Everything you need to know about engagement rings, diamonds, custom jewelry, watches, and selling your jewelry in Austin, TX.
There is no fixed rule for how much to spend on an engagement ring. The old “three months’ salary” guideline is outdated. At Diamonds Above, we believe the right budget is whatever you can comfortably afford without taking on high-interest debt. We work with clients at every price point to find a ring that looks stunning and fits your finances. Lab-grown diamonds can save you 40–80% compared to mined stones of the same quality, making beautiful rings accessible at a wider range of budgets. and we’ll help you maximize your investment.
Our custom engagement ring process typically takes 3–4 weeks from initial consultation to final delivery. This includes the design consultation, 3D CAD rendering approval, stone sourcing, and expert craftsmanship. We recommend starting at least 6–8 weeks before you plan to propose to allow time for any revisions. Rush orders may be possible depending on complexity — to discuss your timeline.
Absolutely. Many clients bring their own diamond, whether it’s a family heirloom, a stone purchased elsewhere, or a diamond from a previous piece of jewelry. Our jewelers will evaluate the stone, discuss setting options that complement it best, and craft a custom design around it. We can also reset diamonds from existing jewelry into modern settings.
Our complimentary custom design consultation includes a one-on-one meeting with a jewelry designer who will discuss your vision, style preferences, budget, and timeline. You’ll explore diamond options, metal choices, and setting styles. We create a detailed 3D CAD rendering so you can see exactly what the finished piece will look like before production begins. There is absolutely no obligation or pressure to purchase. .
Yes, Diamonds Above offers flexible financing options to help make your dream ring a reality. We work with financing partners who offer competitive rates and manageable monthly payments. During your consultation, we can discuss available plans and find one that fits your budget. Contact us at (512) 206-4156 or visit our Austin showroom to learn more.
This is one of the most common concerns we hear, and there are several clever solutions. You can borrow a ring your partner already wears on their ring finger and bring it to us for measurement. Ask a close friend or family member who might know. You can also try the string method while they sleep. If none of these work, size 6 is the most common women’s ring size, and we offer complimentary resizing after the proposal. Read more tips in our engagement ring guide.
Yes, we specialize in transforming existing jewelry into fresh, modern designs. Whether you have a family heirloom that needs updating, a ring from a previous relationship, or simply a piece that no longer matches your style, our designers can reimagine it completely. We can reuse your existing stones and metals while creating something entirely new. Visit our custom jewelry page to learn more.
Yes, we offer professional ring resizing services for most ring styles and metals. Simple resizing typically takes 3–5 business days. Rings with intricate designs, channel-set stones, or eternity bands may require more specialized work. We offer complimentary resizing on all engagement rings purchased from Diamonds Above within the first year. Bring your ring in for a free evaluation and quote.
Lab-grown and natural diamonds are physically, chemically, and optically identical. They share the same crystal structure, hardness (10 on the Mohs scale), brilliance, and fire. The only difference is their origin: natural diamonds form over billions of years deep within the Earth, while lab-grown diamonds are created in controlled environments using advanced technology. Lab-grown diamonds typically cost 40–80% less than natural diamonds of equivalent quality. Visit our lab-grown diamonds page for a detailed comparison.
Yes, lab-grown diamonds are real diamonds in every measurable way. They have the same chemical composition (pure carbon), crystal structure, hardness, and optical properties as mined diamonds. The FTC confirmed in 2018 that lab-grown diamonds are diamonds. Professional gemologists cannot tell them apart without specialized equipment. They are graded using the same 4 C’s system and can be certified by GIA and other leading gemological labs. Learn more on our lab-grown diamonds page.
The 4 C’s are the universal standard for evaluating diamond quality: Cut (how well the diamond’s facets interact with light, affecting sparkle), Color (the absence of color, graded D through Z), Clarity (the absence of inclusions and blemishes), and Carat (the diamond’s weight). Cut is widely considered the most important factor for a diamond’s visual beauty. Our diamond education page provides an in-depth explanation of each factor.
Yes, we carry a wide selection of GIA-certified diamonds in both natural and lab-grown varieties. GIA (Gemological Institute of America) is the world’s most respected diamond grading laboratory, and their certification provides an unbiased assessment of a diamond’s quality. We also offer diamonds certified by IGI and other reputable labs. Every diamond we sell comes with its certification documentation for your peace of mind.
The round brilliant cut remains the most popular diamond shape, accounting for over 50% of all engagement ring diamonds sold. Its 58 facets are precisely engineered to maximize light return and sparkle. However, fancy shapes have surged in popularity: oval cuts offer an elongated, modern look; emerald cuts provide vintage elegance; and cushion cuts blend classic and contemporary appeal. Our diamond education page can help you explore all your options.
Yes, we offer a beautiful selection of colored gemstones including sapphires, emeralds, rubies, morganite, and alexandrite. Colored gemstones make stunning center stones for engagement rings and are increasingly popular for couples seeking something unique. We can source specific stones to match your vision and set them in custom designs. Sapphires are particularly popular for engagement rings due to their exceptional hardness and vibrant color range.
We carry a curated selection of pre-owned luxury watches from the world’s most prestigious brands, including Rolex, Omega, Cartier, Breitling, TAG Heuer, Patek Philippe, and Audemars Piguet, among others. Our inventory changes frequently as we acquire new pieces. Every watch undergoes thorough authentication and inspection before it is offered for sale. Contact us at (512) 206-4156 or visit our showroom to see our current selection.
Yes, authentication is a cornerstone of our pre-owned watch program. Every timepiece undergoes a rigorous multi-point inspection by our certified watchmakers. We verify serial numbers, examine movements, and confirm authenticity of all components including the case, dial, hands, and bracelet. We only sell watches that pass our strict authentication standards, and every purchase comes with our guarantee of authenticity.
Yes, our skilled watchmakers provide comprehensive repair and maintenance services for luxury timepieces. Services include battery replacement, movement overhaul, crystal replacement, bracelet repair, water resistance testing, and full restoration. We service most major Swiss and luxury watch brands. Whether your watch needs routine maintenance or complex repair, bring it in for a free evaluation and estimate.
Selling your luxury watch to Diamonds Above is straightforward. Bring your watch to our Austin showroom or contact us with details and photos. Our experts will evaluate the watch based on brand, model, condition, completeness (box, papers, accessories), and current market value. We provide a fair, competitive offer on the spot with no obligation. If you accept, we can issue payment the same day. Having original documentation typically increases the value.
Selling your gold jewelry to Diamonds Above is simple and transparent. Bring your items to our Austin showroom, and our experts will test the karat purity, weigh the piece, and evaluate any gemstones. We provide a fair offer based on current gold market prices, which you can accept or decline with no pressure. We buy gold in all forms: rings, necklaces, bracelets, earrings, and even dental gold. Payment is issued the same day you accept our offer.
Gold is valued based on three primary factors: karat purity (10K, 14K, 18K, 22K, or 24K), weight in grams or troy ounces, and the current spot price of gold on the commodities market. Higher karat gold contains a greater percentage of pure gold and is therefore worth more per gram. We use precise testing equipment to determine karat purity and calibrated scales for accurate weight measurement. Our offers are based on real-time market prices, ensuring you receive a fair and competitive price.
Yes, we buy broken, damaged, tangled, mismatched, and even single earrings. The gold, platinum, or silver content in your jewelry retains its value regardless of the condition of the piece. Gemstones from broken jewelry can also be evaluated separately. Many people are surprised to learn how much their old, unworn, or damaged jewelry is worth. Bring it in for a free, no-obligation evaluation.
Our diamond upgrade program allows you to trade in a diamond purchased from Diamonds Above toward a new diamond of greater value. You’ll receive full credit for the original purchase price toward the new stone, which must be at least 50% greater in value. This program ensures your jewelry can grow with you over time, whether for an anniversary upgrade, a milestone celebration, or simply because your tastes have evolved. for full program details and eligibility.
Diamonds Above is located at 4101 Guadalupe St, Suite 600, Austin, TX 78751. We are situated in the heart of Central Austin, easily accessible from downtown, the University of Texas campus, and major highways. Free parking is available at our location. You can find detailed directions and a map on our contact page.
While walk-ins are always welcome during our regular business hours, we highly recommend scheduling an appointment for the best experience. An appointment ensures you have dedicated one-on-one time with a jewelry specialist who can prepare for your visit. Custom design consultations, diamond viewings, and appraisals benefit especially from a scheduled appointment. or call us at (512) 206-4156.
Diamonds Above is open Tuesday through Thursday from 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM, and Friday and Saturday from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM. We are closed on Sundays and Mondays. After-hours appointments are available on Wednesdays and Thursdays for clients who cannot visit during regular business hours. Contact us at (512) 206-4156 to arrange a time that works for you.
Yes, we provide professional jewelry appraisal services for insurance purposes, estate valuations, and personal knowledge. Our certified appraisals include a detailed description of the piece, quality assessment of all stones, metal analysis, and a fair market or replacement value. Appraisals are essential for insurance coverage and are recommended to be updated every 2–3 years as market values change. to schedule an appraisal appointment.