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Frequently Asked Questions
We understand that purchasing an engagement or wedding ring is a huge milestone. To make the process stress-free, we guide you through a simple four-step journey to finding the perfect bespoke ring;
1. Initial Consultation: We start by learning what you envision. We will look at your inspiration photos, educate you on gemstones and ring construction, and help you design a ring that fits your style and budget.
2. Gemstone Selection: Next, our team works with you to select the perfect loose diamond or gemstone.
3. Design & CAD: We take your input and move into the design phase, providing sketches and 3D CAD renderings so you can see your ring from every angle.
4. The Reveal: Finally, you come in to pick up and see your finished ring!
This all depends on the process that best suits your needs.
1. For fully custom designs, we recommend finalizing your diamond selection at least 4 weeks prior to your proposal date. Once a design enters production, our casting partners and in-house master jewelers typically require 3–4 weeks for completion.
2. If you are working with a tighter deadline, our made-to-order or semi-custom designs can often be completed in 1-2 weeks.
3. Need it even sooner? Let your Bridal Consultant know, and we can explore existing designs available for next-day delivery or ready-to-wear rings we have in store.
Yes, but not as much as you might think! To begin the Design & CAD phase, we require a $250 deposit. Once you move forward with the project, $150 of that deposit is credited directly toward the final cost of the ring.
Generally, a custom ring is approximately 10–15% more than a comparable pre-designed style.This difference covers the specialized materials and skilled labor required for our casting partners and master jewelers to create a one-of-a-kind mold, hand-finish the setting, and precisely set the stones. While the investment is slightly higher, the result is a truly unique ring that fulfills your vision.
Yes! We know many clients want to keep the proposal a surprise but also want their partner involved in the design process. We have you covered with stand-in options. Reach out to us, and we will help you determine the best solution for your specific situation.
Yes, we offer a curated selection of both lab-grown and natural diamonds. We work with a network of trusted diamond brokers across the globe to find gemstones that fit your specific needs, budget, and preferences.
We always do our best to accommodate rush orders. While we can typically expedite our process to fit your timeline, we highly recommend booking your appointment as soon as possible to get the ball rolling.
Absolutely! If you have fallen in love with a design on our Instagram or elsewhere, snap a picture or a screenshot and bring it to your appointment! We can help you recreate any design you envision or put a unique twist on one of our signature settings.
Our mission is to make this a comfortable and fun experience where you feel great about your purchase and have a trusted jeweler that you can interact and rely on. Unlike online retailers, we offer a private, one-on-one experience where we you get to physically see and feel the collection of rings. We’ll help guide you through diamond quality, design, and settings in person. We are a locally owned family business committed to making the process just as special as the proposal itself.
Yes, we operate on an appointment-only basis. We believe buying an engagement ring is a personal milestone that deserves our full, undivided attention.You essentially have the entire bridal shop along with a dedicated expert to help you find the perfect ring.
• Office Hours: Monday–Saturday,11:00 AM–4:00PM (Late appointments availableTuesdays and Thursdays). Closed Sundays.
• Walk-Ins: For walk-in services, we refer customers to our sister store, CreeksideJewelers, also located in Golden, CO (only a 1/2 block away).
Yes. The Golden Gem only works with diamond suppliers who are compliant with the Kimberley Process, ensuring conflict-free diamonds. Our elect group of diamond brokers source from mine or lab operators that follow internationally recognized labor, trade, and environmental protocols.
Yes, we offer a wide range of men’s wedding bands and even men's engagement rings. These can be fully custom, made-to-order, or ready-to-wear.
Yes! Aside from bridal jewelry, we can help you create custom earrings, bracelets, pendants, and more. Whether you have a specific vision or want to repurpose an heirloom, our design experts can bring it to life.
We highly recommend insuring your jewelry. You can add it to your homeowners' policy, or purchase a stand alone policy through our partner, Jewelers Mutual. In fact, if you purchase a complete bridal ring from us and choose Jewelers Mutual, we include the first year of insurance on us! Please purchase the policy directly from them and save your receipt to take advantage of this offer.
Yes, we are happy to set or reset a diamond you already own, even if it wasn’t purchased from us. However, we highly recommend using one jeweler for both the diamond and the setting for warranty and insurance simplicity.
While some clients believe buying a diamond online is cheaper, our pricing is competitive with online dealers. Plus, buying with us offers distinct advantages: you have a physical store to visit should any issues arise, we ensure the diamond originates from reputable sources and is calibrated to fit perfectly, and you get to support a local Colorado business.
We stand behind the quality of our work. We offer complimentary repairs on items purchased through The Golden Gem within the first 6 months of receipt (covering manufacturer defects).
• After 6 Months: Repairs needed after 6 months, or damage resulting from regular wear and tear/neglect, will incur repair fees.
• Service Partner:Our sister store, Creekside Jewelers, handles our repairs. Costs generally start at $60 + shipping. We are always transparent about whether a piece can be repaired or if it requires a remake.
• Inquiries: For repair questions, please call or email hello@thegoldengem.com
This is very common! If you aren’t sure of the size, we can help you select a design that is easily resizable. We offer one complimentary resizing within 60 days of receipt. Once you propose, simply come in for a proper sizing, and we will adjust it for the perfect fit. Note: Not all eternity bands or intricate designs can be resized, so ask your consultant for guidance.
All rings purchased from us come with lifetime professional clean & checks. In between visits, we recommend cleaning your ring once every 1–2 weeks. Soak it in a cleaner such as Connoisseurs Precious Jewelry Cleaner tub, use the soft brush to reach under the gemstone, and rinse with hot water.
Pro Tip: Dry your diamonds with a hair dryer to prevent water spots and restore maximum sparkle!
Because most of our bridal rings are customized and personalized, they are considered FINAL SALE. We do not offer refunds on deposits or completed custom/made-to-order items. In certain cases, deposits may be transferred toward other items at our discretion. Please review our Returns and Exchanges page for full details.
Once a diamond or gemstone is selected, we require a 50% deposit to secure the stone and begin the CAD/production phase. We accept credit cards, debit cards, and cash. The remaining balance is due in full at pickup or shipment. We also offer financing options through our third-party credit partners.