FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

General

How long does a custom engagement ring take to make?

Most custom engagement rings are completed in 6-8 weeks from start to finish.


This includes sourcing gorgeous diamonds for you to choose from, then creating a CAD rendering of the design for you to approve before we make the final ring.


*Rush orders can sometimes be accommodated depending on the design – please check with the studio if you have a proposal coming up sooner than 6 weeks.

**All rings from Vanessa Nicole Jewels are uniquely designed and fabricated on premises.

How much time on my part do I need to invest?

Clients can be as involved or uninvolved as they’d like. Once we decide on the diamond & design together, you can rest easy knowing it's being created perfectly for you. Unless you specifically say you don’t want weekly updates, we’ll email you about once every 7 days to let you know the progress of your ring.

I don't live in San Diego. How does that work with the design process?

More than 80% of VNJ clients are outside San Diego, so we've designed the experience to be streamlined and FUN. Don't just take our word for it – Our online reviews from 100% happy clients frequently mention that it’s easier than you might think!  

Wherever you are in the world, our goal is to provide a personalized and truly memorable experience. From virtual consultations to video design evaluations, we take care of every detail.


We'll do your Diamond Selection with an HD video uploaded to an unlisted YouTube link. We’ve never had a client dislike their diamond once they see it in person. Vanessa is incredibly committed to creating a masterpiece for you.

Information and details specifically for our out-of-town clients:  CLICK HERE

How does the process work if I'm in San Diego, or plan to travel for an in-person visit?

We'd love to welcome you to the studio!  To allow us to provide the best possible experience, our studio visits are by appointment only.

1. CONTACT THE STUDIO

Fill out the message form on our CONTACT page. Our custom rings start at $10,000 (including the diamond & custom setting). Vanessa Nicole will personally work with you one-on-one throughout your entire one-of-a-kind ring experience.

2. FILL OUT THE DISCOVERY QUESTIONNAIRE

After you fill out the initial Contact form, we’ll email you a Questionnaire to learn exactly what you’re looking to create. Our clients come to us either knowing nothing about rings or having spent months searching the internet. Whatever step you’re at, we’re happy to answer your questions.

3. TOGETHER, WE’LL DESIGN YOUR CUSTOM RING

Most people have photos of a few rings they like and want to customize those designs into their dream ring. Others have a design they already love but want us to recreate it as a one-of-a-kind piece created exclusively for them to personalize their engagement ring experience. We're happy to offer feedback on your design preferences and/or show you images for inspiration based on your desired center stone shape.

4. SELECT YOUR DIAMOND

You get to personally select the diamond she’ll wear on her finger for the rest of her life! Other stores boast of a large diamond inventory, but that means they need to sell them. VNJ doesn’t keep a diamond inventory because we prefer not to feel pressured to only sell what we own. Vanessa visits multiple diamond dealers to review and evaluate dozens of diamonds (sometimes hundreds!) in order to create a gorgeous selection of 3 stones for you to choose from.

5. CAD MODEL (Computer Rendering)

Once we’ve discussed the design and you’ve chosen the center stone, we'll model your ring on the computer to match your diamond's exact measurements. We’ll email you the CAD rendering in 7-10 business days for approval, showing four angles so you know exactly what to expect before we create the final ring.  At this point, you can request adjustments to the ring or, if it’s perfect, say “Green light!” to move on to the next step. 

6. YOUR ENGAGEMENT RING IS COMPLETE!

The creation process takes 6-8 weeks, and you’ll receive weekly updates on your ring’s progress. It will be expertly crafted using our proprietary diamond setting technique, which maximizes the brilliance of each diamond – this is why our clients often say their ring sparkles more than their friends’ rings. Once it’s complete, you may either pick up your ring at the studio if you’re in San Diego, or we can ship it complimentary to your nearest FedEx office, which allows you to pick it up at your convenience within 2-3 business days.  If necessary, it can be resized soon after the proposal at no extra charge.

I've had so-so experiences with jewelry stores and am admittedly dreading the idea of doing this all wrong. How is your company different?

We are VERY different from other stores. It is quite rare to have the opportunity to work directly with the artist who will be creating your ring. There will be zero miscommunication because nothing goes through a “salesperson”.


We put a tremendous amount of time and energy into creating each ring, and this is why we have a perfect 100% online rating of happy clients (we’ve literally never had a client dislike their ring… EVER).

What do custom engagement rings typically cost?

Complete diamond rings start at $10,000 (This includes both the center diamond and the custom setting.)


If you already have an heirloom diamond that we'll be designing a setting for, the price varies based on the style you desire. Simply reach out on the Contact page for a quote.


The main variable that makes the final price fluctuate is the center stone. It’s important to know your budget upfront. This will determine your options for the ring design, as well as determine how much we can apply towards the center stone.

The purpose for knowing your budget is so Vanessa has a max # to approach her trusted diamond dealers with when making the selection. The price of a diamond is based on many factors and she will source the best/largest diamond that fits within your desired number. Vanessa Nicole Jewels doesn’t keep an inventory of diamonds because this allows us to seek out the best possible diamond based on your desires rather than be forced to just sell what we own.

Fire, sparkle & brilliance are absolutely #1 when it comes to searching for the perfect diamond, yet there is no grade for “Fire,” “Sparkle” or “Brilliance” on a certificate, so you can rely on our trained eyes to keep those factors in mind when putting together your Diamond Selection. We have relationships with the top diamond dealers in the country who only sell ethical diamonds that abide by the Kimberley Process.


Based on your answers in the Questionnaire, we select gorgeous diamonds for you to choose from. Vanessa will show you a selection of diamonds within a range up to your max # and let you choose the one that stands out the most. All will be gorgeous quality.

***Vanessa approaches clients about diamonds in the most upfront manner possible because she doesn’t agree with the B.S. that a lot of salespeople say when showing diamonds. It either has fire, sparkle & brilliance or it doesn’t. Period. It’s either gorgeous or it’s not. Period.

Who do you serve?

We serve all people who celebrate love.  Our amazing clients are located all over the world.

What is the investment for the Making of The Ring™ video?

This priceless film service is $1,200.


It highlights the entire creation of her custom engagement ring – We film each step as her ring comes to life.  Based on how women react to the films, it really makes each piece a cherished work of art. This film will make you look VERY romantic and women love it! 


Look here for more information about this service, as well as watch examples of Client Films: CLICK HERE

 

Diamonds

Do you offer both Lab diamonds and Natural diamonds?

Yes, we have amazing diamond sources for both Natural & Lab diamonds.

Whether it’s lab grown or natural, feel free to reach out to our studio and we would love to create a stunning custom ring for you.  


Vanessa says, "As a diamond setter, it doesn’t matter to me which type of center diamond you choose because I’ll make a gorgeous setting for it either way."

Do you supply the diamond for my ring?

We provide diamonds for the majority of the rings we create.  If you happen to already have a diamond, such as an heirloom stone, we can often create a custom setting for it.


Vanessa Nicole Jewels doesn’t keep an inventory of diamonds because this allows us to seek out the best possible diamond based on your preferences rather than being forced to only sell what we own. We source our diamonds and gemstones from a number of reputable suppliers whom we know and trust. 


Fire & brilliance are absolutely #1 when searching for the perfect diamond selection. No grade report lists a grade for “Brilliance” or “Maximum Sparkle,” so you can rely on our trained eyes to keep those factors in mind when putting together your Diamond Selection.

Based on your answers in the Questionnaire, we select gorgeous diamonds for you to choose from. Vanessa will show you a selection of diamonds within a range below and up to your ideal budget, then you get to choose the one that stands out the most. All will be gorgeous quality.


>> Vanessa approaches clients about diamonds in the most upfront manner possible because she doesn’t agree with the BS that a lot of salespeople say when showing diamonds. It either has fire & brilliance or it doesn’t. Period. It’s either gorgeous or it’s not. Period.

Can you easily guide me to choose the best diamond?

Of course! 99.9% of our clients aren’t diamond experts. You are great at YOUR job and we are great at ours. We would not expect you to know everything there is to know about diamond rings, just like you would not expect us to know much about what you do for a living. Our clients are Engineers, Lawyers, Techies, Majors in the US Army, Geologists, etc.

We are experts when it comes to diamonds, so rest assured we’ll help you select an amazing diamond and create an absolutely spectacular setting for it. Our reputation is built on happy clients and we intend to keep our reviews 5 stars.

If you would like to learn more about diamonds, you can view Diamond Education HERE or view different Diamond Shapes on our Video Education page HERE.

I may be tempted to purchase an "internet diamond" …

A diamond from Vanessa Nicole Jewels is not considered an “internet diamond”. Purchasing an “internet diamond” is a risky proposition. In that case, you simply “scroll, click & buy” the diamond and cross your fingers it looks good in person. Typically, the diamonds on virtual inventory lists are not actually seen by the company selling them – it is simply a large database. The problem with this is you can’t rely 100% on the certificate to determine a diamond’s beauty & brilliance. At Vanessa Nicole Jewels, we are your trained eyes. We personally sift through dozens of diamonds based on your Questionnaire answers to seek out an elite selection that will all be *gorgeous* options. Our #1 factor in finding a diamond is the fire/brilliance.

Internet sites selling diamonds won’t create customized HD videos in various lighting conditions, detailed emails, point out the pros/cons, & invest time into researching multiple diamond dealers in order to put together a selection that will have a careful balance of what you’re looking for while still staying within budget. We don’t charge extra for this service.

Virtual diamond websites that only offer a video of the diamond spinning on a stage does NOT show the true optical properties of the diamonds. Our competitors show you only one lighting environment that isn’t realistic to the daily lighting you will see it in. We will show you diamond options in 3 lighting environments that mimic everyday viewing conditions. You can’t even compare the service. Some consider Vanessa Nicole Jewels like a concierge that goes above and beyond for clients, but honestly, we simply treat each client like a friend (being real & upfront, with no gimmicks). This is exactly why we’ve never had a ring returned, and why we receive dozens of Christmas cards from clients. When was the last time you put a retail store on your personal Christmas Card list? This is because we really get to know each client, and actually care about making this an amazing experience for you. As you can see from all our Reviews, each client has been ecstatic 100% of the time with their experience and final result.

I am not sure if I am ready to commit yet. Can we still do a Diamond Selection?

We do the diamond selection for clients who are prepared to make a diamond choice. Of course, there is no obligation to purchase at that point, but it’s really rare for someone not to choose one. We spend significant time to source an amazing selection of diamonds based on exactly what you hope to see, so it’s really rare for us not to find something you absolutely love. We hold the diamonds on a 5 day courtesy hold off the open market while you make a confident decision.

Once you’ve chosen a diamond, we require at least a 50% deposit to get started making your custom ring. Most people take care of the full payment at the start, but we only require 50% down, so you can simply choose whichever works best for you.

After we finalize the design and do the Diamond Selection, how long do I have to make a decision?

Once you’ve selected your diamond from the Diamond Selection, as a courtesy, we offer a 5 day hold period for the diamond before payment is required. Typically with any type of item for sale anywhere, it’s first come first serve, but our holding period is a courtesy so no one else can have it while you make a confident decision – we never want anyone to feel pressured! (If you plan to do a bank transfer or send a check to save 1.5%, we understand the Post Office or bank transfer lag times may hold it up for a few days. No worries, we’re real people, not a computer so we’re reasonable when it comes to that sort of thing.

Once you’ve chosen a diamond, we require at least a 50% deposit to get started making your custom ring. Most people take care of the full payment at the start, but we only require 50% down, so you can simply choose whichever works best for you.

What goes into the price of a diamond?

There are many factors to consider when trying to pinpoint the price of a diamond such as Color, Clarity, etc. Here are a few more factors that come into play.

1. SHAPE:

Round diamonds are generally more expensive than other shapes simply because 92% of people choose round diamonds – there is a high demand for them.

2. DIAMOND MARKET:

The diamond market fluctuates (most often quarterly, sometimes monthly). It is based on demand for specific carat weights, stone shapes, desired color, etc. So if someone bought a round 1ct diamond a year ago, that price may be lower or higher now based on what the world market is dictating.

3. WHERE YOU BUY FROM:

If someone buys a diamond from a brand like Tiffany or Harry Winston, they'll pay considerably more for the same diamond than from an independent jeweler. And once it’s out of that blue box, no one would even know that it’s a diamond bought from Tiffany. Similarly, if you purchase a diamond from a discount online retailer, there are numerous horror stories about getting a poor-quality diamond because it was chosen primarily based on the certificate details. One problem with online-only storefronts is that they can shut down at any time, leaving you with no recourse. A smart option is to discuss your ring with an independent jeweler, such as Vanessa Nicole Jewels, whose studio has been in the same building since 2005.

We source our diamonds and gemstones from a number of reputable suppliers whom we know and trust. 

Do you offer lab grown diamonds?

Yes, we can certainly create your ring with a lab grown center diamond – we have an amazing source for gorgeous lab growns!  (The smaller diamonds on the ring setting will be natural diamonds)


When it comes to lab grown diamonds, there is no visual difference compared to natural diamonds, although there is a huge difference in cost and market value.


Some clients inquire about the market value of lab growns:

If you purchase a lab grown diamond, expect that the value will depreciate. That's not to say there won't be any value in the future, but it is VERY unknown within the industry what the value of lab growns will be in the future. There’s no way to know your stone's value for the long term.

>> Even with natural mined diamonds, we never suggest purchasing it for market or resale value. The majority of jewelry marks important life occasions and has meaning and personal value that transcends the purchase price. No matter how the diamond is made, whether lab or earth, it should be cherished because of what it represents.

Speaking as a friend would, the symbolic meaning takes precedence over market value in my opinion.

Do you sell clarity enhanced or laser drilled diamonds?

Vanessa Nicole Jewels does NOT sell clarity enhanced or laser drilled diamonds unless specifically requested from a client.

Are your diamonds Conflict-Free?

Our diamonds are guaranteed to be conflict-free based on personal knowledge and/or written guarantees with partners who are known to us and share a kindred commitment to humanitarian rights.


Our diamonds are produced in accordance with the United Nations Kimberley Process in cooperation with legitimate sources NOT involved in funding conflict.


The Kimberley Process is a joint government, industry and civil society initiative to stem the flow of conflict diamonds – rough diamonds used by rebel movements to finance wars against legitimate governments. The trade in these illicit stones has fueled decades of devastating conflicts in countries such as Angola, Cote d’Ivoire, the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Sierra Leone.


UN Compliance Statement Regarding the Kimberly Process: 

For any product fabricated from rough diamonds mined from January 1, 2003 onward, our vendors certify that the diamonds provided have been purchased from legitimate sources not involved in funding conflict and in compliance with United Nations Resolutions. They guarantee that these diamonds are conflict free, based on personal knowledge and/or written guarantees provided by their supplier of these diamonds.

 

How can I judge clarity?

During the process of a diamond’s growth there are several factors, such as pressure, temperature, and cooling, that may alter or may change the diamond’s structure. When these changes occur it may cause inclusions in the diamond; in fact, creating the diamond’s own unique fingerprint. Clarity is graded upon a multitude of factors: the number of inclusions, the intensity of the inclusion, the position of the inclusion, the color of the inclusion, the structural integrity of the inclusion, etc. These imperfections may range from barely perceptible growth lines which may not even be visible under a 10 x microscope, to major dark spots that are visible to the naked eye.

Clarity is graded upon a multitude of factors: the number of inclusions, the intensity of the inclusion, the position of the inclusion, the color of the inclusion, the structural integrity of the inclusion, etc. As in the grading of color, there are no natural divisions along these grades, but organizations like the GIA and EGL have attempted to provide a set of standards to be used when grading the clarity of diamonds. The grades may vary from one diamond dealer to the next. For instance, an inclusion under the table should be graded lower than a spot near the edge. Or if it’s a black inclusion vs. a white inclusion. It is important for the customer to understand that the process of grading for clarity is not an exact science, but there are guidelines which determine the grade.

Why are there no A, B, C color grades?

In order to avoid confusion with a multitude of differing, previously existing grading systems, the GIA / EGL system was created. “D” was designated as the highest color grade. This system is now recognized worldwide.

What's a Certified Diamond?

A certified diamond is a diamond that has been weighed, measured, color graded. Its cut is determined at a major laboratory by individuals trained in diamond quality. These individuals grade and certify diamonds daily as a profession.

Orders & Payments

What Methods of Payment do you accept?

We accept Visa, Discover, Mastercard, Check & Bank Wire. (All international payments are required via bank wire)

If you pay via check or bank wire within the USA, you will receive a 1.5% discount on the subtotal.


For rings over $30,000, payment must be made via bank wire. If this is an issue, please let us know and we can discuss options.

While most people take care of payment in full upfront after the Diamond Selection, only a 50% deposit is required to begin creating your ring. The remaining balance is due once the ring is complete. All rings that are less than $8,000 (such as custom settings or wedding bands) must be paid in full upfront.

Do you offer Financing?

We don't offer financing at this time.  While most people take care of payment in full, we only require a 50% deposit to begin creating your ring, and the remaining balance is due once the ring has been completed. 


All rings that are less than $8,000 (such as wedding bands or custom settings) must be paid in full upfront.

How do I insure my ring?

We always recommend insuring your diamond jewelry since it's often worn every day. 


We suggest working with an insurance company that specializes in jewelry, such as Jewelers Mutual, which Vanessa personally uses.  (You do not need to say  we referred you, as we have no incentive to do so.)  They can simply provide a free quote, which you can compare with any other quotes you receive. Further Reading: www.JewelersMutual.com

For our natural diamond rings, an independent third-party appraisal for insurance purposes is available. The appraisal provides an independent assessment of your completed ring’s value and can be prepared so that it is ready when you receive your ring.

For our lab-grown diamond rings, an Insurance Documentation Report is included with your completed ring. Prepared by Vanessa Nicole Jewels, this report details your ring and reflects its purchase value at the time of sale for insurance purposes.

What if I don't know what ring style is perfect for her?

We understand that some men might not be sure what she’ll want, especially if it’s a total surprise without any hints. If you prefer, you may choose a diamond, propose with a solitaire diamond ring, and then design her ring style afterward, together. Vanessa will write a personalized note to your new fiancé describing how amazing you are that you wanted her to have the opportunity to design her *dream* ring.

How do I find out her ring size?

If you are surprising her, email us a photo of her and Vanessa will make an educated size estimate. (We’re usually spot on!!) The most accurate way to find out a ring size is to have her finger sized locally. (Be sure to have it sized for the correct width of the band since the size increases the wider the band is. Also, a right hand ring will be slightly bigger than a left hand ring.)

Is it okay that my girlfriend will be involved in picking out her ring?

Absolutely! In fact, a lot of our clients work with us “as a couple.” Typically what happens is she will let us know the design she loves, as well as the shape of diamond she desires. Then we work with you to pick out the best diamond. Plus, we have fun ways of adding in surprises for her that she won’t be expecting.

What's an Appraisal?

An appraisal documents the details of your ring and establishes its value for insurance purposes, helping your insurance provider determine the appropriate coverage in the event of loss, theft or damage.

For our natural diamond rings, an independent third-party appraisal for insurance purposes is available. The appraisal provides an independent assessment of your completed ring’s value and can be prepared so that it is ready when you receive your ring.

For our lab-grown diamond rings, an Insurance Documentation Report is included with your completed ring. Prepared by Vanessa Nicole Jewels, this report details your ring and reflects its purchase value at the time of sale for insurance purposes.




Will I be charged Sales Tax?

*NO Sales Tax will be charged to orders shipped outside the State of California.


Local sales tax is charged to clients residing within the State of California.

Return Policy & Warranty

What is your Return Policy for the ring?

Every custom ring we create is one-of-a-kind specifically for you, and is therefore non-refundable.

We also want you to feel completely confident in choosing the design. That’s why we offer our Design Guarantee. If your new fiancée feels the design of her ring setting simply isn’t right for her or isn’t what she pictures wearing every day, contact us within 15 days of delivery. Vanessa will work with you both to redesign the setting around her preferences.

(If you’re planning to propose at a later date, just let us know before your ring is shipped. We’ll note the proposal/gift timing so your 15-day Design Guarantee can begin on that date instead.)

Thankfully, this is an exceptionally rare situation. In fact, to date, we’ve never had a client need to use our Design Guarantee!

Our smooth custom process is designed to give you complete confidence before the ring is ever created. You’ll have the opportunity to review your design from multiple 3-D views in the CAD model, allowing you to clearly see and approve the details before we move forward with creating the finished ring.

And there’s something especially meaningful about receiving a ring that was thoughtfully created just for her. Our clients repeatedly tell us that knowing the thought and intention that went into their ring is part of what makes them love it so much.

Purchasing a pre-made ring from existing inventory is one way to choose an engagement ring. Creating a custom ring is an entirely different experience. You become part of the creative process, helping to create a one-of-a-kind piece of art designed exclusively for her.

Our goal from the beginning is simple: for her to absolutely LOVE the ring she’ll wear for a lifetime.

How does the Design Guarantee work?

We want you to feel completely confident in creating a one-of-a-kind ring designed exclusively for you.

That’s why we offer our Design Guarantee on every custom ring setting we create.

This reassurance can be especially meaningful when a design is chosen as a surprise without input from the person who will wear it, but the same Design Guarantee applies to every custom ring we create.

Thankfully, this is an exceptionally rare situation. In fact, to date, we’ve never had a client need to use our Design Guarantee!

Our smooth custom process is designed to give you complete confidence before the ring is ever created. You’ll have the opportunity to review your design from multiple 3-D views in the CAD model, allowing you to clearly see and approve the details before we move forward with creating the finished ring.

How it works if a ring setting needs to be redesigned:


If you would like to use the Design Guarantee, contact our studio within 15 days of delivery. Vanessa will work directly with you—and, when applicable, the recipient—to redesign the setting around the wearer’s preferences.
 

For rings being given as a surprise at a later date, let us know BEFORE the ring is shipped. We’ll note the proposal or gift date so the 15-day Design Guarantee can begin on that date instead.

A remake involves creating an entirely new custom setting rather than exchanging or refunding the original ring. We’ll reuse as much of what you already own as reasonably possible so that you’re not unnecessarily purchasing the same materials twice.

All diamonds and gemstones purchased for your original ring remain yours and are not refundable, exchangeable or eligible for credit. Whenever possible, we’ll incorporate your original stones into the redesigned setting. Any stones that aren’t suitable for the new design will be returned to you with your completed ring to keep or potentially repurpose in a future piece.

Where possible, we’ll also reuse or apply the value of recoverable materials from the original setting toward the new design. Because a remake requires new custom work—including casting, fresh metal, fabrication, finishing and stone setting—the redesigned setting will be priced according to the labor and materials required. Any additional diamonds, gemstones or materials selected for the new design would also be included in the new cost.

Before any work begins, Vanessa will walk you through the new design and pricing clearly so you know exactly what to expect and can confidently decide what feels right for you.

What is your Warranty for the ring setting?

Every Vanessa Nicole Jewels ring is intentionally constructed for strength, longevity and everyday wear. We don't believe in using the thinnest metal possible simply to reduce cost; we want your ring to be beautifully wearable for your lifetime and beyond.


Your ring includes a one-year limited craftsmanship warranty from the date of delivery, covering defects in materials or workmanship. 


If an accent diamond weighing 0.03 carat or less falls out of its setting within the first year, we will replace and reset it at no charge, provided there are no visible signs of damage or impact to the ring and the replacement stone has a value of $200 or less. After the first year, replacement of lost accent stones is considered a jewelry repair and will be charged at the current repair rate.

Insurance For Your Ring:

We strongly recommend insuring your ring as soon as you receive it. A craftsmanship warranty protects against defects in how your ring was made, while jewelry insurance is designed to protect against circumstances outside of the warranty, such as loss, theft or accidental damage.

Diamonds and gemstones are incredibly durable, but they are not indestructible—they can chip, crack or break if struck with enough force. For that reason, we recommend insuring all fine jewelry through a dedicated jewelry insurance provider, such as Jewelers Mutual, or through an appropriate personal jewelry policy. Coverage varies by policy, so be sure to confirm exactly what is included with your insurance provider.

Shipping

How will my order be shipped?

All orders delivered outside of San Diego ship via FedEx, fully insured, signature required.


We'll arrange specific shipping details before your ring is complete. Unless you request other arrangements, we'll ship your package to your local FedEx office that accepts high-value packages, so you can pick it up at your convenience within 2-3 days. San Diego clients may pick up their ring at the studio.


All shipments are packaged discreetly with NO indication that your package contains any type of jewelry item. Our name, “Vanessa Nicole Jewels”, will not appear on your package.


We have never had an issue sending packages via FedEx, which is why we happily use them as our shipping method.

What if the package is damaged upon arrival?

Insurance coverage ends on delivery. Vanessa will email you a copy of the appraisal or insurance documentation report so insurance can be set up prior to delivery. Examine the package before signing to ensure the seals are fully intact. If you suspect tampering or damage, refuse delivery and call the studio immediately at (619) 800-0134.

All orders are shipped double-boxed to maintain the integrity of packaging in the inner box. If you receive a box with damage showing on the outer box or you suspect tampering, open the outer box IN FRONT OF THE DELIVERY PERSON and MAKE SURE THE INNER BOX IS INTACT. If there is damage, file a report with the driver, get a written confirmation and call us immediately.

What If I Am Outside of the USA?

Order are shipped fully insured overseas complimentary via FedEx. All overseas payments must be made by bank wire.


Wherever you are in the world, our goal is to provide a personalized and truly memorable experience. From virtual consultations to video design evaluations, we take care of every detail.

CUSTOMS: All clients outside of the USA are responsible for customs fees associated with their country. We don't know the specific amount because it is country-specific and can change. Feel free to look them up for where you're located.

Resizing & Maintenance

Can you resize my ring if it doesn't fit?

Definitely!  One ring sizing is complimentary within the first year of delivery.
 
Please note that full Eternity bands cannot be resized due to the continuous placement of diamonds or gemstones around the entire band.


Shipping Your Ring to Our Studio?
If you are not local to San Diego, we make the process easy by providing a prepaid FedEx label along with simple shipping instructions. We’ll cover the cost of shipping your ring to our studio, and the client is responsible for return shipping once the sizing is complete, typically $125–$155 depending on the value of the ring and destination.

Once your ring arrives, we make every effort to complete the sizing promptly. Most sizings are completed within 1-3 business days; however, please allow up to 5 business days depending on our studio schedule. We’re happy to discuss specific timing with you when arranging your shipment.


Local to San Diego?
Local clients are welcome to drop off their ring at our studio. Sizing is typically completed within 1–3 business days. When arranged with our studio in advance, we may also be able to offer same-day sizing for rings dropped off between 12pm-1pm.

How should I care for and maintain my ring?

Keeping your ring clean at home will help maintain its sparkle between professional cleanings. CLICK HERE for our guide to cleaning your ring at home.

For diamond rings, many of our clients also use a jewelry cleaning product such as the ‘Connoisseurs Diamond Dazzle Stik’ between cleanings. Several similar products are available, so feel free to choose whichever you prefer, and always follow the manufacturer’s instructions. If your ring contains colored gemstones, please check with us before using a jewelry cleaner, as some gemstones require special care.

Routine Cleaning & Maintenance
Since the majority of our clients live outside of San Diego, most simply visit a trusted local jeweler for periodic professional cleaning and inspection. This is perfectly fine and makes routine maintenance convenient no matter where you live. Of course, we’re always happy to care for your ring at our studio as well.

Our Sparkle Restoration™ Service
When your ring needs maintenance beyond what you can do at home, we offer our Sparkle Restoration™ service. Think of it as the difference between having your car washed and having it professionally detailed.

CLICK HERE to learn more about our Sparkle Restoration™ service.

For clients outside of San Diego, the cost of shipping combined with the service may make routine cleaning and maintenance more economical to have performed locally.

If you have any questions about caring for your ring, please feel free to reach out to our studio. We’re always happy to help!

Wedding Bands

Do you make matching wedding bands?

Definitely! You can choose either a straight band or one sculpted to sit flush against your engagement ring. Due to limited workshop capacity, this service is currently reserved for our current and past engagement ring clients.

Do you also offer men's wedding bands?

Vanessa Nicole specializes solely in custom women's bands, so for our local engagement ring clients who return for their wedding bands, we partner with an excellent manufacturer to create men's wedding bands.

Want Vanessa to create your diamond ring?

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