DG Magazine – Issue #2

As the magazine pages came together this year, a theme emerged: Stones. Not the kind of stones you would imagine for a jewelry store, but rather the Milestones, Stepping Stones, Rolling Stones and Cornerstones; and okay, some Gemstones as well.

Milestones: Being grandparents is one of the greatest milestones of our lives. You might recognize our cover models, the true gems of our lives — Logan and Piper. One of their favorite things to do is play in Coco’s treasure chest of jewelry. In fact, one of the first things Piper learned to say was “I need a bracelet.”

Gemstones: Many milestones are celebrated with gemstones as you’ll see in Coco’s Collection on page 22. We’ll soon celebrate our 40th anniversary — a miracle milestone for two polar opposites who have worked together for nearly 30 years!

Stepping Stones: The stepping stones to leadership in the American Gem Society were second nature — a quest for knowledge and getting involved in the organization. Though David didn’t intentionally seek leadership, he’s honored to be President of a society that upholds ethics and education in our industry.

Rolling Stones: It has been said, “A rolling stone gathers no moss, but it gains a certain polish.” In today’s world if you’re not constantly moving forward, you will soon become irrelevant. Our trip to Italy provided a look into the future of jewelry trends which we’re happy to share on page 6.

Many blessings to all of you — the cornerstones in our lives, Julia and David 911

David & Julia in Italy

Invaluable

It didn’t take long to accept an all expense paid trip, as the guest of the President of VicenzaOro, to the Italian jewelry trade show. The opportunity was invaluable. Along with 25 other American jewelry retailers we started our trip in Cortina, nestled in the Dolomite Mountains. Winding our way through miles and miles of breathtaking views and vineyards, we traveled to Verona and Vicenza. Once in Vicenza, we attended VicenzaOro for several days, seeing a mind bending number of pieces of exquisite jewelry. While we were there, we also had the honor of being dinner guests of Pilar and Roberto Coin, in their home in Vicenza.

Training

Our education was a combination of formal and informal. We were all treated to a presentation of jewelry trends for 2014. I couldn’t take notes fast enough to capture it all, but getting to hear about what to expect and then to get to see examples of it at VicenzaOro was priceless.

The informal training was ongoing throughout the week, as we met with our fellow travelers multiple times each day, eagerly sharing what we each saw and learned — pieces that were a must see and other trend spottings. There were over 1600 designers at the show, so it was extremely helpful to have feedback from 25 others stores.

Awe Inspiring Jewelry

It was a true treasure hunt. Not only were many of the recognizable designers there, but with pieces you can only see in Italy; there were thousands of companies, with jewelry that took your breath away. (Yep, still dreaming about some of them.)

To summarize — innovative creativity that is exquisitely and beautifully executed; a blending of the technology and best techniques in unique and creative craftsmanship.

Bringing the Love Home to You

In spite of being overwhelmed by the beauty of Italy, the jewelry and the people, the most important question we kept addressing was “how is this relevant to our clients”?

Being able to do on site research in the jewelry fashion capital of the world allows us to be more savvy buyers. Knowing the trends two years in advance, prepared us to know what to look for and then be able to ask the right questions. So, when you are ready to celebrate an occasion or add to your jewelry wardrobe, we’ll not only have the right product mix, but more confidence in helping you make your selection.

Julia in front of the VicenzaOro sign.

Julia and David with Roberto Ditri, President of Fiera di Vicenza, International Gold and Jewelry Show.

Julia with Roberto Coin and Peter Webster at Roberto's home in Vicenza, Italy.

Julia and David with a few of the other retailers who had traveled from the US.

When Roberto Coin began to design and produce jewelry in 1977 on behalf of some of the most prestigious international brands of fine jewelry, he found himself quickly becoming one of the most sought-after designers in the business. He eventually launched his own brand in 1996, and has never looked back. Coin’s quirky yet elegant style, combined with the highest standards of craftsmanship, not to mention his winning personality and warmth, have brought him loyal admirers from around the world.

“Luxury is a complicated challenge in this more complicated world. Every person has his own idea of what luxury really means. In the end, it might be as simple as doing whatever you want, whenever you want, as long as it pleases you and all the people that you care about.”

Roberto Coin Shanghai bracelet in 18k yellow gold with gemstones.

Necklace in 18k gold with gemstones from the Roberto Coin Shanghai collection.

Among his latest creations — for people who wear “what they want” — is a line called the Dragon collection, designed in honor of the Chinese New Year. It was inspired by ancient Chinese legend — these bewitching serpents are symbols of good fortune and passion. The collection includes a sublime mix of imagination, elegance and technique, illuminated by diamonds, enamel and rubies that are cleverly positioned as enchanting eyes.

Also new is the Shanghai collection, inspired by Asian culture. The collection uses a unique melange of vibrant hues that provide the must-have ‘pop of color’ essential to every woman’s wardrobe this season. By mixing an array of gold colors with peridot, iolite, topaz and diamonds, alongside a myriad of sleek shapes, Roberto Coin has once again achieved a look that is both contemporary and timeless.

The Primavera collection, introduced last year, has also been refreshed with some new bangles in 18k yellow, white or rose woven gold, with a ring of diamonds. These bracelets can be worn singly or stacked. Gemstones have been added to the collection this year as well, for another great pop of color.

Bracelet and ring in 18k gold, diamonds and enamel from the Dragon collection.

Bangles in 18k woven gold with diamonds from the Primavera collection by Roberto Coin.

events

2013 Student Advisory Council

David Gardner’s Student Advisory Council is comprised of young Aggie men and women representing a variety of majors, organizations, interests, and leadership skills. Each month, they come to David Gardner’s to advise the marketing department on the best practices related to interacting with the student market.

Armenta Launch

DG welcomed one of our newest jewelry designers, Houston-based Armenta, with a “Made in America” picnic.

BV Food Bank

David Gardner’s was honored to host an event supporting the Brazos Valley Food Bank. Because Hunger Won’t Wait, their expansion project will more than triple the amount of dry food storage and increase the amount of crucial storage space for fresh and frozen food by five times.

Diamond Dash

Over 600 men and women came out for this year’s DG Diamond Dash in hopes of winning the coveted Precision Set diamond engagement Ring!

David Yurman Trunk Show

Our “Made in NY, Loved in CS” trunk show not only brought new and exciting pieces from New York to College Station, but also gave us an opportunity to team up with Charli’s to show how to wear the latest fashions in College Station!

Insite Magazine Launch

Reluctant cover model, Julia Gardner, was honored to be featured on the cover of Insite Magazine’s “Jewels in our Community” issue. It was only natural to kick off the issue with an event featuring many of the great philanthropic organizations in our community!

Roberto Coin Holiday Party

Nothing says Happy Holiday like friends, family and Roberto Coin under the tree!

Ol’ Ags Check Presentation

The fine young men of Ol’ Ags work hard throughout the year to raise money for their philanthropy, Head Start. This year they donated $10,000 on top of the hours they spent volunteering for the program.

Junior League Preview Party

Once Upon a Time there was an organization of wonderful hardworking women who dedicated countless resources to make our communi ty a better place for women and children. David Gardner’s is proud of our partnership with the Junior League of B-CS and were honored to help them reveal this year’s Charity Ball Theme: Once Upon A Time: an enchanted evening with the Junior League!

The partnership of an Aggie jeweler and a professional organization committed to the highest ethical standards is one that would seem to most, a perfect fit. David Gardner is that Aggie jeweler, yet he remains humbled by his election as president of the prestigious American Gem Society (AGS).

AGS is a professional association in the jewelry industry composed of the top 5% of jewelry stores who have proven their compliance with the organization’s strict standards while demonstrating a superior commitment to ethics, education and consumer protection. Only 1,200 of 26,000 jewelry stores in the country have met the organization’s requirements for membership. After many years as an active member, Gardner will now head the organization that leads the industry. A dual celebration, this new role coincides with Gardner’s celebration of 40 years in the jewelry industry, starting out at the age of 16.

“David’s tireless work on behalf of AGS is well known to our members, as is the unique and fresh approach he has brought to the retail jewelry world, best exemplified by his industry-leading efforts with his College Station store,” said Ruth Batson, CEO and executive director of AGS. “One thing

I know for sure, it is going to be an exciting and progressive time under his leadership for the next two years and we know great things lie ahead for AGS.”

Keeping consumers informed and helping them make educated decisions is on the top of Gardner’s list of priorities which include industry hot topics such as: inconsistency in diamond certificates, disclosure of synthetic gemstones and diamonds and responsible sourcing for diamonds, gemstones and metals.

“I love the rich heritage and tradition of being a jeweler, but I also like to break out of the box to keep our industry fresh and relevant in an ever-changing world,” said Gardner. “Jewelry is a language that is universal and I am eager to devote myself to this unique opportunity.”

David Gardner, class of ’78, has always demonstrated a superior commitment to ethics, education and consumer protection. This year, Gardner celebrates his 40th year in the jewelry industry with an election to lead the nation’s elite jewelry stores towards the same commitment.

David with Ruth Batson, American Gem Society CEO at AGS Conclave.

Bicego

Every piece of this designer’s jewelry is hand finished, with up to 10 specialists working on a single piece

Marco Bicego’s lifelong passion for jewelry design has been nurtured over the years by various influences, from his childhood surroundings (his father was a master jeweler) to exotic travel destinations, such as Jaipur, India, (the “pink” city) which inspired the outstanding Jaipur collection.

18k gold Murano necklace with mixed semi precious stones.

This year, Bicego renews the Africa collection, a tribute to the magnificent untamed nature of Africa, with Africa Pavé, marrying his signature 18k gold boule shape with paved white sapphires. The collection plays with the shapes, finishes and configurations of the ball shape, linking these 18k gold pebble-like balls together in anywhere up to five graduated strands. The earrings are especially spectacular, with sapphire-set boules dangling luxuriously on long chains. Every surface of gold on a Marco Bicego piece is hand finished.

New in the Jaipur collection this year are thinly cut, opaque colored sapphires, faceted on each side. The look is luxurious and understated at the same time, combining the brand’s rich Italian heritage of classic silhouettes with vivid sapphires, resulting in a unique collection of organic-inspired, wearable pieces. For the Jaipur Sunset collection, Marco Bicego developed his own faceted cut. All of the gems in this collection have been hand selected, including the pieces that are set with mother-of-pearl.

The vibrant, colors and patterns of Venetian glass are another inspiration, leading to the Murano collection of gemstone jewelry, a tribute to the glassmaking village of Murano, located off the shore of Venice. A fusion of vivid gemstones, including London blue topaz and amethyst together, comprise the palette. With no two cuts exactly the same, the 18k gold and gemstones blend together to create pieces evocative of the Venetian buildings, exuding character, charm and individuality while staying true to their Italian heritage. In this collection, Bicego uses rectangular shapes, in both the gold beads and gemstones, for the first time ever, to stunning effect. The “waterfall” style earrings in this collection are particularly luxurious, with long, cascading drops that graze the shoulder in shapes that resemble elongated sculptures.

Every designer has collections that represent a brand’s signature style – Marco Bicego introduces six to eight new collections each year – but the top

designers also work like artists, creating one-of-a-kind pieces that explore the limits of their creativity and knowledge of goldsmithing. This year, the designer introduced several one-of-akind creations priced in the $20,000 - $30,000 category. The main characteristic of the collection of one-off pieces is a predilection for organic and harmonious forms and combinations of dramatic matte-colored sapphires, tourmaline and aquamarine. The earrings and rings in this limited edition collection are unrepeatable, inimitable and unconventional: highly exclusive masterpieces of craftsmanship.

Bicego’s designs are more than just aesthetically pleasing. The designer is also attentive to the ergonomics of design; he believes his jewelry must be wearable and comfortable. The bangles, for example, are flexible, which means they move with the wearer like a second skin during the course of the day’s activities. “Our jewelry is meant to be worn every day – not saved in the jewelry box for that “special occasion. I love seeing how my clients interpret the Marco Bicego style, and how they layer pieces.”

18k hand engraved gold Siviglia Sapphire earrings.

Gold earrings from the Murano collection by Marco Bicego.

18k hand engraved gold Siviglia Sapphire bracelet.

the mastery of

Complex

construction and new technology ensure the makers of the Oyster Perpetual stay on top

Rolex

Rolex’s reputation as the world’s number-one watch brand is based on a solid foundation of performance and innovation. The brand has pioneered some of the most important developments in watchmaking, including the introduction of the Oyster, the world’s first water-resistant watch in 1926, and the Perpetual rotor self-winding mechanism, which Rolex developed in 1931. The company has filed more than 400 patents in the course of its history.

Top: The Rolex Deepsea Challenge. Bottom: James Cameron descends into the Marianna Trench with a Rolex strapped to the outside of his submersible.

Some of those patents are connected to the company’s dedication to water-resistance even in the deepest depths of the ocean. Earlier this year, filmmaker and ocean explorer James Cameron took a Rolex along with him when he touched down at the deepest point in the world’s oceans – about 11,000 meters (36,100 feet) (seven miles) – in the Mariana Trench. True to its passion for underwater exploration, Rolex took an active part in the expedition, in partnership with National Geographic. The brand attached an experimental watch to the outside of the one-man submarine, on the manipulator arm, while Cameron himself wore a Rolex Deepsea. Both watches and Cameron emerged unscathed. It was the first attempt in 52 years to reach the Challenger Deep, the deepest point of the Mariana Trench, southwest of the island of Guam; Swiss oceanographer Jacques Piccard and U.S. Navy lieutenant Don Walsh touched bottom in January 1960 in a submersible. Rolex tested a watch on that dive too, which descended to 10,916 meters.

The experimental watch, the Rolex Deepsea Challenge, is 51.4mm in diameter and 28.5mm thick, and was engineered with Rolex’s patented three-piece Ringlock case architecture, anchored by a nitrogen-alloyed stainless-steel support ring. The ring is placed inside the middle case made of 904L stainless steel, a super-alloy, and supports a 14.3mm thick domed sapphire crystal made of high-purity aluminum oxide, as well as a 5.3mm screw-down case back made of grade-five titanium. The Rolex Deepsea Challenge is an experimental version of the Rolex Deepsea. It embodies the heritage and technical and watchmaking know-how accumulated by the brand, notably with its diving watches. They include the iconic Submariner, which was introduced in 1953 with a depth rating of 200 meters (660ft) and the Sea-Dweller, which was unveiled in 1967 with a depth rating of 610 meters (2,000 feet). In 2008, the Rolex Deepsea was introduced with an even greater depth rating of 3,900 meters (12,800 feet).

DAVID

Rolex Sky-Dweller.

As a maker of all its own movements, Rolex has also been at the forefront of advances in component technology. Most of its watches are now fitted with Parachrom hairsprings, which are 10-times more precise than a traditional hairspring. The new SkyDweller, with 14 patents, is another example of Rolex innovation and is the latest addition to the Rolex Oyster Perpetual collection. It contains a new movement, caliber 9001, with a high-tech Parachrom hairspring and Paraflex shock absorbers, and features a dual time zone. Local time is indicated via the center hands and a 24-hour track read on a rotating offcenter disc indicates the reference time in a second time zone. The hour can be set either forwards or backwards. Changing the local time does not affect the minute and seconds hands, or the reference time. The watch is also an annual calendar, with a date indication that requires only one adjustment per year – when the month changes from February to March. The month is displayed by means of 12 discreet apertures placed just above each numeral. Local time, reference time and date functions are selected using the bezel, which is engineered with the Rolex Ring Command adjustment system. The heart of this mechanism is a double cam and levers that engage various gear trains inside the movement. The date is linked to local time and changes within a few milliseconds at midnight.

Case components represent another area of innovation for Rolex. The Cosmograph Daytona, for example, is available in Everose gold with a Cerachrom bezel made from a tough, corrosionresistant and high-tech ceramic that is developed inhouse by Rolex. The hour markers on the bezel are created using a special PVD process whereby magnetron sputtering is used to deposit a fine layer of rose gold. In fact, the company also alloys its own gold. Yellow, white or Everose gold are then stamped and machined into cases at the Rolex manufacture in Switzerland and used to make bracelets.

As a maker of all its own movements, Rolex has also been at the forefront of advances in component technology.

The Rolex Oyster Perpetual Explorer II.

Rolex has not forgotten the ladies in this flourish of innovation. The company’s Datejust collection, in both the 26mm and 31mm size, offers a shimmering “Gold Crystals” dial, created using a proprietary technique in which a gold dial is chemically treated to reveal its natural crystal structure. Other models in the collection feature applied floral motifs produced using a patented electroforming technique involving a deposition of either rhodium, yellow gold or pink gold over a pattern created from a metal plate. All of the work on these dials, including the diamond setting, takes place at Rolex’s Chêne-Bourg site, near Geneva — one of four Rolex manufacturing sites, all in Switzerland. This facility is home to the brand’s in-house gemology department and houses all Rolex activities linked to dial creation and manufacture, including jewelry and gem setting.

Rolex watches are sold only through authorized retailers in order to guarantee the quality and authenticity of Rolex watches.

Left: Rolex Lady Datejust, with applied floral motifs.

Right: The Rolex Lady Datejust with an electroplated gold dial.

Rolex has not forgotten the ladies in this flourish of innovation.

THE ORIGINATOR OF CULTURED PEARLS. SINCE 1893.

STUDIO STYLE

DG Styling Experts Reveal the Trends

[ GO FOR BAROQUE ]

Why we love them:

These necklaces beautifully blend three strong jewelry trends - black diamonds, baroque pearls, and long chains - with a classic look. We thank Kate, the Duchess of Cambridge, for bringing classy back in style.

How to wear them:

They are the definition of versatile – double them and combine them with your pearls strands to create an updated classic look. Double them and clip on your favorite statement pendant. Wear them long or layer with your long chains or long layers of pearls.

Baroque necklaces: $5,200-$6,200

It’s a fact; women change their earrings more than any other pieces of jewelry.

Why we love them:

We don’t have to jump through HOOPS to convince you that hoops are a jewelry wardrobe essential. These Armenta blackened metal with gold accents hoops communicate that you are a woman willing to step into the future. They reflect the elegance of black and gold yet are made for daily wear.

Armenta hoops: $2,290

teardrop earrings: $1,500

Why we love them:

The key words here are slimming and flattering – and you don’t have to count a single calorie. The universally becoming color of sodalite blue, set in elongating teardrop shape, will brighten and slim every face. The movement of the dangle is an added flattering feature.

How to wear them:

How to wear them:

The gold accents make them a home run with your entire yellow gold jewelry wardrobe. They are a strong fashion statement that can be worn alone or with long yellow gold and black layered necklaces. Stacked bracelets and bands would definitely bring the look together.

Admit it; some of us still have our lapis strands, from “back in the day”. We recommend recycling them into a multi-strand bracelet. If you have small pendants that you don’t wear anymore, consider stringing them into the lapis bracelet. If you want to wear a necklace, keep it long and light. If you don’t have lapis beads – David Yurman makes an awesome lapis bead bracelet. If you want to dress up your overall look – add in yellow diamond or sapphires.

DG Sliced intro earrings: $7,200

Why we love them:

They’re a DG original and one-of-a kind! Need we say more? If you insist - the colors in these sliced gemstones are intense enough to be noticed and neutral enough to brighten any ensemble. Diamond accents add a hint of glam.

How to wear them:

Feel free to let these earrings be the anchor of your whole jewelry and wardrobe ensemble – mix with other color pieces in the same color range, as appropriate for the occasion. We’re not going to say that they can be worn to the gym, but how haute would you look with a crisp white shirt and jeans? Our customers, who typically love fashion, tell us they feel just as comfortable wearing dramatic elongated earrings for casual and daywear as for evening.

Why we love them:

Meet the Multitaskers: The ability to update the look of any ring, especially your wedding ring by stacking on some bands is practically magical – you might have to see it to believe it. We love that bands play up versatility in a personal way.

How to wear them:

Add some drama with blackened metals or black diamonds, match your wardrobe with color, add some bling with diamonds and add them all! Endless possibilities – the only rule is that you feel amazing.

Why we love them:

Stacking bracelets has hit full stride, in fact, it’s here to stay. What puts it in first place is the fun you can have creating your own visually arresting mix. Most women have been known to gesture with their hands, causing stacked bracelets to separate and create movement and space and even their own jingle.

How to wear them:

Permission to give MIXED MESSAGES! Mix metals, colors, textures to express your own style. Jewelry should help express your personality. Even the understated minimalist wants her jewelry to make a statement - Add a bracelet with a classic watch and it instantly makes the whole look a little more hip

Why we love them:

Wide cuffs evoke a sense of drama with simplicity. The width is perfect to wear solo. Even the minimalist, who prefers no fuss and clean lines, wants to make a statement. Cuffs add a purposeful, energetic and powerful statement to your wardrobe.

How to wear them:

Alone or stacked with bangles. One of our favorite mixers is high and low. Wear a cuff with your pave’ set diamond bracelet. It adds glamour to an already bold statement.

5th Season cuffs: $1,254

[ MASTER THE MIX ]

Armenta bangles:$645 and up

Armenta ring stack: bands starting at $560

DG pendant: $11,250

Why we love it:

The contrast of the black metal surrounding the labradorite (blue) gives the color a unique intensity. It glows with a translucent, other worldly blue. Blackened metals highlight high karat gold. This piece says that you pay attention to detail

How to wear it:

This ring is designed for everyday wear, but can be dressed up by stacking diamond bands around it. Stacked bracelets with black and gold accents are a must with this ring. We would even stack in a lapis bead bracelet.

You don’t have to wait for a special occasion to wear these pieces! The key is confidence and we’ll help you get there! Styling a statement piece for everyday wardrobe may take a little convincing, but it’s worth the effort. Remember when you wouldn’t wear white after Labor Day?

Why we love it:

It is a daring eye opener that says, “go big or go home.” The nearly 80 carat citrine, accented with diamonds is a rich, neutral color that can be worn with any color. It’s extravagant elegance that will pop.

How to wear it:

No one will argue that the wearer of this projects confidence. It can be worn on a choker length gold chain for a stunning, dressy look, but don’t be afraid to wear it on a long chain for a more casual look. If boho chic is more your style, thread a ribbon through an open link chain, add the pendant for a pop of drama. Go ahead, I dare you.

Armenta pear ring: $2,690

Why we love it:

Big and glam focal color rings. This Roberto Coin citrine and yellow gold ring is a classic example of exquisite Italian design and execution, blending trends into an easy to wear, statement making piece. Mother Nature continues to influence jewelry as evidences with the floral design embracing around the citrine.

How to wear it:

The neutral color of the citrine allows you to glam it up all buy itself or layer on gold bracelets to create an attention-getting synergy. It’s rare, but in this case, for a less dramatic look, we would recommend toning down necklaces and earrings.

RC ring: $7,000

Emily Armenta was inspired to create jewelry when, as a little girl learning about gemstones, her imagination was sparked. Later in life, when she was in business school in 2002, she decided to turn her passion into an occupation. “I come from a family of artists so I was introduced to beautiful works of art at a very young age,” she says. “Designing jewelry is in my blood and has been my vehicle to express my creativity, thoughts and emotions.”

Armenta specializes in combinations of 18k and 22k gold combined with “midnight” oxidized sterling silver with diamonds and gemstones. It is this unique, modern approach to jewelry design that defines her signature look. Armenta even mixes her own gold to acquire her own perfect color. For the fall 2012 season, the brand has introduced two new stones — Boulder opal, a vivid blue/green stone with play of color, and sugelite with white quartz, designed as doublets.

Armenta Old World enhancers and chains.

Old World round labradorite and diamond ring on Old World eternity diamond band.

Old World oval shield drop earring on Yellow Gold huggie with diamonds.

Her striking, feminine designs combine the romantic passion of Spanish poetry with a modern approach to handcrafted jewelry. The inspiration behind many of Armenta’s designs are taken from the works of the renowned Spanish poet, Fedrico Garcia Lorca. When stumbling upon his works, she was immediately moved by his passion and understanding of the power of creativity in all its forms, especially in the way of duende, a Spanish concept that refers to the spirit of unpredictable passions that surges within us, and how it manifests itself as a creative force. “Duende is a power and not a behavior; it is a struggle and not a concept, a force that is irrational and intuitive; spiritually connected to the earth and quintessentially Spanish.”

Designs often come to Armenta at night or in dreams. “I strive to push the boundaries and attempt the unexpected,” she says. “I love working with different materials that are rarely seen in the industry. I believe in unleashing the creative force within. Like a painter, I explore working with and mixing many different metals and stones to create a beautiful work of art.”

Moonstone is used in many pieces of her jewelry. This gem is believed to bring good fortune, to enhance passion, and balance the yin and yang and is said to protect women and children. In early times, it was believed that one could see the future if the stone was held in the mouth during a full moon.

“Duende is a power and not a behavior; it is a struggle and not a concept, a force that is irrational and intuitive; spiritually connected to the earth and quintessentially Spanish.”

Yellow gold and blackened Armenta Old World bangle bracelets.

Midnight and 18k yellow gold stack ring with pear shaped blue mother of pearl and diamonds on a double cravelli band stacked with Old World diamond wide cravelli band ring with Yellow Gold Cravelli crosses.

PROPOSALS

Mallory + Beau

Mallory and I met at A&M, and after dating for 4 years I knew that I wanted to ask her the big question on my mind. I played basketball for A&M and then decided to pursue it professionally, which led both of us to the place of my proposal— Australia.

On the morning of the proposal we started the day just like any other. While Mallory thought I was doing my usual morning walk in the water, I actually went to my favorite spot on the beach where the proposal would take place. In essence of time, I frantically started building the sand sculpture with the only tool I could find, my sandal.

As soon as I finished, I ran back to get Mallory. She was looking everywhere for her camera, but I had scouted out one of my buddies to take pictures of the proposal, so I knew exactly where the camera was. I assured her we would go back to the Mexican restaurant we ate at the night before to search for it. Finally turning the attention from her camera to the “thing” I found, we started walking towards the beach. She asked questions the entire way there but all I heard myself saying was, “I don’t know what it is. I’ve been trying to figure it out. You need to see it.” I led her to my favorite spot on the beach and showed it to her. The heart I sculpted with “Will you marry me?” written inside was in the sand. She was completely surprised. Then, I got down on one knee, opened the box with her ring inside and asked her to marry me. Of course, she said yes.

+ Andrea

The day had finally arrived that I would ask Andrea to marry me! It took me a while to figure out the perfect way to ask her but when I came up with it, I knew there was no way she would see it coming. Andrea’s best friend Crystal and her husband, Will, were coming to Texas to visit. With some background planning, I had Crystal suggest to Andrea that we go to Sea World in San Antonio— Andrea loves Sea World.

The night before we went to Sea World, Andrea ironically brought up the topic of marriage proposal but I quickly changed the subject. I just thought to myself, "If only she knew what was taking place tomorrow!" The morning arrived, and I was starting to get nervous because it was the day I was going to ask Andrea to marry me. In order for everything to fall into place, we had to get to the dolphin cove, Andrea’s favorite exhibit. Once we got to Sea World, Will and I immediately went to talk with the head dolphin trainer, who helped make my plan successful. Luckily, Andrea was so glued to the dolphins that she didn’t even realize it. A short time after, Crystal went to talk to Andrea and the head trainer sat a huge bucket of fish right next to her. This completely caught Andrea off guard and almost spoiled the proposal, but luckily the excitement of the dolphins erased any suspicions away. As I began to get down on one knee Andrea took a step forward and did not see me. I was on my knee for about 15 seconds before Andrea finally noticed me holding a ring right next to her! At first, she jumped back about 6 feet and started crying. She then came close enough for me to ask her to marry me. Through the tears, she nodded and eventually was able to get a soft "yes!” I knew from that moment on I would definitely get to spend the rest of my life with her. I was the happiest man in the park that day!

Chris

Rhen + Michael

Michael and Rhen’s friendship began when they met August 12, 2002, over 10 years ago on the first day of 7th grade. 3 years later they went on their first date. That same year both coincidentally ended up spending spring break with their families In Destin, Florida. On March 15th 2005 they walked barefoot along the beach under a full moon and shared their first kiss. Michael told Rhen he loved her for the first time on September 6, 2005 and they spent the next 7 years through high school and college falling deeper in love.

For Christmas this year Michael gave Rhen a wedding planner with the comment, “I figured you’d be needing this in the near future.” Michael avoided proposal suspicion on February 11, 2012 when they went to Messina Hoff Winery to celebrate Michael’s 22nd birthday. Afterward, Michael suggested they walk the property to see if they would like to return during the day. While exploring the Messina Hoff grounds under the moon Michael led Rhen to a lake. There he had spent the previous day hauling truckfulls of sand and constructing a handmade beach against a section of the water. As they approached Rhen initially thought there was a lit dock, but soon discovered sand lined with candles and covered in seashells. Michael requested they both remove their shoes and they walked together in the sand barefoot under the moon. Against the water sat the ring in a bronze DG box, Michael hit a knee and asked Rhen to marry him. Rhen quickly joined him as she fell to her own knees, buried her face in her hands overwhelmed, and said, “Yes.”

TESTIMONIAL

Page + Rhett

We actually have a fun story about our first visit to David Gardner's! A couple of years ago, during our fall semester in 2009, David Gardner’s hosted a “Diamond Cutting Demo.” The Geology department at Texas A&M was invited, and being science majors, Rhett and I decided to attend. We had a blast! David Gardner even took a few of us into the back to see the gem collection and we were blown away.

Rhett and I had only been dating a few months and hadn't really breached the topic of marriage. But, we spent some time with the DG staff and the passion was contagious. I told Rhett that we absolutely had to come back for my engagement ring— three years

Rhett worked with Lauren throughout the whole process and she was amazing. I have the most beautiful ring I've ever seen and Rhett can spit the specs out like no one's business! When we were ready to order our wedding bands, I brought a picture of a man’s wedding band with his wife’s fingerprint etched inside of the band. Although nothing had been done like it before at DG, the staff was willing to research and try something new. A few weeks later we started the process and Chris, DG shop manager, started taking wax casts of my fingerprint. After trial and error, Chris decided to use a computer program to digitize and etch my fingerprint into the ring. It worked perfectly!

Rhett and I love small, personal touches, so it meant a lot to us that the staff at David Gardner’s was willing to work hard to give us exactly what we wanted! We love the passion at David Gardner’s and it truly shows in every piece of jewelry.

You found it. The perfect ring for that perfect person. Now it’s time to show it some DG LOVE. It's hard to imagine anything harming the impeccable condition of a wedding band or engagement ring the first time it’s put on, but the reality is that daily wear alters the condition of all jewelry, including those most important to us.

In response to this issue, David Gardner’s Jewelers launched a unique program called DG Love which David Gardner says includes "a yearly ring refurbishing called spa service that keeps your ring looking new among other complimentary services and preventative safety measures." During this required yearly checkup, we will examine prongs, check for loose stones and take other preventative measures to keep you confident that your ring is always in perfect condition. If we come across any issues during your ring’s spa service, we will gladly repair them at no charge to you. In addition to spa service for your ring, David Gardner’s promises expedited service for all DG rings. “Nobody wants to be without their ring and we understand that.”

DG Love has been in the works at David Gardner’s for some time now. “Our research found that no other program can compare to it. DG service goes far beyond the day you buy the ring and it’s how we thank our customers for trusting us with something so important.”

Gardner’s Presents a New Kind of

LOVE

KEY SERVICES

The DG LOVE program is a 10 year program that is complimentary to you with your David Gardner’s Jewelers engagement ring or wedding band purchase.

Yearly Spa Service

Makes your ring look new again & allows us to take preventative measures to protect stones etc.

•Re-Sizing

•Re-Rhodium Plating

•Prong Retipping

•Stone Tightening •Polish and Clean •Melee replacement*

You can also be completely assured that your ring will not leave our store during any needed repairs. Our full-service shop is the heart of the store and our trained jewelers seek perfection in even the most minor repairs. They will explain and walk you through any repairs that will be done to your ring.

*Melee covered in this program includes .10 ct. diamonds or smaller. This covers most diamonds in wedding sets excluding center stones.

Priority Status

Nobody likes going without their wedding ring, especially when it’s from David Gardner’s, so when we have your ring you can be confident that it will be a high priority and be serviced as soon as possible.

100% Diamond Upgrade Commitment

When the diamond of your dreams doesn’t fit into your budget, don’t fret. Every DG diamond comes with our 100% trade value promise meaning that every dollar paid towards your DG diamond will be applied to your upgrade no matter how many years later it is.

David

Like snowflakes, every diamond is different and each one is beautiful in its own right. Diamonds, however, can be graded according to carat size, clarity, color, and cut. It is the particular combination of these elements that comes into play when you set out to buy the right diamond for you. Each of these factors, alone and combined has an impact on a diamond’s value.

Carat size: The larger the diamond, the higher the price, as they are valued primarily on carat size. Larger diamonds are rarer than smaller ones and therefore the price per carat rises exponentially with the size of the diamond.

Clarity: This refers to the presence of flaws within a diamond. Marks on the surface are called blemishes. Internal marks are called inclusions. The amount, type, size and placement of these imperfections can diminish a diamond’s value — if they are in the center of a diamond, this has a greater effect on light return, for example, than if they are off to the side. The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) clarity scale, the industry standard, contains 11 grades: Flawless (FL), Internally Flawless (IF), Very, Very Slightly Included (VVS1 and VVS2), Very Slightly Included (VS1 and VS2), Slightly Included (SI1 and SI2), and Included (I1, I2 and I3).

FLAWLESS (FL) No inclusions or blemishes are visible to a skilled grader using 10x magnification. Exceptionally rare.

INTERNALLY FLAWLESS (IF) No inclusions and only blemishes are visible to a skilled grader using 10x magnification.

VERY, VERY SLIGHTLY INCLUDED (VVS1 AND VVS2) Inclusions are difficult for a skilled grader to see under 10x magnification.

VERY SLIGHTLY INCLUDED (VS1 AND VS2) Inclusions are clearly visible under 10x magnification but can be characterized as minor.

SLIGHTLY INCLUDED (SI1 AND SI2) Inclusions are noticeable to a skilled grader using 10x magnification.

INCLUDED (I1, I2, AND I3) Inclusions are obvious under 10x magnification and may affect transparency and brilliance.

Transcend Dream Engagement Ring by Hearts on Fire.

Engagement rings from the Venetian Collection by Verragio.

Color: The closer a diamond is to being colorless, the higher the grade. GIA’s color grading scale for diamonds, the industry standard, starts with the letter “D” (colorless) and continues, with increasing presence of color, to the letter Z.

Cut: Some experts believe cut has the biggest impact on a diamond’s beauty. Cut reflects the quality of a stone’s proportions, symmetry and polish, which combine to create a high amount of light return, sparkle and/or fire – there is no single ideal set of proportions, however certain minimum standards of excellence come into play when assessing a stone’s roundness, depth, width, uniformity of facets and quality of finish. The American Gem Society (AGS) diamond cut grading system ranks round brilliant stones (the most common cut) on a scale from 0-10. According to the system, 0 is “ideal” and 10 is “poor.”

The GIA diamond cut grading system ranks cut for round brilliant diamonds on the following scale: “excellent,” “very good,” “good,” “fair” and “poor.” Ideal or excellent cuts reflect most or all of the light that enters a diamond back to the eye; therefore, they are considered top-of-the-line, and will command the highest prices. A poorly cut diamond is one in which its proportions cause light to be reflected out through the sides or bottom (pavilion) of the stone.

When a diamond is cut too shallow, light escapes out the bottom. When it is cut too deep, light escapes out the sides of the pavilion. When it is cut to idea proportions, light is returned out the table or top of a diamond.

Engagement rings from the Tiara, Luminaire and Heaven's Gates Collections by Scott Kay.

Your proposal is the most intimate conversation you’ll ever have.

Different types of cuts can affect a diamond in various ways. One cut might produce more sparkle or “scintillation,” and others might create more light return. Another cut might create fire — that is, it returns the light in a way that produces a spectrum of color. This is where personal preference comes into play. Although light return is usually highly valued according to most grading systems, some people prefer fire, others scintillation. This is the variable that factors in when it comes to branded diamonds. Hearts on Fire and Lazare Kaplan, for example, cut their diamonds to certain standards of excellence and to achieve certain effects.

Although diamonds are graded by very strict standards, each one is unique, and the only way to truly compare two stones is to look at them side by side.

If you consult David Gardner’s Jewelers, you should have no trouble finding the diamond of your dreams — one with the size and quality you desire, in a price range you can afford.

Engagement rings from the Bella Vita Collection by Ritani.

Engagement rings from the Petite Flush Fit Collection by Precision Set.