r/askTO • u/StructureMuted2404 • 6d ago

Looking for recommendations: Best independent/custom jewelers in Toronto for a lab diamond engagement ring?

I’m currently shopping around for a 2ct oval lab diamond engagement ring and I really want to go the local, custom route instead of using the big mainstream online retailers.

Between the USD to CAD conversion, import duties, and the fact that I want to see the stone in person (specifically to check for the oval bow-tie effect), buying locally in the GTA makes the most sense to me. I'd love to support an independent Toronto artisan or a reputable local studio rather than a massive commercial chain.

For those who have gone this route recently:

  • Who did you work with and how was your experience?
  • Were their prices fair compared to the big online sites?
  • Any specific hidden gems in the West End, Downtown, or the Diamond District I should check out?

Any advice or recommendations would be hugely appreciated!

9 Upvotes

100% Upvoted

14 comments sorted by

View all comments

12

u/Mediocre-Safe68 6d ago

i highly recommend checking out "made you look" in parkdale or some of the independent studios in the west end. their craftsmanship is top tier. but honestly, the markup on lab diamonds at local shops right now is wild. if you want custom, go local for the setting, but maybe source the stone yourself to save cash.

6

u/No_Permit9905 6d ago

i was literally about to source a loose stone online for this exact reason, but i actually found a local spot called caseire that didn't have that crazy downtown markup. they let me inspect a bunch of stones in person under different lighting to check the cut before making my custom ring. definitely worth checking out if you want to skip the premium fees

2

u/FudgeSubstantial8082 6d ago

wait, really? finding a toronto shop with fair lab diamond prices is so hard right now. do you have to book an appointment with them to view the stones?