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There is no better place in Chicago to shop for diamond engagement rings and other fine jewelry than downtown’s diamond district, or Jewelers Row.
Jewelers Row has a number of large jewelry stores, although it’s not as well-known as New York’s Diamond District. This area is home to almost 200 jewelers at the Jewelers Center – an iconic Chicago building.
There are a number of things to consider when shopping for diamonds from Jewelers Row, just as it is when shopping for diamonds anywhere. While Jewelers Row is usually the first place you think of when searching for diamonds in Chicago, it’s not the only place to shop in the city.
Visiting the Magnificent Mile is worth the trip if you’re in the market for a high-quality diamond and have the budget to go along with it. The upscale shopping district in Chicago isn’t as densely populated as the diamond district, but it does have several high-end boutiques and brands.
Chicago offers a wide selection of jewelry and diamond options. Whether you’re looking for the cheapest solitaire or the most extravagant loose diamonds, engagement ring settings, gemstones and jewelry offered by luxury brands and boutiques, you have plenty of options.
There’s less traffic on Jeweler’s Row due to its spread-out nature, and many people come there not to shop, but to soak up the atmosphere, so you’re less likely to be overwhelmed by vendors deploying their selling tactics from windows and doorways like in NYC.
Online retailers have also established roots in Chicago, offering lab-grown diamonds of all classes and categories due to advancing technology. Find out what the best jewelry stores in Chicago have to provide below.
Don't feel like visiting the Windy City? Whiteflash, Blue Nile and James Allen are vetted vendors that offer extensive inventories of quality diamonds, complete with high-res imaging and videos and diamond certificates, all accessible from the comfort of your own home. It’s a significant component of their business practices that they educate consumers, and they are committed to integrity.
1. Brilliant Earth – Best for Sustainable Shopping
Location: 34 E Oak St fl 2, Chicago, IL 60611
Established: 2005
When Beth Gerstein and Eric Grossberg couldn’t find an ethically sourced diamond engagement ring, they founded Brilliant Earth. With picture-perfect streets, high-end boutiques, celebrity-favorite restaurants, and of course, Brilliant Earth’s modern showroom, Gold Coast is a luxury lover’s paradise.
Brilliant Earth offers one-on-one appointment here, alongside personalized consultation and guidance. In a fun, low-pressure setting, learn about the 4Cs, precious metals, ethical diamonds, and gemstone qualities, as well as their stunning sustainable ring styles.
An example of elegance and social conscience, lab-grown diamonds from Brilliant Earth are perfect for those concerned about the environment. In Chicago, it’s a great option for those who are eco-friendly or want to enjoy diamond benefits on a budget.
2. Blue Nile – Best for Selection
Location: 32 Oakbrook Center, Oak Brook, IL 60523
Established: 1999
Blue Nile’s origin story is well known; founder Mark Vadon decided to prove to himself that diamond and ring purchases could be made online after being unhappy with the traditional in-store diamond purchasing experience.
Located in Chicago’s western suburbs, Blue Nile’s Oakbrook Center opened its doors in November 2020.
A large open-air mall in the Chicago Metropolitan area, The Oakbrook Center features a spectacular selection of retail, dining, events, and movies. Take a stroll through the mall and discover an array of shops and eateries.
In addition to enjoying the skyscraper canyon, free classical concerts at the Chicago Cultural Center, and exploring the underground tunnel system of Chicago, Blue Nile Oakbrook jewelry store is just 30 minutes from downtown Chicago.
Over 200 pieces from their extensive collection can be seen here, including diamonds, gemstones, pearls – set in enduring metals.
3. Windy City Diamonds – Best Family-owned Business
Location: 1 S Wabash Ave, Chicago, IL 60603
Established: 1929
A popular family-owned jeweler, Windy City Diamonds can be found in the Mallers Building. Founded by the Zimmerman family four generations ago, Windy City Diamonds has evolved with the family over the years. In 1929, Harry Zimmerman began his journey in the diamond and jewelry industry, and it has been growing ever since.
The collection of GIA certified diamonds at this family business is among the largest in Chicago. Their broad range of GIA-certified diamonds includes round brilliants and countless other shapes.
They strive to offer custom jewelry of the highest quality at prices that are as competitive as possible under their family business model.
If you aren’t looking for a custom engagement ring, Wind City Diamonds also offers a wide selection of pre-made designs and samples that you can choose from. They are available in all styles and settings and are sure to satisfy any customer.
A good selection of diamonds are available at Windy City Diamonds, as well as friendly, professional service. If you value the focus on family, this is a great place to visit if you prefer to shop offline. Their diamonds and settings are attractive and high quality, making it one of the best jewelry stores in Chicago for that independent, friendly jeweler experience.
Don’t swoon for deep dish pizza and end up with a poor quality diamond in Chicago - use PriceScope's easy-to-navigate site to steer clear of dishonesty and bad deals. We have user-friendly forums and experts readily available to help you find the best loose diamonds and prices.
4. Cartier – Best Decadent Experience
Location: 630 Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60611
Established: 1847
The Parisian watchmaker Louis-François Cartier became a master in 1847 after buying his mentor’s small store. More than 270 decadent Cartier boutiques scattered around the world have evolved from those humble beginnings.
As discussed in our other reviews, the convenience of purchasing diamond jewelry online always trumps buying it in person. Despite this, we strongly recommend that you visit a Cartier store, or any luxury store for that matter.
Incorporating a cream color palette, the 3,071 square foot space features a limestone floor, neutral carpet, fabric walls, and wooden accents. Also featured in the store is a bas-relief depicting the Cartier panther and the Chicago skyline, a nod to the brand’s goal of making its stores more localized.
This is unlike any other shopping experience you’ve ever had. The brand alone will lead to a higher price but it all depends on how important you value the name. And what a heritage the Cartier name comes with.
With its rich history, extravagance, and beauty, it’s one of the best jewelry stores on Chicago’s Magnificent Mile.
Before you walk down the Magnificent Mile, don't commit to a purchase in Chi-town without comparing prices, quality and long-term benefits presented by PriceScope's short list of vetted diamond vendors, including Blue Nile and Whiteflash.
5. Razny Jewelers – Best Chicagoan Experience
Location: 109 E Oak St Suite A, Chicago, IL 60611,
Established: 1951
A talented bench jeweler named Stanley Razny immigrated to America from Poland in the late 1940s, eventually working for Leed’s Jewelers in Highland Park, Illinois, before setting up the locally-known Razny Jewelers with his wife, Jane. Now with four locations serving Chicagoland, the third-generation Razny family jewelers are all graduate gemologists and watch specialists.
Razny Jewelers has provided luxury jewelry and fine Swiss timepieces to the Greater Chicago Area for over 70 years, and represent the legacy brands of Rolex and Patek Philippe strongly. Among jewelers in the United States, they are the only ones with three Patek Philippe locations in the same city. That’s quite an accomplishment!
Razny is one of the most well-recognized names in timepieces and jewelry in the Windy City, which is why it’s the best jewelry store in Chicago to soak up the local experience and gaze at beautiful watches.
6. Ethan Lord – Best Local Newcomer
Location: 5 S Wabash Ave Ste 208, Chicago, IL 60603
Established: 2004
Since 2004, Ethan Lord has carved a reputation for being a reliable and high-quality Chicago jeweler. Their strengths lie in both custom jewelry and engagement rings. Their collections include solitaires, halo rings, three stone rings, as well as vintage and gemstone rings.
Ethan Lord operates on the second floor in the Jewelers Center. It’s the go-to place if you’re looking for an exceptional, personalized customer experience. On top of that, their jeweler’s craft custom engagement rings are all on-site.
Diamond stacking bands are among their specialties, so remember them when you’re looking for your wedding rings!
Their employees offer a very educational approach, which makes Ethan Lord a great new jewelry store choice in Chicago.
The select brands offered by our vetted vendors like Astor by Blue Nile™, Whiteflash A CUT ABOVE®, and JamesAllen.com True Hearts™ are displays of diamonds with superior cut quality.
7. Harry Winston – Best Fine Jewelry and Timepieces
Location: 55 E Oak St, Chicago, IL 60611,
Established: 1932
At Harry Winston, you’ll be in good hands thanks to their 80+ years of experience in crafting. Besides timepieces, Harry Winston offers quality engagement rings and traditional bands in addition to glamorous necklaces, bracelets, and earrings.
Harry Winston’s timepieces, jewelry, diamonds, and stones cannot be purchased online; you must visit a store. Although inconvenient, it’s understandable – those looking to splurge on a piece from this jeweler will most likely want to get their money’s worth out of the full experience.
Harry Winston pieces are exclusive and elegant; visit one of the best jewelry stores in Chicago if you cannot resist them. People often assume that appointments are required, but they are not. A walk-in service is available and of the highest quality.
In most cases, choosing brick-and-mortar over buying online is determined by the buyer’s willingness to tolerate the extra cost. We know not everybody wants to indulge, and would rather use their budget effectively.
The best part is you don’t have to. Consider Whiteflash A CUT ABOVE® Super Ideal Cut Diamonds if you find you’re daydreaming about Harry Winston quality.
The same level of quality can be yours for a significantly lower price. If you are looking for colorless DEF IF-VVS Super Ideals, then discover their A CUT ABOVE® Collection Series, too.
8. Pandora – Best Affordable Jewelry
Location: 533 Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60611
Established: 1982
Since Pandora was founded in 1982 in Copenhagen, Denmark, its hand-finished and contemporary jewelry has become a global phenomenon. From graduation gifts to declarations of love, you have likely heard of Pandora’s accessible yet attractive pieces.
Authentic Pandora Jewelry is made with 14k gold and 18K gold-plated sterling silver, sterling silver and the signature Pandora Rose metal; all of the highest quality and ethically sourced.
As well as Pandora’s iconic charms and bracelets, its ring, earrings, and necklace collection are also beautiful and versatile, making them perfect gift choices for absolutely any occasion. In addition, every stone is hand-set by a team of skilled craftsmen.
It is also one of the top Chicago jewelry stores for its affordability and accessibility, even though you may be able to find a Pandora Jewelry store closer to you!
Which Chicago Jewelry Store is the Best?
The city of Chicago is one of the largest tourist hubs in the central United States. There is a vibrancy to the streets that makes it one of the most appealing cities in the world. Known for its successful sports teams, Chicago also has a rich heritage in art and jazz music.
There is no doubt the city has a long history of architectural excellence too, as evidenced by its majestic landmarks, like the Sears Tower. Chicago’s friendly residents also make shopping along Chicago streets a thrilling experience.
So there’s a lot to see and do along Chicago’s Jewelers Row and Magnificent Mile, but it’s not the best place to buy a diamond based on value for money.
However, aside from the experience and soaking up the bright sights and luxury stores, there’s not much reason to buy a diamond there.
Online shopping at reputable retailers, like Whiteflash, Blue Nile, or James Allen, seems like the best way to maximize your budget, time, and resource.
Whether you’re looking for quality, pricing, or selection, these online giants have something for everyone. Further, you can access them whenever you want without being pushed by salespeople or seduced by city sights. In the event you prefer to shop offline, one of our recommended jewelers will best suit your needs.
The excitement of the Chicago sights makes it easy to get caught up in them. Our highly reputable, vetted vendors can help you find your dream diamond online without ever having to step foot in the Windy City.
If you are looking to purchase a diamond of the highest quality available, don’t hesitate to check out Whiteflash, Blue Nile, or James Allen before making your next diamond purchase.
The information in this review is current, to the best of our knowledge, as of December, 2022.
