ENGAGEMENT RING FAQ
Sizing
Q: How do I determine her ring size?
Money Matters
Q: How much should I spend?
Q: Should I choose platinum or white gold?
Q: Should I choose a diamond or colored stone?
Diamonds + Colored Stones
Q: What is the ken + dana design diamond quality standard?
Q: What size diamond should I get?
Q: What colored stones do you offer?
Ethics + the Environment
Q: Do you use conflict free diamonds?
Q: Do you use recycled metals?
Q: Will a portion of my sale be donated to any charities or organizations?
Customizations
Q: Can you create a custom engagement ring for me?
Q: How can I customize my engagement ring in a budget-friendly manner?
Q: Do you laser inscribe?
Production
Q: How long does production generally take?
Q: Can you rush my order?
Q: Can you set my heirloom diamond into a ken + dana design setting?
Q: Can you set my colored stone into a ken + dana design setting?
Q: Can I order a ken + dana design setting without the center stone?
Q: Can I use another jeweler to size or repair my ken + dana design ring after purchase?
Engagement Ring Care
Q: Are there any times when I should not be wearing my engagement ring?
Q: How often should I have my engagement ring serviced by ken + dana design?
100% Satisfaction Guarantee
Q: Can I return an engagement ring?
Q: Do you offer a Lifetime warranty on your engagement rings?
Q: Do you offer free maintenance on your engagement rings?
Q: Do you offer Free Cleaning?
Sizing
Q: How do I determine her ring size?
A: Download this size guide to help determine the size. We recommend going with a size that is easy to slide on and slightly resistant when taking it off. If you're purchasing an engagement ring or wedding band, the first re-sizing is complimentary. Each additional sizing is $50.00.
Money Matters
Q: How much should I spend?
A: You should spend as much money on your engagement ring as you feel comfortable with. Start by creating a budget and then let everything else fall into place. Every client has a different need, and we do our best to recommend and create the most exciting ring for a given budget. If you’re still not sure on what you should spend or need some help deciding, please send us an email to info@kenanddanadesign.com. We would love to help you find the perfect engagement ring.
Q: Should I choose platinum or white gold?
A: We offer our settings in recycled 14k gold, 18k gold and platinum. When it comes to all three of these options, the deciding factors are budget, density (which roughly translates into durability) and maintenance.
Platinum is the most expensive metal and is also the most dense. It is a naturally white metal, and will remain that way for life without the need for maintenance. This makes platinum a low maintenance option. 18k white gold features an intermediate price point - it contains a higher percentage of gold than 14k, thereby making it a more precious option. Since gold is a yellow metal, alloying and rhodium-plating are required for gold to achieve a white color. Alloying allows for gold to look greyish white, and rhodium plating gives it a bright white finish. This plating does wear off, however, so clients who prefer a bright white finish should have their ring re-plated (about once every 18 months). And lastly, 14k white gold is the least expensive option. It contains a lower concentration of gold than 18k, making it great value. This option is also rhodium plated. Read more about rhodium plating here.
Q: Should I choose a diamond or colored stone?
A: Diamonds have always been the most popular choice for engagement rings. In our experience, most women prefer a diamond engagement ring unless they’ve specifically mentioned that they would like a colored stone. Of course, price is a major factor when going the diamond route, but don’t worry – many of our engagement rings are available with 0.25ct -0.50ct diamond (starting at just $2200). See the Aurora with a 0.25ct Diamond here.
Diamonds + Colored Stones
Q: What is the ken + dana design diamond quality standard?
A: We hand-select and inspect every diamond before setting them for our clients. Even though laboratory grading and standardization have made choosing a diamond much less intimidating, it is worth keeping in mind that the lab report alone does not tell the full story. It is because of this reason, that two identically sized stones with equal grading (and from the same lab) can trade for thousands of dollars apart in the marketplace. In our shop, we mine our suppliers for diamonds that exhibit the best combination of value and aesthetics. The standard that we use is GIA H color with SI2 clarity, with at least VG cut and polish. This standard is meant to give you the highest carat stone within a budget, while maintaining a colorless distinction and zero imperfection to an unaided eye.
Clients who prefer for us to shop for a different quality stone than our recommendation can email us at info@kenanddanadesign.com
Q: What size diamond should I get?
A: If you're unsure about what size diamond to select, consider choosing a size that represents the best that you can afford. Since we took the liberty of selecting diamonds at the best quality and value, we recommend opting for the largest size that fits within your budget. For instance, if you love the Aurora and can afford to spend $3000, you may choose the recycled 18k white gold Aurora with an 0.50 carat diamond center stone at $2420. If your budget is more flexible, you may choose a larger 0.75ct diamond for $4320.
Q: What colored stones do you offer?
A: We are currently offering yellow sapphires and blue sapphires in our KDD Classics collection (customizable engagement rings). Our ready to ship and one-of-a-kind collections feature a wider range of exotic stones, including black and brown diamonds, tourmalines and emeralds.
Ethics + the Environment
Q: Do you use conflict free diamonds?
A: Yes. All of our diamonds are Kimberly Process compliant. The Kimberley Process is a certification system that prohibits the trading of diamonds from war-torn regions.
Q: Do you use recycled metals?
A: Yes. We use recycled gold and platinum from melted down, already existing supplies to the furthest extent possible.
Q: Will a portion of my sale be donated to any charities or organizations?
A: Yes. We donate a portion of proceeds to Global Witness from every engagement ring sold. This organization helps to ensure that natural resources drive peaceful and sustainable development, rather than providing funds for conflict and corruption.
Customizations
Q: Can you create a custom engagement ring for me?
A: Yes. Private commissions start with an in-studio meeting (via e-mail/phone for out of state clients), and coming to an agreed-on vision and specifications. We will then draw up a proposal and estimated cost. The design process is broken down into three phases and you will be charged a non-refundable fee with each stage of work. Custom designs can take anywhere from eight weeks to six months, depending on the request. Please contact us for more details: info@kenanddanadesign.com.
Q: How can I customize my engagement ring in a budget-friendly manner?
A: We understand that custom engagement rings can be costly and unpredictable, so we encourage our clients to personalize their ring instead. Start by finding a KDD ring that you love and then personalizing it by adding an inscription, changing the finish, or adding an accent birthstone. Send us an email with your story, and we'll help you brainstorm for ideas.
Q: Do you laser inscribe?
A: Yes. A laser inscription is a great way to personalize your ring.
Production
Q: How long does production generally take?
A: If you purchase a made to order or customized engagement ring, please allow 4 weeks for production time. Private Collection and Ready to Ship pieces require 7-10 business days for sizing.
Q: Can you rush my order?
A: Most engagement rings and wedding bands can be rushed for an extra fee by choosing the "rush" option under your product of choice. This means that production time will take 1-3 weeks, instead of the usual 4-6 weeks. If you have a hard deadline, please send an inquiry to info@kenanddanadesign.com.
Q: Can you set my heirloom diamond into a ken + dana design setting?
A: Yes. We will gladly set a diamond that you currently own into one of our settings as long as it is 0.30 carats or larger. In order to make this process secure for our clients, we require that all diamonds sent to us with a copy of the accompanying GIA/EGL certificate. This certificate must include a stone map. The stone map is important because it maps out all of the diamond’s characteristics, allowing you to confirm its identity when we return the stone in your new setting back to you.
If your diamond is an heirloom (or was purchased without certification), you must have your stone fully certified by an independent gemological laboratory and include a copy of certification with your diamond. The certificate must include a stone map and replacement value. The stone should be removed from its original setting prior to certification. We will not re-set a diamond that is in an existing setting. Once you have your certification in order, please send an e-mail to: info@kenanddanadesign.com for further instructions.
Q: Can you set my colored stone into a ken + dana design setting?
A: No. We are currently only setting heirloom diamonds that are 0.30 carats or larger.
Q: Can I order a ken + dana design setting without the center stone?
A: No. We do not send out unfinished work (i.e., settings without a center stone). Our artisans are familiar with working on our elaborate settings and are skilled at modifying them to each unique stone.
Q: Can I use another jeweler to size or repair my ken + dana design ring after purchase?
A: We do not recommend that you use another jeweler to work on your ken + dana design engagement ring. Not all jewelers are created equal and it takes a master craftsperson to work on our unique designs. Additionally, repair or service by a jeweler or designer other than ken + dana design will void the lifetime warranty that comes with our engagement rings and wedding bands.
Engagement Ring Care
Q: Are there any times when I should not be wearing my engagement ring?
A: We realize that you love your engagement ring and never want to take it off. However, your ring is made using precious metals and gems and should be treated with care. This means that it is best not to wear your ring while bathing, gardening, engaging in sports, going to the gym or any other activity that could potentially be abrasive to your engagement ring.
Q: How often should I have my engagement ring serviced by ken + dana design?
A: We recommend having your engagement ring professionally cleaned and inspected every 6 months. We offer this service to our clients free of charge. See our free maintenance section below for more information.
100% Satisfaction Guarantee
Q: Can I return an engagement ring?
A: Yes. You can shop with confidence, knowing that if for any reason you are not satisfied, you may take advantage of our 14 day return + exchange policy.
The item must be returned in its original, unworn condition within 14 days of the initial shipment. Each piece must be returned in the original packaging with all of the original documentation/certification. Items that are special order, customized/altered/engraved, have been repaired/re-sized, or have been previously exchanged are not returnable or exchangeable. Please note that shipping charges are non-refundable and we do not pay for the shipping of items returned to us.
How to return an order:
Please contact us at returns@kenanddanadesign.com before sending back merchandise with a note on why you'd like a refund/exchange. Do not ship your item out until you have received e-mail confirmation and a return shipping fee (if exchanging an item) from a ken + dana design team member. Once you have received confirmation and pay for return shipping (if applicable), you may send your ring to us for a refund or exchange. Please be sure to carefully enclose each piece in its original packaging (including all paperwork and certification) with proper padding. The package must be insured for the total purchase amount. The client will be responsible for any customs duties or clearance for all shipments. Ken + dana design is not responsible for lost or damaged items during transit.
Please send all returns/exchanges to:
ken + dana design
attn: returns
231 w 29th st, #503
new york, ny 10001
212.972.7031
Q: Do you offer a Lifetime warranty on your engagement rings?
A: Yes. Ken + dana design jewelry is handcrafted in NYC with highest standards of quality and excellence. In addition to our 14 day return policy, we offer a lifetime warranty on the craftsmanship of our jewelry.
This warranty will cover defects on any ken + dana design engagement ring, for the life of the ring.
This warranty excludes coverage for wear and tear and/or physical abuse, loss of stones and theft. Additionally, repair or service by someone other than ken + dana design will void this warranty. In situations not related to manufacturing defects, we always recommend the purchase of independent insurance for your ken + dana design jewelry. This will help recover damaged, lost or stolen jewelry.
Q: Do you offer free maintenance on your engagement rings?
A: Yes. We recommend having your engagement ring professionally
cleaned and inspected every 6 months.
Your ring should also be immediately serviced if it has undergone trauma, such as
being dropped or struck. Even if
your ring looks to be unharmed, it may have issues that can only be detected by
a professional. These inspections
will make sure that the prongs are secure, which helps to prevent the loss of
your diamond or gemstone if your ring has been inadvertently damaged. Ken + dana design provides this service
to our clients free of charge. If you live in the NYC area, simply send us an email to info@kenanddanadesign.com to schedule an
appointment for inspection and cleaning.
If you don't live in the NYC area, start by sending us an email to info@kenanddanadesign.com with “free maintenance” in the subject line. Do not send your item out until you have received confirmation and a return shipping fee from a ken + dana design team member. Once you receive confirmation and pay for return shipping you may send your ring to us for inspection. Please be sure to carefully enclose your ring in its original packaging with proper padding. The package must be insured for the total purchase amount. The client will be responsible for any customs duties or clearance for all shipments. Ken + dana design is not responsible for lost or damaged items during transit.
If we discover that your ring needs to be refurbished, it will not be available for immediate pick-up or immediate return-shipping. The time for refurbishing varies depending on the service and we will provide you with an estimate of the delivery date and associated costs (if applicable) once we have inspected the ring.
Q: Do you offer Free Cleaning?
A: Yes. Feel free to make an appointment for a complimentary cleaning as often as you like. If you live in the NYC area, simply send an email to
info@kenanddanadesign.com to schedule an
appointment for cleaning. The process will only take about 30 minutes.
If you don't live in the NYC area, start by sending us an email to info@kenanddanadesign.com with “free cleaning” in the subject line. Do not send your item out until you have received confirmation and a return shipping fee from a ken + dana design team member. Once you receive confirmation and pay for return shipping, you may ship your ring to us for cleaning. Please be sure to carefully enclose your ring in its original packaging with proper padding. The package must be insured for the total purchase amount. T he client will be responsible for any customs duties or clearance for all shipments. Ken + dana design is not responsible for lost or damaged items during transit. If you are shipping your ring to us, please allow one to two days for cleaning.
Q: Anything else?
A: Yes - Our Terms and Conditions govern all transactions with you. Please read and review our terms and conditions before you shop.
