Preusser Jewelers in downtown Grand Rapids showcases several designer collections of fine jewelry in our store. One of these collections comes from world-renowned jeweler Simon G.
Today, our staff answers several frequently asked questions about Simon G’s fine jewelry.
Who is Simon G?
Simon G, short for Ghanimian, hails from an Armenian family. He arrived in New York City in 1976 with $200 in his pocket and seeking to be an engineer. When he realized classes were $5,000 a semester, Simon G started working with a relative who hired him to work in the city’s diamond district.
Why is Simon G passionate about fine jewelry?
His father instilled a value in him to have a skill with his hands. Making fine jewelry combines Simon G’s love for engineering with a passion for artistry and craftsmanship. He believes when you do something you love, there is no limit to it.
How did Simon G get started in the jewelry business?
Simon G began his quest to make fine jewelry when setting diamonds in New York’s diamond district. He fell in love with the artistry, process, and details of making fine jewelry. It became his passion, which he continued after he moved to Southern California.
When did Simon G start his business?
He began in 1981. Now, he runs the company with two of his three sons. Every person working for Simon G has been with the company for at least 15 years, and the team is like a family.
What types of fine jewelry does Simon G make?
There are several types of jewelry the designer creates:
- Engagement rings in six major collections.
- Wedding bands and anniversary bands
- Pendant necklaces
- Bangles
- Earrings
- Bracelets
- Right-hand rings
How many collections does Simon G have?
17 collections and counting.
Are Simon G engagement rings handmade?
Yes, particularly during the initial stages of production.
The jewelry-making process starts with clients and customers, who share their inspirations.
Then the design team starts with a hand-drawn sketch.
Following a sketch, Simon G creates a 3D model either in sculpted wax or computer-aided design (CAD). The company combines ancient methods of jewelry production combined with modern technology to make timeless pieces that clients will love.
Casting is the next step in the process. Simon G’s team takes the wax models and makes them into a piece with platinum, or 18Kt. yellow, white, and rose gold. Many pieces have all three colors of gold in them to make them more versatile. All can be made in one color, if you prefer. Every alloy is produced in-house so that the team can perform quality control on the hardness and color of the metal.
After that initial cast, professional jewelry makers refine the shape through filing, hammering, and polishing by hand until it looks perfect. Each piece receives polishing before the diamonds are set to increase the sparkle and eye appeal.
Then the jeweler assembles the piece. Here, artisans spend a lot of time making sure every angle, nuance, and metal surface of the jewelry is perfect.
Next, the ring goes to a diamond setter. All diamonds are selected to match color, cut, and quality for a cohesive look. Every setter works with a microscope, ensuring each diamond is set properly. This is done by hand, not by machine. Every diamond gets four prongs unless it’s in a design that doesn’t need prongs (like a pavé setting). Each diamond setter has a specialty in either channel, prong, or pavé settings.
After setting diamonds, each piece undergoes a 10-step quality control process.
Then every ring receives another polish. All facets are polished by hand for maximum light reflectivity and sparkle. Polishing is extraordinarily detail-oriented. However, the staff at Simon G wants to make sure every piece is perfect before it goes to a showroom.
Simon G believes every ring is a piece of art handmade by a family for your family.
What sets Simon G apart from other fine jewelry designers?
Several aspects set this fine jeweler apart:
- Attention to detail, such as polishing a piece before setting the diamonds.
- Family-owned and operated.
- 10-step quality control process.
- Extraordinarily detailed and delicate filigree, engraving, and beadwork.
- Artisanship combining ancient techniques with modern technology.
- Care in crafting each piece.
- Elaborate details that give pieces an antique look but modern style.
Does Simon G create custom jewelry?
Yes, this fine jewelry company creates custom jewelry that’s unique to your style and preferences.
What sizes of diamonds does Simon G work with?
Fine jewelry and engagement rings can hold the diamond of your choice, in most designs. SimonG does not sell loose diamonds for engagement rings.
What celebrities have worn Simon G jewelry?
Many celebrities have shown off Simon G’s pieces over the years, here are just a few:
- Marina de Tavira, actress
- Elizabeth Keene, lifestyle blogger
- Adrienne Bailon, actress, singer, and talk show host
- Kate Beckinsale, actress
- Meta Golding, actress
- Tamara Taylor, actress
- Emily Blunt, actress
- Nicole Richie, fashion designer, actress, and television personality.
These pieces have been featured in lifestyle magazines, as well.
Does Simon G craft pieces with colored gems?
Yes, you’ll see fine jewelry made with:
- Spinel
- Rubellite (a kind of tourmaline colored red)
- Pink sapphires
- Blue sapphires
- Green tourmaline
- Emeralds
- Kunzite, a pinkish-purplish gem
- Aquamarine and more!
- Watermelon tourmaline
What styles of engagement rings does Simon G create?
- Stackables
- Halo
- Criss-cross
- Straight
- Splitshank, where the band forks in two directions
- Three stone
Do Simon G wedding bands have diamonds in them?
Yes, most of the wedding jewelry from this designer have diamonds in them. It’s unusual to find Simon G pieces without a diamond in it!
How can you tell if a Simon G piece is real?
You or your jewelry store can ascertain whether a piece of jewelry is a Simon G original by:
- Examining the signature on the interior of the ring’s band.
- Looking at the serial number, stamped on the piece, by SimonG.
Where can I buy Simon G engagement rings?
At Michigan’s oldest jeweler, right here in the heart of Grand Rapids. Preusser Jewelers has a wide selection of Simon G pieces. Contact us online or call 616-458-1425 for more information.
Better yet, come into our store to see these beautiful engagement rings and fine jewelry at one of the best jewelry stores in North America that carry Simon G fine jewelry.
