what we do:
Custom Jewellery
We create fine custom jewellery like pendants, rings, earrings.
A local family business offering unlimited creativity.
We present clients with a refined union between design and metalsmithing.
what we are:
A DESIGN STUDIO
Fine custom jewelry with soul and substance.
A sanctuary for creativity, a space where ideas come to life, and where dreams are realized.
Discover the artistry, passion, and elegance that define our design studio. See Jewellery Designs
why commission us:
AUTHENTIC
Does passion seem uncommon? Are you in search for reputation and personalized guidance?
Your custom jewelry is designed and finalized by-hand in Solitaire’s studio and workshop in Toronto.
Custom jewellery comprised of fine materials, envisioned by an artist.
OUR STORY
A NEW BEGINNING
The founder of Solitaire moved to Canada for a new beginning. With a vision as clear as a diamond and a determination as strong as gold, he established Solitaire three years later.
SOLITAIRE
With a commitment to quality and a passion for creativity, Solitaire opened its doors in '83 in downtown Toronto.
MANUFACTURING
As some areas of retail dwindled, a growing niche for Solitaire was producing jewellery for Consumers Distributing, Maison Birks, and other Canadian retailers.
CUSTOM ENGAGEMENT RINGS
Noticing a shift in client attitudes – an increased demand for uniquely designed engagement rings of higher quality at a fair cost – Solitaire pivoted its venture to solely making custom-made jewellery.
HOLLYWOOD NORTH
In the late nineties, movie and television filming was heating up downtown. Solitaire was frequently commissioned for movie props. Complex requirements included: Stephen King's Storm of the Century, Grey Gardens, Down to Earth, 54, Four Brothers, Relic Hunter, Nikita, and Driven.
NATURAL DIAMONDS
Before the advancement of the internet, visits to Europe and USA were necessary to secure exquisite diamonds for clients. Many of Solitaire's finest diamonds secured in our custom engagement rings, earrings, necklaces or bracelets, were cut in Europe.
ALEX ARMEN
Toronto artist and jewelry designer Alex Armen introduced both digital jewellery designs and 3D printing to the Canadian market. Alex exclusively designs for Solitaire's clients.
NATURAL GEMSTONES
Many of Solitaire's fine gemstones are skilfully cut in Germany's gemstone cutting town of Idar-Oberstein. Break away from the indistinctive by exploring fresh combinations of natural gemstones.
LAB-GROWN DIAMONDS
Solitaire x Alex Armen were early adopters of lab-grown diamonds because of their attractive characteristics: colourless, high clarity, ideal cut, and savings.
40 Years
A time of gratitude for our clients and community. Our simple belief that quality matters more than quantity continues to personalize each client's experience.
YOUR STORY
Welcome to our world of bespoke beauty and personalized elegance at Solitaire x Alex Armen. We believe that jewellery is not just an accessory, but a reflection of your unique style, personality, and story. That’s why we specialize in creating custom jewellery pieces that are as individual as you are.
Engagement Rings, Pendants & More
At Solitaire x Alex Armen, we understand that off-the-shelf jewellery may not always capture the essence of your special moments. That’s why we offer a personalized experience where you can work closely with artist and designer Alex Armen to bring your vision to life. Whether you’re looking for a unique diamond engagement ring, a custom necklace to commemorate a milestone, or a pair of gemstone earrings that perfectly match your style, we are here to turn your dreams into reality.
Our skilled artisans combine traditional craftsmanship with modern techniques to create exquisite pieces that are crafted with precision and attention to detail. From selecting the finest gemstones to designing intricate settings, every step of the process is tailored to meet your specific requirements and exceed your expectations.
What sets us apart is our commitment to quality, creativity, and client satisfaction. We source ethically sourced diamonds, lab-grown diamonds, and vibrant gemstones to ensure that your custom jewellery not only looks stunning but also tells a meaningful story. Whether you prefer a classic design or a contemporary twist, our team is dedicated to bringing your vision to life with creativity and craftsmanship.
Jewellery Designs
Explore our gallery of custom jewellery creations for inspiration or schedule a consultation with artist and designer Alex Armen to start the journey towards owning a piece of jewellery that is uniquely yours. Let us be a part of your special moments and create a lasting treasure that will be cherished for a lifetime.
Experience the magic of custom jewellery at Solitaire x Alex Armen and let us help you celebrate your individuality with style and sophistication. Your story, your style, your jewellery – all custom-made, just for you.
CLIENT ASSISSTANCE
WHY CUSTOM JEWELRY? THOUGHTS ON FASHION TRENDS & VALUE
Welcome to our world of custom jewellery, where your unique style and individuality shine through every piece.
In a world where fashion trends come and go, there is something timeless and special about custom-made jewellery. When you choose custom pieces, you are not just following the crowd - you are setting yourself apart and expressing your true self.
Custom jewellery holds a value that goes beyond the latest trends. It is a reflection of your personality, your story, and your journey. Each piece is crafted with care and attention to detail, making it truly one-of-a-kind.
Unlike mass-produced jewellery that can be found in stores everywhere, custom pieces are made just for you. They are a symbol of your unique taste and individuality, and they hold sentimental value that cannot be replicated.
At our studio, we believe in the beauty of custom jewellery and the power it has to make a statement. We invite you to explore our collection and discover the joy of owning a piece that is truly yours. Embrace the timeless elegance of custom-made jewellery and let your style speak for itself.
MY PARTNER SELDOM WEARS JEWELRY. SHOULD I LOOK INTO A DIFFERENT GIFT?
While some may not be regular jewellery wearers, a custom-made piece holds a special allure that transcends personal style preferences. It is a gift that goes beyond adornment - it is a symbol of thoughtfulness, creativity, and sentiment.
Custom-made jewellery allows you to create a piece that is tailored to the recipient's unique taste and personality. Whether it's a minimalist design, a bold statement piece, or a subtle accent, the beauty of custom jewellery lies in its ability to capture the essence of the individual.
Unlike mass-produced jewellery that may not resonate with someone who seldom wears accessories, a custom piece is a thoughtful gesture that shows you have taken the time to craft something truly special. It is a gift that speaks volumes about your relationship and the bond you share.
At our Toronto design studio, we believe that custom-made jewellery is the perfect gift for anyone, regardless of their jewellery-wearing habits. It is a timeless treasure that holds sentimental value and serves as a reminder of the love and care that went into its creation. Choose custom-made jewellery as the perfect gift for someone special, and watch as their eyes light up with joy and appreciation.
WHAT ARE THE DIFFERENT TYPES OF ENGAGEMENT RINGS?
1. Solitaire: A single diamond or gemstone set on a plain band.
2. Halo: A centre diamond or gemstone surrounded by a circle of smaller diamonds or gemstones.
3. Hidden Halo: the smaller diamonds or gemstones are on the gallery, below the centre diamond.
4. Three Stone: Three diamonds or gemstones set in a row, symbolizing the past, present, and future.
5. Vintage: Rings inspired by designs from a particular era, such as Art Deco or Victorian.
6. Pave: A band covered in small diamonds or gemstones for a sparkling effect.
7. Cluster: A group of smaller diamonds or gemstones clustered together to create the illusion of a larger stone.
8. Coloured Gemstone: Rings featuring colourful gemstones like sapphires, rubies, or emeralds as the centre stone.
9. Modern: Contemporary designs that feature unique shapes, settings, or metal combinations.
10. Split Shank: A band that splits into two as it approaches the centre stone, creating a unique and elegant look.
11. Bezel Set: The centre stone is surrounded by a metal rim, offering a sleek and contemporary appearance.
12. Filigree: Delicate metalwork detailing on the band or setting, adding a vintage and intricate touch to the ring.
13. Nature-Inspired: Rings featuring designs inspired by elements of nature, such as leaves, flowers, or branches, for a whimsical and organic look.
14. Geometric: Rings with geometric shapes like squares, hexagons, or triangles incorporated into the design for a modern and edgy style.
BUYING AN ENGAGEMENT RING ONLINE
When it comes to choosing an engagement ring, there is something magical about the process of creating a custom piece that perfectly captures the essence of your love story. While online shopping may offer some convenience, a custom-made ring offers so much more - it offers a personal touch that cannot be replicated.
With a custom-made engagement ring, you have the opportunity to be involved in every step of the design process. From selecting the perfect gemstone to choosing the metal and setting, every detail is tailored to your preferences and style. This ensures that the ring not only fits your partner's taste but also reflects the depth of your relationship.
Unlike buying a ring online, where you are limited to the designs available, a custom-made ring allows you to bring your vision to life. Alex Armen will work closely with you to create a piece that is as unique and special as the love you share.
At our design studio, we understand the significance of an engagement ring and the emotions that come with it. That's why we are dedicated to creating exquisite custom pieces that celebrate your love in the most beautiful way possible. Choose a custom-made engagement ring and let your love story shine through every sparkling detail.
How to Buy a Diamond
HOW MUCH DOES AN ENGAGEMENT RING OR OTHER CUSTOM JEWELRY COST?
Each client receives fair, straight forward, tailored pricing. You are never left in the dark.
Solitaire & ALEX ARMEN takes your unique needs to develop pricing that is right for you.
For example, an 18k gold solitaire engagement ring (setting only, without the centre diamond) is typically 1800 to 2600 + applicable tax.
When it comes to custom jewellery, we understand the importance of transparency and affordability. That's why at Solitaires & Alex Armen, we offer fair and competitive pricing on all our custom engagement rings and jewellery pieces. Our goal is to make the process of creating a one-of-a-kind piece as accessible and enjoyable as possible.
We work closely with you to bring your vision to life within your budget. Whether you're looking for a unique engagement ring, a personalized necklace, or a custom bracelet, we are here to help you create a piece that reflects your style and personality without compromising on quality.
LEARNING ABOUT GEMSTONES & HOW TO BUY
Buying a gemstone can be a daunting task, especially for those new to the world of fine jewellery. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to know where to start. That's where Solitaire & Alex Armen come in - with years of experience and a passion for gemstones, we are here to help you navigate the world of precious stones with confidence and ease.
Our gem specialist and Alex's brother, Arbi, is dedicated to providing you with the knowledge and guidance you need to make an informed decision when purchasing a gemstone. From understanding the 4 Cs (cut, clarity, colour, and carat weight) to identifying the perfect stone for your budget and style preferences, we are here to walk you through every step of the process.
The value of a gemstone is determined by a variety of factors, including the 4 Cs (cut, clarity, colour, and carat weight), as well as rarity, origin, and overall quality. Each gemstone is unique, with its own set of characteristics that contribute to its value and beauty.
At Solitaire & Alex Armen, we believe that buying a gemstone should be a memorable and enjoyable experience. That's why we offer personalized guidance and professional expertise to ensure that you find the gemstone that speaks to your heart.
Whether you're looking for a dazzling diamond, a vibrant sapphire, or a mesmerizing emerald, we are here to help you choose the perfect gemstone that will be treasured for a lifetime.
Trust Solitaire & Alex Armen to be your trusted partner in the world of gemstone shopping, and let us guide you towards finding the gemstone of your dreams.
CLIENT ONLY JEWELRY SERVICES
Lifetime Commitment As a Solitaire client, you receive inspection, cleaning and polishing, as often as you like, while you wait. There is never a charge for this service. All metalsmithing by Solitaire is guaranteed and maintained for life. Each piece has Solitaire's hallmark and metal code inscribed into them, tying them back to Solitaire's workshop.
Ring Sizing Our clients receive a complimentary ring sizing adjustment on most custom-made orders, typically at no charge. This service is usually completed in a few hours.
24k Gold Bar Investment Contact Solitaire to purchase physical, pure gold bars without high commissions charges, admin fees or tax.
Updating & Redesigning, and Travel Jewellery Consider having your previous jewellery redesigned. From updating heirlooms to refreshing your current jewellery, Solitaire will bring your pieces you no longer cherish back into your heart.
If you travel, consider having a replica made of your favourite pieces. Worry-free travel with custom-made pieces in sterling silver and non-precious gems.
Purchasing & Credit Solitaire can purchase your precious metal jewellery you are no longer interested in wearing. For the best value, use your credit towards a new custom piece by Solitaire.
Props for Film & Movies, and Recreations Solitaire helps local and foreign film crews and prop masters with their jewellery and other requirements. With years of experience, Solitaire has a reputation of finishing on schedule.
Corporate Gifts Business is about reputation and image. Represent your business through Solitaire's premium pieces. Amplify your brand with custom-made pins, cufflinks, pendants, charms, rings and desk awards. Learn More.
RETURN, REFUND OR EXCHANGE. SHIPPING INFO
Each client receives attention and personalized service to ensure all requirements are met. Clients sign-off before Solitaire begins production.
Since everything we make is custom-made, unfortunately we do not accept refunds, exchanges or returns.
We understand that custom-made jewellery is a personal and intimate investment, and we want you to feel confident in the choices you make. Our no refund, exchanges, or return policy reflects our commitment to delivering exceptional quality and craftsmanship in every piece we create.
While we do not offer refunds, exchanges, or returns on custom-made jewellery, we are dedicated to ensuring your satisfaction with the final product. Our team is here to address any concerns or issues you may have and will work with you to make any necessary adjustments to ensure that your custom piece exceeds your expectations.
We ship globally using FedEx insured shipping.
WHO DRIVES SOLITAIRE?
Solitaire was established in 1983 in the heart of Toronto by its founder.
Over the years, we have made an effort to thank our community by supporting important causes, including non-profits that support women, the arts and local artists and creatives.
Solitaire is run by brothers Alex and Arbi.