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Things I often get asked   

If your question isn't addressed here, feel free to ask me here.

Q: How much does a repair cost me? What do you charge?
A:
This is a great question. I haven't raised my prices since 2019. I charge $180 per hour of bench time which means the time I spend working on you you repair. At first, this number seems overwhelming. But It comes down to $3 per minute. I start a timer when I sit down to do your repair/alteration and it works out to how many minutes it takes. ($180 per hour is $3 per minute). I work quickly and some jobs take 15 minutes ($45 such as a chain repair) whereas other take longer. The average repair  takes less or up to an hour ($180). Feel free to contact me for a more accurate estimate on cost. This is what I have to charge to keep the lights on. 

Q: How long does it take to repair/resize/modify my jewellery?
A:
Within as little as a day to perhaps a week. I do it all myself. If you need it in a hurry, I will do my best to prioritize it for you. At any given time I have many different projects on the go, such as custom designs and manufacturing. I do however make time to do repairs and modifications in a quick turnaround time. My clients almost always express their need to me for a quick turnaround time and I always accommodate. If it's not urgent, let me know. If it is, tell me and I will accommodate. 

Q: Do you supply Canadian Diamonds?
A: Yes. Canadian Diamonds used to carry a premium due to the fact that we were selling them in Canada - pride sells. Also, Canadian Diamonds are usually of a higher grade. This means that the lower grade stones are sold offshore and enter the market as a diamond with it's origin unknown. This doesn't mean that Canadian diamonds are "better" than other diamonds. Diamonds come in all shapes, sizes and qualities from around the world. But in Canada, the better quality stones are marketed here, and noted to be of a higher grade. 
 
Q: Do you only supply natural, earth mined diamonds?
A: No. Since laboratory created diamonds have become a very significant part of the market, I offer the highest quality lab diamonds at competitive market prices. 

Q: If I choose to buy a diamond from you and it is not Canadian, how do I know that it is an ethically sourced stone? 
A: I only deal with diamond merchants that have been in the business for decades and have developed a robust, trustworthy business based on ethics. These diamond dealers purchase their stones from sources in countries that belong to the Kimberley Process (among other safeguarding processes) which have been implemented to stop the trade in "conflict diamonds" which were being used to fund rebel violence, amongst other things. 

Q: How long does it take to make an engagement ring?
A: Usually anywhere from 3 weeks to 6 weeks. But the true answer to this is dependent on a variety of factors, including the complexity of the design and whether or not you need it in a hurry. Read more at the engagement ring page.

Q: Do you repair jewellery?
A: Yes.  Every day. I have the experience and the facilities to repair a vast array of jewellery, eyeglass frames and most small objects that may need fixing because they can't simply be replaced. If I can't repair it, then it likely cannot be repaired.  I welcome any and all repairs, and I will tell you if it is possible or not.

Q: What is Carat, Colour, Cut and Clarity in the world of diamonds? How can I learn about the grading system of diamonds?
A: Rather than cutting and pasting text here that will educate you on diamonds, I have provided the link to the Gemological Society of America, below. I will always educate you about diamonds when we are talking in person and going through the process of selecting one. However, many people like to pre-educate themselves a bit on the topic. Read more about diamond grades here.

Q: Is the work performed on the premises?
A: Yes. All designing, manufacturing, repairs and modifications are performed by myself here in my Ottawa workshop. I personally perform all the work, so that you know that there is no middle-man or shipping required. It's safer, more cost effective and time-saving. 

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