“Working with Vanessa changed my whole engagement experience”
I spent months looking for the perfect engagement ring. I went to a number of jewelers, and simply wasn’t having a good experience. I felt these old men were just trying to sell me something – anything. Working with Vanessa changed my whole engagement experience.
I cannot say enough about her and her work! Very professional, but yet extremely laid back. Her costumer service is TOP NOTCH.
At first, I was intimidated at the thought of designing my own engagement ring. But looking back, I can’t imagine it any other way. What better way to say I love you than thinking deep-down and coming up with a ring design that is one-of-a-kind, just for her? The entire process was extremely laid back; no pressure what so ever. If the design wasn’t exactly what I wanted, it was changed, no problem. I made changes to the design the day before the ring was cast to metal. The process was very transparent and there were no surprises. Vanessa was very upfront and honest about everything, including pricing. We were in constant communication and I knew exactly what was going on the entire time.
I could not be happier with the finished product; excellent quality and truly amazing!! My fiancé receives constant compliments and doesn’t hesitate to tell the story of how the ring is just for her. Vanessa’s downtown location is kind of far for us North County folk; but honestly, don’t let the location deter you. We met at her studio for an initial appointment, but after that, most of the process was done over phone/email. I actually did a lot of this while working out of town. I highly recommend Vanessa Nicole Jewels to create your engagement ring. My fiancé and I are so excited to work with her to design our weddings bands. Customers for life!
~Joe & Suzie Nawikas
“When my fiancé first looked at the ring she was absolutely stunned”
I just proposed to my fiancé with a custom engagement ring designed and built by Vanessa Nicole. I could not have been more ecstatic with the entire process. I live in Seattle and my fiancé lives in Oakland so planning everything, designing the ring, figuring out the size, etc was all a challenge. Vanessa Nicole walked me through every step of the process from helping me pick a diamond to getting a rough idea of what I wanted the ring to look like to designing a great CAD mockup and lastly building an absolutely stunning ring. My fiancé LOVES it, which is what I cared about most.
The process can be very overwhelming but when I found Vanessa Nicole, she coached me through it all. She respected the budget I had set, made everything very clear as we went along and above all, made it feel like a very personalized experience. It went from being a difficult process to a really enjoyable one and when my fiancé first looked at the ring she was absolutely stunned. It was unique, like nothing I’d ever seen and it felt great to have a hand in personalizing this very important reflection of my love.
Lastly, being from out of town, Vanessa Nicole made the process so easy for me. She went out of her way to be accommodating, worked around some specific timing requests I made and didn’t compromise the quality in the least. I couldn’t be happier and I would recommend to any of my good friends or family to work with her regardless of where they live. I’m sure my fiancé would agree…. her work is unparalleled. Thanks again!!!
~Blake & Melissa Bidleman
Seattle, Washington 1/28/11
“It scored some serious points”
Vanessa Nicole Jewels has been the best experience I could have ever imagined when it comes to purchasing an engagement ring – so much so that my fiancé and I will be purchasing our wedding rings from Vanessa as well.
What makes her so great? A lot of things. For one, the rings are custom-made by Vanessa, and she does beautiful work. I worked with her one-on-one designing the ring for my fiancé until we figured out the perfect design. I did not know very much about diamond rings when I began this process, but Vanessa made the entire process very accessible and not daunting at all. Also, Vanessa Nicole Jewels rocks because Vanessa herself rocks. She knows a ton about diamonds and jewelry in general, she works with you to figure out what you want. It is not about what she is trying to sell, and you don’t leave her place feeling like you’re just a number. In fact, she only takes a limited number of people each month to ensure that everyone has a very welcoming, personal experience. She takes all the time you need to make your decisions, and she goes out of her way to ensure you’re happy with what you’re buying before you swipe that credit card or write the check. I think it is probably impossible to buy something from Vanessa Nicole Jewels and be unhappy with it, because she’s not going to consider her work done until she’s absolutely sure you’re going to love it (and your significant other is going to love it).
Additionally, Vanessa Nicole Jewels is very reasonable in terms of price. Vanessa will go out of her way to ensure the ring you’re buying is the best and most beautiful ring possible for what you are paying, and she knows ways to maximize your dollars for what you are getting.
Lastly, and this could be the most important reason why Vanessa Nicole Jewels is the best, is the “Making the Ring” video she creates for you and your significant other. Basically, the video shows the making of the ring that you designed with her, and a voice over of the person who purchased the ring is played while the video shows the ring being made as well as pictures of you and your significant other that you send to Vanessa. The video quality is really top-notch, too. Vanessa knows what she’s doing here. My fiancé knew this would be something we would have when I bought the ring, but she was not prepared for how awesome the video would be. I think she has probably watched it 30 times – no joke! – and she’s cried in maybe half of those viewings. It scored some serious points. Bottom line, if you decide to work with Vanessa Nicole, you will be very happy with your decision. Guaranteed!
~Pat & Lauren Drain
San Diego, CA 5/13/12
“She made the whole experience so personal”
My fiancé wanted to make our engagement very special, he went to see Vanessa and was blown away by how much help she was. From the beginning he wanted to give me a solitaire so we could design the setting together. Vanessa helped him pick out the most beautiful diamond!!
We were getting engaged out of town and my fiancé did not want to travel with the ring, Vanessa set it up so that the ring would be waiting at the proposal spot when we arrived…he didn’t have to worry about a thing. She made the whole experience so personal by writing me a note to “The Bride To Be” congratulating me & letting me know how much thought my fiancé had put into our special day. She also let me know that we were going to come in and design the ring together & that I was welcome to come in and see her whenever I wanted.
Vanessa has made the whole process so enjoyable & personal. I have been in to see her a few times since getting engaged and she has been nothing but helpful. I cannot wait to have her design my ring, I honestly would not trust anyone else to do it!!!!
~Kelli & Daniel Northrup
San Diego, CA 2/10/12
“Definitely different than going to a jewelry store”
I was so excited to find out that my fiance arranged for me to sit down and have my engagement ring custom made. WOW!! That meant so much to me and it also meant that no one would have the same ring in the world!! How sweet is that?!! 
Definitely different than going to a jewelry store and picking one out.
Of course, I had my reservations because I live so far away (across the country) from Vanessa and did not know what to expect from the whole process, BUT Vanessa was unbelievable!!! I cannot begin to tell you how easy it was from beginning to end. She worked with me on every detail. I had a lot of questions, and she happily answered all of them. I received my ring right before Christmas and it was the best gift ever! It is just STUNNING!!!!!! Everyone tells me it looks BEAUTIFUL…I would definitely have to agree! 
If you are considering having your ring custom made, I would not hesitate to call Vanessa. She will make your dream ring come true and you will enjoy the process! Thank you, Vanessa, for my lovely ring and for being incredible to work with…you are a joy & blessing! God bless you!
~Vanessa & Robert Vargas
“I can’t believe how amazing that ring looks”
You have done an amazing job. I can’t believe how amazing that ring looks. I love everything about it. The engraving, the diamonds, the fleur de lis, everything. Now I see what all the hype is about on your page and in your comments. I have most definitely made the right choice. You have just earned a repeat customer!
I can’t wait to give it to Lauren. I am so happy and can’t express how thankful I am of your talents, your professionalism, and all your help. I can already tell you she will be amazed.
Sincerely,
Paul
11/30/11
Shreveport, LA
“It is EXACTLY to a “T” what I have always dreamt of!!!!”
VANESSA!!!!!!!!!! ALL I CAN SAY IS THANK YOU AND I KNOW THAT’S NOT EVEN ENOUGH!!!! You have an amazing talent and I am so pleased and impressed and completely in love with the masterpiece you created!!! It is EXACTLY to a “T” what I have always dreamt of!!!! Thank you, thank you, thank you!!!
VNJ is an amazing way to go!!! My fiance worked directly with the jeweler Vanessa and was able to take my breath away when he proposed with a gorgeous ring that I didn’t imagine possible!! The ring is exactly what I had pictured in my mind that I always wanted but hadn’t seen really until it was on my finger shining like crazy!!! And if that were not enough….there was a video which accompanied the ring that made my heart melt!! Tyler, my fiance, had the opportunity to explain exactly why he wanted this type of custom ring for our custom one of a kind love and relationship. Vanessa is an amazing person and jeweler and I highly recommend her……….so all you men out there contemplating going with someone else…………….you should think again!!! VNJ is the ONLY WAY!!! And this is coming from a pretty picky girl ;p
~Megan Metts 9/27/11
Moncks Corner, SC
“My fiancé is always asked where this perfect ring comes from.”
When I felt it was time to start searching for rings, I did the usual rounds with my mom, of course. We visited Tiffany, DeBeers, Cartier and several high end stores. Many of them had gorgeous rings, but they were either far over priced, or not “exactly” what I wanted.
A friend of mine had suggested contacting Vanessa so I called and made an appointment. Just from our first phone call I knew that I was going to get the ring from her. Vanessa made me feel so comfortable. I provided her with my idea of the perfect ring, and she told me she’d have several stones and designs to choose from when I arrived.
When I arrived she took her time, explaining each diamond and what the creation process entailed. We spent hours with her, and she gave us her undivided attention throughout the entire process. When I finally chose the diamond, it was time to build ring. As the process unfolded, I realized that I was creating my own unique vision, my own dream, rather than buying someone else’s, and that alone was priceless.
Another huge thing to point out was that I was in a huge rush. My “now fiance” lived abroad yet Vanessa was still willing to take the challenge and create the ring in time. All in all, Vanessa created the perfect ring, it is absolutely stunning. Her craftsmanship, etiquette, patience, flexibility and natural warmth made buying the ring such a joyous process. Vanessa poured everything she had into making our ring and until this day, my fiancé is always asked where this perfect ring comes from.
~Danny Abas 8/31/11 Encino, CA
“The Customer Service And Craftsmanship Are Top Notch”
When I first went looking for engagement rings, I didn’t know where to start. I had gotten pictures of a few rings from my fiance’s sister, and some advice, but I didn’t know the first thing about jewelry shopping. Lucky for me, I’d met Vanessa previously, so I figured I’d give her a call to see if she could help out.
Vanessa was fantastic! She gave me a crash course on how to evaluate diamonds, met with me several times to answer questions, and put together a great 3D preview of the prospective ring design for me to check out before she began work. In the end, I got a custom, one of a kind ring that was perfect for my fiancé. She absolutely loves it, and I don’t think any other ring would have been as good. The customer service and craftsmanship are top notch, and I highly recommend Vanessa Nicole Jewels to anyone who needs an engagement ring.
-Evan Scalzo 8/15/11
“She Will Make Everything Perfect And Your Bride Extremely Happy!”
Wow! Vanessa is awesome! I first met her when planning my fiance’s engagement ring. I had done a TON of research, been into all the stores, spoke with stores around the country, but couldn’t find the perfect ring. I had something very specific in mind (vintage feel with a cushion cut stone and a few other specifics), so I decided explore the custom route.
After the first meeting with Vanessa, I knew it would be a good fit. She was very easy to work with, spent time understanding exactly what I (and my fiance wanted), explained the process etc.
Actually working with her was great! Everything on time (or ahead of schedule) and she went the extra mile to make sure everything was perfect. I was probably more of a hassle to work with, but she never complained and helped make everything run smooth.
So my fiance (of course) said yes, and constantly gets complemented on her ring! We have now gone back to Vanessa for her wedding band so it can be perfectly matched with the engagement ring. We’re getting married a week from tomorrow (July 16th), and are thrilled about everything including the rings!
If you’re looking for stellar service and truly custom work, you MUST have a conversation with Vanessa. She will make everything perfect and your bride extremely happy!
-Forest Bronzan 7/8/11
“I KNOW I Made The Right Choice”
When I called Vanessa Nicole Jewels to inquire about an engagement ring, I was blown away by the fact that I actually got to speak directly with HER. I know it says on her website that I would work directly with the designer, but I thought to myself “Really? I’m actually getting help from the owner of the company?” She listened to everything I thought my soon-to-be fiance would want in her dream ring and after that 5 minute conversation about my girlfriend, diamond options & the process of making the ring, I knew this was going to be a really special experience. One of the coolest parts of the whole thing was being able to pick out my own diamond. Before I visited her studio in the Gaslamp of San Diego, Vanessa took the liberty of personally searching out the best quality diamonds within my price range and then let me choose the one that I felt was perfect for Jennifer. I felt really comfortable throughout the whole process and had no doubts that the ring would be spectacular. Fast forward 3 weeks – with the ring now on my fiance’s finger – and I KNOW I made the right choice when I went with Vanessa Nicole Jewels to make Jennifer’s engagement ring.
- Brian Polk 6/15/11
“He Got MAJOR Bonus Points With This Ring!”
First off, I need to just flat out say: VANESSA IS THE BEST! Oh my gosh I cannot stop looking at my ring. Eeeeeeek! It’s just so incredibly perfect – I could go on and on about it. (And trust me, I have to my fiancé) He got MAJOR bonus points with this ring! I wasn’t there for the process since it was a total surprise, but the design is EXACTLY what I would have wanted if I had met with her myself. She must have really done some digging for information from my fiancé because I don’t wear much jewelry so I don’t know how he would have known what would be perfect for me. But THIS IS! Anyway, I just wanted to write this review because I think Vanessa is so genuine in her approach to making engagement rings and when I met her, she made me feel so excited about being engaged – didn’t even know that would be possible! (she got married last summer so she knows how to relate to new brides). Check her out – she’ll take really good care of you!
- Laura Fuller June 5th 2011
“Vanessa Nicole Jewels Is Top Notch”
We were visiting other jewelry stores in San Diego, but ultimately chose Vanessa Nicole Jewels because we loved the idea of working directly with the designer who would be making my girlfriend’s engagement ring rather than a salesperson at a store who puts in an order with someone like her and then adds an additional markup.
Vanessa Nicole even put a picture of my girlfriend on her bench while making the ring. My girlfriend is just loving her rings. Thank You Vanessa! 5/30/11
“Why Can’t All Wedding Vendors Be Like Vanessa?!”
My fiance proposed to me in December 2009. By the time our wedding year rolled around in January 2011, we still hadn’t found exactly what we wanted for our wedding bands. (I tried big box stores, Tiffany’s, high end retailers, antique jewelry shops, and more.) Enter Vanessa Nicole Jewels. I live in San Francisco, but am getting married in San Diego– this was no problem at all. Vanessa was responsive and accommodating from the very beginning.
When I emailed Vanessa and tried to explain (in extremely vague terms) what we were hoping to find for our wedding rings, she wrote back and it was like she could read my mind. Vanessa rephrased what I had said in to terms that made sense. Any clarification questions that she had, she would include pictures with the various options, so that it was as clear as possible for us. I sent her a photo of my engagement ring, and she worked with that to help me figure out the best wedding ring design for me. She answered every question I had in a way that was thorough, and even educational. (I learned a lot from her!) She worked with both of us to ensure the best value for the money we could spend, and gave us her professional opinion when we asked for it. She mocked up both of our rings, and even helped me do something special as a surprise for my fiance on the inside of his ring.
The design process was easy with Vanessa. Then, once we approved the designs, it got even easier (if that’s possible). Vanessa would check in with us at every step of the way to let us know where things were. She confirmed when she would charge our credit card, and when she was polishing, shipping, etc. It was exciting– and you can feel her excitement in creating these pieces, too!
The end product is perfect. We got the rings and can’t stop trying them on. We’ll be wearing them for the rest of our lives, and I couldn’t be happier that we chose Vanessa Nicole Jewels to help us create them.
One day, my fiance was emailing with Vanessa about shipping options and exclaimed– “Why can’t all wedding vendors be like Vanessa?!” That sums up how appreciative we are of Vanessa, her professionalism, her honesty, and her quality. She genuinely cares about her customers. (She even helped me brainstorm gift ideas for my maid of honor!) I’ll be recommending Vanessa to all of my closest friends and family.
-Lauren 5/15/11
“Customer For Life”
Vanessa!!!
This is so cool! And that video is great – She is an artist herself so I know she will absolutely love that! I will keep you posted on what happens, two weeks until I ask. I’m thinking July on the other ring, so I will let you know on that one as well.
Thanks again, customer for life.
-Ryan Meadowcroft 5/14/11
“You Are The Most Responsive, Clear And Easy To Work With Jeweler I’ve Worked With, Ever!”
I must say, it has really been a pleasure working with you so far. You are the most responsive, clear and easy to work with jeweler I’ve worked with, ever! And I have worked with a ton! Thanks!!
See you next week!
Staci 5/7/11
“Vanessa Made Us Feel Like Family!”
As soon as Rob (my fiancé) and I walked in the door, Vanessa made us feel like family! She guided us through the process with such ease and grace and probed us with all the right questions to figure out exactly what suited our needs! It turned out we were looking for a classic, elegant, timeless, yet unique ring… the usual, right?? haha Within days of our initial meeting, Vanessa sent us 3D images of her top three suggestions. We, of course, chose to blend all three! It was so refreshing to work with someone as dedicated to her craft and as genuine as Vanessa.
My ring is absolutely stunning and I can’t even imagine what a different experience this entire process (let alone ring) would have been if we had gone to a name-brand jewelry store. I think there’s something really special about wearing a ring you built together and I’ll cherish that memory forever! Working with Vanessa was such a treat! Thank you Vanessa!!
-Christine Landis 3/8/11
Vanessa,
THANK YOU FOR EVERYTHING!!! The video was soooo beautiful, the rings are just perfect, and the opportunity to surprise Christine with them was fantastic!
Thanks again, the moment and the ring and the video were all just so precious!
-Rob Landis 2/14/11
“You Just Can’t Beat Getting A Ring Custom Made From A Local Engagement Ring Guru”
Overall a great experience…. I wasn’t quite sure what to expect when buying an engagement ring. I did the typical approach. Went to Jared’s and just didn’t get that warm and fuzzy feeling I was looking for. A friend had recommended Vanessa so I figured it couldn’t hurt to hear what she had to say. When I met Vanessa, immediately I felt like this woman actually cares! Even better, I see all her equipment, which tells me I’m getting a ring made locally right here in San Diego. Vanessa created a very nice ring to my exact specifications. I couldn’t be more happier with the end result. You just can’t beat getting a ring custom made from a local engagement ring guru.
-Josh Grillo 3/16/11
“The Rings Are PERFECT”
Vanessa, the rings are PERFECT. They are gorgeous! Mike’s aunt apparently showed them around her office in Vermont, then to everyone who would listen in CA when she got here… your note was so sweet. And the box is so nice, we might use it for the ring pillow! Mike was totally surprised about the diamond, too – I could tell he really liked having something special on the inside. These are amazing and it means so much to us that you made them for us.
Love, Lauren Bergeron 3/4/11
“I Could Not Have Been Happier With This Experience”
So I lost my wedding band in the ocean. And that’s not just a story I made up to cover up for a night of crude debauchery… my wife was there so I am in the clear!
To replace my ring, my wife chose Vanessa because she works with Vanessa’s husband and liked the work on her website. Vanessa was friendly and professional. She helped us look at different ring designs and helped us choose one not as a jeweler looking to pitch a product but as a person who was fully invested in making sure we were happy with our choice. She even steered us away from a particular design because the constant wear would have eventually ruined it.
The replacement ring is simple, clean, and awesome. Throughout the process, Vanessa was accommodating, knowledgeable, and, most importantly, attentive to what I wanted. I could not have been happier with this experience.
-Jeff Quon 2/16/11
“I Can, Without Hesitation, Recommend Her To Anyone”
Vanessa Nicole Jewels was recommended to me through my brother, who was a classmate of Vanessa’s and knew of her jewelry business. My fiance and I have been engaged far longer than average and even though we’ve had ample time to sort out all sorts of details about our wedding, we had not been able to find wedding rings that suited our fancies.
My fiance’s engagement ring has a unique geometry that requires something a bit offbeat and different than a normal wedding band. I wanted a wedding band, but something with a certain, hard to define, custom aspect that would make it uniquely mine. We first went to the jeweler that my family has used for decades, but they were unwilling or unable to really put in the effort to help us find what we were looking for.
We ordered my wedding band first. Vanessa took the time to understand what I was looking for and she actively listened throughout the process. She made sure that what she produced was in perfect keeping with my desires. Throughout the forging and finishing of my ring, Vanessa kept me informed. After my fiance saw the results, which were impressive and lovely to behold, we started talking to Vanessa about the problems we have encountered in finding a matching ring for my fiance’s engagement setting. Vanessa again provided a thoughtful and attentive ear and again proved herself to be a partner in the process. After some mock-ups, my fiance was presented with a design she loves – a design she feels fully confident “in wearing for the rest of my life.”
Vanessa has proved herself to be an engaging businesswoman, equally adept at customer service and artistry – Vanessa is that, an artisan, and her work is as exceptional as she is engaging. We will continue to patronize Vanessa’s talents for years to come and I can, without hesitation, recommend her to anyone who is looking to own (or give) something as unique and personal as jewelry. -Aaron Butler 8/25/10
“I Can, Without Hesitation, Recommend Her To Anyone”
I think Vanessa is an angel from above! She and my fiance designed my engagement ring, and I sincerely could not be happier. My ring is perfectly me; I could not have done any better. Vanessa is so sweet and completely empathetic towards budget. The quality is there ten fold. I would recommend her to anyone! I was blessed to meet her when I got the ring re-sized. She is super helpful, knowledgeable, and a joy to encounter.
-Alicia Rasmussen 8/13/10
“Vanessa Made My Wish Come True!”
I’ve wanted to change my diamond and princess cut stones from a yellow gold to a white gold setting for many years. Vanessa made my wish come true! Her design was beautiful. She emailed me lots to keep me updated on what she was doing. Her customer service is one of her unique talents along with her wonderful qualities as a designer. I’m so proud to show off my new ring. I’m sorry I waited so long!
Thank you Vanessa, Sherry 7/13/10
“The Clients LOVED The Work You Did”
Vanessa, I just wanted to let you know that the clients LOVED the work you did on the “I Love You” earrings. Thanks for your excellent work! You need to know how nice it is to have someone that we can always count on to do quality work in a timely fashion (not to mention all the while wearing a smile!). Thanks.
Regards, John 7/10/10
“Vanessa By Far Surpasses The Quality Of Most Pavé Settings I’ve Seen On The Market”
From the first meeting with Vanessa of Vanessa Nicole Jewels, I was greeted with a friendly, knowledgeable introduction to jewelry. She is trained by a Russian Master Jeweler which was evident once I received my commissioned piece of jewelry. Having seen a variety of techniques and craftsmanship, Vanessa by far surpasses the quality of most pavé settings I’ve seen on the market. She delivers the project on time and at very competitive prices. I love working with her and I highly recommend her to anyone looking for a custom engagement ring.
-JoseCarlos V. 7/8/10
“I Am So Pleased With Her Work”
Vanessa took a damaged 55 year old ring and rebuilt it, replaced the stones, and made it look new without losing the integrity of the piece. It was also platinum, which I was told by another high end jeweler, could not be repaired. She gave me an excellent price. I am so pleased with her work and will go to her when my daughters are looking at engagement rings and for further jewelry repairs or new purchases.
-Kristina Starkey 6/16/10
“She Said Yes!!!”
The ring is absolutely beautiful! I’m going to give it to her tomorrow. I’ll keep you posted. Thanks so much, Vanessa!!! 2/13/10 Update: She said yes!!!!
“It Was Perfect”
This is right after my fiancé proposed. Because I make engagement rings for a living, he knew I would want to make my own, but the tricky part was how to make it a surprise. He called one of my colleagues and put in an order for a ring design I had fallen in love with. One random afternoon, he called me into my room – the shutters where closed even though it was still daytime. He gave me a handmade book, and deep inside the carved pages was the gorgeous ring I had made. I swear I had no idea it was coming! After he got down on one knee – knowing I had always wanted our families to be there for this moment – he said “let’s let some light in here” and opened the shutters. Both our families were jumping up and down, cheering and taking pictures from outside. He had flown his family in from Michigan, so we could celebrate the joining of our families. It was perfect.
-Vanessa Nicole 6/24/09
