Put a Ring on It
Shop these 5 Austin gems to find the engagement ring of your dreams
Valentine’s Day is upon us, which means you’re probably feelin’ the love. If you’ve got a hankering to tie the knot, we’ve compiled a list of the best local shops to find a ring that will knock your partner’s socks off.
The Menagerie
The Menagerie has been a local jewelry staple since 1978, when owner Vickie Roan befriended two jewelers at a Dallas trade show — and the rest is history. Her shop offers beautiful engagement rings, wedding bands for men and women, ring settings, conflict-free diamonds, and more. The Menagerie has other jewelry too: bracelets, earrings, necklaces, and (non-engagement) rings. It also offers gifts, tableware, and wedding registries.
Benold’s Jewelers
Family-owned Benold’s on Anderson Lane is a must-stop shop. A local business with a storied history, it’s been in Austin since 1929. Benold’s carries a range of rings by premier jewelry designers at a great price. In fact, a CultureMap editor found a wedding band here at a fraction of the cost of the same ring seen in another boutique. Benold’s also sells fashion jewelry, so even if you’re not planning to get hitched or pop the question anytime soon, you can still frost yourself with rare colored diamonds or custom-made jewelry.
Calvin’s Fine Jewelry
Opened nearly 20 years ago, Calvin’s Fine Jewelry sells carefully curated designer jewelry as well as beautiful designs crafted by owner Calvin Smith and his wife, Jackie. The stones Calvin’s sells are all conflict-free, and the store is accredited by the Kimberley Process, which imposes extensive requirements to certify shipments of rough diamonds as conflict-free.
Gallerie Jewelers
If you’re a dog lover, Gallerie is definitely the place for you to ring shop. You’ll be greeted by Brina, Bart, and Liesl, cute furry friends who love to play, while owners Ted and Corey Shaughnessy help you pick out the ring of your dreams. Gallerie Jewelers has partnered with a diamond company to make sure you can place an order for the exact diamond you want, which will be delivered within a matter of days. How’s that for service?
Dean Fredrick Custom Jewelry
If you want something one-of-a-kind, Dean Fredrick’s your man. Visit his South Austin boutique, and he’ll work with you to design something that will take your loved one's breath away. You can choose something you like from his portfolio, bring a design that you have in mind, or even start from scratch.
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The tinsel whip was one of many props.Photo by Brianna Caleri
The Flaming Lips are known for touring with huge inflatables.Photo by Brianna Caleri
A joyful crowd reacts to being blasted with confetti during the Flaming Lips' set.Photo by Brianna Caleri
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A closer look at the saz.Photo by Brianna Caleri
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This backup singer was exquisitely styled in blue.Photo by Brianna Caleri
Singer Josh Lane snapped a photo of an adoring audience. See you next time, Josh.Photo by Brianna Caleri