Lauren Addison, a private NYC jeweler and graduate gemologist to be obsessed with. At least, I am!
Her pieces are so dreamy and magical…and that’s even an understatement. If you’re seeking for something special or non-traditional, she’s the one you might be looking for! Bespoke/custom/OOAK jewelry is an investment for sure and there are obviously endless options. What better to take your ideas to a private jeweler like Lauren Addison and create your dream piece together?
You can tell Lauren is a professional who loves what she does. More about Lauren and her work in a little Q&A below.
How did you get into the business?
I’ve been in the business for about 12 years now, after getting my start in the marketing department of a luxury jewelry house. Over time my interests shifted and I became more interested in the actual gemstones and jewelry than marketing! I began attending the Gemological Institute of America (while working full-time), earning my Graduate Gemologist degree. This past year I finally decided to take the leap, leaving marketing behind to follow my passion and start my own jewelry company.
How often are people getting other stones beside diamonds in engagement rings? / What are other popular gemstones picked by your clients?
There is definitely a growing trend in the industry for non-traditional engagement rings, whether that be a non-diamond center stone or alternative design, but I have to say that for the most part that hasn’t been my experience. I’ve made a handful of non-traditional designs; however, all have been using diamonds. Whether you’re looking for a classic piece or something fresh, it is still important to select a stone durable enough for day to day wear. I would stick to diamonds, sapphires or rubies.
What do you suggest to clients when they get an engagement ring? What do they have to look for?
First and foremost, I suggest that clients purchase a GIA certified diamond. The certificate provides an in-depth analysis of the diamond’s quality based on the 4Cs (Cut, Carat, Clarity & Color), removing all the guess work out of your purchase. I suggest being upfront with the budget you are working with allowing your qualified jewelry specialist to put together a selection that best suits your needs – balancing the quality, carat weight and budget. It also helps to have an idea of the style of ring you are looking for, whether that is a solitaire, side-stones, halos, cluster, etc.
More about the 4Cs here.
You mention the 4Cs , which do you think is the most important?
I encourage my clients to focus most on the cut and color, rather than the clarity. It is in fact the cut, not to be confused with shape, that allows for a diamond’s fire, sparkle and brilliance. And as for color, the naked eye typically cannot see the minute inclusions within a diamond, but it can spot the lower color.
What’s your favorite custom piece you’ve created?
I have to say my favorite has been my younger brother’s engagement ring. Aside from loving the ring itself (pictured above), there is an emotional attachment to that piece.
What’s your favorite part of your job?
That I have the freedom to be creative day in and day out, and that I have the chance to work with people genuinely interested in and excited by collaborating on something unique.
And lastly, aside from diamonds, what is your favorite gemstone?
Hands down, Paraiba tourmalines! I can get lost staring into a Paraiba- the color is mesmerizing and there is such life to the gemstone!
Looking for something special? Contact Lauren here or via email.
Some more gorgeous designs by Lauren. She doesn’t only make exquisite rings but also creates formidable earrings, necklaces, and bracelets.
All photos and info thanks to Lauren Addison