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Your engagement ring is designed to be worn, loved, and enjoyed every day. But even the most durable rings experience normal wear over time. A little preventative care can help protect your ring, maintain its sparkle, and reduce the risk of loose stones or costly repairs down the road. Whether your ring is brand new or you've been wearing it for years, here are some simple ways to keep it looking and performing its best. Protecting Your Ring During Everyday Wear Most engagement rings are built for everyday wear, but there are certain activities that can put unnecessary stress on the metal, setting, and stones. We recommend removing your ring before: Working out or lifting weights Gardening or yard work Cleaning with household chemicals Swimming in pools or hot tubs Moving furniture or heavy objects Using tools or machinery Applying lotions, sunscreen, or beauty products While it may feel natural to wear your ring everywhere, taking it off during these activities can help minimize wear and reduce the risk of accidental damage. How to Clean Your Ring at Home Everyday oils, soap residue, lotion, and cosmetics can build up on your ring and make it appear dull. Fortunately, keeping your ring clean at home is simple. What You'll Need Warm water A few drops of mild dish soap A soft toothbrush A lint-free cloth Cleaning Instructions Fill a small bowl with warm water and mild dish soap. Soak your ring for 15–20 minutes. Gently brush around the diamond, underneath the stone, and around the setting where buildup often collects. Rinse thoroughly with clean water. Dry with a lint-free cloth. Avoid abrasive cleaners, toothpaste, harsh chemicals, or rough brushes, as these can damage metal finishes and delicate details. For most people, a quick cleaning every few weeks is enough to keep their ring looking bright and beautiful. How to Check Your Ring at Home Regular inspections can help you spot potential issues before they become bigger problems. Once a month, take a few minutes to examine your ring. Check the Prongs Look closely at the prongs holding your center stone. Watch for: Bent prongs Prongs that appear thinner than the others Prongs catching on clothing Visible gaps between the stone and the prongs Listen for Loose Stones Hold your ring near your ear and gently tap it against your finger. If you hear a faint rattle, a stone may be loose and should be inspected by a jeweler. Inspect the Band Look for: Deep scratches Dents Areas that appear unusually thin Bent sections of the ring Examine Side Stones If your ring includes accent diamonds, check that they appear secure and evenly seated. If anything looks unusual, stop wearing the ring and bring it in for inspection. How Often Should You Have Your Ring Professionally Inspected? Even if your ring appears perfectly fine, routine inspections are one of the best ways to help prevent stone loss. We recommend bringing your engagement ring in every 6–12 months for: Professional cleaning Prong inspection Stone security check Wear assessment Preventative maintenance recommendations If you notice a loose stone, bent prong, snagging, unusual wear, or if your ring experiences a hard impact, bring it in sooner. Many issues can be addressed quickly when caught early. Understanding Normal Wear Fine jewelry is meant to be worn and loved. Over time, it's completely normal to notice: Surface scratches Minor dents Worn prongs Slight metal wear Loose stones that require tightening These signs of wear do not necessarily mean something is wrong. They simply indicate that your ring is being enjoyed as intended. Routine maintenance helps keep normal wear from becoming a larger problem. Common Ring Care Mistakes Many of the issues we see in our shop are preventable. Some of the most common mistakes include: Wearing rings while lifting weights or exercising Applying lotions, sunscreen, and beauty products without occasional cleaning Swimming in pools, hot tubs, or other chlorinated water Gardening, yard work, or home improvement projects while wearing jewelry Ignoring prongs that catch on clothing, blankets, or hair Continuing to wear a ring after it has been bent, snagged, or hit against a hard surface Waiting years between professional inspections and cleanings Small issues are usually much easier and less expensive to address than major repairs. Store Your Ring Properly When you're not wearing your ring, store it separately from other jewelry. Diamonds are one of the hardest materials on earth and can scratch other jewelry, including other diamonds. A ring box, soft-lined jewelry box, or fabric pouch can help protect your jewelry from unnecessary wear. We're Here to Help At K. Hollis Jewelers, we recommend stopping in every 6–12 months for a complimentary cleaning and inspection. Our team will professionally clean your ring, inspect the prongs and stones, and help identify any concerns before they become bigger issues. A few minutes of preventative care can help keep your engagement ring secure, beautiful, and ready for a lifetime of memories. If you'd like us to inspect your ring, stop by anytime or contact our team to learn more.

Every jewelry box holds a story, and sometimes, it’s time to close a chapter. At K. Hollis Jewelers, we meet people every week who open that drawer, dust off a necklace or ring, and realize it’s no longer part of their story. Maybe it’s a piece you bought years ago that no longer matches your style. Maybe it’s from a past relationship, or maybe it was handed down and simply isn’t your taste. Whatever the reason, you deserve a trusted place to bring your jewelry, a place that values both your time and your treasures. That’s where we come in. For over 20 years, we’ve helped customers in Batavia and the surrounding Fox Valley area sell their unwanted fine jewelry with confidence and care. If you're ready to part with your diamond, gold, or estate pieces, we’re here to make the process easy and respectful from start to finish. What We Buy We’re currently purchasing a wide variety of fine jewelry, including: Diamond jewelry – loose stones or set in rings, necklaces, earrings, and more Gold jewelry – yellow, white, or rose gold in any karat Estate and vintage jewelry – unique or timeless styles in great condition Note: We do not purchase broken costume jewelry or items with significant wear, with the exception of gold. We also do not buy lab-grown diamonds. What to Expect No appointment is necessary, just bring your items in during store hours. In most cases, we’ll ask to keep your jewelry on-site for a short time so our experts can evaluate each piece thoroughly and accurately. Once we’ve completed the review, we’ll contact you with a fair market offer. If you decide to move forward, you’ll receive payment right away. If not, we’ll return your jewelry. No pressure, no obligation, and no hard feelings. Either way, you’ll leave with a better understanding of your jewelry and its value. Visit Us We invite you to stop by and see why we’re one of the top-rated jewelers in the Fox Valley area. Whether you're curious or ready to sell, our friendly team is here to help you move forward with confidence. 📍 K. Hollis Jewelers, Boutique & Wine Bar – Batavia, IL Walk-ins welcome, or contact us to learn more.

Jewelry often holds more than just value. It carries stories, milestones, and meaning. Knowing what your piece is worth is part of protecting it, and that is where an appraisal comes in. If you have never had one done, here is a simple guide to help you understand when it matters and what to expect. What Is a Jewelry Appraisal? A jewelry appraisal is a professional document that records the details of your piece and assigns it a value based on its purpose. It includes: Metal type and quality Gemstone characteristics and size Overall condition and craftsmanship A value used for insurance, estate planning, or resale decisions Think of it as a detailed snapshot of your jewelry that you can rely on when it matters most. When Does It Actually Make Sense to Get One? Not every piece needs an appraisal right away, but there are moments when it becomes important. You might consider one if you: Are insuring a piece Recently inherited jewelry Are thinking about selling or trading in Want a clearer understanding of what you own If you are unsure, a quick evaluation can help point you in the right direction. Why It Matters More Than You Think One of the biggest reasons for an appraisal is protection. Without accurate documentation, your jewelry may not be properly covered. Values can change over time, and having an up to date appraisal helps ensure you are not caught off guard if something happens. At K. Hollis Jewelers, we take the time to evaluate each piece carefully so you leave with clear, reliable information. How Often Should You Update It? Markets shift, especially when it comes to gold and diamonds. A good rule is to update your appraisal every three to five years. This keeps everything aligned with current values and avoids gaps in coverage. What Happens When You Bring Your Jewelry In? The process is straightforward and designed to feel easy. When you visit us, we will: Examine your piece closely Document the important details Determine the appropriate value based on your needs Provide a professional report for your records Most appraisals are completed within about two weeks, depending on the piece and the number of items. By the end of the process, you will have a clear understanding of your jewelry and what it is worth. Appraisal Value vs. What It Could Sell For This is where people often get confused. An appraisal reflects a documented value for a specific purpose, most often insurance. It does not always match what a piece would sell for in the current market. If selling or trading in is something you are considering, we can walk you through those options separately so you know exactly what to expect. While an appraisal is not required for us to make an offer on a piece, it can be helpful in understanding its value. Not Sure Where to Start? You do not need to have everything figured out before coming in. If you are curious about a piece or think it might need an appraisal, stop in and we will take a look together. We are always happy to guide you toward the best next step.

When most people shop for an engagement ring, they focus on the center stone, sparkle, or overall style. But one of the biggest factors in how a ring wears over time is something many people never think about: the structure. The anatomy of a ring affects everything from comfort to durability to how securely your center stone is protected during everyday wear. Whether you're designing a custom ring or simply trying to understand different styles, knowing the basics can help you make a more confident decision. The Main Parts of an Engagement Ring Before comparing styles, it helps to understand the basic parts of a ring and what each one does. Head The head is the upper portion of the ring that holds and supports the center stone. The head typically includes the prongs, gallery rails, and other structural components that secure the diamond above the bridge. Prongs Prongs are the metal arms that extend upward around the center stone to hold it securely in place. Prongs can vary in number, shape, thickness, and placement depending on the ring design. Gallery The gallery refers to the side-profile area beneath and around the center stone. Depending on the design, the gallery may remain open or include gallery rails and additional structural details within the head. Gallery rails are horizontal support bars within the head that help reinforce the setting. Shoulders The shoulders are the upper portions of the band that transition toward the head of the ring. The shoulders may meet at the base of the head or rise higher alongside it in a cathedral design, creating an open space beneath the shoulders. Shank The shank is the band portion of the ring that encircles the finger and connects to the shoulders and head. The shank includes the sizing area, typically located at the bottom portion of the ring beneath the finger. Understanding Different Prong Styles Prongs do more than simply hold a diamond in place. The number, shape, and placement of prongs can affect how secure a stone feels, how much light enters the diamond, and even how large the center stone appears. Some prong styles are designed to look minimal and delicate, while others offer additional protection and structure. Four-Prong Settings Four-prong settings allow more of the diamond to remain visible, which can create an open, airy appearance. Because there is slightly less metal covering the stone, this style is often chosen to maximize visibility and sparkle. Six-Prong Settings Six-prong settings surround the center stone with additional support and security. Many customers choose six-prong settings for extra security, especially for larger diamonds or rings intended for everyday wear. Claw Prongs Claw prongs taper to a finer point and are often used to create a more delicate or refined appearance. Double Claw Prongs Double claw prongs use two finer prongs at each corner or contact point. This style is especially popular in vintage-inspired and fancy-shape designs because it adds detail while also helping protect vulnerable corners. V-Prongs V-prongs are commonly used on shapes with pointed corners, such as princess, pear, or marquise diamonds. The metal wraps around the point of the diamond to help protect areas that may be more prone to chipping. Bezel Settings Unlike traditional prong settings, bezel settings surround the diamond with a rim of metal rather than using individual prongs. Because the stone is more enclosed, bezel settings are often considered one of the more secure and protective setting styles for everyday wear. Many customers also love bezel settings for their smooth profile and modern appearance. What Makes a Ring More Durable? There is no single perfect ring for everyone, but some design elements generally hold up better to daily wear. Slightly Thicker Bands Ultra-thin bands are popular for their delicate appearance, but slightly thicker bands often provide better long-term support. Lower Set Stones Lower-set diamonds are often less likely to catch on clothing or experience accidental impact. Supportive Head Structures More supportive head structures and gallery rails can help stabilize larger center stones. Strong Prong Placement Well-positioned prongs help protect the corners and edges of diamonds, especially fancy shapes like marquise, pear, and princess cuts. Cathedral Support Additional side support can help reinforce the setting over time. Beautiful Styles That May Require More Maintenance Some engagement ring styles are designed to look especially delicate or intricate. While these rings can be absolutely beautiful, they may require more maintenance over time. That does not mean they are bad choices. It simply means understanding the tradeoffs before making a decision. Styles That May Need More Maintenance ultra-thin bands shared-prong diamond bands hidden halos large stones on delicate settings exposed fancy shape corners very high-set diamonds Regular inspections and professional cleanings can help keep these styles secure and looking their best. Finding the Right Balance Between Style & Lifestyle The best engagement ring is not simply the trendiest or most intricate design. It's the one that fits your style, comfort level, and everyday life. Some people prioritize delicate details and minimal metal. Others want a ring designed for maximum durability and lower maintenance. Most customers fall somewhere in between. At K. Hollis Jewelers, we take the time to explain how different settings are built so you can make a decision that feels right for you. Whether you love a hidden halo, vintage-inspired details, or a classic solitaire, we'll help you balance beauty, comfort, and long-term wear. Need Help Comparing Ring Styles? Seeing rings in person often makes these differences much easier to understand. Visit K. Hollis Jewelers to explore different engagement ring styles, compare settings side-by-side, and talk through what design features may work best for your lifestyle. Whether you're starting from scratch or redesigning an existing ring, we're here to help guide you through the process.

There’s something special about a diamond that immediately catches your eye. Not because it’s bigger, but because it reflects light in a way that feels different. That’s exactly what sets the Centurion Diamond apart. At K. Hollis Jewelers, we’re proud to offer the Centurion 100-facet lab-grown diamond, a unique cut designed to enhance brilliance and create a noticeably radiant look. What Makes the Centurion Diamond Different? Most traditional round diamonds are cut with 57 or 58 facets. The Centurion Diamond features 100 precisely placed facets, designed to reflect more light and create a brighter, more dynamic appearance. The result is a diamond that feels lively, dimensional, and full of movement. Each stone is carefully selected for quality, with clarity starting at VS2 and color at F or higher, ensuring a clean, bright look that holds up beautifully in everyday wear. The Centurion cut is available in a range of shapes, including round, oval, radiant, and marquise, making it easy to find something that fits your personal style. What Sets the Centurion Diamond Apart Enhanced Brilliance The 100-facet design is created to reflect more light, giving the diamond a brighter, more dynamic appearance from every angle. Precision Cutting Each stone is carefully cut with attention to detail, a process that takes time and expertise to achieve the right balance of light and proportion. Exceptional Quality Diamonds in this collection are selected for strong clarity and color, creating a clean, bright look that holds up beautifully over time. Available at K. Hollis Jewelers The Centurion Diamond is not widely available, making it a unique option for those looking for something a little different. Lab-grown diamonds offer the same durability and composition as natural diamonds, while allowing for more flexibility in size and quality. For many, it is an opportunity to choose something that feels both meaningful and practical. Custom orders are typically completed within 3 to 4 weeks, depending on the design. See the Difference for Yourself The best way to understand the Centurion Diamond is to see it in person. Stop in and take a closer look. We’re here to help you explore your options and find something that feels right for you. Click here for our store hours.

Planning a proposal can feel overwhelming, especially if you are not sure where to start. From choosing the right ring to figuring out how and when to ask, there are a lot of moving parts. The good news is, it does not have to be complicated. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to feel confident, prepared, and excited about one of the biggest moments of your life. Start With What They Love Before you start looking at rings or planning anything, take a step back and think about your partner. What is their style? Do they wear simple, classic pieces or something more bold and unique? Do they prefer gold or white metals? Have they ever pointed out rings they like? If you are unsure, look at: Their current jewelry Their Pinterest or Instagram Close friends or family members You do not need all the answers, but having a general direction will make everything easier. When to Start Looking One of the biggest mistakes people make is waiting too long. Depending on what you choose: Ready-to-order rings typically take 3 to 6 weeks Custom designs can take 6 to 12 weeks Starting early gives you more options and removes unnecessary stress. While most rings require time for ordering or customization, select lab grown diamond styles may be available in store to take home the same day. These can be sized to your partner’s ring size if needed, though some styles may have sizing limitations. Choosing the Setting This is often the most intimidating part, but it does not have to be. Start simple: Pick a general style (solitaire, halo, three stone, etc.) Choose a shape (oval, round, elongated radiant, etc.) Set a comfortable budget From there, a jeweler can guide you through the rest. At K. Hollis Jewelers, you can try on over 200 styles in store and explore both lab grown and mined diamond options in a range of shapes and sizes. If you do not find exactly what you are looking for, custom design allows you to create something completely your own. Selecting the Diamond You do not need to become a diamond expert, but understanding a few basics helps. For example: Different diamond shapes reflect light differently Lab grown and mined diamonds are both real, just created differently Setting style impacts both look and durability The right jeweler will walk you through everything in a way that makes sense, without overwhelming you. Planning the Proposal Now comes the fun part. Think about what feels right for your relationship: Private and intimate Thoughtful and meaningful Surrounded by friends and family A complete surprise or something you plan together There is no one “right” way to propose. The best proposals feel personal and intentional. Timing Matters Some people have a specific date in mind, while others wait for the right moment. Popular times include: Holidays Vacations Anniversaries Just make sure you give yourself enough time to have the ring ready and everything planned ahead. Traditions to Know There are a few traditions you may have heard of: The engagement ring is typically given during the proposal The wedding band is chosen later and worn closest to the heart Some couples shop for the engagement ring together You can follow tradition or make your own. What matters most is what feels right for both of you. Guidance Makes All the Difference You are not expected to figure this out on your own. A trusted jeweler can help you: Narrow down styles Understand your options Stay within your budget Create something meaningful At K. Hollis Jewelers, we are here to guide you through every step, without pressure. Whether you are just starting to explore or ready to design the ring, we are here for you. Final Thoughts This moment is about more than just the ring. It is about your relationship, your story, and the life you are building together. Take your time, trust your instincts, and focus on what will make it meaningful for both of you. When you are ready, we would love to help you take the next step.

When you think of GLOCK, precision and reliability likely come to mind. Known for engineering products built to perform, the brand has extended that same mindset into timepieces with GLOCK Precision Watches. Designed in Austria and built with a focus on function and durability, the collection reflects a natural evolution of the brand—bringing together performance, modern design, and everyday wearability. GLOCK watches are built with features that support accuracy and long-term use. Many models incorporate solar-powered or Swiss movements, allowing for reliable timekeeping with minimal maintenance. Luminous hands and markers provide visibility in low light, while thoughtful construction ensures each watch performs consistently across a range of environments. Materials play a key role in the overall design. Scratch-resistant sapphire crystal, durable cases, and water resistance up to 20 ATM make these watches well-suited for daily wear, whether you're at work, traveling, or spending time outdoors. The focus remains on creating timepieces that feel dependable without sacrificing a clean, modern look. Design details are subtle but intentional. Elements inspired by GLOCK’s heritage—such as serration-style accents, RTF textures, and bullet casing-inspired features—create a clear connection to the brand while maintaining a refined, wearable aesthetic. These details add character without overwhelming the overall design, making each piece feel distinct yet versatile. GLOCK watches are also built to meet high performance standards. Each timepiece undergoes extensive testing for durability, including resistance to temperature changes, corrosion, vibration, and water exposure. This level of engineering reflects the brand’s continued commitment to precision and long-term reliability. GLOCK Precision Watches offer a balance of function, durability, and design. Built for everyday wear and made to perform, they are a strong choice for those who value reliability and thoughtful craftsmanship in a timepiece. Learn more about Glock Precision Watches on their website .

Men’s jewelry has come a long way from the occasional watch or wedding band. Today, more men are exploring chains, bracelets, and rings as a way to add personality to their everyday style. At K. Hollis Jewelers, we are excited to introduce INOX , a men’s jewelry collection known for its distinctive materials, thoughtful design, and versatile styles. From stainless steel chains to rings crafted with reclaimed whiskey barrel wood, this collection brings something new to our men’s jewelry selection. If you’ve been curious about men’s jewelry but weren’t sure where to start, INOX is a great place to begin. Distinctive Materials One of the things that sets INOX apart is its use of materials designed to be both durable and visually interesting. Many pieces are crafted from 316L stainless steel, a material known for its strength, tarnish resistance, and hypoallergenic properties. Stainless steel also holds its finish well, making it a great option for jewelry that can be worn daily without constant maintenance. The collection also incorporates materials like titanium, leather, carbon fiber, sterling silver, and reclaimed whiskey barrel wood. These elements add texture and character, giving the collection a look that stands apart from more traditional men’s jewelry. Some pieces even feature ion plating finishes in colors like black, gold, or gunmetal. This process bonds the finish to the metal, making it more resistant to scratching than traditional plating. Styles for Every Man INOX offers a wide range of styles designed for different personalities and aesthetics. If you prefer something classic, you’ll find clean stainless steel chains in styles like Figaro, Cuban, and wheat chains. Looking for something more bold? The collection also includes statement chains, dog tag pendants, and layered bracelet styles. Leather and bead bracelets are popular options, often finished with magnetic clasps that make them easy to wear and remove.  Rings are available in stainless steel, titanium, and tungsten, sometimes featuring unique inlays like wood or guitar strings for added character. Whether your style leans classic, rugged, or a little more edgy, there are plenty of ways to make the look your own. Built for Everyday Wear INOX jewelry is designed to fit naturally into daily life. Stainless steel and titanium are lightweight, comfortable, and easy to care for, making them great choices for jewelry you plan to wear often. Unlike softer metals, stainless steel jewelry does not require frequent polishing and maintains its appearance with minimal upkeep. Many pieces are also resistant to water exposure, making them practical for everyday wear. Rings are often designed with comfort-fit bands, and bracelets are made in standard lengths that fit most wrists comfortably. INOX pieces are also backed by a limited one-year warranty, offering additional confidence in the quality of the collection. A New Way to Explore Men’s Jewelry INOX offers a fresh approach to men’s jewelry with distinctive materials, versatile styles, and accessible price points. Whether you’re looking for your first chain, a new bracelet, or a ring that stands out, the collection makes it easy to explore jewelry in a way that feels natural and wearable. Visit K. Hollis Jewelers in Batavia to explore the INOX collection in person and discover men’s jewelry designed for everyday style.

A side-by-side comparison of a moissanite ring (left) and a lab-grown diamond ring (right), highlighting their differences in light performance. When shopping for an engagement ring or fine jewelry, you may hear the terms lab-grown diamond  and moissanite  used in similar conversations. While they can appear alike at first glance, they are very different gemstones. Understanding those differences can help you make an informed and confident decision. What Is a Lab-Grown Diamond? A lab-grown diamond is a real diamond. Like mined diamonds , it is composed of carbon and formed under intense heat and pressure. It has the same chemical composition, crystal structure, and physical properties as a mined diamond. The only difference is how it is formed. Instead of developing underground over billions of years, lab-grown diamonds are created in controlled environments using advanced technology that replicates the natural growth process. Because they are true diamonds, lab-grown stones: Rank 10 on the Mohs scale of hardness Are graded using the same standards as mined diamonds ( cut, color, clarity, and carat weight ) Exhibit the same brilliance and durability as mined diamonds To the naked eye, there is no visible difference between a mined diamond and a lab-grown diamond. What Is Moissanite? Moissanite is not a diamond. It is a separate gemstone made of silicon carbide. Originally discovered in a meteor crater, moissanite is now created in laboratories for use in jewelry. While it is colorless or near-colorless and durable enough for everyday wear, its composition and optical properties differ from those of a diamond. Moissanite: Ranks 9.25 on the Mohs scale of hardness Has a different crystal structure than a diamond Produces more rainbow-colored flashes of light, often referred to as “fire” Some people appreciate moissanite’s added brilliance, while others prefer the more traditional light performance of a diamond. Key Differences at a Glance Composition Lab-grown diamonds are carbon-based. Moissanite is silicon carbide. Hardness Lab-grown diamonds rank 10. Moissanite ranks 9.25. Light Performance Lab-grown diamonds display balanced brilliance and fire. Moissanite often displays more colorful flashes. Identification A trained jeweler using specialized equipment can distinguish between the two. Seeing the Difference in Person Photos and descriptions can only go so far. Viewing gemstones in person under proper lighting is the best way to understand how they perform and which look you prefer. At K. Hollis Jewelers, we guide clients through these types of comparisons every day. Our goal is to provide clear information so you can choose the stone that aligns with your style, priorities, and expectations. Because the right choice is the one you feel confident wearing for years to come.

If you've been following the market, you may have noticed that gold prices have been climbing. Whether you're looking to buy a new piece of fine jewelry or thinking about understanding the value of your current collection, this shift can have a big impact on your decisions. At K. Hollis Jewelers, we believe in keeping our customers informed so you can make the best choices for your collection. Let’s take a closer look at what’s happening with gold prices and what it means for you. Why Are Gold Prices Rising? Gold prices fluctuate based on supply, demand, and economic factors. Recently, prices have been rising due to: Economic Uncertainty  – When inflation rises or the stock market becomes unpredictable, investors turn to gold as a safe-haven asset, increasing its value. Global Demand  – Central banks and investors worldwide have been buying more gold, driving up prices. Supply Challenges  – Mining and production costs have increased, limiting the supply of new gold. According to recent reports, gold prices have hit   record highs  and are expected to remain strong throughout the year. How Does This Affect Buying Gold Jewelry? If you’re considering a new piece of gold jewelry, now is the time to buy before prices climb even higher. Since gold is a major factor in the cost of fine jewelry, rising prices may mean higher retail costs in the coming months. At K. Hollis Jewelers, we work hard to keep our pricing fair, but purchasing sooner rather than later can help you lock in the best value. Is Now a Good Time to Get Your Gold Jewelry Appraised? Yes! With gold at high market value, now is a great opportunity to have your gold jewelry professionally appraised. If you have treasured pieces or heirlooms, understanding their true value can help you make informed decisions about insurance, resale potential, or simply knowing what your collection is worth. Our team at K. Hollis Jewelers offers fair and transparent evaluations so you can have confidence in your gold jewelry’s value. What Should You Do Next? Looking to Buy?  Visit us in-store to explore our beautiful selection of gold jewelry before prices rise further. Thinking of Getting an Appraisal?  Bring in your gold jewelry, and we’ll evaluate it with an honest, no-pressure approach. Have Questions?  Our friendly experts are always here to help guide you. Gold prices may be rising, but with the right information, you can make the most of it. Stop by K. Hollis Jewelers today to shop, get an appraisal, or simply learn more—we’re here for you! Plus learn about our Gold Trade-In opportunities here . 📍 Visit us in-store in Batavia, IL, or contact us to learn more.

Back in February 2025, we shared an update on rising gold prices and what that meant for jewelry buyers, sellers, and collectors. Since then, the precious metals market has continued to climb, with today’s prices reaching some of the highest levels we’ve ever seen. If you’ve been thinking about selling gold, trading in old jewelry, upgrading a piece, or investing in fine jewelry, now is an important time to understand what’s happening and how it may impact your decisions. At K. Hollis Jewelers, our goal is to help you make informed choices for your collection, whether you’re buying, redesigning, or simply wanting to better understand what you already own. Where Gold and Other Metals Stand Today As of January 26, 2026, precious metals have seen significant increases compared to early 2025: Gold:  Around $5,092 per ounce Silver:  Around $107 per ounce Platinum:  Around $2,549 per ounce For comparison, in early 2025, gold was hovering closer to the high $2,000s and low $3,000s per ounce. That means gold has increased more than 1.5x in a relatively short period of time. This kind of movement is uncommon and creates meaningful opportunities for many of our clients. Why Are Gold Prices Still Rising? Gold prices fluctuate based on supply, demand, and broader economic conditions. The continued rise is being supported by several key factors : Global economic and geopolitical uncertainty Inflation and currency value concerns Strong central bank and institutional gold buying Together, these trends have helped keep gold and other precious metals at elevated levels and support long-term strength in the market. What This Means for You Your Gold Jewelry May Be Worth More Than You Think Broken jewelry, old chains, single earrings, outdated styles, or pieces you no longer wear may be worth significantly more today than they were just a year ago. Many clients are surprised to learn how much value is sitting in their jewelry box. Trade-Ins Go Further Higher gold prices can make trading in gold especially powerful. Your old gold can be applied toward: A new piece of fine jewelry An engagement ring or wedding band A custom redesign An upgrade to a higher-quality diamond or gemstone With today’s prices, your trade-in value may cover a larger portion of your purchase than you expect. A Smart Time to Redesign or Upgrade If you love the sentimental value of a piece but not the style, redesigning can be a great option. Rising gold prices mean your existing gold can be repurposed into something new while maximizing its current value. Is Now a Good Time to Get Your Jewelry Appraised? Yes. With gold and precious metals at historic highs, updated appraisals are more important than ever for insurance and peace of mind. You may want to prioritize an updated appraisal if: Your appraisal is more than 3 to 5 years old You’ve inherited jewelry and are unsure of its current value Gold and diamond prices have changed significantly since your last appraisal You’ve had a piece redesigned or upgraded You want to make sure your insurance coverage reflects today’s replacement costs Outdated appraisals can leave you underinsured, meaning your coverage may not reflect what it would actually cost to replace a piece today. A current appraisal helps protect what matters most and gives you a clearer picture of your jewelry’s true value in today’s market. A Smart Way to Shop Gold Jewelry Right Now As gold prices rise, how and when you shop can make a difference. At K. Hollis Jewelers, we don’t automatically raise the prices of in-stock jewelry every time the gold market increases. Many of the pieces in our cases were purchased or made when gold costs were lower, which means you may find especially strong value on in-stock pieces. For special orders and made-to-order jewelry, pricing is based on the current cost of gold at the time the piece is created. As gold continues to rise, special order pricing may increase over time. If you’re considering a custom piece or special order, placing your order sooner rather than later can help you lock in today’s pricing before potential increases. This is one of the ways we help our clients shop thoughtfully and get the most value from their jewelry purchases. What Should You Do Next? With gold and other metals at historic highs, now is simply a smart time to: Evaluate pieces you no longer wear Consider trade-in or redesign options Update appraisals for important pieces Take advantage of elevated gold value Talk through your options with a trusted local jeweler Let’s Make the Most of Today’s Market Together Gold prices don’t stay at historic highs forever. Whether you’re holding onto jewelry you no longer wear, considering a redesign, thinking about a special purchase, or simply wanting to make sure your important pieces are properly insured, now is a great time to take action. At K. Hollis Jewelers, we’re here to offer honest guidance, not pressure. Bring in what you have, ask questions, and let’s take a look together. You may be surprised how today’s market can help you turn what’s sitting in your jewelry box into something meaningful for the next chapter.

A properly fitted ring should feel secure and comfortable. It should not spin excessively, slide off easily, or feel uncomfortably tight. While traditional resizing is often the most straightforward solution, it is not always possible or necessary depending on the ring’s design, metal type, and construction. In certain cases, alternative methods may be recommended. Why Traditional Resizing Isn’t Always Ideal Some rings cannot be resized significantly due to their structure. Eternity bands, certain intricate designs, or specific metals may limit how much a ring can safely be adjusted. Before recommending any sizing service, a professional jeweler evaluates the ring’s design, metal type, required size adjustment, and the overall condition of the prongs, stones, and band. At K. Hollis, every ring is inspected before any work is performed to ensure the integrity of the piece and to identify any wear or damage that may affect the service. Alternative Ring Sizing Options Sizing Beads Sizing beads are small metal beads added to the inside of a ring band. They create slight resistance against the finger, helping the ring sit more securely. They are often recommended when: A ring is slightly too large The ring spins because it is top-heavy Minor fit correction is needed Sizing beads are discreet and best suited for small adjustments rather than full size changes. Spring Inserts A spring insert is a flexible metal mechanism installed inside the lower portion of the band. It compresses slightly as the ring passes over the knuckle and expands once in place. This option is typically best suited for: Individuals with larger knuckles and slimmer fingers Rings that must pass over the knuckle but fit securely at the base Spring inserts are designed to accommodate differences between knuckle size and finger size while maintaining a snug fit. Ring Guards or Inserts Ring guards are sizing devices placed along the lower interior of a ring’s shank to reduce the internal diameter without permanently altering the band. They may be appropriate when: A ring is moderately too large A client anticipates short-term finger size changes A permanent resize is not ideal Ring guards are available in different types. Metal guards are structured components installed inside the band to create a more secure, semi-permanent fit adjustment. Plastic or silicone guards, often referred to as ring slinkies or coil adjusters, wrap around the lower portion of the band and are best suited for minor looseness. The Importance of Professional Evaluation Not every ring can accommodate every sizing method. The most appropriate solution depends on the ring itself. That is why professional inspection is essential. A jeweler can inspect the piece for loose stones, prong wear, and structural concerns to ensure the integrity of the ring is preserved during adjustment. At K. Hollis Jewelers, our on-site jewelers carefully assess each piece before beginning any service. Our priority is preserving the integrity of your jewelry while ensuring it fits comfortably and securely. If your ring does not feel quite right, a professional evaluation is the best first step. Contact Us Now FAQ How do I know if my ring needs resizing? If your ring frequently spins, slides off easily, or leaves deep indentations after short wear, it may be worth having it evaluated by a jeweler. Can finger size change over time? Yes. Finger size can fluctuate due to temperature, time of day, lifestyle changes, and long-term factors. Seasonal changes alone can impact fit. How long does sizing or an insert installation typically take? Our typical turnaround time for sizing services is 10–14 days, depending on the service required and the condition of the ring. Are there alternative options for rings that are too small? In most cases, a ring that is too small requires traditional resizing to safely increase the band size. Unlike rings that are slightly too large, there are limited alternative solutions for making a ring larger without altering the band itself. A professional jeweler can evaluate the ring’s design and metal type to determine whether resizing is possible and what options are appropriate.