Filigree style ring: questions

[wiscg]

Hi.

I''m planning on buying a filigree engagement ring setting. I want the shape to be slightly domed with engraving that you can see through (is that called scrollwork? I''m no expert). In a perfect world I would have a hand in designing what kinds of things are engraved, you know, favorite flower, meaningful symbols, etc.

Here''s my question: These rings are hard to find. Should I go through a reputable resource like Whitehouse Brothers (she has seen a number in their catalog that she likes) or should I try and find someone to make this ring for me? I think the prices for the Whitehouse settings are fair (feel free to tell me otherwise) - how much more would getting it custom done by some local jeweler cost? If anyone knows anyone in particular in the south-eastern Wisconsin area that could do something like this, that would be wonderful.

Thanks for the input!

 

[valeria101]

Can you point one representative ring ?

I would definitely prefer both filigree and engraving made as such rather than simmulated by casting - one Q you might want to ask before buyin such a setting...

 

[valeria101]

Here's a few sources I would think of... given the range of choice WWW makes

Filigree settings at FAycullen

One rather nice 1920s sample...

and a few more modern followers.

Hope this helps

 

[wiscg]

I'll give some examples:

http://www.estate-sales-online.com/filigree-engagement/j002.html

http://www.estate-sales-online.com/filigree-engagement/j026.html

http://www.whitehousebrothers.com/consumer.asp?g=2&r=7089 (this one was her favorite, sans accompanying diamonds on the setting)

http://www.whitehousebrothers.com/consumer.asp?g=3&r=8213

 

[katbadness]

#7089 -- is this the one?
Thought I'd post the image, coz I couldn't get your link to work.

 

[valeria101]

I see...

The links to WB do not work, but the models can be located by their numbers. A few look-alike models reside (prices quoted and all) at two of the three links I mentioned. There is one other source (tried by a couple PS posters) that I am trying to locate. At least these would give you some price range and a few more choices to look at to the 'end user'. I surely understand her choice to get ring of the accent stones, it would also be mine, for what that matters

This could just be a matter of me taking a dictionary, but 'filigree' means (at leats to me) a type of metal lace made of precious metal wire modeled and welded in place withot solder. This comes from a 1905's Oxford Dictionary

The 1925 edition mentions "small pieces of precious metal carved out of larger metal pieces" as a ten modern practice departing from the traditional middle-Eastern filigree.

However, neither happened with these rings which were cast and pierced. ... What's up ?

 

[katbadness]

And.. #8213...

 

[wiscg]

Sorry about the links not working.

So I'm assuming that 'cast in place' is not the best route to take. Where can I get something like that done, then?

Thanks again for your help on this.

 

[katbadness]

If you're willing to go the custom route, one option that I know where I have seen a few examples of filigree - engraving work is at TradeShop.

Here's the current client's work in progress.

And the obvious advantage of having a custom ring done is you can create filigrees of whatever meaningful symbol you prefer.

 

[valeria101]

----------------
On 5/3/2004 10:34:39 AM wiscg wrote:

Sorry about the links not working.

So I'm assuming that 'cast in place' is not the best route to take. Where can I get something like that done, then?

Thanks again for your help on this.----------------

Sorry... I shouldn't have writen those. Of course it is fine. I would look for a nice finish on the piece and this is it. No reason to believe that the maker you picked is not reputable. I was trying to provide some ref for the price... and alternatives.

 

[wiscg]

So, clarify for me: How important is it for me to look for a ring that has been hand-made instead of one that was cast? I'm assuming it would be more expensive - is it worth it? Thanks for your help so far.

 

[Superidealist]

----------------
On 5/3/2004 11:45:00 AM wiscg wrote:

So, clarify for me: How important is it for me to look for a ring that has been hand-made instead of one that was cast? I'm assuming it would be more expensive - is it worth it?
----------------

Those are questions that you will have to answer for yourself. Cast pieces will generally be much cheaper than hand work but, in my opinion, look it.

The Tradeshop examples linked to above are all cast. An example of hand filigree work is shown below.

 

[valeria101]

Why couldn't I just keep my mouth shut!!!

Actually, either technique allows to create things that the other simply would not. The one overall qaulity difference might read: low quality 'filigree' settings are much more likely to be found cast and pierced than fabricated. Otherwise, I definitely like the look of the rings posted by jewelryexpert (those are older pieces they sold or repaired) - whatever technique went into them. It is hard imagine sculptured detail (little leaves with engravin and so forth) in traditional filigree (made of small, twisted wires!) those would need to be cast and cut out.

I think the rings you pointed out at WB reflect the average ring one would describe as 'filigree' nowadays. There is better, and, hopefully not on your shopping list - worse !

I certaily did not intend to make any sharp critique. Just look where my address is - filigree work is quite engraned in local tradition and purism a big deal. I wish I could delete that uninspired post by now!!!

 

[wiscg]

Well, I want the best for this ring. She'll be wearing it for a long, long time. So I'm going to go see what a custom setting will cost. Hopefully not a terrible amount.

Does anyone know of a place in Wisconsin (or Chicago, I s'pose) that does custom filigree work? I've been searching online and I've only come across a small number of places. While I like looking up info online, I'd rather go someplace in person and get this worked out. Okay thanks.

ps - valeria: I took no offense to anything you said. I don't know why you're so upset! I'm appreciating the help you've been giving.

 

[valeria101]

This was dye struck.... I could not be asking for better detail!
(ring by Van Craeyenest)


PS: not upset, but there are lots of jewelrymakers posting here who might not like teh ultra-conservatice stance.