FAQs

As all stones are as unique as the person who wears them, I like to either meet with you or have a detailed phone call first to make sure I am understanding exactly what you are wanting, what your budget may be and what your ideal timeline to purchase a stone is.

The next step is to provide you with options! It is usually at this point when stones are brought in and a time is scheduled for you to view them.

Most clients find this an exceptionally personal experience and it ensures the stone you select is exactly what you want.

Custom creating a piece of jewelry is an exciting process! Because every item is made to order, the timeline can vary greatly depending upon the complexity of the design, if design changes are made, if specialty stones need to be sourced and how quickly communications happen. Most designs flow from concept to completion within 2-4 weeks, although simple pieces can be done much faster.

First, we start by figuring out what is important to you for your design. What styles are you drawn to? What color/s of metal do you like? What stones will be featured? We can also use a sketch or a picture of something you like as starting point.

After collaborating to discover your concept or vision, the initial design is created. We are proud to offer original, in-house, CAD design work. This process enables us to show you photorealistic computer images, make any desired changes to the design before casting and print a model for your approval. We also offer customization direct from select manufacturers, hand carved wax modeling and hand fabrication.

Once you have given final approval of your design - the item is cast into metal, stones are set, it is polished and is complete!

In all, custom creating a piece of jewelry should be a wonderful experience. Our goal is that you have a piece of jewelry that you love, is made to last, and turns out better than you could have ever hoped for.

Paragon Gem Services is here to help!

We can provide any and all jewelry repair and restoration service, including (but not limited to):

• Ring Sizing

• Chain Repairs and Clasp Replacements

• Hand Engraving

• Solder/Weld Breaks

• Redesign or Modify Existing Pieces

• Repair and Rebuild Prongs, Tips and Channels

• Replace Missing or Damaged Stones

• Solder Rings Together

• Fix Earrings, Supply New Earring Backs

• Clean, Polish and Rhodium Plate

• Replace Worn Out or Thinning Ring Shanks

• Install Expandable (Arthritic) Shanks to Rings

There are two quick and easy ways to schedule your appointment!

The first way is to call (509) 230-6626 and we can find a time that works best for your schedule!

The second option is to self schedule your appointment online. You pick the time and date and what you need help with.

If you have any questions or need additional help creating an appointment please call or email me at: meaghan@paragongemservices.com.

Prior to your appointment, please gather and have available any previous records about your item such as: receipts of purchase, former appraisals or warranties. Other documents such as grading reports from laboratories such as GIA, EGL or AGS are also important.

If you have items that need extra attention (such as deep cleaning or needed repair), Paragon Gemological Services can assist in providing these services for you. Basic cleaning can be done in-office and all repair work is performed quickly and to the highest standards by JA Certified Master Bench Jeweler, Nic Brotherton.

By providing any existing records you help ensure your appraisal is the most accurate document it can possibly be. Being able to confirm and reference any relevant laboratory reports can add value and additional credibility to your appraisal.

Paragon Gemological Services has expertise in appraising and consulting the following: gemstones, diamonds, jewelry, coins placed in jewelry and most watches.

• Crystal

• Flatware

• Decorative Knives or Guns

• Collectible Coins (Coins with Numismatic Value)

• Uncut Gems and Rock Specimens

• Pewterware

• China and Serving Ware (Sterling Silverware Sets)

All appraisals performed by Paragon Gemological Services contain the accurate and relevant information to fully document your items. This means that the metal/s are measured, described and weighed, stones are counted, measured and graded, manufacturing technique and condition is considered, age and design motif researched and noted and photograph records are included. Stone grades are assigned using Gemological Institute of America’s universal nomenclature.

Following, or at the completion of your appointment, you will receive a complete digital copy of your documentation as well as a hard copy that will be mailed out to you.

Any information discovered, given or prepared is kept strictly confidential, as is all of your personal information. Only at your written request - or by the force of the law - can such information be disclosed to any party other than yourself.

Written documentation (for insurance or for estate purposes) are charged at a per item rate, starting at $105 for the first item. The rate per item is discounted the more items that are being evaluated at one time. Complex items - and some watches, will cost more and will be quoted for approval prior to any work being done. Typically, to allow for timely turn around in delivering you your report - and to be respectful of your time - one to five items per appointment is recommended.

Consultation services are charged per hour of time provided, with a one hour of service minimum charge. The starting rate for consultation services is $95 per hour. Thereafter, charges can be billed by the half-hour as needed.

Please see ‘Services’ page for details.