Q&A

Custom Design and Restyling:

1. What kinds of jewelry are you able to craft?

We offer a variety of jewelry such as engagement rings, earrings, pendants, bangles, cuff-links, and rings.

2. What kinds of metals do you specialize in working with?

 We provide a selection of metals for your custom jewelry, including Yellow, White, Rose (10k, 14k & 18k), as well as platinum.

3. Do you offer diamonds and gemstones for sale?

While we specialized in diamonds, through our strong partnerships with leading global suppliers, we can procure also finest quality gemstones and also ensure they are ethically sourced. Whether it's GIA-certified or IGI -certified diamonds or precious gemstones such as sapphires, emerald, rubies or moissanite my wife and I are dedicated to selecting the ideal stone that aligns perfectly with your occasion and budget. Additionally, we offer high-resolution videos showcasing all our diamonds.

4. Do you offer price matching for diamonds?

Certainly! Kindly provide us with the pricing and certification details, and we will either procure that specific stone for you or locate a comparable alternative.

5. How do you approach designing custom pieces?

After your consultation, we'll craft a basic 3D rendering that includes both the metal and gemstone. You're invited to make unlimited revisions until you're fully satisfied. We also offer wax models for a tactile inspection of your design

Please be aware that complex renders, such as custom casting and intricate organic designs, may necessitate a deposit. This deposit will be applied as a credit toward your final purchase.

6. Do you maintain a live inventory?

No, we utilize silver combined with moissanite samples to demonstrate our designs and assist clients in envisioning the finished product. This approach enables us to offer competitive pricing compared to traditional retail stores, as each piece is custom-made to order

7. Are you able to incorporate our own metal and gemstones into the design?

Certainly, provided your metal is either pure gold or matches the karat of your new item. We specialize in custom jewelry and restyling comes with it naturally. Your existing metals can be incorporated into a new piece of jewelry, or we can provide a credit for the metal toward your purchase.

8. Can I make changes to my design after placing the order?

Prior to creating the CAD design, a 60% deposit is required. We allow for up to 2 revisions of your initial design; beyond that, a nominal fee applies for additional revisions, provided the design has not progressed to the casting phase.

9. What is the typical timeline for custom projects?

Delivery typically takes 3-4 weeks from payment and design/CAD approval from customer, varying based on the complexity of the design. Please note, timelines may extend during peak seasons such as Christmas, New Year, Valentine's Day, Mother's Day, and Women's Day.

10. What options are available if I'm interested in a piece that isn't listed on the website?

Being a true custom design boutique, we warmly invite our clients to share their inspiration photos or concept sketches with us, allowing us to bring their visions to reality.

Appointments:

1. How do I set up a virtual/phone consultation? What will the process look like?

Since all of our pieces are made-to-order with a 3–4-week lead time, we recommend starting the journey with us approximately 3 months before needing a finished piece. We kindly ask all clients to begin with us virtually by either submitting an online inquiry or scheduling a 10-15 min phone consultation using this link (create a automatic calendar booking form)

We recommend that couples participate in the consultation together or engage in an open conversation beforehand. It's crucial for both partners to align on preferences such as diamond specifics, size, shape, budget, and timing. It's typical for couples to begin the process together, with the recipient often stepping back to preserve the surprise element for the proposal.

After the call, my wife or I will reach out to you and facilitate the next steps of the process. Whether you're just beginning your search or have a clear vision in mind, we're here to discuss design concepts, provide ballpark estimates and curated options, or offer detailed pricing for any specific piece you have in mind.

2. How do I set up an in-person shopping appointment?

Our process begins with an initial online or phone call consultation. Once we understand your preferences and requirements, we look forward to inviting you to our showroom! To secure an in-person appointment, a minimum deposit of $50 CAD is required, which varies based on the product in question and is fully applicable to any purchase.

Please note that we do not accommodate walk-in appointments due to our limited time-slots. We recommend booking in advance, as we are typically booked 1-2 weeks ahead. If you have a tight timeframe, please inform us, and we'll do our utmost to accommodate your needs.

3. Do I need to do anything before my in-person appointment?

The more details you provide upfront, the better we can assist you. Please share any inspiration screenshots, photos, preferences on the 4Cs (cut, color, clarity, carat), timeline, desired budget, and any other relevant information. We highly recommend sharing photos of your favorite inspiration pieces, or a photo of AD’s own collection.

4. What will my in-person appointment look like?

Unlike large retailers, our showroom is not stocked with diamonds and settings. Instead, we offer a personalized experience tailored to each client. Our showroom showcases samples from AD’s current and past collections of rings and jewelry. You can try on pieces, receive our recommendations on styles that best suit you, and ask any additional questions or share concerns you may have

5. When should I schedule my in-person appointment?

Since we do not carry any inventory and our current production lead time is around 3-4 weeks, we usually recommend starting the virtual/phone process with us approximately 3 months before you need the finished ring. After the initial consultation, we would coordinate and schedule an in-person appointment if you are within 30 days from your desired purchase timeline.

Payments and Ordering:

1. What does the engagement ring package pricing include?

Package prices provided are estimates and include both the diamond and the setting. They do not encompass duties or taxes. The final price may vary based on market fluctuations, the specific curated diamond selected, finger size, metal type, adjustments to the setting, and any additional approved customizations.

2. What does the package pricing include?

Our packages offer a range of diamond types and qualities to choose from. Please note that all package prices are estimates and do not include duties or taxes. The final price may vary depending on market fluctuations, specific details, finger size (if applicable), metal type, and any additional modifications or approved customizations

3. How does payment work?

After finalizing all design elements, we will send you a detailed invoice for your order. A 60% deposit is required prior to starting the project and upon placing the order, with the remaining 40% due upon completion before shipping or scheduling for in-person pickup. We accept wire transfers, cashier's checks and Paypal. Please make all checks payable to 'Aleia Diamonds Inc.'

4. Do you do financing?

We do not. Many of our clients are able to work with their local banks to secure financing options that work best for them!

Shipping, Exchange or Return:

1. Does AD sell Gift Certificates

Absolutely! If you're uncertain about what to give a loved one or prefer to let them choose their own gift, an AD gift certificate is the ideal choice.

To purchase a gift certificate, please get in touch with us at info@aleiadiamonds.ca

Shipping, Exchange or Return:

1. When will my order ship? How long will it take?

We provide complimentary shipping for new orders across Canada. Our handmade pieces typically require 3-4 weeks for production. Production only starts after deposit and approval of the design for your item has been paid/given. Once completed, we will notify you via email and arrange a delivery date. Your order will be shipped via FedEx Insured Priority Overnight. Tracking numbers will be provided, and all deliveries require an adult signature.

2. Is the package insured?

Each package is fully insured against theft or loss during transit. However, once it is signed for, the liability transfers to the recipient. We advise clients to consult their local insurance provider or obtain a quote from State Farm/Jewelers Mutual for jewelry insurance. It's highly recommended to insure your pieces, especially during the first year of wear.

3. What is your exchange, return or refund policy?

Because all our pieces are custom-made, we do not provide exchanges, refunds, or accept returns. However, for in-stock items ready to ship, we accept exchanges or issue store credit for pieces returned unworn and in original condition within 7 business days of receiving your order (excluding shipping fees). Please note, refunds are not available

Repair, Sizing, Price Match and Warranty:

1. Do you offer resizing?

One complimentary sizing is provided within the first 6 months of purchase (note: eternity bands cannot be resized). Any resizing required after this period will incur charges based on factors such as band width, metal type, and the number of sizes needed. Estimated turnaround time for resizing is typically 7-10 business days.

For local clients, please email info@aleaidiamonds.ca to schedule drop off of the item.

For non-local clients, it’s recommended to seek out local service providers for resizing.

2. How do I figure out my/ my partner’s correct finger?

During your in-person appointment, we will measure your partner’s ring size accordingly. If you are planning this without your partner present, you can provide us with a ring they normally wear, and we can measure that instead.

Nowadays, our clients typically include their partner in these meetings – after all, they will be wearing the ring, and it’s meaningful for them to be involved in the initial design process

3. Do you offer inspection/cleaning services?

All jewelry purchased from Aleia Diamonds includes a lifetime complimentary cleaning and inspection service. This service covers stone checking, tightening, and polishing, excluding White Gold, which requires Rhodium plating (cost varies per ring). We recommend servicing and checking your jewelry annually.

4. What’s covered under warranty?

Our jewelry is crafted for durability and longevity. We provide a lifetime warranty against manufacturing defects. Please note, diamonds larger than 0.05ct, natural mined or lab-grown diamonds, and gemstone center stones on engagement rings and other jewelry pieces are not covered under this warranty. We recommend purchasing jewelry insurance through your provider or a standalone policy from an insurance company of your choice. For assistance, please contact us at info@aleiadiamonds.ca

Please note that our warranty excludes coverage for daily wear and tear, damage from misuse, loss, or theft. While we are committed to repairing your jewelry, any associated fees will be based on the specific repair needs determined by our jewelers.

Lastly, warranty covers only the original purchaser of the product and is not transferable to subsequent owners or purchasers.

Clients are responsible for all shipping and insurance charges related to repair items

5. How do I clean my ring/ jewelry?

In summary, you can clean your jewelry with a mild dishwashing detergent, small toothbrush, and distilled water. Gently scrub and wipe dry with provided jewelry cloth.

If you need a deeper, professional cleaning, we offer lifetime cleaning services. Please contact us at info@aleiadiamonds.ca

 

INSURANCE AND APPRAISALS:

1. How do I get insurance for my ring?

We suggest reaching out to your local licensed insurance company for a quote. Similar to shopping for car insurance, you can compare rates and find the coverage that suits your requirements.

Insurance providers usually ask for a photo of the jewelry, personal details, a bill of sale, or a jewelry appraisal (all Aleia Diamonds jewelry above 1ct includes an IGL appraisal that you can provide to any insurance provider).

We strongly advise clients to secure jewelry insurance within the first year of ownership, especially if you plan to propose in a different location and will be traveling with the ring.

2. Do you offer Appraisals?

Yes, we do, all new diamond purchases, natural or lab created, over $2,000 come with a complimentary appraisal for International Gemological Institute (IGL) that has been serving Calgarians in the past 43 years and counting.

 

LAB DIAMONDS QUALITY & CURATION:

1. Does Lab Grown Diamonds test as real diamonds?

Yes, it's important to note that most low-cost diamond testing tools used by jewelers and retailers are designed to distinguish between stimulants (such as moissanite and cubic zirconia) and diamonds, rather than between lab-grown diamonds and natural mined diamonds. This highlights the importance of having a proper grading report that clearly identifies the type of diamond you own.

Natural and lab-grown diamonds of the same quality appear identical side by side, even to a trained observer. The distinction between lab-grown and natural diamonds typically requires specialized equipment capable of detecting subtle differences in trace elements and crystal growth patterns.

Another method involves using a microscope or loupe to locate the laser-inscribed certificate number on the diamond's girdle. This unique identifier allows examiners to trace the diamond back to its grading report, which specifies the diamond's exact specifications and whether it is lab-grown or naturally mined.

All AD’s diamond above .50ct are graded by third party, gemological institutions that certify each and every one of our diamonds with a microscopic laser inscription. (IGI or GIA)

AD also have diamond tester that can detect natural vs lab create vs moissanite, not unlike most retailer.

2. What is the main difference between a lab grown vs. natural mined diamonds? Should I buy CVD or HPHT?

The primary distinction between the two is their production method and pricing, as they are visually indistinguishable and have a similar feel.

Natural Diamonds are formed when carbon is bonded under extreme temperatures and pressures over 1 to 3 billion years, making them the oldest objects on Earth that you can touch.

Scientists have developed methods to create diamonds using High-Pressure High-Temperature (HPHT) conditions, which replicate the natural diamond formation process. Additionally, diamonds can be produced through Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD), where carbon-rich gases like methane are placed in a vacuum chamber, resembling a large microwave that produces diamonds.

Lab-grown diamonds are priced at a 40%-70% discount compared to natural diamonds of equivalent quality. We believe both growth processes are valid choices, and the focus should be on the quality of the final product. It's crucial to prioritize excellent cut, maximizing fire and brilliance, and ensuring the absence of unwanted tints or hues.

3. Do Lab Diamonds have value?

Based on our experience, clients are increasingly interested in lab-grown diamonds for their value, savings, and the opportunity to afford larger stones, rather than viewing them as investments for resale. Given that lab-grown diamonds are relatively new to the market, there is greater uncertainty regarding future pricing and their value in secondary markets.

4. Do they sparkle the same as natural diamonds? Will it tarnish, change color or dull over time?

They sparkle just like natural diamonds because their brilliance and sparkle depend on precision cutting and manufacturing of the rough material. You can see for yourself in any of our lab-grown diamond videos. Additionally, they do not tarnish, change color, or dull over time, much like natural diamonds

5. Where are lab diamonds grown?

Diamonds are cultivated in advanced facilities around the globe, including in the United States, China, and India, by skilled scientists, engineers, and technicians

6. Can I trade in and upgrade a lab grown engagement ring I purchased from you?

We do not provide trade-ins or upgrades for lab-grown diamonds. All sales of lab-grown diamonds are final.

7. Are the side diamonds/diamonds on the band also lab grown?

Unless specified otherwise, we use color-matched natural mined melee diamonds in all our signature jewelry