Buying a Diamond Engagement Ring?
What You Need To Know?
By Debbie Jordan of Swiss Timing
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WHERE DO I START?
It may seem like a daunting task – but if you arm yourself with knowledge you will soon realize this it is not as difficult as you may have first thought. Learn about the four ‘C’s’ – Carat Weight, Clarity, Color and Cut there is a wealth of information on the internet to help you with this aspect.
Once you have this under your belt you can then move on to the next steps.
Think about her, her style – does she wear white gold or yellow gold – modern or traditional. Is she a hands on person then she probably does not want the setting to be too high, she may want a lower setting.
FIND A JEWELLER THAT YOU ARE COMFORTABLE WITH.
If you are not familiar with one ask your friends and their recommendations and what their experience was like.
DEFINE A BUDGET
Define a Budget that you are comfortable with and this of course will determine the type of ring that you will ultimately purchase. Don’t overspend for quality that you or she cannot see – good eye clean stones give a great value if selected by a trained expert. So you get bigger and better for less.
Once you have done these steps you can choose your setting style, which type of metal – gold or platinum and then the cut of diamond.
TIPS AND WARNINGS
Beware of advertising that proclaims only the carat weight and not the other qualities. These may be stones that are of inferior quality and value.
Beware of stores advertising extravagant sales, such as 60% off. Be sure to comparison shop before buying. Some stores advertise extremely high regular prices so that they can offer huge discounts.
Don’t assume that if is on the web it must be a bargain. The Federal Trade Commission found that many online jewellery retailers and auction sites were misrepresenting carat weights, not disclosing gem treatments etc.
TIPS ON SAVING MONEY
Consider an alternative stone – or purchase a setting using several smaller stones instead of one large stone. You can achieve an amazing look for less money. Sapphires for example – as Princess Diana and Kate Middleton have – are absolutely amazing and timeless – so you don’t necessarily have to go with a Diamond center stone. |
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| 27th CENTURY BOUTIQUE / THE HAIR STUDIO & BEAUTY SALON |
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In Bermuda, 27th Century Boutique is the fore runner of fashion with an enviable reputation of providing men and women with the latest fashions for the past 33 years.
As buyer and coordinator for 27th Century Boutique, Sharon Bartram travels several times a year to purchase the clothing for the boutique. Their most prominent, exclusive ladies lines are Joseph Ribkoff, Jack F and Orly and they have a variety of outstanding lines for men. Sharon has traveled to Costa Rica, Jamaica, Holland, Belgium, Paris and London as the wardrobe coordinator and makeup artist for the television show “Style Bermuda”.
Always looking to give back to the community which has contributed to its success, 27th Century often participates in fashion shows and other community activities.
Also as the proprietor of The Hair Studio & Beauty Salon, for the past 25 years Sharon has traveled with The Hair Studio Staffing team to Florida, Atlanta and Las Vegas to keep abreast of the latest product knowledge and styles by Design Essentials. Sharon’s daughter Kim-Keta works along with her as the Manager and Senior Stylist at the Hair Studio. Kim-Keta has worked in the salon from the early age of 14 years.
In addition, The Hair Studio can take care of all your beauty needs such as manicures, pedicures, acrylic nails, eyebrow waxing and threading, braiding and all other hair services. |
| 92 Reid Street, Hamilton | 441.292.2628 | more info |
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Bermuda Blue - a modern fragrance that truly captures the essence of this island paradise. Inspired by vibrant blues of its ocean and sky – Bermuda Blue captures citrus, jasmine and lotus in the air with a nuance of crisp sea spray. The woody and vanilla base creates a scent that warms the heart.
Exclusively available in Bermuda including;
• A.S. Cooper,
• Brown & Co.,
• Gibbons Company |
Distributed By: PDL LTD | 441.292.1710 | email | more info
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The gleam of faceted crystal, the subtle satisfaction of the best bone china, the exquisite artistry of elegant, hand painted porcelain…just some of the things that create the ambience that is uniquely Bluck’s.
They are always pleased to welcome you to their store and their tradition of bringing you the very best from around the world. For over 160 years, Bluck’s has been a merchant house for the finer things in life.
They carefully choose from the world’s most respected manufacturers to bring you the very best to meet your lifestyle and entertaining needs. Imagine stunning tableware from Herend, Royal Crown Derby, Lynn Chase, Spode and Wedgwood to name but a few. Fabulous crystal can beautifully enhance your dining table or provide incredible accents to any room. Their collection brings you many wonderful ideas from Baccarat, Orrefors, Artel and Varga Art Crystal.
If you’re looking for a special gift for someone or perhaps just a little indulgence for yourself, then their giftware collection is sure to please. Whether it is one of their unique and exclusive, Bermuda themed items from Herend, Spode or Halcyon Days or an unusual crystal creation from Lalique, Daum Waterford or Kosta Boda, they aim to ensure that everything will make just the right impression. Bluck’s….for the finer things in life. |
4 Front Street, Hamilton
441 295-5367
website |
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Brown & Co. with over 7,500 square feet of floor space, is the Island’s most comprehensive department store. Located in the heart of Hamilton, our department stores are stocked with everything you need for yourself, friends & family and your home – featuring tourist oriented gifts, greeting cards, books from local and internationally acclaimed authors, perfumes & fragrances from top designers, home décor from around the world, fashion jewelry and so much more.
Plus, nestled at the back the stores’ book department is a beautifully designed Café offering gourmet coffees, snacks, desserts, sandwiches and so much more. Visit us today. Hours of Operations: Mondays-Saturdays: 8:30 -5:30, Sundays: 1-5pm |
Hallmark, Reid Street, Hamilton | 441.279.5442
The Bookmart, Reid Street, Hamilton | 441.279.5443
The Birdcage Café, Reid Street, Hamilton | 441.279.5462
Front Street, Hamilton | 441.279.5524 | more info |
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A.S. Cooper & Sons Ltd. has been the premier store for fine crystal, dinnerware, figurines and gifts since 1897. They have expanded in the retail market and proudly opened a new building on Front Street, Hamilton. COSMETICS & FRAGRANCES on the ground floor has duty free perfume and popular lines of Estee Lauder, Clinique, Clarins and more. FINE JEWELLERY features Links of London, Judith Ripka and jewellery with diamonds, precious and semi precious stones in gold and silver. GIFTS & COLLECTIBLES carries Lladro, Lalique, Waterford, Wedgwood, Swarovski and Belleek. STUDIO, on the second floor, has fashions and accessories for ladies from Lauren, Ann Klein, Liz Claiborne, Michael Kors, DKNY Jeans, Calvin Klein, Lacoste, Jones New York and more — all at U.S. Prices.
Also on Front Street, opposite the Ferry Terminal, is A.S. Cooper MAN, the Island’s largest men’s store featuring Polo Ralph Lauren, Tommy Bahama and Helly Hansen (exclusive to A.S. Cooper), as well as DKNY, Calvin Klein, Claiborne, and IZOD — all at U.S. prices. Next door is A.S. Cooper CHILDREN if you’re looking for outfits from newborn to age 14.
A.S. Cooper HARBOURSIDE is on the water at Pier 6 with fragrances at duty free prices, your favourite sportswear for missy and fuller figure as well as fashion accessories and costume jewellery.
A.S. Cooper EXPRESS, Washington Mall, Reid Street sets the trend in fashion and accessories for juniors.
A.S. Cooper HOME, across from City Hall on Church Street, has the very best in home décor, giftware and a great selection of Yankee candles.
For over a hundred years it’s A.S.Cooper & Sons Ltd. family of fine stores in Bermuda.
Dockyard Section: In the Clocktower Mall, Dockyard, is a branch store which features a selection of merchandise from the A.S. Cooper & Sons Ltd. family of fine stores in Hamilton. Discover ladies fashions and accessories, gifts souvenirs as well as fragrances at duty free prices. |
53 Front Street, Hamilton | 441.295.0244 | website
A.S. Cooper EXPRESS, Washington Mall
A.S. Cooper HARBOURSIDE, Front Street
A.S. Cooper HOME, Church Street
A.S. Cooper MAN, Front Street
Clocktower Mall, Royal Naval Dockyard - A.S. Cooper branch store
Fairmont Southampton Princess Hotel - Polo Ralph Lauren Shop
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Crisson Jewellers embodies Bermuda’s finest and most cherished traditions. A family business since 1922, the Crisson name is synonymous with quality and value. The fabulous array of jewellery and watches reflect the style, sophistication and taste of our discerning customers. When you explore our exciting collections, we are sure you will agree that a visit to Crisson is the crowning moment of your Bermuda shopping experience. Along with the wonderfully eclectic collection of hand-selected pieces from all parts of the world, Crisson are Bermuda’s exclusive source for famous designers including David Yurman, Roberto Coin, Marco Bicego, Picchiotti, John Hardy, Kabana, Pandora, Bixby and Thomas Sabo. As for diamonds of distinction, Crisson has Bermuda’s largest collection of spectacular cuts from Cento, A. Jafee and Canadia.
When it comes to timepieces, Crisson is definitely the place! Crisson are the officially authorised Rolex retailers in Bermuda. You will also find Tag Heuer, Ebel, Movado, Tudor, Philip Stein, Christian Dior, Rado, Elysee, TX and Raymond Weil. The collection is rounded out with ranges from Seiko, Swiss Army, Citizen, Casio, Esq and Guess! Crisson has two main stores on Front Street in Hamilton, with another on Queen Street.
There are two stores in St. George’s and one in the Clocktower Mall at Dockyard. If you are staying in one of Bermuda’s major Hotels, you’ll find a Crisson store there as well. Each of these boutique-style stores features pieces selected from our main collections in Hamilton. The shopping experience is relaxed and intimate, and the quality, value and prices are the same whichever store you choose to visit. |
16 Queen Street,
55 & 71 Front Street, Hamilton
Water & York Streets, St. George¹s,
Clocktower Mall, Dockyard, and all major hotels
Tel: 295-2351, website
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Daisy & Mac, Bermuda’s newest baby & children’s boutique, is well worth a visit! Tucked away on the upper level of the Washington Mall, in Hamilton Daisy & Mac is a hidden gem. When you cross the threshold of the hot pink and apple green storefront, you discover a magical wonderland of products including clothing & footwear for children from newborn up to age 16, toys for all ages, fun fashion accessories and much more. Brand names include Esprit Kids, Ralph Lauren, Diesel, Betsy & Babs, Petit Ami, My Boy Sam, Baby Bol, Taggies and the list goes on! In addition to the essential items you would find in most babies and children’s store, Daisy & Mac has unique specialty items that are absolutely adorable and not found elsewhere. For example they have the cutest little retro-esque t-shirts/onesies for infants that say “Chicks Dig Me”, “My Dad’s a Geek” or “High Maintenance”. Special collections of these one-of-a-kind items, is what makes Daisy & Mac special. Without a doubt, Daisy & Mac is a super chic boutique for infants, toddlers, tweens and their mummies - after all, it is the biggest, little store in Bermuda! |
| 22 Church Street, Hamilton| 441.295.7477 | website |
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Located in the heart of Hamilton, the Gibbons Company is Bermuda’s most progressive and largest Department Store. Known for its excellent customer service and wide range of exciting merchandise, the Gibbons Company is the first choice for the discerning customer.
The store offers contemporary fashion and fashion accessories for the whole family and features many world-renowned brand names. The Mens’ and Ladies’ Departments boast a fabulous mix of basics, separates and collections throughout every season, with merchandise hitting the floor at the same time as the U.S.
The newly expanded and renovated Lingerie Department is Bermuda’s finest, carrying many top brands and a wide variety, designed to please women of every age. It has become the place to shop for lingerie for most residents.
The Children’s Department provides a full range of merchandise, from nursery equipment, strollers and layette to the largest selection of children’s apparel. Leading brands and the best fashion choices for boys and girls from toddler sizes through to teen can be found year-round.
Exclusive to the Gibbons Company are many fine perfume and cosmetics brands such as Chanel, Guerlain, and Dior, to name but a few, who enjoy their own boutiques within a well established department.
The Home Furnishings Department consists of an extensive Bed & Bath and Decor floor that is dedicated to meeting the demands of our diverse customer base. Located on the lower level, the Home & Garden Department offers a wide range of cookware, utensils and small electrical goods as well as china, glass and table top for home and outdoor entertainment, as well as a fine selection of candles and chic décor items.
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Gibbons Company Reid Street, Hamilton, Tel: 295-0022 website
M.A.C. Cosmetics Front Street, Hamilton, Tel: 295-8843
Nine West, Fashion & Accessories Reid Street, Hamilton. Tel: 294-5191
Peniston Brown, the Fragrance Specialists Water Street, St. George’s. Tel: 405-0005
The Perfume Shop, Fragrance Boutique Clocktower Mall, Dockyard. Tel: 405-0006
25 Reid Street, 25 Reid Street, Hamilton |
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MAMBO
Bermuda’s most fashion forward boutique offering collec-tions from Just Cavalli, Galliano, Miss Sixty, Energie, Custo Barcelona and Diesel.
European clothing and accessories for those at the top of their game can all be found right here in the Walker Arcade on Reid Street in Hamilton.
True Religion Brand Jeans, bags and shoes also join this picture perfect puzzle of fashion delicacies. With the launching of the bag and shoe collections this spring, the jean lovers are able to accessorize their look and top it off with the softest of True Religion vintage t-shirts and hoodies. Joey, Bobby, Billy, you know the lingo!
Mambo is the authorised dealer and sole distributor of these products for both men and women. Popular with the locals, Mambo is a must visit for fashion conscious visitors to the island. Hours of operation are Monday to Saturday from 9am – 6pm. Late night shopping till 9pm on Wednesdays during Harbour Night festivities and private shopping, by appointment only, to suit your needs and busy schedules can be made by calling Marco at 296-9797.
IANA
For the little treasures in your life... European clothing and footwear for the tiny Fashionistas in the family. Also carrying Bindi Wear and Kids True Religion Brand Jeans. |
| Walker Arcade, 12 Reid Street | 441 296-9797 |
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Onion Jack’s Trading Post – located on Front Street in Hamilton is the place to visit for the best variety of Bermuda souvenirs, beach towels, hand made cedar items and much more. Our logo “Onion Jack” is featured on tee shirts, caps, beach towels and various unusual souvenir items. Visit our newest addition “Animaland” where you can create a furry animal to take home for the little ones or bring them to create their own. If hot sauce or rum cake is what you are looking for then we have that too. Browse our four rooms each offering unique treasures to remind you of your visit to our beautiful island. |
| 77 Front Street, Hamilton, 441 295-1263 |
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