To have my wedding band revamped in time for my five-year wedding anniversary this August (read more about why here), I'm looking at a couple local jewelers (and possibly one in Kentucky). I found Magpie Jewelry and Metals Studio while helping a friend shop for engagement rings. I'm intrigued by the variety of styles that the jewelers work in, and some of the rings seem to have stones set in the way I'm envisioning for my new band. I'm also considering David Liska. A woman wearing a gorgeous Art Deco-inspired wedding ring tipped me off that he was its maker.
So far, here's my list of questions that I plan to ask at my initial meeting with each of them.
• Will anything about my idea for the new design not work in the really real world?
• Do you have any suggestions for improving my idea?
• Will you be able to reuse the gold from my existing band? (I know, I know, Addie assured me they would, but I have to ask.)
• Will it be possible to get non-conflict diamonds?
• What techniques will you use to make the new band? (i.e. Will I see a
CAD/CAM model or a wax model before you finish the piece?)
• What's the timeline for getting the ring back?
• How much?
If you have advice on any questions I should add to the list, I'd love to hear them. After I talk to the jewelers, I'm sure I'll be adding some of my own, but it's always a good idea to have a bit more perspective on these things. Thanks, in advance, for your help!
—Kristin