Business Details
44 Years
experience
Custom Fine Jewelry & Expert Appraisals in Philadelphia
Since 1982, T Foster has been dedicated to crafting exceptional fine jewelry that combines timeless elegance with modern artistry. Founded by Tim and Suzanne Foster, our business is built on decades of industry expertise, with Tim trained under a renowned Van Cleef and Arpels designer and Suzanne revolutionizing production processes as a GIA Graduate Gemologist. Our team of master craftsmen designs and fabricates every piece in-house using responsibly sourced diamonds, rare colored gems, and South Sea pearls, ensuring unparalleled quality and attention to detail. We specialize in custom jewelry creation, allowing clients to transform personal style into wearable art through collaborative design consultations.Our services extend to jewelry repair, trade-in programs, and certified appraisals conducted by senior ASA members, providing comprehensive solutions for all fine jewelry needs. Recognized with four AGTA Spectrum Awards for design excellence, we maintain a commitment to sustainability and ethical practices while serving high-profile clients across entertainment, business, and political spheres. With a showroom in Philadelphia, we offer personalized consultations, free initial appraisals for T. Foster pieces, and flexible financing options to accommodate diverse client preferences.
Services
Custom Jewelry Design
Diamond Engagement Rings
Jewelry Appraisals
Jewelry Repair Services
Trade-In Program
Details
- Year established: 1982
Highlights and features
- We offer 40+ years of combined expertise in fine jewelry design and craftsmanship
- Our team includes GIA-certified gemologists and senior ASA appraisers
- We maintain in-house manufacturing capabilities for complete quality control
- We have received four prestigious AGTA Spectrum Awards for design excellence
- We provide free initial appraisals for T Foster jewelry pieces
Associations and certifications
- GIA
- American Society of Appraisers
- AGTA (American Gem Trade Association)
Services
Custom Jewelry Design
Our custom design service transforms personal visions into unique jewelry pieces. Clients collaborate directly with award-winning designers Tim and Suzanne Foster to create one-of-a-kind engagement rings, necklaces, and accessories using premium materials. The process includes concept development, material selection, and master craftsmanship for distinctive creations that reflect individual style and heritage.
Diamond Engagement Rings
We offer an extensive collection of diamond engagement rings featuring various cuts, settings, and metal options. From classic solitaires to elaborate halo designs, our rings showcase GIA-certified diamonds and custom craftsmanship. Clients can select from ready-to-purchase pieces or work with our designers to create personalized engagement jewelry that symbolizes their unique relationship.
Jewelry Appraisals
Our certified appraisers provide accurate valuations for insurance, estate planning, or personal knowledge. Using ASA-certified standards, we evaluate diamonds, gemstones, and precious metals with detailed documentation including photographs and material analysis. We offer complimentary updates for T Foster pieces and discounted services for existing clients.
Jewelry Repair Services
Our expert technicians handle all jewelry repair needs including resizing, polishing, and restoration of damaged pieces. Using traditional techniques and modern equipment, we preserve the integrity of fine jewelry while ensuring proper fit and functionality. The service includes free consultations and estimates for both T. Foster creations and external pieces.
Trade-In Program
This service allows clients to upgrade their jewelry collection by trading in existing pieces for new creations. We offer competitive valuations for diamonds, precious metals, and quality jewelry, which can be applied toward custom designs or inventory items. The program provides a sustainable way to refresh personal collections while maximizing the value of previous investments.
People
Tim Foster
Senior Jewelry Designer & Appraiser
A graduate of Van Cleef and Arpels' design program with over 30,000 original creations, Tim brings artistic vision to T Foster. His work has adorned industry leaders and celebrities while maintaining classical craftsmanship principles.
Suzanne Foster
GIA Graduate Gemologist
As a GIA-certified expert, Suzanne revolutionized jewelry production processes while maintaining strict quality standards. Her expertise in diamonds and colored gems ensures exceptional material selection and value assessment for clients.
Questions
What are your showroom hours?
We're open Tuesdays through Saturdays from 12:00 PM to 5:00 PM. Appointments are recommended but walk-ins are welcome.
Do you offer custom jewelry design services?
Yes, we specialize in custom design where clients collaborate with our award-winning designers to create unique, personalized jewelry pieces.
What payment options do you accept?
We accept cash, checks, major credit cards, and offer flexible layaway plans with 25% down payments and 0% financing charges.
Can you appraise jewelry purchased elsewhere?
Yes, we provide certified appraisals for all jewelry with fees starting at $150 for up to five pieces, regardless of purchase origin.
Do you buy used jewelry?
Yes, we offer cash for quality jewelry and diamonds with written offers valid for 10 days, or immediate payment upon acceptance.
Is engraving available on purchased jewelry?
We offer complimentary hand engraving up to 16 characters on wedding bands and chargeable engraving options for other jewelry pieces.
