What Other Jewelry Brands Do You Buy/Wear?

[glamourbag]

I am with you! I live in the US, and when the US lifts the COVID testing requirement for re-entry (it will be soon), I'm headed across the pond! I want to visit Shaun Leane and talk about a ring.

Oh that sounds like it will be a special experience. Are you thinking a bespoke piece???

I agree, and while I know so many are travelling, I'm not in such a rush to deal with all the things that come with it. Like everyone, I am hoping it clears up soon (am I being too wishful???), as I have half my family there who I haven't seen in a few years; along with some other matters at hand.

Garrard has beautiful designs and I especially appreciate how they combine their coloured stones into their pieces which is often lacking in some of the more "popular" design houses in the same price bracket. I usually like to see things in person, and much like Graff, we have no retailer or boutique here either but Im happy I read above that NAP is carrying their pieces, so there is hope. Im going to have to look which collections they have.

 

[glamourbag]

Me too- was breathtakingly beautiful! The peacock & phoenix were my favorites

Yes, they have such pretty options!! Many of their pieces are in the same price vicinity as VCA, the only unfortunate thing is there are basically no boutiques or retailers on this side of the world. I just looked and I think there is a store in Chicago which carries some of their designs but other than that its limited. Perhaps in the future they will come to our side

First time hearing of this line. Think I’ve been blinded by VCA.

Oh I understand how you have been. VCA is beautiful! I agree, sometimes we develop blinders to other options as I've done that too. The heart wants what the heart wants, but it never hurts to look at other designs/designers for creativity ideas and see what is on the market. Like handbag collections, I always believe a healthy wardrobe is one which is varied. Quality but with options.

 

[BigAkoya]

Oh that sounds like it will be a special experience. Are you thinking a bespoke piece???

I agree, and while I know so many are travelling, I'm not in such a rush to deal with all the things that come with it. Like everyone, I am hoping it clears up soon (am I being too wishful???), as I have half my family there who I haven't seen in a few years; along with some other matters at hand.

Garrard has beautiful designs and I especially appreciate how they combine their coloured stones into their pieces which is often lacking in some of the more "popular" design houses in the same price bracket. I usually like to see things in person, and much like Graff, we have no retailer or boutique here either but Im happy I read above that NAP is carrying their pieces, so there is hope. Im going to have to look which collections they have.

On travel, a work colleague of mine and his family are headed to Europe in a few weeks (UK, France, then Switzerland). I told him to be sure to read all the darn guidelines when it comes to COVID testing for re-entry (e.g. you need to have the correct kit, if you test positive, you can't re-enter the US until you test negative again). He purchased extra test kits just in case. He also purchased travel insurance, again, just in case they test positive and have to stay extra days and rebook their flight. That's too much drama for me, and like you, I am not in a rush. However, I do want to go there before May. There is a "Faberge in London" exhibition at the V&A that ends May 2, 2022. It's a rare exhibition, and Imperial Easter Eggs will be on display. You probably already know about this exhibition since you're familiar with London, but FYI in case not and you might be interested:
The largest exhibition of Faberge imperial eggs is being staged in London at the V&A Museum | Daily Mail Online

On Shaun Leane, he is very interesting to me. I have his book, and he truly knows how to link fashion and jewelry together. I find his pieces very unique, yet at the same time, they are a bit too innovative for me. His designs are for @880 ! She would rock in his pieces. My style is more classic, old-world glamour (e.g. read boring). However, there is one ring I really love, and yes, you are correct, I want a bespoke version! I have been thinking about this ring over a year and have been waiting to go to London, but I have not left US soil since COVID.

Okay... here is my idea... I want to take the existing Aurora design and tweak it a bit.
First, here are two stock versions to set this up so you can visualize...
When you see this ring, look at the WG, white diamonds, and "blue" stones (a blue theme).
Shaun Leane 18ct White Gold Aquamarine and Diamond Aurora Ring

When you see this ring, look just at the "red" stones. Ignore the cognac melee diamonds; focus on the red stone theme. Shaun Leane 18ct White Aurora Interlocking Stackable Ring Set

I want the same look as the first ring (WG, white diamonds), except I want a "red" stone theme. I want bold red against the crispiness of WG and white diamonds (not a fan of cognac diamonds).

For the red stones, I am not fond of the stones he used. Instead, I want a ruby, jedi spinel, and a soft pink sapphire. The look will be a stop-light-red ruby, a neon-pink Jedi Spinel, then softening to a pale-rose-pink sapphire.

I also want to change the prongs for the stones as based on the photos; I am not a fan of that prong work.
Of course, first step is I need to try on one of those rings to see if it's even my style. I also want to see the stones first before he sets them, especially the ruby and jedi spinel. With reds, I am super picky (I've purchased and gone through a few ruby rings and still can't get the shade right ).

Anyway, that's the ring I've been thinking of in my head.
I hope you can make it to London soon to see your family!

EDIT: On COVID restrictions loosening up... wishful thinking? Not at all! I personally think all eyes are on the UK for fully opening up their country. I give it 14 days after the Feb 11 (date when UK lifted all restrictions), and the rest of the world will begin to open up. Can't wait!

 

[Deleted member 626500]

On travel, a work colleague of mine and his family are headed to Europe in a few weeks (UK, France, then Switzerland). I told him to be sure to read all the darn guidelines when it comes to COVID testing for re-entry (e.g. you need to have the correct kit, if you test positive, you can't re-enter the US until you test negative again). He purchased extra test kits just in case. He also purchased travel insurance, again, just in case they test positive and have to stay extra days and rebook their flight. That's too much drama for me, and like you, I am not in a rush. However, I do want to go there before May. There is a "Faberge in London" exhibition at the V&A that ends May 2, 2022. It's a rare exhibition, and Imperial Easter Eggs will be on display. You probably already know about this exhibition since you're familiar with London, but FYI in case not and you might be interested:
The largest exhibition of Faberge imperial eggs is being staged in London at the V&A Museum | Daily Mail Online

On Shaun Leane, he is very interesting to me. I have his book, and he truly knows how to link fashion and jewelry together. I find his pieces very unique, yet at the same time, they are a bit too innovative for me. His designs are for @880 ! She would rock in his pieces. My style is more classic, old-world glamour (e.g. read boring). However, there is one ring I really love, and yes, you are correct, I want a bespoke version! I have been thinking about this ring over a year and have been waiting to go to London, but I have not left US soil since COVID.

Okay... here is my idea... I want to take the existing Aurora design and tweak it a bit.
First, here are two stock versions to set this up so you can visualize...
When you see this ring, look at the WG, white diamonds, and "blue" stones (a blue theme).
Shaun Leane 18ct White Gold Aquamarine and Diamond Aurora Ring

When you see this ring, look just at the "red" stones. Ignore the cognac melee diamonds; focus on the red stone theme. Shaun Leane 18ct White Aurora Interlocking Stackable Ring Set

I want the same look as the first ring (WG, white diamonds), except I want a "red" stone theme. I want bold red against the crispiness of WG and white diamonds (not a fan of cognac diamonds).

For the red stones, I am not fond of the stones he used. Instead, I want a ruby, jedi spinel, and a soft pink sapphire. The look will be a stop-light-red ruby, a neon-pink Jedi Spinel, then softening to a pale-rose-pink sapphire.

I also want to change the prongs for the stones as based on the photos; I am not a fan of that prong work.
Of course, first step is I need to try on one of those rings to see if it's even my style. I also want to see the stones first before he sets them, especially the ruby and jedi spinel. With reds, I am super picky (I've purchased and gone through a few ruby rings and still can't get the shade right ).

Anyway, that's the ring I've been thinking of in my head.
I hope you can make it to London soon to see your family!

EDIT: On COVID restrictions loosening up... wishful thinking? Not at all! I personally think all eyes are on the UK for fully opening up their country. I give it 14 days after the Feb 11 (date when UK lifted all restrictions), and the rest of the world will begin to open up. Can't wait!

Spinels are beautiful. This would be a gorgeous ring.
I saw this and thought of you . . . https://www.beladora.com/jewelry/515858-beladora-bespoke-red-spinel-and-diamond-ring-in-platinum/

 

[KristinS]

Wow! I'm shocked to hear that. You would think with such a big online company as they are, they will always side with the customer. And... it's their return label, so you have tracking proof it was sent back to them! I'm not sure how recent this experience was, but maybe you can file a dispute on your credit card? Sorry to hear of your experience.

Long story short .. I had multiple orders - kept some pieces and decided to return others. I consolidated the returns and sent back to Net-A-Porter in 1 box. Apparently, since I did not send the returns from different orders ‘separately’ they cannot confirm it was received. This makes no sense to me and have tried many times to be refunded. 2K down the drain

 

[Deleted member 626500]

Long story short .. I had multiple orders - kept some pieces and decided to return others. I consolidated the returns and sent back to Net-A-Porter in 1 box. Apparently, since I did not send the returns from different orders ‘separately’ they cannot confirm it was received. This makes no sense to me and have tried many times to be refunded. 2K down the drain

I understand they have cameras monitoring everything received. If they pull the security tapes they should be able to confirm receipt. That's really unfortunate.

 

[MyDogTink]

I’ve been eagerly anticipating this purchase for two weeks now!



When I was at the jeweller’s picking up my new emerald ring, I was impressed with his work and swift turnaround. So I commissioned him to remount my existing sapphire which was currently set on a thick plain sterling silver band.



I was so looking forward to picking it up last week after a hard week at work, but unfortunately he couldn’t replicate his speed with this piece, and advised me that it would only be ready the following week. Although I was disappointed, I guess I knew that anticipation would only make things sweeter. It truly was!

View attachment 5318697

Presenting my new sapphire ring!

View attachment 5318696

It is a 2.67 carat cornflower blue Ceylon sapphire set on a platinum band with a diamond halo setting - H VS1 diamonds of 0.01 ct each.

View attachment 5318698

On top of everything else, the ring has extra-special significance to me. My father died suddenly in December last year, and he was the one who bought me the sapphire when I was 18. I hadn’t worn the ring in years, but it took this eminently sad situation for me to commission a piece that will keep my father close to me at all times and a beautiful memory of the amazing person he was.

Thanks for letting me share.

Your ring is beautiful as is your story. It’s a touching story for me- I can empathize with the sudden loss. May wearing it bring you smiles and fond memories.

 

[glamourbag]

On travel, a work colleague of mine and his family are headed to Europe in a few weeks (UK, France, then Switzerland). I told him to be sure to read all the darn guidelines when it comes to COVID testing for re-entry (e.g. you need to have the correct kit, if you test positive, you can't re-enter the US until you test negative again). He purchased extra test kits just in case. He also purchased travel insurance, again, just in case they test positive and have to stay extra days and rebook their flight. That's too much drama for me, and like you, I am not in a rush. However, I do want to go there before May. There is a "Faberge in London" exhibition at the V&A that ends May 2, 2022. It's a rare exhibition, and Imperial Easter Eggs will be on display. You probably already know about this exhibition since you're familiar with London, but FYI in case not and you might be interested:
The largest exhibition of Faberge imperial eggs is being staged in London at the V&A Museum | Daily Mail Online

On Shaun Leane, he is very interesting to me. I have his book, and he truly knows how to link fashion and jewelry together. I find his pieces very unique, yet at the same time, they are a bit too innovative for me. His designs are for @880 ! She would rock in his pieces. My style is more classic, old-world glamour (e.g. read boring). However, there is one ring I really love, and yes, you are correct, I want a bespoke version! I have been thinking about this ring over a year and have been waiting to go to London, but I have not left US soil since COVID.

Okay... here is my idea... I want to take the existing Aurora design and tweak it a bit.
First, here are two stock versions to set this up so you can visualize...
When you see this ring, look at the WG, white diamonds, and "blue" stones (a blue theme).
Shaun Leane 18ct White Gold Aquamarine and Diamond Aurora Ring

When you see this ring, look just at the "red" stones. Ignore the cognac melee diamonds; focus on the red stone theme. Shaun Leane 18ct White Aurora Interlocking Stackable Ring Set

I want the same look as the first ring (WG, white diamonds), except I want a "red" stone theme. I want bold red against the crispiness of WG and white diamonds (not a fan of cognac diamonds).

For the red stones, I am not fond of the stones he used. Instead, I want a ruby, jedi spinel, and a soft pink sapphire. The look will be a stop-light-red ruby, a neon-pink Jedi Spinel, then softening to a pale-rose-pink sapphire.

I also want to change the prongs for the stones as based on the photos; I am not a fan of that prong work.
Of course, first step is I need to try on one of those rings to see if it's even my style. I also want to see the stones first before he sets them, especially the ruby and jedi spinel. With reds, I am super picky (I've purchased and gone through a few ruby rings and still can't get the shade right ).

Anyway, that's the ring I've been thinking of in my head.
I hope you can make it to London soon to see your family!

EDIT: On COVID restrictions loosening up... wishful thinking? Not at all! I personally think all eyes are on the UK for fully opening up their country. I give it 14 days after the Feb 11 (date when UK lifted all restrictions), and the rest of the world will begin to open up. Can't wait!

Yes I have heard the Faberge exhibition is there but did not know how long it was running. This would be an excellent afternoon spent looking at all these intricate pieces of art. I'd love to see it!!! I hope you make it (or anyone else who can share if they are excited to). I hope I do too.

If you dont get out to the V&A in time that ring design you have in mind is worth the trip alone. I love that you have given this such thought and Im sure he would be excited to create something so special. I like the idea of the variance in shades of pink/reds and against the white gold and diamonds it will be a statement, which I understand is important for you (and rightfully so when doing bespoke as it might as well be something exclusive and eye catching). I am excited for you.

 

[lynne_ross]

On travel, a work colleague of mine and his family are headed to Europe in a few weeks (UK, France, then Switzerland). I told him to be sure to read all the darn guidelines when it comes to COVID testing for re-entry (e.g. you need to have the correct kit, if you test positive, you can't re-enter the US until you test negative again). He purchased extra test kits just in case. He also purchased travel insurance, again, just in case they test positive and have to stay extra days and rebook their flight. That's too much drama for me, and like you, I am not in a rush. However, I do want to go there before May. There is a "Faberge in London" exhibition at the V&A that ends May 2, 2022. It's a rare exhibition, and Imperial Easter Eggs will be on display. You probably already know about this exhibition since you're familiar with London, but FYI in case not and you might be interested:
The largest exhibition of Faberge imperial eggs is being staged in London at the V&A Museum | Daily Mail Online

On Shaun Leane, he is very interesting to me. I have his book, and he truly knows how to link fashion and jewelry together. I find his pieces very unique, yet at the same time, they are a bit too innovative for me. His designs are for @880 ! She would rock in his pieces. My style is more classic, old-world glamour (e.g. read boring). However, there is one ring I really love, and yes, you are correct, I want a bespoke version! I have been thinking about this ring over a year and have been waiting to go to London, but I have not left US soil since COVID.

Okay... here is my idea... I want to take the existing Aurora design and tweak it a bit.
First, here are two stock versions to set this up so you can visualize...
When you see this ring, look at the WG, white diamonds, and "blue" stones (a blue theme).
Shaun Leane 18ct White Gold Aquamarine and Diamond Aurora Ring

When you see this ring, look just at the "red" stones. Ignore the cognac melee diamonds; focus on the red stone theme. Shaun Leane 18ct White Aurora Interlocking Stackable Ring Set

I want the same look as the first ring (WG, white diamonds), except I want a "red" stone theme. I want bold red against the crispiness of WG and white diamonds (not a fan of cognac diamonds).

For the red stones, I am not fond of the stones he used. Instead, I want a ruby, jedi spinel, and a soft pink sapphire. The look will be a stop-light-red ruby, a neon-pink Jedi Spinel, then softening to a pale-rose-pink sapphire.

I also want to change the prongs for the stones as based on the photos; I am not a fan of that prong work.
Of course, first step is I need to try on one of those rings to see if it's even my style. I also want to see the stones first before he sets them, especially the ruby and jedi spinel. With reds, I am super picky (I've purchased and gone through a few ruby rings and still can't get the shade right ).

Anyway, that's the ring I've been thinking of in my head.
I hope you can make it to London soon to see your family!

EDIT: On COVID restrictions loosening up... wishful thinking? Not at all! I personally think all eyes are on the UK for fully opening up their country. I give it 14 days after the Feb 11 (date when UK lifted all restrictions), and the rest of the world will begin to open up. Can't wait!

Except HK and China….zero covid.
Your ring sounds spectacular.
Many of the designers on this thread have shops in China so I look forward to visiting them. The Garrad wings are spectacular!

 

[etoupebirkin]

I won’t shop with Net-A-Porter.

They use deceptive advertising practices.

When I was looking to buy my Irene Neuwirth recently, I did a Web search on “Irene Neuwirth.” Up pops an Opal Flower necklace on sale for something around $7800. Normally these necklaces run in the $12-15K range. And her items rarely go on sale. There are lots of other Irene Neuwirth listed on the site with 40% discounts. I put the necklace in my cart and the price goes back to regular price. While it’s in my cart, I call customer service. They see what’s going on and tell me they’ll look into it. I’m on hold and they tell me there’s a stock issue and the necklace is unavailable.

I see a second necklace on sale, so for kicks, I add that one to my cart. It has the same issue. I call up customer service again and speak to the same woman. Since the stock issue lie won’t fly a second time she says she needs to talk to management, but will put the necklace on hold for me and contact me when the issue is resolved. They said I could buy the necklace at the regular price and that they won’t honor the listed sale price.

A few days later, the “stock issue“ necklace is listed on the site for sale at the regular price.

I bought my Irene Neuwirth at Bergdorfs where I had a perfect transaction with no bullsh*t.

Also, as a matter of practice, when I return expensive online orders, I film myself packing up the box, sealing and labeling the box. That way there’s proof of what was it the box and the item’s condition.

 

[Deleted member 626500]

I won’t shop with Net-A-Porter.

They use deceptive advertising practices.

When I was looking to buy my Irene Neuwirth recently, I did a Web search on “Irene Neuwirth.” Up pops an Opal Flower necklace on sale for something around $7800. Normally these necklaces run in the $12-15K range. And her items rarely go on sale. There are lots of other Irene Neuwirth listed on the site with 40% discounts. I put the necklace in my cart and the price goes back to regular price. While it’s in my cart, I call customer service. They see what’s going on and tell me they’ll look into it. I’m on hold and they tell me there’s a stock issue and the necklace is unavailable.

I see a second necklace on sale, so for kicks, I add that one to my cart. It has the same issue. I call up customer service again and speak to the same woman. Since the stock issue lie won’t fly a second time she says she needs to talk to management, but will put the necklace on hold for me and contact me when the issue is resolved. They said I could buy the necklace at the regular price and that they won’t honor the listed sale price.

A few days later, the “stock issue“ necklace is listed on the site for sale at the regular price.

I bought my Irene Neuwirth at Bergdorfs where I had a perfect transaction with no bullsh*t.

Also, as a matter of practice, when I return expensive online orders, I film myself packing up the box, sealing and labeling the box. That way there’s proof of what was it the box and the item’s condition.

Shame on them. They should have honored the price.

 

[MyDogTink]

Long story short .. I had multiple orders - kept some pieces and decided to return others. I consolidated the returns and sent back to Net-A-Porter in 1 box. Apparently, since I did not send the returns from different orders ‘separately’ they cannot confirm it was received. This makes no sense to me and have tried many times to be refunded. 2K down the drain

I’m sorry to hear this. They are ultimately owned by Richemont so even more disappointing. I’d definitely try have your credit card company help. I’d even write a letter to their general counsel.

 

[KristinS]

I’m sorry to hear this. They are ultimately owned by Richemont so even more disappointing. I’d definitely try have your credit card company help. I’d even write a letter to their general counsel.

This is a very good point, and a recommendation I give others when dealing with airlines (not to the general counsel, but their customer service). A written letter has a magical effect vs an email. I will write a letter to Richemont and will keep you posted on any progress. Thanks again!!

 

[DeryaHm]

It is so crazy to me that anyone would be so rude as to ask price. I’d just answer…oh, it was somewhere between $500 and $50,000. That would be my nice answer.

When I am asked I always say either “I have no idea, it was a gift” or “sorry, I don’t remember.”

 

[WingNut]

I won’t shop with Net-A-Porter.

They use deceptive advertising practices.

When I was looking to buy my Irene Neuwirth recently, I did a Web search on “Irene Neuwirth.” Up pops an Opal Flower necklace on sale for something around $7800. Normally these necklaces run in the $12-15K range. And her items rarely go on sale. There are lots of other Irene Neuwirth listed on the site with 40% discounts. I put the necklace in my cart and the price goes back to regular price. While it’s in my cart, I call customer service. They see what’s going on and tell me they’ll look into it. I’m on hold and they tell me there’s a stock issue and the necklace is unavailable.

I see a second necklace on sale, so for kicks, I add that one to my cart. It has the same issue. I call up customer service again and speak to the same woman. Since the stock issue lie won’t fly a second time she says she needs to talk to management, but will put the necklace on hold for me and contact me when the issue is resolved. They said I could buy the necklace at the regular price and that they won’t honor the listed sale price.

A few days later, the “stock issue“ necklace is listed on the site for sale at the regular price.

I bought my Irene Neuwirth at Bergdorfs where I had a perfect transaction with no bullsh*t.

Also, as a matter of practice, when I return expensive online orders, I film myself packing up the box, sealing and labeling the box. That way there’s proof of what was it the box and the item’s condition.

Wow this is nuts. I have ordered tons of stuff from NAP and returned a lot as well, and never had an issue. Hearing all of this makes me concerned about doing so in the future, however.