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Frequently Asked Questions
  1. Will all jewelry showcased on www.blackstarrfrost.com be readily available at its retail location?
  2. What should I look for when purchasing a diamond?
  3. How do I find out about upcoming special events at Black, Starr & Frost™?
  4. Does Black, Starr & Frost™ offer personal shopping services?
  5. Does Black, Starr & Frost™ disclose customer information to non-affiliates?
  6. What is your warranty in regards to finished jewelry?
  7. What is your warranty in regards to loose diamonds?
  8. Will Black, Starr & Frost™ appraise my jewelry?
  9. Is there a Master Jeweler on the premises that I can bring my jewelry to?
  10. Will Black, Starr & Frost™ size my ring?
  11. What is Black, Starr & Frost’s policy on repairs?
  12. Can I get my Black, Starr & Frost™ jewelry inspected and cleaned?
  13. Can I trade my diamond in at Black, Starr & Frost™?
  14. What is your policy on sales tax?
  15. What kind of payments are accepted?
  16. What is your policy on telephone orders?
  17. What is your refund/exchange policy?
  18. Are all Black, Starr & Frost™ merchandise viewable online?
  19. Why does the product I purchased at Black, Starr & Frost™ not look exactly as posted on this website?
  20. Are prices subject to change?
  21. How do I care for my Black, Starr & Frost™ jewelry?
  22. Can I inscribe words on a diamond?
  23. Can Black, Starr & Frost™ tell me the value of merchandise that was bought at other BSF locations? What about fine silver and timepieces I’ve inherited?
  24. Do you offer financing?
  25. Can I purchase a loose stone at Black, Starr & Frost™?
  26. Can I use a stone that I already have and purchase just the mounting?
  27. Does Black, Starr & Frost™ cater to custom designs?
  28. Do you sell watches?
  29. Do you do repairs?
  30. Can I purchase jewelry from Black, Starr & Frost™ if it is carried by another jeweler?
  31. Can I purchase jewelry through this website?
  32. Which is stronger, platinum or white gold?
  33. Can I break a diamond?
  34. How do colored diamonds get their color?
  35. What is the finest diamond quality?
  36. How many different colored sapphires are there?
  37. Are diamonds the most rare gems?

  1. Will all jewelry showcased on www.blackstarrfrost.com be readily available at its retail location?


    Much of Black, Starr & Frost™ jewelry is considered rare and one-of-a-kind. Please be aware that the selection may vary between this website and the retail location. However, Black, Starr & Frost™ can reproduce or re-order certain merchandise if the customer chooses. Please call (714) 549-2522 for information regarding the turnaround time. You may also inquire by submitting your request on the Contact Us page or write us:

    Black, Starr & Frost
    3333 Bristol Street, #2413
    Costa Mesa, CA 92626

  2. What should I look for when purchasing a diamond?


    When considering a diamond purchase, one should consider the following: Cut, Color, Clarity, and Carat Weight. These are known as the “Four C’s.” It is also important to note that the dimension of a diamond’s table is extremely important, as it determines how light will travel through the piece, thus defining a diamond’s brilliance.

  3. How do I find out about upcoming special events at Black, Starr & Frost™?


    From time to time, Black, Starr & Frost™ will mail invitations to its customers about private designer showcases and special events. All mailings are based on the information provided by the customer. Please click on Contact Us and ask to be included in our mailing list. You may also write us at:

    Attn:  Marketing
    C/o:  Black, Starr & Frost
             3333 Bristol Street, #2413
             Costa Mesa, CA 92626

  4. Does Black, Starr & Frost™ offer personal shopping services?


    Yes. As a complimentary service, our knowledgeable associates can recommend gift suggestions for all occasions or perhaps something for you! We welcome you to join our “Wish Upon A Starr” list.

    Please call (714) 549-2522 or inquire by clicking on Contact Us.

  5. Does Black, Starr & Frost™ disclose customer information to non-affiliates?


    Black, Starr & Frost™ will not tolerate any unauthorized disclosure or use of customer information (i.e., non-public personal information such as name, address and social security number). Black, Starr & Frost™ does not release, rent, or sell, customer information and mailing lists to non-affiliates. Furthermore, Black, Starr & Frost™ does not disclose customer information to non-affiliates except in the following circumstances:
    • to our service providers (such as data processors, mailing and fulfillment service companies)
    • when our customers request or give us permission to do so;
    • when government agencies, law enforcement officials, regulatory authorities or courts, require us to do so; and
    • as otherwise permitted by law, including to protect against or prevent fraud, unauthorized transactions, claims or other liability.

  6. What is your warranty in regards to finished jewelry?


    The warranty period and service agreement varies by jewelry designer, manufacturer and product. Detailed information regarding warranty periods and service will be provided upon request.

  7. What is your warranty in regards to loose diamonds?


    If the customer’s diamond, purchased at Black, Starr & Frost™, was lost from the mounting, Black, Starr & Frost™ will replace the customer’s diamond under the following conditions only:
    • Black, Starr & Frost™ inspects the mounting every three (3) months
    • Black, Starr & Frost™ services the jewelry if deemed necessary
    • Black, Starr & Frost™ documents the visit
    • Exclusions: Normal wear and tear, abusive handling, acts of God

  8. Will Black, Starr & Frost™ appraise my jewelry?


    Black, Starr & Frost™ provides on-site gem appraisals by a G.I.A. graduate gemologist. Free insurance appraisals on items purchased at Black, Starr & Frost™ are often available to our customers. Appraisals may also be purchased for personal jewelry items starting at $150 per item. Please note that the price of appraisals depends on the intricacy of the jewelry. Appraisals are rendered only upon appointments by request. Please call Black, Starr & Frost™ to make an appointment. (714) 549-2522.

    *All Black, Starr & Frost™ diamonds are graded according to the standards set forth by the Gemological Institute of America, an internationally accredited gemology lab. Each Black, Starr & Frost™ loose diamond of 0.25 carats or larger, is appraised for cut, color, clarity, and carat weight.

  9. Is there a Master Jeweler on the premises that I can bring my jewelry to?


    Yes. Black, Starr & Frost™ hosts a full time European-trained master jeweler on the premises for jewelry and watch repairs. Customers may bring their items directly to the retail store for evaluation and repair. Please call for more information. (714) 549-2522.

  10. Will Black, Starr & Frost™ size my ring?


    Yes. Depending on the intricacy of the design, charges may apply. However, for the first ring sizing only, Black, Starr & Frost™ will be happy to size the customer’s ring purchase free of charge (again, depending on the intricacy of the design). This policy would not apply for purchase(s) during special sale events. Please allow up to 10 business days for completion.

  11. What is Black, Starr & Frost’s policy on repairs?


    Up to 12 months after the purchase date, Black, Starr & Frost™ will service and repair the customer’s mounting free of charge if the damage is due to manufacturer’s defect. Black, Starr & Frost™ will also guarantee (for 1 year) any loose stones provided that they are purchased from Black, Starr & Frost™, set in mountings purchased from Black, Starr & Frost™, and set by Black, Starr & Frost™.

    *Exclusions: worn mountings, fractures, damaged, chipped or broken stones, and missing stones due to customer indiscretion.

    See the Lifetime Loose Diamond Warranty Policy.

  12. Can I get my Black, Starr & Frost™ jewelry inspected and cleaned?


    Black, Starr & Frost™ takes insurmountable care to ensure that all stones are fully protected by the mounting. Black, Starr & Frost™ will be glad to clean and inspect the customer’s Black, Starr & Frost™ jewelry at any time, as often as the customer like, free of charge.

  13. Can I trade my diamond in at Black, Starr & Frost™?


    Black, Starr & Frost™ only carries quality diamonds and precious gemstones, priced at a fair and competitive rate. Should the customer wish to trade in a Black, Starr & Frost™ diamond, it would only be necessary to present the paid invoice and original grading laboratory certificate to receive a credit towards a future purchase of Black, Starr & Frost™ merchandise. The future purchase must be at least double the original purchase price. The trade-in value and merchandise credit are based on the original purchase price and applies only to the center diamond. Credit for ring mountings are subject to evaluation. Also, design changes and condition of mountings and stones will be evaluated.

    Exclusions:
    Worn mountings, fractures, damaged, chipped or broken stones, and missing stones due to customer indiscretion.

  14. What is your policy on sales tax?


    Sales tax is applied to all orders delivered and shipped within California. For orders that will be shipped out of California, out of state tax laws will apply. Please call Black, Starr & Frost for further information. (714) 549-2522.

  15. What kind of payments are accepted?


    For the customer’s convenience, Black, Starr & Frost™ accepts cash, personal checks, traveler’s checks, business checks, cashier’s checks, gift certificates issued by South Coast Plaza or Black, Starr & Frost™, ATM/debit cards, wire transfers, and money orders. For all forms of checks, Black, Starr & Frost™ reserves the right to hold the merchandise until funds have been transferred.

    Black, Starr & Frost™ accepts these credit cards: American Express, MasterCard, Visa, Diner's Club, Discover Card, JCB, and Carte Blanche.

    Black, Starr & Frost™ does not process bids with credit or ATM/debit cards with an international billing address or for cards issued by banks outside the United States. When using check, credit card, or ATM/debit card, purchases must qualify for credit approval.

  16. What is your policy on telephone orders?


    All telephone orders are generally processed and completed via credit cards. Cash on Delivery transactions (C.O.D.) will not be accepted. All merchandise purchased via telephone order are shipped to the billing address on the credit card. There are no exceptions.

    For telephone credit card charge requests, items will be shipped within 48 hours. Black, Starr & Frost™ reserves the right to hold the merchandise for 48 hours before shipping.

    Should the customer choose to send a check for the telephone purchase, Black, Starr & Frost™ reserves the right to hold the merchandise until after the check has been received and funds have been transferred. Shipping and insurance charges may apply.

  17. What is your refund/exchange policy?


    NO REFUNDS. Exchange of merchandise must be within 5 days with original receipt. No exchange on custom work. Cancellations of layaway are subject to 10% restocking change on subtotal. Layaways are subject to 18% APR after 90 days. Black, Starr & Frost™ is not responsible for customer merchandise left longer than 90 days.

    Black, Starr & Frost™ is proud of its merchandise quality and workmanship. Black, Starr & Frost™ stands 100% behind any purchase. Because excellent customer service is our finest objective, be assured that Black, Starr & Frost™ is always ready and delighted to meet our customer’s needs. Enjoy your purchase!

  18. Are all Black, Starr & Frost™ merchandise viewable online?


    This website features a limited, but well-rounded collection of Black, Starr & Frost™ merchandise. We encourage you to visit us at our retail location to experience in person a broader selection.

  19. Why does the product I purchased at Black, Starr & Frost™ not look exactly as posted on this website?


    Not all diamonds and gemstones are exactly the same. Their shapes, quality, and color, and size are unique and will vary. Also, images on this website have been enlarged to show detail. Black, Starr & Frost™ reserves the right to correct any photographic or typographical errors.

  20. Are prices subject to change?


    Yes. Prices at Black, Starr & Frost™ are subject to change without notice. Current market values will apply, though we offer competitive prices to our customers.

    Also, Black, Starr & Frost™ makes every attempt to avoid errors in pricing and product information. However, if a mistake does occur, Black, Starr & Frost™ reserves the right to correct it.

  21. How do I care for my Black, Starr & Frost™ jewelry?


    We encourage you to bring your jewelry to our retail location for routine inspections. We look for wear & tear that might only appear under a microscope. We also invite you to bring your Black, Starr & Frost™ jewelry for a free cleaning!

    For more information on the care of specific precious gems visit or call us. Our associates will be glad to assist you.

  22. Can I inscribe words on a diamond?


    Yes. You can “laser inscribe” your diamond. Restrictions on the font style will apply. Please call Black, Starr & Frost™ for further information. (714) 549-2522. You may also inquire by submitting your request on the Contact Us page or by writing us:

    Black, Starr & Frost
    3333 Bristol Street, #2413
    Costa Mesa, CA 92626

  23. Can Black, Starr & Frost™ tell me the value of merchandise that was bought at other BSF locations? What about fine silver and timepieces I’ve inherited?


    Black, Starr & Frost™ at South Coast Plaza can only answer questions about jewelry, preferably jewelry purchased at its location.

  24. Do you offer financing?


    Yes. Black, Starr & Frost™ offers financing through the American Gem Society. Please call for more information. (714) 549-2522.

  25. Can I purchase a loose stone at Black, Starr & Frost™?


    Yes. Black, Starr & Frost™ will also be glad to set your stone for you.

  26. Can I use a stone that I already have and purchase just the mounting?


    Yes. Our associates will be glad to discuss the cost and other options available to you. Please call today to make an appointment. (714) 549-2522.

  27. Does Black, Starr & Frost™ cater to custom designs?


    Yes. Our staff is ready and artistically qualified to help you design the jewelry of your dreams.

  28. Do you sell watches?


    Yes. Black, Starr & Frost is proud to carry exclusive luxury timepieces for both men and women. We invite you to view a sampling of our watches on this website. Also, please visit our retail store for the complete collection.

  29. Do you do repairs?


    Yes. Black, Starr & Frost™ is able to repair your jewelry as well as watches.

  30. Can I purchase jewelry from Black, Starr & Frost™ if it is carried by another jeweler?


    Yes. If it is a designer line that we carry, but is not in our current selection, we will be glad to order it for you. Please Contact Us.

  31. Can I purchase jewelry through this website?


    This website is not currently designed for online purchases. We encourage you to visit our retail location to view the products. You’ll be fascinated at the vast selection available in addition to what is already shown on this website.

  32. Which is stronger, platinum or white gold?


    White gold is stronger, because platinum is more malleable.

  33. Can I break a diamond?


    To the surprise of many, if you are not careful, hitting the diamond at just the precise angle will chip a diamond.

  34. How do colored diamonds get their color?


    In the natural process called crystallization, the presence of natural elements will put color in a diamond. For example, the presence of nitrogen will make a diamond yellow. Other colored diamonds have will have other elements present.

  35. What is the finest diamond quality?


    The finest diamond quality is “D-flawless,” where there is an absence of color and imperfection.

  36. How many different colored sapphires are there?


    Sapphires come in every color of the rainbow. We carry mostly blue, yellow, and pink sapphires. Please visit our store to view our sapphire collections.

  37. Are diamonds the most rare gems?


    No. However, certain colored diamonds are extremely rare, especially the red diamond. Red diamonds are currently priced at $1 million per carat.
BLACK, STARR & FROST™ FINE JEWELERS SINCE 1810
South Coast Plaza. 3333 Bristol Street Costa Mesa, CA 92626. TEL: 714.549.2522

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