A fixture in historic Bathhouse Row since it first opened in 1924, this business didn’t get the moniker “The Diamond Center” for nothing.
Hot Springs’ premiere bridal jewelry destination offers breathtaking pieces from designers Henri Daussi, Gabriel, Hidalgo as well as fashion designers John Hardy, Alwand Vahan, Pandora and more. A ring off the shelf not striking your fancy? Lauray’s — The Diamond Center offers custom design services, too. Plus, your purchases are covered for free cleaning and maintenance for life.
We recently spoke with Patti Fleischner who, along with her husband Mark, carry on the Lauray’s tradition of great jewelry and impeccable customer service as well as community service.
As Patti says, “We’re not just selling jewelry. We’re also building relationships that we value.”
Year after year, Lauray’s lends its support to charities including Project Hope Food Bank of Garland County, the Junior Auxiliary of Hot Springs, the Hot Springs Heart Ball and Ice on Ice, which benefits a different charity every year.
Vendor Q&A
Diamond or colored gemstone? Diamonds.
Piece of advice you give engaged couples for picking out wedding bands? Take your time choosing your rings. Make sure that the company you purchase from will stand behind the ring and service it over time.
Best engagement ring moment that happened at your store? We have had many wonderful moments over the years, including actually having a wedding performed in the store! My personal favorite moment occurred when a couple walked in one day casually dressed in T-shirt and jeans to look at rings. They purchased her ring and after stepping outside the store, the woman threw herself into his arms and they twirled together down the sidewalk. It was so spontaneous and beautiful.
Your favorite piece of jewelry for bride to wear on her wedding day? Earrings.
Yellow gold or white gold? White gold is usually the choice for today’s bride, however I think that is a personal choice. Both are beautiful and reflect a different mood and personality. Today’s brides are creative and bring a personal touch to their weddings. I think whatever a woman feels most beautiful wearing is the right choice.
Surprise proposal or planned? A surprise proposal is fun!
Which do you prefer: Man picks out the engagement ring alone or the couple picks it out together? We are in the business of personalized service. For us, it’s personal, and we want to find the perfect ring for either the individual or the couple.
Favorite wedding jewelry trend this season? Vintage bands are still popular, and the diamond halo remains a popular choice. Designers are introducing a wide range of choices: rough-cut diamonds, white diamonds with color, wide bands with beautiful diamond detailing, mixes of metal such as rose gold diamond wedding bands with a white gold diamond engagement ring. In earrings we are seeing drop earrings of all shapes and sizes. My favorite trend is the flexibility today’s brides have to mix it up and find their own personal style.
Lauray’s – The Diamond Center
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402 Central Ave., Hot Springs
(501) 321-2441, 1-800-364-4367 (GEMS)
Monday–Saturday, 10 a.m.–5 p.m.
