why shop in store?
The foundation of our business at Stuart Benjamin & Company Jewelry Designs is helping people create rings and select diamonds that are more than just the right size, style and budget – they’re the perfect match. Mother nature is perfect. Like people, she made no two diamonds exactly alike – each has their own unique personality. That’s why we believe you should get to know your ring before you buy it, by shopping at our experienced, family-owned and operated store. That’s also why we end up creating custom jewelry for close to 50% of our engagement couples to match the unique vision and expression of their love.
We understand the consumer today uses the internet for research and online comparisons prior to purchase. That’s great. We’re consumers too and we use it to as a tool to help us for our own personal shopping – whether that’s for travel, electronics or music. But, it’s important to know that diamond-grading reports are surprisingly subjective, despite the regimented, standardized system of grading that’s been in place for many years. Case in point: two diamonds, which seem identical in the virtual world, have two very different prices (see below).
These diamond certifications come from a reputable online dealer. On paper, they certainly appear to be the same in size, cut, color & clarity. Yet, the price difference is $1,300 – a 15% difference. Why? That’s an excellent question, one that no one can really answer without seeing the stones.
The only way to truly know and understand what you are buying is to shop with a knowledgeable retail partner. Stuart Benjamin & Company Jewelry Designs provides unparalleled expertise, working with you one-on-one to help you make the best choice possible. Stuart himself is a 3rd generation jeweler here in San Diego and Past President of the California Jewelers Association. Coupled with membership to the AGS, for which only 5% of jewelry stores nationwide qualify for, we are passionate about what they do, whether it’s helping you choose a ring on the spot or working with you to design & create one of your heart’s desire. Because getting engaged is more than finding a ring, it’s about finding the one. We’re confident you’ll agree that when it comes to love and engagement rings, there’s nothing like the real thing!
