Lake Forest Jewelersο»Ώ

Fine Jewelry | Estate Jewelry | Diamond Brokerage

685 Forest Ave. Lake Forest, IL

CONTACT US

Our rich family history in jewelry proudly dates back to 1881, and we have been in Lake Forest since 1927.


Michael Ziegler and Joseph Brooks, owners of Lake Forest Jewelers, welcome you to come in and compare our extensive collection of diamonds, rings, bracelets, earrings, necklaces, bridal engagement rings and bands, and our famous collection of estate jewelry. Our diamond collection is one of the largest in the Midwest.

Premium prices are paid for watches, jewelry, diamonds, antiques and old gold. Now is the best time to present your collection for evaluation and consideration. All transactions are confidential so come in and see what we can do for you.We’ve been in the business for 40+ years, and have been a leader in the field ever since. We take pride in sharing the  experience we’ve acquired. 

For 30 years, we have delivered top quality jewelry repair for our customers in Lake Forest. Your jewelry is repaired by our expert Goldsmiths, Silversmiths, Watchmakers and Platinum Specialists who will assess the work to be completed and clarify the entire process.

Lake Forest Jewelers are large diamond buyers, offering you the best price for your large diamond. Our professional diamond buying staff pays particular attention to every diamond purchase. With over 30 years of large diamond buying experience, Lake Forest Jewelers is one of the Chicago area’s most significant buyers of large diamonds.

A white gold ring with sapphire and diamonds on a white background.
A necklace with a flower shaped pendant on a chain.
A pair of gold stud earrings with a knot design on a white background.
A bracelet with diamonds on a white background
A diamond ring with a large diamond in the center on a white background.

From Classic Cuts to Modern Styles: Where Taylor Swift's Ring Fits

By Mike Ziegler • February 27, 2026
Engagement rings tell a design story across time. Older diamond cuts focused on warmth and character. Modern cuts focus on precision and brightness. Both appeal for different reasons. Antique diamond cuts developed before advanced cutting tools. Old Mine cuts and Old European cuts appeared most often. These stones show softer outlines, deeper proportions, and broader facets. Light reflects in slower flashes rather than sharp sparkle. Many stones appear cushion shaped with rounded corners and visible personality. Modern engagement ring cuts emphasize symmetry and brilliance. The modern round brilliant dominates today. Cutting technology allows exact angles and consistent light return. Sparkle feels crisp and high contrast while shapes remain predictable and standardized. The difference goes beyond appearance. Older cuts reflect hand craftsmanship and individuality, no two stones look identical. Modern cuts reflect engineering and uniform performance. Preference depends on taste rather than quality. Taylor Swift’s engagement ring brings older style cuts back into focus. Experts estimate the diamond near ten carats. Reported value ranges from five hundred fifty thousand dollars to near one million. The stone sits in a four prong setting with detailed filigree along the band. Jewelry specialists identify the diamond as an Old Mine Brilliant cut. The shape appears similar to an elongated cushion. Antique features give the ring depth and softness. Filigree work adds texture and age. The overall look feels timeless rather than trend driven. This aligns well with Taylor Swift’s known appreciation for vintage style. This ring highlights why older diamond cuts continue to matter. Antique stones offer history, warmth, and individuality. Modern stones offer precision and brightness. Neither approach replaces the other. For engagement rings, the best choice reflects personality. Some prefer clean sparkle. Others prefer character and age. Taylor Swift’s ring shows how older styles still resonate, especially when paired with thoughtful design and personal meaning. Stop by Lake Forest Jewelers to begin crafting an engagement ring perfect for you!

Statement Pieces Versus Everyday Jewelry

By Mike Ziegler • February 20, 2026
Finding the right balance between bold design and daily comfort

The Art Deco Era of Jewelry

By Mike Ziegler • February 13, 2026
The History and Significance of Art Deco Jewelry

Lake Forest Jewelers Offers:

Gold, Platinum, Silver, Rings, Bracelets, Diamonds, Gemstones, Necklaces, Pearls, Beads, Cufflinks, Earrings, Tie Pins, Money Clips, Watches, Sterling Giftware, Baby Gifts, Pewter Giftware, Bead Restringing, Presentation Awards, Jewelry Repairs, Bridal Gifts, Engraving, Watch Batteries, Fashion Jewelry, Anniversary Gifts, Appraisals, Broker Services, Lockets, Chains, Broker Services, and more

SEE PRODUCTS