How to Find the Best Jewelers in Chicago

The women of the windy city have always loved diamonds and jewels, and Chicago jewelers have certainly loved them back. The history of fine jewelers in the downtown area goes back to the great Chicago fire more than 100 years ago. This was when the city created an entire neighborhood dedicated to the elegance and craftsmanship of superior jewelry and dubbed it Jewelers' Row.

Instructions

1. Shop at the premier Chicago jeweler since 1837 in downtown Chicago or the affluent suburbs. C.D. Peacock is located in the Oakbrook and Woodfield shopping malls for those not willing to drive into the city.

2. Choose a diamond-studded watch or a unique emerald brooch at Tiffany & Co. Located on Michigan Avenue in Chicago or on the north side near Skokie, this exquisite jeweler has the finest selection available.

3. Look for fine jewelry in the large department stores such as Neiman Marcus, Saks Fifth Avenue and Bloomingdale's. These stores cater to the well-to-do with personal service and a variety of choices.

4. Stroll the main streets or small shopping malls of Chicago's affluent suburbs like Hinsdale or Oakbrook to find high-end jewelers specializing in custom design and high quality accessories.

5. Drive downtown or take the train and get off on Wabash on the east side of State Street. Located between Washington and Monroe streets are two blocks of shops called Jewelers Row. Stop at the most historic building in the row, the Mallers Building, where over 150 jewelers reside on 13 floors.

6. Select different jewelry services from the different shops available. Purchase a wholesale diamond at one place, the platinum setting at another, custom design at third and the appraisal at a fourth. All of these services are found on Jewelers' Row.

Tips & Warnings

• Buy antique or estate jewelry from a fine jeweler as well. Exceptional jewelry is not always diamonds or gold.

• Have fine jewelry appraised, insured and kept in a locked fire protection box.