Found Chicago Diamond and Jewelry Exchange ""chidexx"" on the Notre Dame Chicago club Alumni Business Network. I performed a Google search on chidexx and found interesting artlicles including one in Crain's Chicago Business. The place was fun and informal. I did extensive research on the internet looking for good educational sites. Once I felt comfortable with the diamond terms I visited a number of Wabash stores. I made chidexx my last stop. I spoke with Shari on the phone and explained what I was looking for. Shari explained that chidexx doesn't own diamond inventory. Shari felt she was better able to find diamonds meeting my needs if she maintained her independence. Shari was a great listener. We met at Bjeweled Designer Jewelry Collection on Walton Street. Shari was very warm and funny. She had a number of diamonds to review. I found a diamond I liked; however, I made it clear I was not prepared to make a decision that day. I left the store with no pressure to buy. I felt good about her willingness to let me walk. Her diamond skills were great. I bought the diamond a couple of days later. I paid 7% over dealer cost. I looked at the dealer invoice. Her design talent is the best. We saw examples of the work she exhibited in Switzerland. The design we developed with her was a one of a kind piece. She didn't just copy a picture in a magazine. While I was in her store couples stopped to have their rings cleaned. She services what she sells. While the rings were cleaned by the jeweler she had warm conversations with the couples. Her clients become friends. Highly recommend chidexx and Shari.
Pros: Unbeatable Pricing, Outstanding Design Experience, the place is fun
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