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Wedding Jewelry from an Expert’s Perspective: Guest Blogger Scott Slobotkin

David Jay Jewelers, Valley Square, Warrington PA

Darianna Bridal & Tuxedo was fortunate enough to catch up with Scott Slobotkin, owner of David Jay Jewelers in Warrington, PA.  We chatted with him regarding engagement rings, wedding bands, wedding rings, jewelry trends, and the process of choosing the right jeweler for your wedding day.  Scott is incredibly knowledgeable and below shares his experience and insight into the world of bridal jewelry.

Enjoy our blog from this trusted jeweler!

Tell us about your company’s background.

David Jay Jewelers was founded in 1974 as one of the Philadelphia area’s premier all-inclusive jewelers.  We are a second generation family run business where Jay Slobotkin still works alongside me in the beautiful Valley Square boutique in Warrington, PA.

At David Jay we pride ourselves on quality in all areas; from the merchandise assortment we offer, to the repairs our skilled craftsmen execute, and especially in our exceptional customer service.  We have helped generations of loyal customers, their children, and even grandchildren celebrate milestones from an engagement, birth of a new child, anniversary or “just because” with the perfect piece to compliment any collection.

Our goal and reputation centers around ensuring that each and every person who walks in our door leaves having a better day than when they entered. Our beautiful boutique offers a comfortable yet chic setting for shopping for or designing the perfect piece.

When did you get involved?

I grew up around the business but became serious about my commitment over 15 years ago.  I spent the first couple years on the sales floor learning about the product we sell and the services we offer in addition to understanding the wants and needs of our customers.

From there, I took educational courses and received certifications in diamonds and colored stone jewelry from the Gemological Institute of America (GIA).  I then spent another 1.5 years in our shop learning how all jewelry is repaired and the necessary steps required to offer a wide array of services such as diamond setting, ring sizing, rhodium plating, custom design, and much more.  In 2007, the culmination of this learning process allowed me to open up our Valley Square location.

What type of education/certifications are required to do your type of work?

Since we are a full service jewelry store we are certified in a number of areas.  We have numerous sales associates on staff who are certified to grade diamonds and colored stones and perform written appraisals for both insurance as well as estate purposes.  In addition, all of our bench jewelers have over a combined 75 years of experience and are considered master craftsmen in their respective trades.

We are proud members of the Pennsylvania Jewelers Association, Jewelers of America, and Gemological Institute of America.  Most recently we received our Senior Management Professional certification from Jewelers of America.

What is the most popular engagement ring right now?

The most timeless shape and continuously popular would be the round diamond.  The round diamond contains the most facets of any other shape which provides the fire and brilliance that most people are attracted to.  Diamond halo settings still continue to be high in demand and allow the customer to achieve a larger look with a limited budget.

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Are trends changing?

Trends are always changing in the jewelry industry. We showcase styles of diamond engagement rings and wedding bands that are always current, however, white gold and platinum still continue to be the primary choice.

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What do you recommend for timeline between engagement and wedding band purchases?

I get asked this question a lot and my answer always remains the same…it depends on the person.  Some people like to purchase their rings 8-12 months prior to their wedding day.  There are also customers who are comfortable purchasing their rings just 1-2 months prior.  Regardless of which one you are, we can always accommodate.  Most stock rings can be delivered within 2-3 weeks.  If we are custom designing a wedding ring, depending on the complexity, it could take us anywhere from 4-6 weeks to create.

Can you make new rings from heirlooms or other passed down pieces?

Absolutely!  Custom design has been and continues to be a very big part of our business.  We understand that not every bridal customer’s needs are the same.  We also understand that some people have been gifted or received an heirloom diamond.  This allows us to achieve the following two things for our customers; help minimize the expense of making such a big purchase; and most importantly create a beautiful and sentimental ring(s) which they can continue and always be able to cherish.

What is the most fun part of your job?

Owning and operating an independent business allows me to constantly be creative and think outside the box.  I am always looking for new, exciting, and innovative ways to connect with our customers.  Creating and implementing marketing initiatives that help achieve continued visibility for our store and brand give the greatest satisfaction.

What sets you apart from other jewelry stores?

I think there are a number of factors which separates us from our competition.  If I had to narrow it down it would be our selection of fine jewelry, superior customer service, and the wide array of services we offer. We have always had an extensive selection of jewelry which can suit anyone’s budget, small or large.  In addition to having many years of experience in the jewelry world, our team and I have created a warm environment in which customers can walk comfortably through our doors knowing they will not feel any pressure to either buy or spend above their means.  Finally, having a shop on the premises allows us the ability to offer and deliver an assortment of repair, appraisal, and custom design services.

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What advice do you have for someone who may be thinking of purchasing an engagement ring?

Buying an engagement ring and/or wedding bands is a big purchase.  The most important thing is to trust and feel comfortable with the person and store who you are buying the ring(s) from.  You should be given options and never made to feel pressured into making a decision.  Determine a budget and try to stick to it.  While this is a significant milestone in one’s life, there is no reason you need to overextend on finances.  There will be plenty of other opportunities for this in the future!

Do you have events at your store open to the public?

We continuously have events and promotions and offer specials.  For up to date info please visit our website www.davidjayjewelers.com, Facebook at David Jay Jewelers, or call us at 215-491-4404.

Darianna Bridal & Tuxedo is proud to partner with some of the finest professionals in the wedding industry.  Check back weekly for more blogs!