Located on the 3rd floor of the Clark Building downtown, you'll head down the hall about half-way and find David Helfer's on the right. It doesn't look like a "traditional" jewelry store, but don't let this fool you-this is THE place in the 'burgh to commission a custom piece. I can speak to the quality and value of David Helfer's from receiving a custom-made engagement ring and also having a custom right-hand ring made.
My mother gave me her old engagement ring with a beautiful 1 carat diamond. The only problem.....the ring was just awful and not my style at all (yellow gold, prong setting, etc.). Very stylish for the time it was made, however not for me. I didn't really have a strong idea of what I wanted to create with the diamond, just knew I was looking for a bezel setting and a trendy ring I could wear everyday.
The staff was very patient and helpful in assisting me with designing my ring. They listened and took time get to know me and my style, and I was rewarded with a beautiful white gold ring only two weeks later. And this is something that rarely happens when shopping for fine jewelry, I was shocked by the price....in a GOOD way. It was less than I expected to pay, and they gave me a very fair price on the yellow gold from the previous ring to apply towards my total. It's been two years, and I get comments often on my ring. It's also as beautiful as the day I picked it up, more evidence that this is a quality piece that stands up to daily wear and tear.
My fiancee ordered my engagement ring from Helfer's and while I can't give any details on price, I know that I LOVE the ring and it encompasses all the features I wanted. Again, I can't go more than a few days without a compliment on the ring! I know we'll be back to David Helfer's for our wedding bands and for more items in the future.