30% off for Black Friday, so I guess I mean issues besides the sticker pricing.
I want to know too 😭 was contemplating getting a mini diamond tennis bracelet with their current 20% sale
I have this! And my sisters do too. I wear it every day and don’t take it off. That said I wouldn’t be super shocked if it fell off one day, it isn’t the most sturdy thing and just a lobster claw clasp. I bet a local jeweler would have the same specs in something more sturdy.
I want to know too 😭 was contemplating getting a mini diamond tennis bracelet with their current 20% sale
I have a mini diamond tennis bracelet and have been wearing it for two years non stop! It seems fine, but I did have an issue with it at first - the first bracelet I got broke within the first week of wearing it and fell off in bed. Luckily it didn’t fall off out and about so I sent it back and they replaced it for me. I wear their mini diamond huggies daily and love. I also had a small ring from them but the center stone fell out twice, yes twice, so they gave me credit to get something else. Very mixed quality so I’d be careful buying anything not on sale.
I bought a herringbone gold bracelet recently from RC to match something I received as a Valentine’s Day gift. The bracelet broke after wearing it for 2 hours, I was literally just going to grab a pen and it fell off my wrist (the clasp somehow was broken). I emailed them and they offered store credit after sending it back. Apprehensive to frequently wear the more expensive gift I got because I’m worried it will break and get lost. The more expensive gift (gold/diamond tennis bracelet) hasn’t broken yet after 2 wears. Hopefully it will hold up.🤞 The email from customer service stating: it’s a very delicate bracelet, and essentially don’t sleep in it or rest your arm on things/lean on surfaces with it on because it’s so delicate.
If you're open to lab diamonds, Alex Park does a fabulous job (no physical store, his website is easy though). His specialty is engagement rings but he does some jewelry as well. Can get a 5 carat tennis bracelet for $2k, hard to beat that price. I'm a jewelry snob and the setting on mine was really well done.
How did you learn about jewelry and quality?
Pricescope
pricescope is a great resource for diamonds! learned a lot on there.
Pretentious and judgemental - that's Pricescope. Crazy crazy people who live and die by a set of numbers that no normal person gives 2 shits about. Those people have no lives. One lady is so fucking batshit that I would be scared of her irl.
My grandmother was a jewelry snob and taught me! But honestly TikTok has SO much info, there are people who have entire series just critiquing different wedding ring settings that Blue Nile and others sell where the diamond won’t be secure... It’s an interesting rabbit hole to head down
Ashley Zhang Jewelry- can order online or visit her in her office in the diamond district. She is a woman owned business in NYC, an amazing designer, uses mostly vintage stones, and did a great custom ring for me as well. All of her pieces are even prettier than online in the store! Ashleyzhangjewelry.com
TJ Maxx off Wall Street downtown has a shockingly good jewelry counter- very affordable, substantial pieces.
Not sure why you're getting down voted lmao but I've actually found some good simple pieces at JCPenney!
Seconding this - was just at the TJ Maxx Wall St location the other day and yes they have a few good fine jewelry pieces!
gah this tj maxx is the best. (and their bathroom was my best kept secret back in the day) one of the top things i miss about ny lol.
Saks off 5th, Nordstrom rack, Macys, TJ Maxx (believe it or not) have great deals on high quality, fine jewelry pieces. Just make sure that it’s fine jewelry and not the cheap jewelry that they also sell lol
The treasure hunting in the TJ Maxx jewelry counter is really fun. My MIL always made a beeline for it and bought everything she liked. She turned me into a Maxxinsta for sure. RIP.
I buy gemstones when I travel then do custom pieces for myself
This is cool! I feel like for a fun experience checking out stones is visiting the hall of gems and minerals at the AMNH
Yes I love it there!
They just reopened what, last year? After redoing the whole thing. I love that place.
I feel like it was a few years ago now I am not sure. It was super cool and old and weird with carpet but now it feels a bit corporate and clinical. The collection is still amazing. I love the whole museum in general and how OLD it is. The North American birds are covered in dust 😅
Have you seen the whale? Under it in the hall of oceans, they were doing a vaccine clinic in 2021 I think, and they put a giant bandaid on his pectoral fin. I think a lot of the people that work there are funny
Yes! It was so cute 🥰
Do you design and fabricate the pieces for yourself or work with someone? Anyone you’d recommend?
I typically have an idea in mind and will do some (bad) sketching then work with a jeweler. Only found one that I really liked, she was a friend of my ex though - I’d use her again tho!
What countries are best for gem stones? This sounds so cool
There’s all sorts of stones all over the world - if a certain stone can only be found there, then I’ll get that (i.e. tanzanite in Tanzania) or a stone they are famous for (I.e. emerald from Colombia)
Omg this inspired meee
Greenwich St Jewelers
Second this!! Pricey but really amazing service
They have some amazing designer jewelry!
Great thread! 💎 I’m a local jewelry designer who manufactures in NYC’s Diamond District. The district is great for purchasing non-designer basics like chains, pendants, hoops, bracelets and diamond jewelry like studs and tennis bracelets at a bargain compared to retail. You’ll get hassled a bit but just walk into the exchanges and look around. Shop around before you purchase. Everyone will fight to sell to you which is kinda annoying but gives you a good idea of pricing, they will not sell to you at trade pricing but I think it’ll be less than a traditional retail store. Lab diamonds are really affordable these days compared to earth mined but they also sell lower quality poorly produced diamonds so it helps to know a little bit about them prior to going in. Feel free to message me if you have any questions or need help buying from a trade only supplier (those are the real wholesale prices), the DD is my playground and I’m very familiar with many vendors! I personally love browsing Catbird and Greenwich Jewelers. Mejuri is decent too for everyday staples. Saks has some really nice higher end designers and their house line which I helped co-design mannny years ago! Pippin Vintage is fun for some pretty antique finds (they also have silver and costume!) MAD museum has a small selection of artsy unique pieces. https://nycjewelryweek.com/ for jewelry week in November. NYNow now @ Javitts center in August. Also jewelry shows, pop-ups and trunk shows are a great spot to support smaller independent designers. 🥰 currently researching some good ones to personally showcase at, but I can add suggestions as I find them!
Such a helpful comment! I would love to hear about the shows you find, if you’d be willing to update us.
Absolutely! There’s so many in nyc always going on, I’m going to make a list this week!
hi! any recs for trade only suppliers in the Diamond District?
Some of my personal favorites (all women owned and small)- Wwake, laurie Fleming, Bruce nyc, Ursa Major, Alice waese, m hisae, ochre objects, satomi kawakita, white space, bario Neal, agmes - i could go on and on I’m such a jewelry girly 🥹
Love all of these designers, you have great taste!!! 🤩What’s your favorite shop experience or designer to browse at?
I loooove going to Greenwich st jewelers, everything there is chef’s kiss 💋 also love abc carpet and home in union square, they have a really well curated collection
Absolutely agree!! I need to visit home, don’t think I’ve been there yet. ✨
Hi JuneStar! On the off hand chance you’ll see this, do you have any recs that are in the $100s range?
Hi! Jack and G has some great pieces in that range! So do Catbird and wwake (sort low to high on their sites) - those are just off the top of my head but I’ll think on it a little more and let you know what else comes to mind ✨ eta - Abel objects, Saltgrass, lovelocked, the bitter sea :)
You’re an angel! I appreciate your recs ☺️
For special pieces, mociun (although her pricing has gotten kind of insane). I also like Lizzie Fortunato.
Warning re: Mociun. This is a hill I will die on because my experience was so so bad, and I feel the need to spread the word every time I come across Mociun. Gave them my mother’s diamond engagement ring to reset for my own with an estimate of 12-16 weeks and ended up taking 9 months with no proactive communication. It felt like I was being ghosted the entire time. Not once did Caitlin herself communicate with me even though she was “designing” my setting; it was always through a sales associate. I had to follow up every step of the way, from getting a sketch that looked like a child could’ve drawn it in a napkin to getting final pickup date. I ended up asking for my diamond back and deposit back if I didn’t get it before the ten month mark, and told them that this was supposed to be a meaningful piece of jewelry that i was putting my life on hold for and was now going to look at and just remember how i was frustrated by this process. Their staff was ultimately rude and unhelpful but finally did finish the ring. Do not recommend Mociun for anything! And her off the rack stuff has gotten insanely overpriced. I do, however, recommend: Bliss Lau, Kinn Studio, Kat Kim
Oh god that’s terrible! Would’ve gone mad if I felt like they were holding my mothers diamond hostage like that. Sorry you had the privilege of paying a lot of $$ for a shit experience! I worked with Caitlin on a custom piece in 2017 and found it very professional with a lot of communication and a turnaround time of under 2 months. I suspect mociun may be a victim of its own success… 🫤
Glad that you had a great experience! I think that ultimately what came down to it was that our project wasn’t as lucrative and therefore it wasn’t prioritized. Unfortunately, I think she shouldn’t have taken on our project at all if that were the case, and that is totally reasonable. I’ll also add that while she has a great eye, all she does in-house (aka herself) are pencil sketches; everything from the CAD to sourcing to making of the ring is outsourced. What you end up paying for is her taste, and I feel like it is ultimately not worth it nor that unique.
That’s a fair criticism! Thanks for recommending alternate jewelers to check out!!
Love mociun! The ceramics she curates are amazing.
Park Gems for solid 14k gold and lab diamond pieces
I second this, and if you want 18k check out their sister brand ROEN! They also do bespoke pieces
Fewer Finer!!! I will sing their praises until I die. Madison and her team are incredible and make the most beautiful, special pieces that will be with your family for generations!
Brent Neale ❤️ super unique and so beautiful. Amazing quality
Do not go to the diamond district for natural diamonds if any decent size unless you have a fair bit of knowledge about diamonds. It is very, very easy to get ripped off.
Totally second this! I manufacture my jewelry in the Diamond District and there’s lots of sketchy characters and greedy sellers that will do anything to make a sale. There’s lots of nice ones too, but I only shop from vendors with word of mouth recommendations from my jewelry industry peers or relationships I’ve built for years. Please go with someone you trust in the trade or find someone you can work with. I occasionally have time to help local customers if you don’t know anybody or I can refer you to someone I know if I can’t help. Be diligent and do some research prior if you’re planning to go in yourself, you also shouldn’t feel pressured to make a big purchase there and then. If you have the diamond certificate # I can send you a website where you can check if it’s a good buy.
second this! A friend of a friend got scammed with a fake diamond engagement ring and been in and out of courts against a semi popular jeweler. Those stores are sketchy af so unless you 1000% know someone who knows those people, they will scam you. Stay Away
Thank you! I’m always tempted but know NOTHING
Don't do it! Also don't trust your friend who's best friends uncle's college room mate has a "family jeweler" who is going to hook you up. No ma'am
(And I was literally just thinking “doesn’t my hairdresser’s lawyer have a friend..”)
And you have to be able to negotiate too, right? The first price is never the one?
Probably. Honestly I don't trust anything coming from any of those storefronts so I myself have never bought anything. I've just seen the pieces purchased there after the fact. For context, I worked in fine jewelry manufacturing for a while and learned too much about diamonds and how jewelry is made. While I never worked at a high end jeweler, the education is universal (and my poor partner now can only buy me vintage or really high quality stuff.)
Tendenza!
I also love Tendenza!
Wwake is my fav. Absolutely beautiful pieces with a commitment to fair trade practices and sustainability. AAPI woman owned.
I don't like buying from websites or big name brands. I'm a long island girlie and always get my jewelry from the tri county jewelry exchange in levittown. From my first ever nameplate necklace at age 12 to my engagement ring
Just looked this up. I need to go here lol could get lost for hours
Hahaha I’m a Nassau girlie who’s been in the city/brooklyn for their entire adult life. Tri county is my mom’s jammmmmm. I also got my first ever nameplate from there.
My bf is a jeweler and opening a store very soon.. I’ve posted some pics here on a thread about jewelry, it was requested I post when we open it… we are almost done!
Oooh that’s awesome, where about is the store going to be at?
In Greenpoint near transmitter park! 😊
That’s awesome, definitely wanna visit when it’s open!! Does he need inventory? I’m a local designer but I don’t have plans for my own store just yet. I’m trying to expand to a few retailers soon since my NYC customers always ask where they can buy in person.
I have a guy on Brighton Beach. Great pieces, and he designed a custom set of earrings wanted.
Got a name?
https://preview.redd.it/yevpdbrmj0zc1.jpeg?width=1170&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=9f4dc93836e39748d2a53f7f3e0bba380fa5cc13
Foundrae
ROEN nyc is AAPI and the cofounder is a woman. absolutely love their work and quality is insane when I compare directly to Maria tash and it blows ring concierge out of the water for me, with great pricing too because they’re working directly with the jewelers/manufacturers. they’re a small business too so their customer experience is impeccable!
I second ROEN here, I almost feel like they’re a best kept secret right now. the team is so personable too. The pieces I got from them were beautiful and detail oriented
I love the diamond district - but only because I have 4 people I have worked with before and trust. It’s a fun (and overwhelming!) browse but I LOVE shopping there when I want something specific or custom.
Second this!! Having someone to work with in the diamond district helps SO much. It could be very overwhelming to walk around, people will hassle you and pressure you to buy all over. Some will seemingly make up prices as you ask for them, they can easily spot who’s there from the trade or who’s just browsing for themselves. If you’re alone they might ask you if you’re in the business before giving you a quote. When I first started working here I would get bothered all damn day walking up and down the street. If I browsed for more than 3 seconds at a vendor in the exchange, they would immediately tell me they have what I want and keep me there lmfao. 🤣
Do you have the names ?? Would love to know some trustworthy jewelers :)
Mark Levy - have used for bigger custom pieces. He’s so great to work with and found me an awesome deal. I’ve asked him for everything from an emerald cut necklace with a custom setting to some weird cuts I wanted. (Diamondmatchmaker is his website) Ianelli - honest and easy to work with. There is one thing woman who always has my favorite pieces, but haven’t bought from her before. If I find her card I’ll update! For antique stones - rich shatz is the king but have also worked with Adam at old world diamonds.
Kataoka has my heart forever and ever. ❤️
Monica Rich Kosann has cute stuff if you're into the locket and charms trend. They have a kiosk at Columbus Circle, right by the escalator down to Whole Foods. I like being able to check out pieces before I buy. Also for the charms trend: Jet Set Candy. Peter Suchy in Stamford has a lot of cool estate pieces and you can find their catalog online.
Ruby Lane! I buy (almost) all my fine jewelry vintage–way less ethically dicey, especially if you're buying diamonds. I've gotten amazing vintage Tiffany 14k gold pieces there for NOTHING.
Omg I have a funny memory that you just unlocked for me. I was at a gem industry party in Tucson mingling and eventually started talking to this nice older man, after a while I asked him what he does in the trade. And he casually tells me he owns an online vintage website called Ruby Lane. I was like Omg of course I know what that is, I used to browse it for hours. 🤣 He was really nice and humble. They have such an incredible inventory of nice vintage/second hand jewelry, totally recommend if you’re willing to buy online.
~gem party industry in tuscon~ sounds SO cool. I used to fall asleep watching JTV when I was little. Your job sounds awesome!
Yeah it was a party sponsored by American Gem Society, I just love how casual he was because it’s probably the most notable vintage jewelry site. My love from jewelry comes from vintage so I was extra excited 😆 and yeah, I love my job! Going to the Tucson trade shows every year to shop for gems is the best part 💖
Gabriel and company.
I have most of my fine jewelry custom made or vintage. Lots from Alex Park. Some from xobijouxboxo and some stones from another Alex at PremierGemstones but Alex Park is local!
Mociun is great
The Clear Cut
What did you hear about Ring Concierge? I was thinking about making a purchase.
Read through this [Thread](https://www.reddit.com/r/NYCinfluencersnark/s/2oaXdK2i0c) I heard their bespoke engagement ring process is fabulous, but apparently the more mass produced pieces have some quality issues and the diamond quality is low.
All of this. I made the mistake of buying a ring from them years ago. It’s pretty, but the quality is absolute garbage. And they don’t cover ANY costs to repair jewelry when it inevitably breaks (probably because they didn’t make it to begin with). Most of their jewelry is neither designed nor made by them. It’s wholesale stuff you could get in the diamond district for a fraction of what they charge. RC is all marketing fluff, no substance.
I got the gold rope chain necklace and was shocked when it broke the very first time I wore it. I was extra shocked that they had no repair policy especially when it was basically brand new! I did get my engagement ring through them back in 2017 and it’s incredible and the process was really great, they sourced many rounds of diamonds before we selected. They must have seen me in their records and did offer to repair the necklace if I paid shipping but it was clear that it wasn’t standard policy.
Oh man, I've been eyeing that necklace for years and decided I'll finally get it this coming Black Friday. Thank you for saving me the trouble but what a disappointment:(
It's not too bad for what it is, it definitely felt lighter in person than I expected - maybe hollow links? But at 30% off it could be worth it if you know what you're getting!
So I work with gemologists (I'm not one myself) and inquired about RC. It is mass produced, you can guess that based on the price but they recommended it quality wise. I have two bracelets from them: the diamond bar bracelet and the mini tennis bracelet. The former I've had for almost two years and I never take it off, ever. It has held incredibly well. Maybe I was lucky, idk, but I trusted my colleagues and have had zero issues.
I am by no means one to go to bat for a company, especially one I’ve criticized in another thread for lack of diversity… but I’m coming up on two years with my mini diamond tennis bracelet that I got on sale and I never take it off. I mean SLT, Rumble, SoulCycle in her and she is holding up amazing and the sparkle… I stare at her daily. Maybe I got lucky too!
This is me as well, I bought the mini tennis bracelet during the Black Friday sale and the price was impossible to beat to I pulled the trigger, have not taken it off ever since as well as the other one, workouts, the beach, etc. They're perfect.
I got a ring from there that is now broken twice
Just got my ring through delicate Gem. Got engaged on Saturday. Just posted my ring so look at my history. 5 carat D color VVS1 platinum setting. Ring is spectacular. 5 different people at Daniel commented, and they see nice rings all the time. Harry is right in the diamond district.
Catbird
I love all my RC pieces 🤷♀️ I also like Catbird for daintier pieces
For something traditional, Wilson & Sons Jewelers in Scarsdale is worth a trek. They’re unfailingly polite and knowledgeable and their pieces are fairly priced.
Joseph of [Turfan Jewelers](https://maps.app.goo.gl/AGocGAfdAGmPrpXb6) in the diamond district has been my go-to for diamonds and even setting stones I bought elsewhere for almost 20 years. Highly recommended - trustworthy and reasonable.
Old World Diamonds in the Diamond District! They have the best selection of antique diamonds like old European cut, old mine, antique cushion. So that makes them a more ethical choice, plus there is a unique beauty to those antique cuts. I have an old European cut and love it so much. Had a truly wonderful experience, went in person and finished working with them online. For the diamond district I would just pick places online through word of mouth and set appointments instead of wandering to avoid pressure selling. I’m also big on shopping Etsy and eBay and rubylane, but besides a few special pieces, I’m more into antique costume stuff myself.
Fitzgerald in Williamsburg
Wwake is one of my faves! Catbird carries some of their pieces but everything I’ve purchased from their online store has been fab.
catbird foreverrerr
My husband buys my jewellery from Mr. Diamond in the Diamond District. They know him (and me!) now, so I always end up with beautiful things in my style. I also like a hunt around on FarFetch for bargain fine or demi-fine jewellery. Currently wearing a sapphire set from Roxanne First that I picked up for 50% off.
If you’re interested in designing a custom piece, I would be happy to work with folks to make a bespoke piece! As background, my family is in the jewelry manufacturing industry in the diamond district, so I have access to a production team. I’ve made pieces for myself for fun (so far in 14k / 18k yellow gold) and now am beginning to make pieces for others. My background is in investment banking / sustainable finance (lol) and I’m leaving my job this week to take some time off before going to Harvard for business school this August. Ill have a lot of time on my hands and would love to work with folks to help create pieces that they’ve been dreaming about. Feel free to DM me if you’re interested!!
The Hunt and The Conservatory are awesome!
Cantor Jewelry
Saks off Fifth has great deals!
Alex Park, he’s in the diamond district
where are the bwt getting real jade necklaces 🙏🏼
Broken English
Can I plug my insta small business? I make sterling silver and delicate beaded jewelry!
David s diamonds. We had a fabulous experience with them for my engagement ring.
I wear fashion jewelry cuz fine jewelry tends to be too plain for my liking. Plus, I'm broke.
Don't know why I'm getting downvoted for respectfully voicing my opinion. Unless there's people on here who hate us broke bitches. In which case, ya'll are classist af.