The New York Diamond District offers a world full of elegance and bling and homes thousands of the most skilled and knowledgeable jewellers in a city block.
This one-block stretch of 47th Street in Midtown Manhattan, situated between Times Square and Rockefeller Center, has a remarkable history. The place has endured continuous changes in modern times despite being located in the centre of one of the biggest and busiest cities in the world. It has overcome obstacles and is still the top diamond hub in the United States decades after it opened.
Most diamonds entering the United States first pass-through New York City’s Diamond District. You can discover any diamond jewellery item here since over 4000 retail jewellers and wholesalers will surround you.
However, the experience can get overwhelming, which makes it essential to know what to know and expect before you visit the place to buy anything.
This article discusses New York Diamond District’s history and gathers top tips about shopping at the historical place.
The NYC Diamond District in a Nutshell
The Diamond District was founded in 1795 on Maiden Lane in Manhattan. The need arose when diamond merchants desired to sell diamonds from all over the world to clients in high society. Hence, they first established a centre of operations here.
The downtown area was in high demand for financial institutions in the early 1900s, and jewellers needed help to keep up with the rising rent. This forced them to move to uptown Manhattan altogether.
Buildings on 47th Street were constructed with jewellers in mind. The structure allowed the merchants to settle conveniently and build a brand-new sector around diamonds and jewellery. The Diamond District, as it is known today, was thus created in 1925.
During the 1940s, numerous people fled to New York City to start enterprises, including diamond stores. The move resulted from World War II and the invasion of multiple European nations.
Jewellers from all over the world arrived in the Diamond District, including Amsterdam, Antwerp, Tel Aviv, and others. Given its diversity, the place has undergone minor changes over the past century, but only a little has changed overall.
Making Informed Decisions at the New York Diamond District
As mentioned earlier, the New York Diamond District offers awe-inspiring experiences. This makes shopping there more complicated than going into a store and choosing what you want. Hence, it would be best if you prepare beforehand.
Research is Key
It can be challenging to decide which jeweller to visit first in the District because there are so many of them. Industry experts advise great caution before you leave for the place, believing that choosing a jeweller is more important than choosing a ring.
Read online reviews and research the store you plan to visit. Doing so will help you determine whether the person you will work with is competent, open, and truthful.
Once you find a trustworthy person, you should stay patient and consider other factors before purchasing.
Knowing What to Buy
Having a clear idea of what you want before you start shopping will help to make the process less stressful. Besides, it will give you a sense of accomplishment since you have now narrowed down your options and would probably stay calm.
Begin with writing down the important factors so that you know what to look out for the most. Afterward, establish a budget; this step is critical to avoid regret after a potential impulse buy.
Let Them Know You Are Coming
It is highly advised that you call ahead to schedule an appointment if you have your heart set on a particular jeweller. As opposed to showing up out of nowhere, this step will help you have enough time for your task.
You can also avoid being distracted while ensuring you see the people you have already researched. You can do this most of the time with designers and retailers.
Staying Put During the Purchase
You can negotiate a better price if you can haggle. Don’t be afraid to do this, as you will be spending your hard-earned money. Also, you don’t always have to pay what is stated on the price tag. Most jewellers make room for informed customers before they quote or set a price; you should try to exploit it to your advantage.
Once you are in the District, you will find sellers persuasive and forceful. The place is fiercely competitive, which encourages aggressive behaviour. Therefore, even if you are convinced you should buy from a jeweller, you should take the door the moment you sense anything shady.
