Jewelers & Jewelry Repair
Berkeley Parents Network >
Reviews >
What/Where to Buy >
Jewelers & Jewelry Repair
|
Jewelry Repair
|
Jewelry Design and Purchase
Related Pages
|
Nov 2008
I recently lost my wedding ring and am thinking of replacing it with an
estate piece. I seem to be especially drawn to pieces from the 20s and
30s, but prefer yellow gold to platinum. Any recommendations on good
places to look?
Alice
So sorry about your ring! One of my favorite stores is the Tail of the
Yak, on Ashby just below College. They have a lot of antique jewelry.
Also, if I were you I might call/visit Morrison's in Orinda, just
opposite the Orinda Theatre. Good luck!
Mari
www.rubylane.com has some great antique jewelry. I got my wedding
jewelry there, including my engagement and wedding rings.
Jennifer
Oct 2008
Where can I get beach pottery shards made into jewelry? I have
some beautiful and ancient-looking pieces I found while beach
combing in eastern Ireland.
Mary
There is a jeweler, Nancy Foster, who makes jewlery utilizing pottery shards
(especially one of a kind), her # is 530.887.0700.
Her work is great! Tell her lesli referred you.
lesli
Aug 2008
My husband got me a beautiful diamond platinum engagement ring from
a store in SF (which closed down). The diamond feels a little
loose so I would like to get it tightened in the setting. I live in
Berkeley and would like to take it to a place that can fix it on
the spot, as I have heard a lot of horror stories about stores
swapping out diamonds, etc. I just want to have it fixed. Does
anyone know a jeweller who is good, reliable and can tighten it up
a bit while i wait. i don't mind waiting a little bit either if
that means not having to send it away. Any recommendations for
trustworthy jewellers in berkeley (or nearby)?
thanks very much
I have been using a jewelry in San Francisco in the Giftcenter
(which is a wholesale mart for jewelry and gifts). If you don't
mind taking a trip to SF, they are located at 888 Brannan Street
(8th and Brannan). Place is called ''San Francisco Enterprises'',
ask for Ellie. Although there are quite a few jewelry
''wholesalers'', which I use the term loosely since you still have
to know what your buying, SFE is one of the few companies there
that has their own manufacturing area. They have repaired many
items for me, from sizing, stone setting, to making a new custom
designed piece for me. It is a family run business, very
personable people; and I have trusted them for over 20 years now.
Call them at: (415) 255-2111.
Edward
You might try Deb Durant. She has her own small studio in
Berkeley and is flexible and wonderful. She has fixed, restored,
modified and created pieces for me, my mother and my sister. Take
a look at her wen site http://www.debdurant.com/ ...
Kate
Try Janko Jewelers in Oakland across from the Kaiser Center (
near Lake Merritt pretty close to Children's Fairyland).
Parking can be a bit of a hassle, but my dad has a rich friend
and she's been taking all her fancy jewelry there for years.
If she trusts them with her stuff....
Jean
Feb 2008
I have several inexpensive necklaces that now have broken
clasps. I would like to get them fixed but feel a bit silly
going to a ''fancy'' jewelry store to fix pieces that aren't
worth hundreds/thousands of dollars. Any suggestions on where I
can take them to be fixed?
anon
Beadazzled in Lafayette has replaced clasps on jewelry of mine, at
a reasonable cost and right when I walk into the store (don't have
to come back to pick up). I recall it was less than $5 per item. I
would think other beading shops would perform a similar service.
Christina
May 2007
I have several not very expensive but well loved necklaces that
need restringing. Some have broken and the beads are in a bag
and a couple are just strung very cheaply and need to be
restrung using better workmanship/materials. Does anyone know
of someone/business that would do this for a reasonable price?
I don't want to spend boatloads of $ since I probably didn't
spend more than $120 or so on any of these necklaces and
probably spent less than $50 on most.
Thanks.
Karen H.
I just had several pieces of jewelry repaired at Silver Lining
Jewelry (3340 Lakeshore Avenue in Oakland 510-465-5103)
including a bracelet restrung. They were quick, professional
and reasonable.
happy customer
I had the same problem a while back (my toddler had a tendency
to yank on my necklaces!) and, on the advice of others here at
BPN, went to BeadBiz on San Pablo in El Cerrito -- near the
Plaza, down the street from Pastime Ace Hardware. I was very
pleased with the service I got and the price was reasonable.
Holly
Look in the yellow pages for bead stores. They all offer
restringing services. There's one on College that restrung my
pearls, which was more expensive due to the method required for
pearls. But it was still reasonable.
anonymous
Jan 2008
Hi all, I am looking for a jeweler who can take my diamond
solitaire ring and redesign it. I have a picture of what I would
like but I am open to his/her ideas as well.
Thank you BPN! Cate
To the person looking for a jewelry designer, Deb Durant makes amazing jewelry. She
can make everything from a small project to wedding sets. She is very reasonable and
a total perfectionist! Her website is: http://www.debdurant.com/
liza
Talk to Jeff Sahadi on Piedmont Ave., 653-7769. He designs jewelry and does beautiful
work. I bought my wedding ring from him, and have had him modify earrings for pierced
ears. He's very good.
Rebecca
Hi , You might want to try Maury Woulf of Woulf and Ury Jewelers on San Pablo at
Moeser in El Cerrito. He has been in the business for almost 40 years and does a lot
of re-design business. He is very reliable and also creative. The number is
510-524-3600.
lynn
Missed your original questions, but Melissa at Kiss My Ring
(510/540-1282) in west Berkeley designs and creates handsome jewelry.
Lots of photos at www.kissmyring.com.
Melanie
June 2007
Looking for a jewelry maker experienced in casting objects. I'd like to cast an acorn
from a tree in my backyard, and create a key chain from it.
I would start with THE CRUCIBLE. They moved from Berkeley to Oakland and I haven't been there since.
But they are definately there and teach classes in casting metal from objects. Also, the bulleton
board there will have tons of talented people hungry for work. Just ask someone there for a refferal.
A Fire Arts fan.
April 2007
I am looking for a recommendation for a reputable and trustworthy jeweler in or near
Walnut Creek. I need to get a gold pendant repaired. The item has great sentimental
value and I am nervous about leaving it with anyone. The only jeweler I have had any
experience with is 14 Karats in Rockridge/Elmwood and while I really like them, it's
more convenient for me to go someplace closer to home (WC).
There is a wonderful, very professional, family jeweler in W.C.
that will do an amazing job for you. They beautifully repaired
an heirloom diamond ring of mine. You would never find them
unless you knew where to look (I think they do most of their
business by word of mouth). The King's Jewelers/William
McConnell & Son, Inc., 2185 N. California Blvd., Ste 260. They
are inside the courtyard of the large office building on the
corner. Good luck
Laurie
We have the highest regards for Morrison's Jewelers in Orinda. Very, very
reliable and
multi-generational business.
anon
William McConnell & Sons - I'd trust them with anything. Ph #
925-938-1030. www.thekingsjewelers.com
Morrison's Jewelers in Orinda. Long time Bay Area presence.
Formerly in Berkeley; now across from Theater Square. I
wouldn't go anywhere else. http://www.morrisonsjewelry.com/
Hello, we've used Spitz Jewelers at 1333 North Main Street. On two occasions we
needed something made up. One was for my mother-in-law's 70th birthday and we
needed something special and not too crazy expensive that day. They listened to
our ideas, and we decided a pendent would be good. We looked at a nice variety
of
pendants, they had the peridot stone that was a close fit and then assembled the
piece right there while we waited. It looked beautiful and my mother-in-law
loved it.
Heck, the most expensive part of the gift was the chain we picked out.
Then, this Feb for my son's 16th birthday, they made him a custom ring and it
came
out perfect as well. This time, they did need two weeks to order the ring base,
but I
knew that ahead of time.
Robin
March 2007
I need to find a reputable jeweler to re-make my wedding and
engagement rings. I've heard so many scams about jewelers
switching diamonds that I'm afraid to go just anywhere! Thanks!
Melanie
Melanie,
Both my wife and I understand your reservations about taking
your jewelry to just anyone, as we had the same feelings when
trying to locate someone to create a new setting for a family
diamond for her engagement ring.
We live in Alameda and found Mahesh at Park Street Jewelers.
He will work with you to create the exact piece you want and
will even make wax impressions before he casts the ring(s).
His work is flawless and his service outstanding. He did such a
great job on the engagement ring, we ended up having him create
our wedding bands as well. His pricing is very fair and will
work within your budget.
Bob
A good friend of mine is a jeweler that works at a small shop in
downtown Oakland. I've met the two owners. It's a small shop,
they take real pride in their work, and they are very, very
trustworthy. They do not overcharge (they'll tell you if you've
been overcharged in the past) and they can recognize shoddy work
from a mile away.
The name of the shop is Janko Jewelers, and my friend's name is
Mark (if you talk to him, you can tell him Lisa sent you :) ).
The owners are Bill and Nan, very down-to-earth, friendly people.
The shop number is 510-836-1586.
great to know people in the business
Morrisons Jewelers out in Orinda. It's a very old, very
reputable group. My mother has had all her jewelry done there
and they are very good and won't scam you.
Given Gold on Piedmont Ave. is very reputable and very good. I
would have no hesitation in taking anything to them.
Oct 2006
looking for a jeweler to adjust the sizing of my wedding rings.
anyone have any recommendations?
thank you!!!
cate
I had to have my wedding ring resized recently and used Oaks
Jewelers on Solano Ave. They did a wonderful job! I have
developed arthritis in my ring finger (with a lot of swelling)
and they had to cut off my wedding ring(s)and they then resized
them (3 sizes up!). The rings (engagement and wedding) look
wonderful, you would never have known that anything happened to
them. I paid $120, which was well worth it!
Happy with Oaks
J. Sahadi Jewelers on Piedmont Ave is great for custom pieces
and repairs!
June 2006
We are looking for wedding bands and an engagement ring. The
engagement ring we have in mind is more of a band then a single
stone setting. We need advice on quality and wear/tear. Any
recommendations of local jewelers who are fair and reputable is
appreciated.
EGM
14 karats on college avenue is great for wedding bands. The
couple who own it helped my husband and I design our bands, and
weren't fazed by our limited budget. They even surprised us by
putting a better stone in mine than the one that we had seen
before--but charged the same. They have also happily resized and
repaired my husband's band, for free (he bangs up his fingers and
his ring regularly).
happy customer
My husband got my engagement ring at the Gem Gallery (2945
College Avenue, Berkeley, CA 94705). Our friend had purchased
his wedding rings there and loved them. I love my engagement
ring, and we went there for our wedding rings. We looked at
their designs, and chose the style of design we wanted on our
rings and they made the rings out of platinum for us. They made
my husbands ring in the size he wanted. Mine is much smaller
and matches the size and style of my engagement ring, but also
matches my husbands ring. We love them, and their prices were
reasonable. One clerk there who tried to help us was clueless,
so we saw the woman who knows everything and is super helpful,
and I wish I could remember her name! I think she has blondish
hair. Sorry I can't be more helpful, but most people there
really know their stuff! Good luck
Andi
I've gone to 14 Karats for years and have always been thrilled
with what they've made for me. Don't be put off by the fact that
they have no answering machine--go wander around in person and
talk to John or Lilly. Beautiful, beautiful jewelry
Brynn
Clay Kirchenbauer is an independent jewelry designer who works
with you to create the type of ring that you are looking for. You
can reach him at: clay at ckjewelrydesigns.com (He is also a great
poet.)
Melanie
I highly recommend Park Street Jewelers in Alameda. Mahesh is
really good at listening to what you want. He is also quite
skilled at making jewelery on the premises so he can custom make
something if he doesn't already have it in stock. His prices
are fair and he will clean your jewelery at no charge. Tell him
Laura sent you, I used to work with his wife
a satisfied customer
If you are willing to travel to East Contra Costa County, we have a jeweler in Pleasant
Hill who we love. John Stanziano owns a store called JNS Designs. He does custom
jewelery and lately he's been doing a lot of custom wedding band designs. He'll
work with you to make sure it's what you want and pricing is reasonable. If you use
him, please tell him I recommended him to you. He designed my Mother's Ring and
I am very pleased with it
Stephanie
We went to M. Lowe & Co. on Shattuck in North Berkeley. The woman
who helped us was really nice and helped us get just what we
wanted. And they are totally unpretentious and not as pricey as I
would have thought AND they have beautiful stuff
Lowe's fan
Shane Company. They have several locations, we use the Walnut
Creek location. My husband got my engagement ring there 18
years ago. It was a plain band with a diamond. I picked out
the wrap to go with it. Years later we upgraded and got double
the price we paid for it credited to the new ring. They have
many options available since you can pick your own band and
stone, so the price ranges are very wide. We have bought many
pieces from them over the years. They have great service,
educate their customers, and never treat you like a dummy! I
have NEVER been encouraged by the employees to spend more than
the limit I give them either....a refreshing change from other
jewlery stores.
Visit Oaks Jewlery on Solano. They are a family owned business
and have been around for years. Their service is always very
good, and their prices are fair
Rose
I have found all the folks at J. Sahadi Jewelers on Piedmont
Avenue in Oakland to be good to work with my jewelry repairs
and my mother-in-law's necklace design project. Jeff Sahadi
does the design and production and he does attractive, very
well-priced design and repairs! They have rings for sale in
the case and he can also do custom designs.
We bought our wedding bands from bluenile.com. I was initially nervous about
jewelry on the internet, but I went with a recommendation from a picky (and
wealthy) friend who raved about some diamonds she bought through them.
Everything went well. My husband's band is just as he bought it. Mine was plain
from Blue Nile. We took it to Pave on College Avenue for some gorgeous engraving.
They were the most creative, informed and lovely people to work with. I highly
recommend them for any ''interesting'' jewelry needs at a real store
Congratulations!
May 2006
I have a beautiful bracelet that my husband gave me, and I am
afraid to wear it because the clasp, while perfectly appropriate
to the unusual style of the piece, is unreliable. I need someone
to change the clasp for me who has experience making heavy,
silver jewelry. The bracelet is a series of ''S'' shaped links
with inset stones. I tried to take it back to the store where he
told me he bought it, but they refused to do anything without a
receipt, which he threw away. I have 2 boys and a job, so I
would like to find someone in Berkeley.
Big Bling Lover
We have been going to Oaks Jewelers at the top of Solano for all
our jewlery/watch needs for the last 20 years. It is family run
and they are wonderful.
GN
Dec 2005
I need to repair my treasured engagement ring. It is a
platinum ring with a raised basket mount for the main diamond
with three elongated rectangular baguettes on each side. The
mount for the baguettes on one side broke, so I am now missing
the small platinum piece and three baguettes. Can someone
recommend a reputable jewelry repair shop that than replace the
platinum and the baguettes in a timely manner?
The main diamond is a good-sized, flawless stone that
represents the only time I've actually seen my husband spend
any time shopping. I always remember my great grandmother
swearing that one of her diamonds was replaced when she had a
ring repaired years ago. Bless her soul, but to this day I am
paranoid about handing my ring over to someone I don't know. I
am looking for a trusted professional very experienced in
working with platinum and of course guarantees their work to a
reasonable extent. I live in Rockridge but am willing to
travel. Of course I would like the work done in time for the
holidays. Thank you.
We bought platinum wedding and engagement rings at Pave at 5496
College in Rockridge and had a great experience. We didn't buy
off the shelf; they made everything for us based on designs we
worked out with them.
My ring had to be adjusted and I was really happy with the
changes--if that counts as something that shows how they repair
jewelry!
We supplied one diamond from an old family ring and they supplied
two pink diamonds that were way better than supposedly comparable
diamonds at a prestigious San Francisco jeweler.
We worked with Leanne but I'm sure everyone there is great.
Good luck!
anon
I don't know that they can help with your particular situation, but I recommend McConnell & Sons/The Kings Jewelers in Walnut Creek. Website: www.thekingsjewelers.com They provide very personalized service, have amazing collections of stones, and do quality work.
Leslie
I have used Given Gold Jewelers on Piedmont Ave for repairs on my engagement ring. I even had to leave it there for 3 days, I was nervous, as I've heard about the replacing the diamond with cubic zirconia trick too. BUT I don't believe any reputable dealer would do that. I was very happy with my service there, though my ring is gold, but they do platinum work as well. I'm sorry I don't have their contact information handy right at the moment. Also, we bought our wedding rings from 14 Karats on College. I don't know if they handle repairs, but their quality and service was excellent as well. Hope that helps!
Kukana
Aug 2005
I am looking for a design studio to help me redesign and set my
diamond wedding ring. I've looked at Pave on College ave. Any
other suggestions?
Karen
I recommend Fishers jewelry on Solano in Albany. They helped me design a ring for
my wife long ago when we were engaged. We've both been very happy with the results.
I went there a few weeks back to get a replacement wedding ring (long story!) and they
were as helpful as ever.
Jeff
I am so glad you are asking. My family has had many stones set
and often they were ''lost'' or switched by the very jewelers we
had trusted the stones to. We just had a large diamond set
three weeks ago-- into an engagement ring --in Alameda at Dennis
Jewelers on Park Street and it turned out perfect--pretty and
with the origianl stone. I have heard dozens of horror-- and
sad --stories about most of the other local jewelers. Be very
careful---and also take photos of the stone before you hand it
over. Good Luck.
nancy
Union Street Goldsmiths in San Francisco (on Union). The designer
is named Glenda. They are fabulous. They designed my husbands
wedding band and he gets compliments all the time.
anon
Try Eric Trabert Jewelers in SF,in the upper Fillmore area: 2420
Fillmore at Jackson. (415) 567-8887 Eric has worked with me to
redesign several pieces of jewelry, including my engagement ring
and a necklace. He has also done an absolultely fantastic job of
restoring several pieces of jewelry that have been in my family
for over 100 years. He is very friendly and his prices are
incredibly reasonable.
Go to Pave Jewelers on College in Rockridge. They helped me
design a necklace using stones I had from two different rings.
The end result is stunning - even better than I had hoped.
Their staff is extremely nice, very professional, great in
helping with design ideas but always following the customer's
lead. I have used Pave several times for jewerly repair also
and I highly recommend them.
Susan
Clay Kirchenbauer is a jeweler in Oakland who works by appointment to
create custom jewelry designs to meet your needs. He has a refined
artistic sense and many years of experience. 510 339-6269
Melanie
June 2005
I am looking for a jeweler to size a ring for me. The ring was
a gift from my parents and is a couple sizes too big. My
parents bought the ring in the Carribean while on a cruise and
the shop they bought it from said yellow gold can be changed
into white gold by a process called Rhodiuming (?sp- they use a
chemical called Rhodium to do it). Has anyone heard of this? I
would have this done as well if possible, but the sizing is more
important, obviously. If anyone has a well-trusted jeweler in
the East Bay, let me know!
Laura
Rhodium plating is a popular way of getting yellow gold to be ''white.''
However, because it is a form of plating, it does wear off. And, I've heard,
it wears off in little patches, so it looks bad, especially if done directly
over yellow gold (true white gold is a mixture of yellow gold, nickel and
other white metals--because it will ''warm'' over time to a more yellowish
color, rhodium plating is also often added over white gold, to keep it very
silver). I don't really recommend rhodium plating, therefore, unless you
don't mind continuously getting the ring re-plated.
prefer white gold, too!
My husband has had his wedding band resized twice at Pave in Oakland, and they did a
flawless job both times. We love Pave in general. They are professional, not at all
snobbish, and located right in the heart of Rockridge.
http://www.pavefinejewelry.com/
Amy
Try Oaks Jewelers on Solano. They are a family business, and as
honest as you could get. We've been going there for over 20
years for anything jewerlry or watch related and they have
always done great work.
Pave on College is a wonderful .
anon
Sept 2004
I saw the recommendation for David Allen Designs in Alameda in
the archived recommendations and tried to call him but the
number is busy constantly. I called 411 but he is not listed.
Does the person who recommended him know if he has moved and/or
what his contact info is. Or, does anyone have any other
suggestions for a good jeweler in Alameda, or in the Pinole
area? I am trying to redesign my wedding band (add some small
diamonds)and would like someone trustworthy and reasonably
priced. Also, can you easily switch from an out of town jeweler
ie. what happens as far as appraisals go, do you lose out if you
switch to a different jeweler? Thanks so much!
Editor Note (Feb 2012)
The current phone number for David Allen Designs is 707-861-9119,
located at 139 North Main, downtown Sebastopol
and email address is dadesigns AT hotmail.com.
The BEST jeweler, in my humble opinion, is Seelenbacher
Jewelers in Alameda. It's a family owned business and has been
owned and operated by the family since the 60's. Chris
Seelenbacher is the head jeweler I believe- he's who we always
deal with. At any rate, he is very firendly, and he really
knows his stuff. We've done a lot of business with him, and
will never go anywhere else! He's been able to craft jewelery
pieces for me just the way that I have described them, he's
fixed jewelry for me, and though I've never personally had him
appraise anything for us, some friends of ours have and were
very happy with how thorough and knowledgeable he was. We've
always felt like valued customers there and feel very lucky to
have had him recommended to us. His address is 1507 Webster
Street in Alameda and his phone # is 522-8300. I hope you find
him as wonderful as we do!
Jessica
Jan 2003
I'm looking for a jewelry store to do simple repairs on jewelry,
perhaps to appraise some small pieces, and to replace watch
batteries in my nicer watches. I have been to a few places in
Alameda but never had a great feel for them.
Does anyone have one to recommend? Thanks.
Jennie
Dennis Jewelry on Park Street is very reputable and does
good repairs on the premises. Dennis, the owner and
Stella, his wife, are friendly and helpful. I've been going to
them for many years. They also put in watch batteries, and
you can ask about appraisals.
susan
Jan 2004
Hi there, can anyone recommend a place where I could have our white
gold wedding rings and engagement ring polished and re-plated by a
good, honest and not-too-pricey jeweller?
It has to be possibly somewhere between north berkeley and rockridge.
Thanks very much
barbara
I highly recommend J Sahadi Jewelers on Piedmont Avenue. They
have a real professional who does repairs, settings checks, and
even makes his own jewelry (beautiful stuff). They are honest
and do quality work. We've had them maintain items bought
elsewhere (before we moved here) and have also purchased new
items from them. I used to lose small diamonds from my wedding
ring on occassion, but no more since they worked on it. I do
have them check it once a year (which they do for free). I'm not
sure how they compare on pricing, but it has always seems
reasonable and well worth the cost.
Dec 2003
Hello,
I have a coin that I want turned into a necklace. Does anyone
know of a good jeweler who does custom work and is
reasonably priced?
Thanks!
J
Fourteen Karats on College in Elmwood can do this kind of work.
Holly
I do not recommend Solano Jewelers, who specializes in
custom jewelry. I asked for a simple resize of my 14k White
Gold ring, and it came out warped (he couldn't re-create the
straight line so it was wavy) and he over-polished the white
gold & didn't refinish so it looked like very light yellow gold
in some spots (Yes, it was spotty). All this is for $45!
KN
Jan 2003
Has anyone ever gone to Aura in Walnut Square in Berkeley for
jewelry repair? I've been there once, but they didn't carry the
item I needed and suggested someone else. They were very nice.
I have a broken gold chain that I need fixed, nothing fancy but
it's valuable enough that I want it done right. I've looked at
the website, but this particular jeweler isn't mentioned.
robbie
My husband bought me an expensive gemstone (beaded) necklace
from Aura Jewelers which broke within 3 weeks. They VERY
reluctantly agreed to fix it for free after trying to charge me
for re-stringing. The necklace came back 6 beads shorter, and 3
months later broke again. This may not be relevant to your
situation as they likely have someone different doing gold
repairs vs. beading.
Chris
Jan 2003
I have several inexpensive necklaces that are broken. Now that
my son is past the yanking-on-everything-in-reach stage (mostly!
yes, that's how they all got broken in the first place) I'd love
to get them fixed. The thing is, they aren't really good enough
jewelry to take to a regular jeweler; they're just wooden beads
and things like that, purchased at places like Mervyns. But I
like them, and would prefer not to just toss them and have to
hunt for similar replacements. I also don't really want to have
to learn how to do it myself. Is there anyone or anyplace out
there that could do this? I've asked at one bead shop but they
were not helpful. I'd be happy to pay a reasonable fee -- or
maybe work out some sort of trade with a hobbyist who could do
it? Grateful for any suggestions.
Holly
I make jewelry as a hobby and a part time business. One of
the reasons I got into it was because when I looked into
getting a fake strand of pearls restrung and I was quoted
$50.00 to do so. I took a class for the same amount of
money and learned to do it myself. I recommend you do the
same because it will cost you more to have them repaired
than the jewelry originally cost! Check at Baubles and
Beads on Shattuck. If you go in at a quiet time (morning
during the week) they might be able to quickly show you the
basics. Even if you're not crafty, you might enjoy it as an
hobby. If you want to know more, you can email me directly.
Good luck.
Mollie
November 2002
I want to engrave a sterling silver locket with a particular
design. Does anyone have a recommendation for a quality jewelry
engraver?
Thanks!
leigh
Anne of Edelweiss Jewelers on College near Ashby is a great
jewelry maker. I think she owns the small store and she
designs beautiful jewelry. I'm sure she would be happy to
do an engraving for you. The phone number is 644-5544.
Dianna
I feel like I have to follow up on the listing of Edelweiss for
engraving. First, let me make clear that Anne is a wonderful
jeweler and does beautiful work. We've bought several things
from her and would happily do so again. However, engraving is
not her forte, in my experience. It's unclear whether she was
just really rushed when she did a job for us and trying to
finish by the date she had told us. We only had it done once
but did not find it to be anywhere near the caliber of her other
work. So, by all means, consider buying beautiful things at
Edelweiss, but at least ask to see a sample of engraving before
you get your own done there.
Anonymous
Morrison O'Hara on 5th St. in Berkeley is an excellent choice
for engraving. I took some of my daughter's keepsakes there.
Not cheap, but excellent work.
Liz O.
July 2002
Our tenth year wedding aniversary is approaching and we wish
purchase some new wedding rings and we don't know where to go
to get them. We would consider custom rings if they are nicely
made. Please give us some ideas, advice or experiences
positive or negative. Thank you!
Greg
A personal favorite: Old Gold in Mendocino. You can take a
romantic trip AND get lovely rings.
Becky
I love the selection at 14 Karats on College Avenue in Elmwood.
They have a diverse selection of rings and other jewelry that
they design themselves (some traditional, some more unusual).
The owners are really nice -- they're a husband and wife team,
and they do all the work right there on-site. Their prices seem
quite reasonable, too (not cheap, but fair).
Kathryn
I can strongly recommend Anne of Edelweiss Jewelry
on College Ave., near Ashby. She is an artist who
designs jewelry, as well as having many other older
pieces for sale in her small store. She can work with
you closely to give you what you want, at a reasonable
price.
Dianna
Pavi on College Ave. has excellent customer service and a good
collection of unique jewelry. We got our wedding rings there -- we
picked out the bands and stones and had them custom made. They did
a great job. Now I go in there to get our rings cleaned for free.
I've also had my ring sized up after pregnancy and birth. They are
very nice to deal with.
Hae
My partner and I just had some rings made for us at Pave on
College Ave. We are very happy with the results! We worked
with Leanne.
archie
I highly recommend Pave on College Avenue in Rockridge. My
husband and I, my brother, and about a 1/2 dozen of our close
friends have had our wedding rings made there. They do fabulous
work, offer great design consulting and service, and have a
collection of beautiful/original pieces. I have also had other
pieces of jewelry custom made there.
Maya Byrne McBride
Greg,
There is a jeweler in Alameda, David Allen Designs, who is
wonderful! He primariy does custom work for other jewelers, this
should give you an idea of his talent. Because he designs and
creates his pieces for other jewelry stores his prices are well
below retail.
I just had a ring made in platinum with over 50 1/2 point
diamonds pave set and it was appraised for 3 times what he
charged me. Not to mention other jewelers comment on the quality
of the ring.
maria
Fisher's Jewelers on Solano has a nice selection of rings. They
can also design something special and unique for you.
Burr
Someone else recommended the 14 Carats on College @ Ashby, and
after this weekend, I need to pitch in with my comments. I lost
my engagement ring in February, and with a heavy heart went back
to the store to buy for myself the same ring that my finace
bought last year. When I told the owner my story, he not only
remembered my unique ring design exactly, but told me that he
would only charge me material and labor. He said, ''I can't
charge you full price twice.'' He seemed to feel almost as badly
about it as I did.
The moral of the story is, insure you jewelry (mine wasn't) and
make sure the ring really fits (mine didn't and I didn't take it
back to be resized). But also the 14 Carats is a great place.
The people there are eager to work with you to make sure that you
are happy with the design, and will also work with you to help
you come up with a design, even if you just have a rough idea of
what you want.
March 2002
Anyone know of a good jewelry repair person, and/or someone who can repair
beaded earrings, North Berkeley location preferred.
Alice
I would recommend Margo Lowe of M. Lowe & Company. In my opinion, you'll
never find a better jewelry company. Margo and her fellow jewelers are
warm and friendly people and they do exquisitely beautiful work. They are
located across Shattuck Ave. from the French Hotel. Phone = 486-0613. A
real community treasure.
Melissa
I have used the Oaks Jeweler's at 1783 Solano Ave regularly for many years
for repair, rebuilding and maintenance of all my antique jewelery. They made
several pairs of my grandfather's gold cufflinks into gorgeous earrings and
take wonderful care of my inherited items which I love dearly - rings,
pearls, watches, and fobs. They are a family owned and operated business,
totally professional, honest and reasonable about prices. I don't go
anywhere
else for repair and care.
Nuckypuff
When a stone fell out of the beautiful diamond ring my mother gave me, I
took it to Morrison's Jewelers in Orinda, (is it 925?) 253-9227. They
are at 35 Moraga Way. They were very pleasant and professional. They
went to some trouble to find a good match for the missing stone and
didn't charge an arm and a leg. They had also reset the same ring a
number of years before, making some good suggestions to make it more
wearable without changing the original style.
Louise
I had several very special antique pieces repaired at Pave on College Avenue
in Rockridge.
(They also designed and made my wedding and engagement rings). They do
beautiful work.
I would absolutely trust them to take good care of your special pieces.
Christine
June 1999
I couldn't help but react to the recommendation for 14 Karats. I am glad
you had a good experience with them, and I guess they are certainly
successful, given their location, etc. However, the owner melted my
father's wedding band, which had great sentimental value for me. My father
had died, and this was the band he had from marrying my Mom (my Mom had
since remarried and had lost her original wedding band). 14 Karats' owner
(whose name I have driven from my memory) told us he could cast a replica
and make a smaller band for me (my husband could wear my father's band
perfectly). Then, not only did he melt it, but he was afraid to tell us
and I found out 2 days prior to the wedding that I had no wedding bands!
That was 19 years ago, and to this day I give a little Bronx cheer every
time I go by that place.
Becky
I also couldn't help but remark on my experience with 14 Karats. I had
taken some assorted pieces of gold into John (the owner).
I asked John to melt this gold into a
nugget ring for me. So this he did, but it came out looking like a stupid
glob on top of a band like no time was really put into it. Keep in mind I
would come into the shop frequently to admire his rings and imagine which
one I would pick for my wedding set. So I took the ring and years later
about 10 years, I went back into the shop to have him do something else
withthe ring for me. So one of his workers looked at it and said that
there were wires in the gold and he could work it the gold like that. So I
told him that the ring was made there and he acted surprised. So I just
left because once the damage is done to somethings there is not turning
back. I live by the bible and it says"that those things which are seen are
temporal but those things which are not seen are enternal" Which
interprets as the ways you treat a person goes a heck of a lot longer of a
way than diamonds or gold. Treasures in heaven will never fade away but
those things that man can manipulate like trust comes and goes. You reap
what you sow no matter if it is good or bad it's going to come back around.
John's location of his store stands for the things which are seen and the
way he treats people and conducts his business are those things which are
not seen ( by passers by)! Think about it!
Anita
I wanted to add my comments to the bunch. Personally, I had a
wonderful experience with John. My husband and I had my engagement ring
and our bands made there using the gold from a set of cuff links my
husband inherited. John was well aware of the significance of the cuff
links and the reason we wanted to use them for our rings. As a result, he
took extra labeling precautions to avoid them getting loss mixed up with
other items.
One of the things we especially liked about John was his
willingness to trust people. When I looked at a set of estate rings, John
needed to know if I could where white gold (which most vintage wedding
sets are made of). Since I was not sure, he gave me a white gold band out
of the case and asked me to wear it for a week. He did not ask for a
deposit or even for my driver's license number. When we returned to look
for stones a week later, John demonstrated additional trust. We were
looking at color-changing sapphires. He placed three or four stones on
my hand (worth somewhere around $3-5000) and told us to step outside in
the light. The shop was rather busy so he turned his attention to another
customer as we examined the stones. My husband and I truly appreciated
this behavior because, frankly, it is very refreshing in our society of
security cameras, undercover security guards, etc.
As for John's work, we are most happy. John helped us design a
beautiful, unique engagement ring that best complements my personality
(I'm not a Tiffany-setting kind of gal) and accentuates the beautiful
stone we purchased. The wedding bands were also nicely done and made to
look like antiques. As for the quality of John's merchandise and
craftsmanship, an independent appraisal of my engagement ring (done for
insurance purposes) resulted in an assessed value higher than the initial
price indicating the piece had risen in value.
I highly recommend John and 14 karats. Using his services made
one area of our wedding planning 100% stress-free. I think it is
unfortunate that the other members had a poor experience with him.
Hopefully, my comments and theirs will help you decide if John is a good
fit for you.
Jeanette
I had happy results also. An antique platinum ring whose
filigree dome had been crushed. It was beautifully restored
and sized - they did a great job.
Ginger
Although it sounds like some people have had horrible experiences there,
I've had several different jobs done by them and done well, with no
problems. They have pierced my daughter's ears (thank heavens they didn't
screw that up!!), sized (made larger) an antique ring, advised us on the
best kind of chain for my son for a medallion which cannot be replaced (and
made a special effort to obtain the chain from their supplier in SF at a
modest markup), and stretched a very valuable diamond ring for me for no
charge. They seem like the kind of people who would stand behind their
work and I'm really surprised about the problems encountered by others.
Barbara
this page was last updated: Feb 13, 2012
The opinions and statements expressed on this website
are those of parents who subscribe to the
Berkeley Parents Network.
Please see
Disclaimer & Usage for
information about using content on this website.
Copyright © 1996-2013 Berkeley Parents Network