Frequently Asked

Questions, answered.

Honest answers to the questions our clients actually ask — about diamond quality, custom design, the showroom, financing, returns, and how we work. Don't see what you need? Ask us directly.

Diamond Education

What are the 4Cs of a diamond?

The 4Cs are Cut, Color, Clarity, and Carat — the four measurements every diamond is graded on. Cut measures how well the stone was faceted (the biggest factor in sparkle). Color runs D (colorless) to Z (light yellow). Clarity grades how visible the inclusions are at 10x magnification. Carat is weight (one carat = 200 milligrams). At Gallo we recommend prioritizing Cut, then Color (G–H is the sweet spot), then Clarity (VS1–VS2 is eye-clean), then Carat last.

What's the difference between GIA and IGI certification?

Both are top-tier diamond grading laboratories. GIA (Gemological Institute of America) is the global gold standard, particularly for natural diamonds. IGI (International Gemological Institute) is the leader in lab-grown diamond certification.

Are lab-grown diamonds real diamonds?

Yes. Lab-grown diamonds are chemically, physically, and optically identical to natural diamonds — same hardness (10 Mohs), same refractive index (2.42), same crystal structure. The only difference is origin: natural diamonds form in the earth's mantle over millions of years; lab diamonds are grown in controlled chambers over weeks. Both are real diamonds.

Are lab-grown diamonds a good investment?

Lab diamonds offer outstanding value for wearing (5–7× cheaper than equivalent natural stones), but currently have lower resale value than natural diamonds. If resale is a priority, natural is the conservative choice. If you want maximum visual impact for your budget and don't anticipate selling, lab makes sense.

Which diamond shape sparkles the most?

Round brilliant. It's engineered specifically to maximize light return with 57 or 58 precisely-cut facets. Oval, cushion, and radiant follow closely. Step cuts (emerald, asscher) produce a different kind of light play — broader, more architectural flashes rather than rapid sparkle.

Buying & Custom Design

How long does a custom ring take?

About three weeks from approved CAD design to finished piece. The timeline: consultation (day 1), CAD design and stone sourcing (days 3–10), casting and setting (days 10–18), final inspection and handoff (days 18–21). Rush jobs may be possible — ask during your consultation.

How much does a custom engagement ring cost?

Pricing varies with the design, the metal, and the diamond, so every custom piece is quoted individually. Give us a call at 973-890-7000 for a quote. We quote firmly before starting any custom work.

Can I use a stone I already own?

Yes. We routinely reset heirloom stones, family diamonds, or stones purchased elsewhere. Bring it in for an assessment — we'll check the certification, examine the condition, and design a setting around it. Some older cuts may need slight recutting for a modern setting; we'll always tell you upfront.

Do you offer financing?

Yes. Online, you can pay over time with Shop Pay Installments at checkout. In our Wayne showroom, we offer Wells Fargo Jewelry Advantage financing with 12 months of no interest (subject to credit approval). Call us at 973-890-7000 for more information.

What's the average ring size for a woman?

US average is 6 to 6.5. If you're planning a surprise proposal and have no information to work from, size 6 is a reasonable default. Every Gallo engagement ring includes a complimentary resize within the first year, so getting it exact upfront isn't critical.

Showroom & Appointments

Where is your showroom?

Our showroom is at 113 US Highway 46 West, Wayne, NJ 07470. Free parking on-site. About 25 minutes from Manhattan and easily accessible from the George Washington Bridge.

What are your hours?

Tuesday through Saturday 10:30am to 7pm. Sunday 12pm to 5pm. Closed Mondays. Holiday hours vary — call 973-890-7000 to confirm.

Do I need an appointment?

Walk-ins are welcome. We recommend booking an appointment for engagement ring consultations or anything custom — it guarantees dedicated time with a designer and lets us pull specific stones for you to compare. Book online or call 973-890-7000.

Can we do a remote consultation?

Yes. We do video consultations via FaceTime, Zoom, or WhatsApp. We can show stones, walk through CAD designs, and even ship try-on rings for engagement consultations. Book a remote slot at your convenience.

Do you ship to my state?

Yes — anywhere in the United States, fully insured. All jewelry ships free at any price; watches ship free on orders of $1,000 and up ($20 under $1,000). International shipping is available case-by-case — contact us for details.

Warranty, Returns & Care

What does the lifetime warranty cover?

We stand behind the quality and craftsmanship of our jewelry. Gallo Jewelry offers a free lifetime warranty against manufacturing defects on all Gallo Jewelry fine jewelry. If you experience a manufacturing defect, contact us. Prong retipping, stone tightening, polishing, and rhodium plating (for white gold pieces) are free for as long as you own the piece. Resizing is free for the first year and offered at cost after that. Normal wear is not a manufacturing defect — for example, discoloration from chemicals, make-up, pools, hot tubs, or bathing, a stone lost through everyday wear, or wear to watch crystals and straps. The warranty does not cover loss, theft, or accidental damage — for that, we recommend insuring your piece with Jewelers Mutual (we provide an appraisal at retail replacement value). Full warranty details.

What is your return policy?

30 days, no restocking fee. The piece must be unworn (besides try-on), in original packaging, with all certificates. Return shipping is paid by the customer. Exchanges are free — you pay only any difference in price. Rings that have been resized or engraved are final sale. These can't be returned: orders past 30 days (including layaway orders), custom designed jewelry, personalized pieces such as name necklaces, engraved jewelry, orders altered while in process, rings that have been resized or modified, and items repaired or modified after purchase. Custom pieces are final sale — they can't be returned or exchanged. Full return policy.

What jewelry repairs do you do?

Ring sizing, stone replacement, prong tightening, soldering, and engraving. If the repair you're looking for isn't listed, feel free to give us a call at 973-890-7000.

How do I clean my diamond ring at home?

Soak in warm water with a few drops of mild dish soap for 20 minutes. Brush gently with a soft toothbrush around the setting (this is where most buildup occurs). Rinse with clean water. Pat dry with a lint-free cloth. Avoid ultrasonic cleaners on emerald or other softer gemstones. Bring your ring in for professional cleaning anytime — it's free for Gallo pieces.

How often should I have my ring inspected?

Once or twice a year for daily-wear pieces, especially engagement rings with pavé. We check prong security, stone tightness, and overall condition in about 15 minutes. Most insurance policies require annual inspection to maintain coverage. We can stamp your inspection card on site.

Do you provide appraisals?

Yes. Every piece we sell comes with a professional written appraisal at full retail replacement value — required for insurance. We also appraise outside pieces for $75–$150 depending on complexity.

Watches & Service

Do you service watches?

Yes. Battery replacement and link sizing are typically same-day. Movement servicing for Bulova and Seiko goes to authorized service centers (4–6 week turnaround). Crystal replacement and case repair handled on-site or referred. Estimates provided upfront for any job.

Are your watches authentic?

Yes. We're an authorized dealer for Seiko and Bulova, and we honor the manufacturer warranty. We also stock authenticated pre-owned and new pieces from major makers.

Still have questions?

Book a 30-minute consultation in our Wayne showroom or by video. No pressure, no sales script.

Lab-Grown DiamondsAlways clearly labeled
Lifetime WarrantyIncluded with every Gallo piece
30-Day ReturnsFree exchanges, no restocking fees
Free Insured ShippingAll jewelry · watches free at $1,000+
Wayne, NJ ShowroomWalk-ins welcome · Family jeweler since 1985