Refined Designs Original Fine Jewelry

If you asked Cindy Crounse how she came to be a jewelry designer, shed tell you that she made a decision in college not to be so practical and, instead, to do what she loved. She never looked back.

After graduating from the University at Albany with a degree in studio art and jewelry metalwork, she apprenticed two years with a manufacturing jeweler, then joined a new custom jeweler in the area where she stayed 15 years before establishing Refined Designs in 1992.Over 40 years in this field has included advanced courses in wax carving, customer service, gem setting and gemology all over the country.

Custom made jewelry is what we do most, and what we do best. All thats needed to start the process is a phone call or a walk through the door. We always welcome design ideas from our customers, though most people, especially those looking for a gift, dont know what they want. And this is fine! Heres where our experience comes in helping to put people at ease and encouraging them to have fun, while helping to design their unique gift.

In the fall of 2007, long-time customer Claudia Burtman came to me and asked if I would be interested in designing a small pendant to benefit the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. Cystic fibrosis (CF) is an inherited, chronic disease that affects the lungs and digestive system of about 30,000 children and adults in the United States.

My engagement ring and wedding band are exactly what I envisioned they would be: beautiful, contemporary and extremely well made. I get compliments (and some jealous stares) all the time and it's nice to know the set is one of a kind and was made just for me. Thank you so much for your kindness, patience and for the obvious amount of creative energy that went into making such special pieces.

Please don't hesitate to call or drop us a note if you have any more questions. Diamonds are one of natures most enduring and valuable treasures. The word alone calls to mind all sorts of images, from songs and movies, to that special sparkle that only a precious, brilliant cut diamond can produce.