Everything You Need for Shopping on Jewelers' Row in Philadelphia
there are few better places to go than Jewelers' Row in Philadelphia. Located in the Center City section of Philadelphia, Jewelers' Row offers a huge selection of jewelry stores and brands, as well as restaurants, cafés and other shops to stop in along the way. Whether you know exactly what type of ring you want or you're trying to figure out what suits you best, you're almost guaranteed to find something here, making it worth the trip even if you're not located nearby. Read on to find out more about Jewelers' Row in Philadelphia, PA, along with expert tips on how to make the most of your shopping experience.
In this article:
- What is Jewelers' Row in Philadelphia?
- Where Is Jewelers' Row in Philadelphia?
- Tips for Engagement Ring Shopping on Jewelers' Row
- FAQs About Jewelers' Row
What is Jewelers' Row in Philadelphia?
Jewelers' Row in Philadelphia is exactly how the name sounds: an area of the city where you can find a large number of jewelry stores selling engagement rings, wedding bands and so much more. Jewelers' Row has been around since 1851 and is the oldest diamond district in America, second in size only to the diamond district in New York City.
Shoppers heading to Jewelers' Row will find a wide variety of jewelry stores, including family-owned businesses that have been there for generations and high-end luxury spots that sell a large selection of engagement rings and fine jewelry. It's a great place to buy engagement rings in Philadelphia. Aside from jewelry stores, there are also some other retail shops and plenty of restaurants. This area of the city is also known for its fantastic window shopping, making it a popular tourist attraction year-round, especially during the holiday season.
The History of Jewelers' Row in Philadelphia
Jewelers' Row was designed by builder and architect Thomas Carstairs in the 1800s and used to be called Carstairs Row It wasn't created to be a jewelry haven—it started as a housing development that introduced the row house in the United States. It began on Sansom Street and has since expanded.
Obviously, a lot has changed in Jewelers' Row since its inception back in 1851. That said, it maintains a lot of historical charm, with brick-paved streets and very old buildings.
Where Is Jewelers' Row in Philadelphia?
Jewelers' Row is located in the Center City area of Philadelphia, on Sansom Street between 7th and 8th and on 8th Street between Chestnut and Walnut. It's an easy location to get to and to find, even if you've never been to Philadelphia before. Nearby notable landmarks include Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell and The Declaration House.
Most of the jewelry stores are going to be found on Sansom Street, between 7th and 8th. While jewelry stores can be found elsewhere in the area, Sansom Street is where it all began and where all the action is even now.
Tips for Engagement Ring Shopping on Jewelers' Row
Because of its size and how many intriguing stores there are, shopping on Jewelers' Row can sometimes feel a little intimidating. If you're casually window shopping or walking through, you don't really need a plan. But if you're headed there in search of something, like the perfect engagement ring, it's helpful to keep the below engagement ring shopping tips in mind.
Do Research About Jewelers' Row Beforehand
Of course, you can just wander into Jewelers' Row one day and start shopping at whatever store looks good, but your best bet is to research the area and the stores before you start your shopping trip. "Some people who come here will feel overwhelmed by the many storefronts, which is why I encourage people to do some online research ahead of time to get the vibe of a jeweler, especially one with history, that matches your personal style preferences," says Brett Sandler, GIA diamonds graduate and fifth generation Philadelphia jeweler at House of Milner Jewelers located in Jewelers' Row. Look at their online inventory, read reviews online and pick the Jewelers on Jewelers' Row in Philadelphia that look most interesting to you—you likely won't be able to visit all of them.
Come as Diamond-Savvy as Possible
Whenever you're shopping for jewelry, especially for something as important as an engagement ring, you should arrive with some knowledge about what it is you're shopping for. Sandler recommends being educated on diamonds and understanding the differences between lab-grown and earth-mined diamonds. Research the difference between diamond grades and qualities, cuts and colors (the 4Cs of diamonds) so you feel more prepared when shopping.
Go Window Shopping First if Possible
Again, there are a lot of Jewelers' Row Philadelphia stores. If online research isn't helping you pick which stores to go to, Joshua Hyman, fourth generation jeweler and vice president of the Jewelers' Row Association, recommends going window shopping first. This allows you to get a good idea of the vibe of the store and can make you feel more comfortable with the entire area. If it's possible to do that a day before you plan on shopping, that could be really helpful.
Try to Set Up Some Appointments
While both Sandler and Hyman note that appointments aren't absolutely necessary when at Jewelers' Row, they both agree that it's in your best interest to make some. "Many jewelers do operate mainly or only by appointment," Sandler says. Most stores allow you to easily book online, or you can always call them if you need to. Not only is this helpful for the store, but it also gives your day some structure and organization.
Bring Inspiration Photos and Ideas
Even if you feel unsure about your dream ring when you go to Jewelers' Row in Philadelphia, you should have some sort of idea of what you like or what intrigues you most. "Buying jewelry is an extremely personal experience and we always encourage our customers to come to us with any photographs, ideas and direction for what they are leaning towards," Sandler says. Don't try to describe what you want—instead, bring photo evidence of exactly what you like.
Ask a lot of Questions
Once you meet with a jeweler, don't be afraid to ask a lot of questions. An engagement ring is a big purchase, and you should feel confident in your decision at the end of the day. "Ask as many questions as you have without fear," Hyman urges. He also notes that you should never feel pressured into anything. "Do not allow anyone to pressure you into leaving a deposit unless you know you are buying an item for sure," he adds, saying that you should also always ask to see all policies in writing.
Be Honest About Your Intentions
To find a piece of jewelry or engagement ring that you really love and that really suits you, it's important to be honest with your jeweler. "Make sure to be clear about your timeline and expectations," Hyman says. Go into the store knowing your budget and how high you can go, and be honest about that. You should also never be afraid to say you don't like something a jeweler is showing you. They need to have a good idea of what you're looking for so they know how to help.
FAQs About Jewelers' Row
Shopping for Jewelers' Row Philadelphia engagement rings should be a fun experience, not a stressful one. The below information can help you feel more prepared and allow you to really enjoy your time there.
Do you need an appointment for Jewelers' Row in Philadelphia?
Appointments are not necessary at Jewelers' Row, but they are strongly recommended, according to both Sandler and Hyman. Sandler notes that some jewelers operate by appointment only, so be sure to check online or call them if you know you want to go to that store. Hyman notes that if you're window shopping, you can always go in and make an appointment as well.
What stores are on Jewelers' Row in Philadelphia?
Jewelers' Row is home to many jewelry stores, of course, as well as other retail shops and restaurants. "Every jewelry store on Sansom or 8th Street is a family-owned and operated brick-and-mortar location," Hyman says. "Most have been here for generations." To find additional jewelers in Philadelphia, search The Knot Vendor Marketplace.
Is it worth going to Jewelers' Row in Philadelphia?
For people who aren't sure exactly what type of engagement ring they want and want to see a lot of options in person, it is definitely worth it to take a trip to Jewelers' Row. You can explore many different options, see rings and try them on and talk to a jeweler about what you're looking for—you may even get more ideas there. If you're looking for a custom engagement ring, this can also be a great place to go. If you know exactly which engagement ring or piece of jewelry you want, and you don't think you're going to change your mind, then it may not be worth it to go.
Is Jewelers' Row in Philadelphia open on Sundays?
While each store's hours can vary, many of the stores on Jewelers' Row are open on Sundays. Be sure to check their hours online before visiting.