Height of stone setting question and setter recommendations

[teobdl]

Over the course of my friends' many recent engagements, I've had the opportunity to closely inspect dozens of engagement rings. While there are many differences that I pass off as matters of preference, there is one "style" (if you can call it that) that I will have no tolerance for in my gf's ring: a high setting for the diamond. That is, when the prongs are long and the diamond sits high above the band. To me, it's like a well dressed man with a sport coat that's three sizes too big.

I am looking to have an engagement diamond set by an online vendor or possibly by a local jeweler, and I am wondering:
1. How much latitude would I have in having the stone set as low to the finger as possible?
2. When a stone is set into an existing setting, are the prongs cut? or would I have to choose a "custom setting" option?
3. Which online vendors offer the best value--where price meets great quality?
4. Does anyone have experience with local brick and mortar metropolitan (read: not chain) vendors that would set a pre-owned rock, and generally how are their prices/quality compared to some of the well-known online vendors like Leon Mege, Victor Canera, etc?

Thanks for all your help!

 

[JulieN]

Re: Height of stone setting question and setter recommendati

Most people prefer medium low.

 

[chrono]

Re: Height of stone setting question and setter recommendati

1. It is a personal choice to request that the bench set the stone high / low.
2. Depending on the fit of the existing setting and conditions of the prongs, usually they are reused with very minor tweaking. I don't believe the prongs are cut. Going custom is up to the customer.
3. Depends on your price point. There are various categories ranging from $1K (stock) all the way up to $10K (hand fabricated pave studded). Some vendors specialize in certain styles only.

 

[IE_Princess]

Re: Height of stone setting question and setter recommendati

4. Does anyone have experience with local brick and mortar metropolitan (read: not chain) vendors that would set a pre-owned rock, and generally how are their prices/quality compared to some of the well-known online vendors like Leon Mege, Victor Canera, etc?

Thanks for all your help!

I don't know where you are located, but Van Craeynest will set your stone for you (it's an additional cost but isn't very much, I believe I was quoted in the $300 range). As for their settings, they are exquisite and the craft is beyond exceptional. They are expensive though; very few benches are creating made-by-hand pieces using die striking, piercing, and chasing. I've been in the new factory; they are the real deal.

www.vancraeynest.com

 

[chrono]

Re: Height of stone setting question and setter recommendati

$300 is very expensive to set a stone; I was already thinking that the $100 my local jeweller charges is too high. I've seen other B&M places charge anywhere from $25 to $50, yet do quality work.

 

[diamondseeker2006]

Re: Height of stone setting question and setter recommendati

It is always best to have the vendor set your stone when possible. We can help you be sure you choose a low setting, or if you have one custom made, you can certainly specify that. I totally agree that it looks bad to have a stone set really high. It also cause extra risk for damage to the stone. I think a lot of people are ignorant to the fact that diamonds can chip or crack when whacked! That said, there is such a thing as too low aesthetically as well. I think medium-low is a good choice!