Budgeting for Your Jeweler
The most practical consideration is the budget you have for the pieces you've planned to buy. You know better than anyone what your loved ones will cherish most, whether that be traditional or modern, expensive or affordable, intricate and elegant, or sweet and simple.The budget for your wedding party's jewelry will be a lot less than your wedding band budgeting. Don't be afraid to look around and compare prices, quality and values from different sources. Wedding jewelry sets are often a great option for cost-conscious couples.
Finding a Wedding Jeweler in Pennsylvania
With an internet connection or the local yellow pages, it's easy to find a jeweler in your area. Working with a jeweler or retailer near you or your wedding location will let you talk face to face with your seller/designer, speeding up the process of creating and/or purchasing beautiful jewelry for your wedding party. Also, you will be able to browse the many styles they offer, and the quality of their stock.Those PA jewelers who advertise both online and in the yellow pages are likely to be successful, and are often a safe bet. However, you can find many unusual, unique styles in jewelry shops throughout the Pennsylvania countryside. Don't be afraid to go for a drive through the miles of Pennsylvania woodland ridges and pastoral farmlands to search for the perfect set of wedding rings!
Custom Design Pennsylvania Jewelers
PA is home to many fine jewelers who can create handcrafted jewelry just for your wedding day celebration, given the proper advance notice. Look for unique shops such as:- Marc Williams Goldsmiths of Williamsport
- Dancing Designs Jewelry of Bethlehem, featuring the work of Tom DeGasperis
- Feldman Design Fine Jewelry of Emmaus
- Harry Merrill & Son, Inc. Jewelers of Philadelphia
- John Anthony Jewelers of Bala-Cynwyd
- Kallima Jewelers of Lancaster
- My Jewel Shop of Jenkintown
- Whitby Jewelers of Collegeville
- William H. Diller Jewelers of West Reading
Pennsylvania Gemstones
Keep in mind that there are a number of gemstones native to the state. These precious gems of lavender, crimson and iridescent hues can serve as accents to a diamond engagement band, or could stand front and center in your wedding jewelry creations or purchases. Native Pennsylvanian gems include:- Amethyst
- Almandite Garnet
- Pyrope Garnet
- Beryl
- Sunstone
- Moonstone
Online PA Jewelry Sales
Online wedding jewelry sales can be a bit tricky, as you're buying "sight-unseen," and won't be sure of the quality until you receive your items. However, prices are often better online, and many internet shops allow you a wide range of customizable options for rings, necklaces, cuff links and more. Look for a "quality guarantee" clause, references and testimonials.As with any online purchase, make sure the dealer is reputable by searching for "[dealer name] scam" or "[dealer name] review." Keep in mind that your items will need time to ship and that you may need to do a few returns, so plan well in advance if you choose this option. The Better Business Bureau website will allow you to see if the retailer has any open or unresolved claims against them, and you can make a well informed choice on whether or not to buy.
Remember to look for certificates of quality, if available, as these will give you legal recourse in the event that the online retailer is vague or does not have a solid reputation. Also, attempt to buy from U.S. retailers, as this gives you the most flexibility and reassurance that your jewelry is truly what they say it is and what you want.