608 5th Avenue, Third Floor · New York, NY 10020       Phone Icon  (212) 391-0633

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Frequently Asked Questions

WORKING WITH LAUREN B

+Why should I feel comfortable shopping with Lauren B?

We are experienced, family owned and operated jewelers who have been in business for over 40 years. Our goal is to provide personalized customer service throughout the entire shopping experience whether you visit our New York location, or shop with us remotely. Please read our extensive reviews online to hear what our clients say about us

+What are your store hours, and how can I contact you?

We are open Monday through Friday and Sundays, and are located at 608 5TH Avenue, Third Floor, NY 10020. Our location and complete store hours are listed here. You can contact us via e-mail or phone to speak directly with one of our sales team members.

+Is an appointment required to visit the Lauren B Showroom?

In order to ensure someone from our sales team is prepared and ready to assist properly, an appointment is required. Additionally, only those with an appointment will be allowed into the showroom on Sundays. Please continue here to schedule a time

+Do you have any other locations?

We currently only have one showroom, located in the heart of New York City. Not to worry as we do work with clients remotely on a frequent basis and with great success. Read more here

+Does Lauren B work with clients remotely who are unable to make it to their New York showroom?

Yes we do quite often and for more detailed information on how the process works please read here. You can also schedule a Virtual Appointment here

+Can I place an order from outside of the United States?

For our international clients, we offer communication via email or the option to schedule a virtual appointment with one of our design consultants in real time. You can choose from our extensive in-stock collection or collaborate with us to create a custom design tailored to your exact specifications. We also offer direct website checkout for select countries. Learn more here

+What is Lauren B’s refund/exchange policy?

Standard in stock items may be returned or exchanged within 10 days but must show no signs of wear or tear. We do not however accept returns on any altered or custom made items. Read more here

+What is Lauren B’s upgrade policy?

All certified natural diamond center-stones purchased from Lauren B are eligible for up to a 100% credit towards a new diamond that is at least double in value, or more, and must be three years after your initial purchase to qualify.This is for the center diamond only Read more here

+Do you accept trade-ins of old engagement rings?

We may be able to offer you a trade in value for your center diamond depending on if we can use it for our inventory. However, we are unable to offer any credit for your old setting as we only sell Lauren B brand rings from our own collection.

+If I have my own diamond, would Lauren B build a new setting for it?

Yes we create settings for any size and shape center-stone that you have. Keep in mind that there will be a “corkage fee” of $300 and up depending on the diamond size.  We do carry a large inventory of certified diamonds in all shapes, sizes and qualities at competitive prices so be sure to check with us before making your center-stone purchase.

+Should I always contact the same sales associate?

It is advised to keep the conversation thread going with only one sales team member. Shopping with us is a very personalized one to one experience and by doing so you will ensure a seamless process and that you receive exactly what you like.

+I am interested in selecting a wedding band to complement my engagement ring and I live outside of the New York City area. What do you recommend?

We offer wedding band selection services and recommend shipping your ring to us in order to show you band options through video. By request we will email a Fedex prepaid shipping label to you which you will use to mail your ring to us and it covers the insured value of your ring. The shipping fee is a flat rate of $100 round trip. Once the wedding band order is complete both rings return ship to you together. 

LAUREN B RING DESIGNS & DIAMONDS

+How long does it take to produce a ring?

Production times vary based on the type of style selected. Generally speaking allow anywhere from two to five weeks, however please be in touch with your sales team member who can give you a more definitive timeline. Special rush orders are an option as well

+Why does the Lauren B “halo” look different from most others I have seen?

Our designs are created by hand which allows for precise craftsmanship that cannot be achieved by a completely casted ring. The halo surrounds the main diamond seamlessly because it was made custom; specifically for that diamond outline and its exact dimensions.

+Can Lauren B take my old mounting and re-model it into a new custom ring?

No. We do not re-use the metal or diamonds from your old setting and make it into a new custom design for durability issues. We would certainly be happy to work with you on a brand new setting built from scratch and recommend setting a less expensive color gemstone, Moissanite or CZ into your old ring as a keepsake.

+Can you re-set the pave diamonds from my old setting into a new custom ring design?

We cannot re-set your small diamonds into a new setting for both design and integrity concerns. Each diamond we use on our settings is specially calibrated to ensure a uniform look throughout.

+What is the difference between platinum and white gold? Which one is better?

Both are precious metals and there is no clear answer as to which one is better. Platinum is a naturally white metal and will always maintain its color while white gold is a mix of different alloys and will eventually show a slight yellow tint over time( keep in mind it can always be re-plated). Also, platinum is a denser metal which gives it a weightier feel and contributes to it being more expensive than gold. In terms of look, platinum will have a duller appearance while white gold will appear brighter. We usually recommend platinum for our finer designs because it is a more malleable and easier to work with, but if price is a concern you cannot go wrong with white gold either.

+Do all of the settings shown on your website and social media come in other metal colors too?

Yes, each custom design can be created in any combination of metal you prefer. For example, if a ring is shown in white gold on the website it can also be made in rose gold, yellow gold, platinum, or two tone.

+What type of quality do you use for your pave diamonds?

On average we use G color/VS clarity but if necessary we will adjust the quality of the side diamonds to match the center-stone selected. Keep in mind smaller, pave sized diamonds will always give off a brighter appearance than center-stones.

+Do you offer engraving on engagement rings or wedding bands?

Yes, we can personalize your custom ring even more by adding an engraving on the inside of the band. This will apply for a majority of our styles.

+What is the thinnest band you make?

1.7mm is generally the thinnest we create for our signature pave designs.  We have also introduced a new technique that allows to create even more delicate "Super Slim" bands

+Do you have prices for loose diamonds currently in stock?

You can view our Virtual Diamond Inventory here . These are natural and lab grown diamonds that we have selected and purchased for our on-site inventory based on all factors of quality unlike websites which list a database of diamonds that they have never inspected before. We work with each client individually helping them choose the perfect diamond by providing only the best options to consider based on their exact specifications, and guiding them through the process. We are also able to outsource from manufacturers and present the largest and best quality center diamond at the most competitive price.  Read more about our diamond selection process here

+ Can I purchase a loose diamond directly from the Virtual Inventory?

If you are interested in a specific diamond, you may purchase it online or place it on a 3-day "hold" from the individual stone page. If the purchase/hold buttons do not appear, the stone has already been reservered for another client.. After your selection and checkout, a Lauren B design consultant will reach out to you about how to proceed with purchasing the stone itself or creating a custom ring design.

+Does Lauren B provide ASET or Idealscope images?

Under most circumstances the answer is no. We do not feel these types of images tell the true story. Website retailers rely on, and promote, these photographs because they never have the actual diamond in hand. It is a tactic used by them to help circumvent the fact they actually never inspect the diamond in real life and simply act as a blind middleman between you and the diamond wholesaler. Since we take the time to personally inspect each diamond in person before presenting it to a client, we are able to provide you with HD quality videos and our personal expertise regarding each stone. It is much more beneficial to judge the sparkle, shape and beauty of a diamond in a real life than going by what a formula or image says it should be under ideal conditions.

+Does Lauren B provide certificates for their diamonds?

Yes. Every engagement ring is accompanied by a certificate from the a third party grading institute and all of our center-diamonds are graded by the Gemological Institute of America.

+How do I know that the main diamond (purchased or provided) and GIA certificate match?

You may take your ring and GIA report to an independent appraiser (not a jeweler) for diamond verification. Also if you are in store one of our sales team members can read the laser inscription (if present) off of the diamond to ensure it matches.

+Are your diamonds conflict free?

All of our diamonds are conflict free, based upon our personal knowledge and the information provided to us by our suppliers who follow the Kimberly Process. We will always strive to uphold the legitimacy of the diamond trade and disclose the source of all our gemstones.

+Do you offer lab grown diamonds as engagement ring center-stones?

Yes we have a large selection of lab grown diamonds certified by both GIA and IGI. You can browse our entire inventory here

+Do you sell clarity enhanced or fracture filled diamonds?

No. All of our natural diamonds have not been altered or treated in any way.

+What is the difference between a Moissanite and a diamond?

Moissanite is produced in a laboratory under extreme pressure and heat while diamonds are mined from the earth. Visually they look very similar with Moissanites having a higher dispersion (fire) but price wise a diamond will be substantially higher. Read more about Moissanites here

+Can any engagement ring design shown with a diamond center-stone be created for a Moissanite center, and vice versa?

Yes any design on our website can be created for most any type of center-stone

+Do you offer alternate gemstones such as morganites, topaz, aquamarines, etc?

Yes we do offer most any gemstone shape and can present you with several loose options to choose from for your custom ring. Please contact your sales team member for details and pricing.

SHIPPING & PAYMENTS

+What forms of payment do you accept?

Lauren B Jewelry accepts all major credit cards, checks, bank wire transfers and PayPal. Upon receiving any deposit or full payment, your sales associate will e-mail you an official store receipt with all the details of your purchase including center diamond specifications, ring setting information and amounts paid/balance due. Read more here

+Does Lauren B offer financing?

Financing: We offer 6 or 12 months special financing with approved credit through Wells Fargo.  The amount you are approved for is based on your personal credit history and finances. This option is only available for US residents and you can apply online or in store.  Learn more here 

+Are layaway payment plans offered at Lauren B?

Yes we offer in-house 6 and 12 month layaway plans. The item must be paid in full prior to in-store pick up or delivery. Learn more here

+How does payment work for a custom design?

We usually request a 50% deposit to secure a diamond and start the process of building your custom ring. The rest of the balance is required when the ring is complete and upon your approval of the finished product.

+Do you accept orders over the phone?

Yes. If you prefer to place your order over the phone, we are happy to assist you but we will still need you to fill out a secured Adobe Sign credit card authorization form. You can reach us at (212) 391-0633 during our store hours.

+Is it possible for me to pay using two different credit cards?

Yes, you can pay using multiple credit cards and must fill out a secure Adobe Sign authorization form for each card used. In some cases we may ask for photo ID verification as well.

+Is sales tax applied to my order?

A sales tax of 8.875% is only collected on orders pick up in store or shipped to addresses within New York State. For orders shipped abroad, the client is responsible for local duties and taxes which typically range from 10% to 20% of the purchase price

+What method does Lauren B use to ship my ring once complete?

We ship fully insured via UPS or FedEx and a signature is required at delivery. We will provide you with e-mailed confirmation and a tracking number once your item has been shipped. Please note we cannot be held liable for any shipper delays caused by severe weather or other unexpected events.

+Do you ship to countries outside of the United States?

Yes we do ship to most countries outside of the United States. Please note clients are responsible for any duties and taxes which are collected at the point of delivery. For a full list of eligible countries, and to learn more about international orders please read here

+Can Lauren B create a custom setting for my center-stone without having it on hand?

We can do so by going off the measurements stated on the diamond certificate. It is however recommended for us to have the diamond in hand to ensure a 100% perfect fit.

+How do I go about mailing my diamond to Lauren B for a custom setting?

We can e-mail you a fully insured shipping label for your diamond which can easily be printed out and taken to your nearest shipping center. You must also include a Return Shipping Authorization form which we will e-mail to you as well. The price for the label would range anywhere from $50 to $200 depending on the value of your stone. Contact your sales rep and let them know that you would like to send your diamond in and they will provide you with the label.

+How is my personal and financial information protected?

We take the proper measures to ensure that your private information is completely protected. Transactions are protected using 256 bit Secure Socket Layering (SSL) Certificate from Verisign, the business leader in encryption technology.

+Do you offer military discounts?

We appreciate and respect all that our service men and women do for us and offer a percentage discount based on the purchase price along with free shipping! Proof of ID is required and contact your salesperson for details

RING CARE AND SIZING

+Do you offer insurance with your rings?

No, but we do provide you with an appraisal that you can present to an insurance company. We recommend Jeweler’s Mutual as the most reputable, easy to work with company to insure your jewelry through

+Do you clean or provide servicing on engagement rings sold through Lauren B?

Yes we do provide complementary in store cleaning and inspection of all rings sold. We also do strongly recommend for you to read the guidelines here for personal ring maintenance and upkeep

+Does Lauren B provide a warranty with their rings?

Our lmiited liftetime manufacturing guarantee is to stand behind the integrity of every piece and make sure you are completely satisfied with the entire shopping experience. Read more about our warranty here

+If another jeweler does work on my Lauren B ring does it void the warranty?

Yes if the ring is altered in anyway by an outside jeweler the warranty is no longer valid with Lauren B

+ How long does it take to re-size my ring and do I have to leave the ring at Lauren B Store?

It usually takes 5 to 7 business days to adjust the size of your ring. You will have to leave your ring for that time but not to worry, it is in good hands and you will receive an alteration ticket stating that we have possession of your ring.

+How much does it cost to resize my ring?

Your first resizing is complimentary! For those located in the Tri-State Area we recommend bringing your fiance into the store so we can accurately measure the ring size before proceeding. For those who are unable to make it into our New York showroom, the round trip shipping cost is $100 and up (depending on the value of your ring) and we will provide you with an insured reverse shipping label via email.

+How do I go about having the ring I purchased from Lauren B re-sized if I live outside the New York tri-state area?

Contact your personal diamond consultant by e-mail and our client serveices team will arrange a Fedex prepaid label for the insured value of your ring. You must also include a Return Shipping Authorization form which we will e-mail to you as well. First-time sizing is complimentary and round-trip shipping cost starts at $100 (depending on the value of your ring). We will provide you with an insured reverse shipping label via email. Please read more here

+What can I do to find out my significant others ring size and what if I get it wrong?
+Are rings available in any finger size?

Depending on the style and make of the ring, we can usually size the ring to your fit. Most rings come in a stock size of six. When purchasing a ring, please inquire about sizing options.

OUR WEBSITE

+Do you offer direct checkout for international clients?

If you wish to purchase an item directly from our website, we currently offer checkout options for Australia, Canada, Ireland, and the United Kingdom. Learn more here.

+Why are some prices not listed on the website?

Most of our rings are custom made and we work personally with each client designing it to fit every person's taste and budget. Price would depend on many factors including style, metal and center-stone type, size and quality. There is an option to request more information on each product detail page and you will receive a response and detailed quote within 48 hours.

+I saw a ring design on your Instagram page but cannot find the exact one on your website. What should I do?

The majority of our Instagram designs are based on, or exact versions of ring models shown on the website. Please read the comments of the post carefully and it should mention a specific style which you can easily search for on the website. Once you find it just click to “request more info” and enter any details you are interested in and someone from our sales team will get back to you with information and pricing.

+Are online items available for viewing?

Some items listed online are available for viewing in our New York showroom. However because many of our rings are custom made, we may not have that exact one in store but will certainly have several similar ones for you to try on.

+Can Lauren B create a custom design not shown on their website?

Yes we can create most any design you like based off photos and ideas provided by yourself. We will be certain to review each point in detail to ensure the perfect custom ring.

+Are online items shown actual size?

In order to give you the best overall view, we may enlarge the photograph to show more detail, or shrink the photograph in order to show the entire item.