FAQs
Do you offer custom design services?
Very occasionally, if the client already has a good idea of what they want and if it fits within my oeuvre of work. However each of my designs is customizable in many ways, so please inquire!
Can I make an appointment to see the rings?
As much as I would love to meet in person, I'm currently maxed out beyond capability and have to delay any in-person meetings for a few months until I am able to get caught up on orders. I only sell directly to clients (each one is made to order) and do not have work in any retail stores. This is beneficial in order for my clients to save money and get the best possible product, but is obviously difficult when they want to try them on ahead of time. The hope is that within a couple months I will have a line available to view locally at your convenience and have available one day a week for one-on-one appointments. In the meantime, I have to keep up with the influx of current orders and keep them turning over at a reasonable rate. Of course, you are always welcome to pick up rings in person, I just do not currently have the arrangements for consultations at the moment, as I would be unable to get anything else finished.
Can I find your designs in stores?
No, I do not sell retail in order to keep my pricing down and better serve my clients.
Work from?
I work in southern California, between Long Beach and the Diamond District in downtown Los Angeles.
Resizing?
You can always return the ring to me for resizing, please contact me! Although it may be easier and faster to have the ring resized locally if there are not additional details on the shank and if it’s within one full size. I provide one free resize within the first year of receipt.
How can I tell what a Heidi Gibson ring will look like on my finger?
Download a document to compare the actual scale of my designs here. You can print and cut out the designs to try them on your own finger.
What do I do if I don’t know ring size?
If you're ordering for someone else, do some more research, if possible. Check with her friends, or locate one of her rings. You could take one of her rings to any jewelry department (even to Target or Walmart) and they can tell you what the size is. You can also attempt to measure the inner diameter in millimeters (keeping in mind which finger she wears the ring on) for the most accurate guess. The pave set diamond bands cannot be resized more than half a size without rebuilding (and an additional labor cost), so if there is a chance for a resize, do not add the diamond to the shank. Likewise, wait to order a wedding band until you are certain of the finger size.
Do you ship internationally?
Yes! I send many rings overseas via FedEx with full tracking and insurance. Shipping takes approximately 3-7 business days depending on customs. It costs approximately $250 depending on the value of the piece. The client is responsible for any related import fees or VAT taxes on jewelry sent out of the country. Please research your country for fees that may be charged by your country's customs.
Can I use my own stone?
Yes! I love when clients use their own stones in my designs. I will need the exact millimeters to give you a quote on scale and pricing. You can choose to send the diamond to me to set at no extra cost, or I can send you the semi mount to have the center set locally. I do not, however, use clients’ accent stones in my designs. The hassle to remove the stones (with the potential to break/scratch) is not ideal, and it sacrifices the look of the design to try to use different other sizes, even with a fraction of mm difference. Accent stones can occasionally be used in a pave stacking band, however, if they are all the same size.
What kind of diamonds do you use and where do you get them?
The diamonds I use are based on YOUR preferences and budget. Typically, I source stones that will fit in your budget and ring design and give you several options with the total prices for each option. I build the rest of the ring to match the center that you choose. The most commonly used diamonds are G-H in color, and SI1 in clarity. These stones look very nice to the eye, and you save a lot of money over higher clarity/color stones that are not as noticeable without a loupe.
The diamonds I source are only from reputable local dealers who use ethically sourced stones. If you are concerned about using a conflict free stone, I recommend using an antique cut. Antique stones (more than 50 years of age) predate all major conflicts and are the best way to ensure peace of mind. I directly source from reputable antique stone dealers as well.
What are the differences between white sapphires, diamonds and moissanite?
These are the most commonly used stones in my designs. You can read more about the pros and cons of each stone here.
Warranty?
I provide one free resize (not applicable for pave bands which must be rebuilt), cleaning and maintenance, and even replace lost stones (though fees may apply for metal damage) free of charge for one year. The center stone is not included in warranty - everyone should get insurance on their piece, just in case (I recommend Jeweler's Mutual. They are fast and thorough with claims and reasonably priced as well). I'll take care of you for life, after one year, at discounted labor and material rates.
What is your exchange/return policy?
Because each piece is custom made to order, there are no returns or exchanges. That said, I really believe in excellent customer service and will do anything I can to make you happy.
Payments?
I typically use PayPal or Square for deposits. PayPal is nice for international orders because they convert the currency and deduct minimal fees. The balance (when the ring is complete and before shipping) can be paid via credit card through PayPal or Square with 3.5% convenience fees, or via bank transfer/wire/venmo/zelle with no additional cost to the balance.
How long will it take to get my order?
After receiving the deposit ($500) or placing an order through the website, it takes approximately 8 (currently) weeks to build your ring. I can occasionally accommodate rush orders. I ship overnight domestically.
How to order?
For any standard order, you can check out directly from my website listings. Just indicate the ring size and gold color (14k rose, yellow, or white gold) at checkout. Read more here to see what information I will need from you via email for custom orders.
For some all diamond orders with larger stones, the pricing can vary. You can contact me with particular budget or design preferences. I can provide you with options for center stones with the total cost of the ring based on these stone options. The surrounding diamonds are matched to the quality of the center of your choice. Every diamond purchase comes with a third party appraisal for insurance purposes. Appraisals are available for white sapphire or other stone purchases as well, but they will cost an additional $65.
With all orders, I typically require a $500 non-refundable deposit to build your ring. When the ring is finished (in approximately 6-8 weeks, currently), I will send you a video and collect the balance before shipping.
Domestic shipping is fully insured and trackable via overnight Fedex Express, and costs $80 depending on the value of the piece. Sales tax is only applicable to orders placed within and shipping to locations in California. International shipping is available through FedEx. It costs $250 (or could vary depending on the value of the piece), and generally takes 3-7 business days depending on your country’s customs. All international import fees are charged directly to the client when the piece enters customs. The amount of import tax varies by country/location.