Best jeweler in Chicago?

August 2, 2007 7:21 PM

Where should I go in the Chicago area to buy a diamond anniversary band for Mrs. Jknecht?

If it matters, I'm looking for an 18k white gold or platinum band that is encircled with diamonds; diamond quality is more important than total weight.

Before I moved to Chicago, I had always bought from family-owned jewelers, and I'd like to continue that. The smaller places generally seem to really appreciate my business more than the national chains, and my experience with these smaller boutiques has been that they work hard to make sure that I get the best quality within my budget.

My jewelry shopping, so far, has been limited to the Lincoln Park area -- I like the selection at Fey Jewelers, but they seem a little pricey. Not as bad as Tiffany, but still...

This previous post suggests Jeweler's Row. Anybody have first hand experiences they can share?

I live in the city, so closer is better; but I'm willing to drive to the right place.

I am far from an expert at this stuff. Mostly, I just let Mrs. Jknecht tell me what shiny thing has caught her eye, and then I go back later and let the sales person explain why it's a good value. For this reason, it's important that I find a place where I feel I can trust the staff.

As always, I appreciate your input, oh great hivemind!

posted by jknecht to Shopping (5 answers total)

Well, I just received an engagement ring from Stanley Brown Jewelist in Lincoln Square. It's a family owned store with a very helpful, patient staff and they seem to have stuff at all different price points. Also I found their jewelry to be a lot more beautiful and unique than, say, Zales.
posted by Jess the Mess at 8:39 PM on August 2, 2007

My SO is a lover of jewelry and bargains and she swears by TJ Maxx. She has told me to go there to shop for her. They have really good deals. I notice there are many in the Chicago area.
posted by wsg at 11:32 PM on August 2, 2007

New York Jewelers is excellent, both in terms of service and diamond quality. They are in Jewelers' Row (Wabash and Madison).
posted by MrsBell at 7:48 AM on August 3, 2007

I have found some amazing bargains on fine jewelry at pawn shops. Might be worth your while to look around at a few.
posted by Oriole Adams at 10:39 AM on August 3, 2007

A trip/call down to Indianapolis may be worth your while. When I bought my engagement ring, I read all the books and knew all the negotiating secrets. I was puzzled by how Distinctive Diamonds cut all the crap. They showed me the Rapaport Diamond Report (bluebook equivalant) and showed me their mark-up. I saved at least 50-60% over the other players. I really put a lot of time into tactical and quality research, and almost felt like all that time was wasted by such a painless purchase.
posted by tfmm at 2:14 PM on August 3, 2007