Wedding and engagement rings, an interview with Tracey Lyles of Robbins Brothers

Please introduce yourself to our readers.

Robbins Brothers is an engagement and wedding ring destination store with locations in Los Angeles, San Diego, Houston, Dallas-Fort Worth, Seattle, and Phoenix. We specialize in designer and proprietary engagement rings settings and loose diamonds – and carry an extensive selection of wedding bands, promise rings, anniversary bands, three-stone rings and stacked rings, earrings, necklaces, and bracelets. Our onsite master jewelers are available to set diamonds, create custom rings and perform routine service and maintenance checks.

The Robbins Brothers company just recently designated “Best of 2018 – Wedding Rings” by Los Angeles Hot List’s and was a finalist for Seattle Bride magazine’s “Best of 2018” Awards.

What sets you apart from other engagement ring stores?

Robbins Brothers are inspired by all couples in love. Our mission is to create the best, most memorable engagement ring shopping experience through quality product, an incredible selection and trustworthy, exceptional service. What sets us apart is that we offer one of the largest selections of designer and exclusive engagement rings plus we’ll even help plan your marriage proposal!

What are some of your distinguishing design features?

Every Robbins Brothers ring features a hallmark stamp. Bridal guests are able to shop a variety of designer and exclusive collections, each with its own specific design features. For example, our Royal Tiara by Peter Lam Luxury collection pays homage to the most famous tiaras worn by noble women around the world, and many of the designs mirror the same intricate and exquisite details found in a tiara. Additional key designs showcase rose gold and fancy diamond shapes.

What does the process of choosing the ring look like?

Guests should expect for us to exceed their expectations. With the largest collection of designers as well as exclusive designs, there will be plenty to try on. Our experts will give our guests a tour of the store and let them know what benefits we offer and how we stand behind them for a lifetime. It really is like a candy store for adults, with eye-catching beauty in every case one passes.

There are three primary ways to shop for your ring at Robbins Brothers: (1) Pres-Set option (includes the ring setting and the diamond) – (2) Pick your setting + pick your diamond – (3) Custom Creation.

What are some of the things that differentiate the rings?

Each of Robbins Brothers designer and exclusive collections has a signature look or theme. Our buyers work diligently to ensure that we have rings of different styles, qualities and weights to fit each unique guest who walks through our doors. With such a breadth of selection, our guests can find rings that match their style, but also identify small details that catch their attention.

Ring styles fall into categories such as Vintage, Bohemian, Modern or even Classic. Other trending styles include rose gold and fancy-shape rings. When guests put on that perfect ring, not only do they usually know it’s the right one but so does everyone around them!

What are some of the parameters that affect the price of the engagement/wedding ring? Do you have any tips for those on a tight budget (is having a beautiful ring still an option)?

The price can be affected by a few factors but primarily the size and quality of the diamonds. If someone is on a tight budget there are a few things that we can do to give them the look they want. Finding a ring with smaller diamonds in the band or maybe a particular design can reduce the diamond weight and also the price. A halo may be an option if a customer wants a larger look. Robbins Brothers can find a diamond within budget and a halo will dramatically increase the look.

The best part is, all Robbins Brothers diamonds are hand selected for visual beauty so regardless of one’s budget, they can rest assured that they are getting the most beautiful ring and diamond within that budget. We have a lot of options and can help you find the perfect ring for your perfect price.

Any funny (or horror) stories you could share where things didn't go as planned? Was there ever a time you had to improvise?

Some engagement and wedding rings need to be special-ordered, and often times there is a tight deadline because customers have a specific date in mind for their proposal and wedding. Robbins Brothers go above and beyond to ensure that customers have their ring on time. We’ve even had an associate meet a customer at the airport with the ring, as he planned to propose on their vacation! And we’ll help plan the proposal too from brainstorming unique ideas for setting up dinner reservations.