Help with ring setting

[jkwan]

Hi, I''ve been browsing on this forum for a month now, and have learned a lot. I''m trying to custom design an engagement ring. I found this setting that I really like from 23rd street jewelers, problem is they quoted me $12,000 on the setting alone

!! I had set a budget of $3000 for the setting and never thought a setting could costs over 10K.. I really need help finding a skilled jeweler who specializes in these intricate antique-style setting (i''m assuming is hand-work not from wax mold??) and does custom work.. I had considered Leon Mege but he doesn''t seem to do this type of setting.. I also went on Fay Cullen but she doesnt offer this type of intricate design.. I''ve attached a picture of the setting that I want.. Any help is much appreciated! Thank you.

 

[darkeyesredshoes]

I''m not sure if you''ve looked in this direction already, but I found that Saturn Jewels designs utilize filigree and hand-engraving like this. They may be willing to customize, because their site (although flawed) has a link called "Special Orders." You might be able to contact the designers and look into this with them. I found their designs in a local B&M store and they were very graceful and dainty.

 

[mrssalvo]

gosh, that is one very detailed setting which means lots of labor costs. I'd try Mark T at www.engagementringsdirect.com for a quote, Wink Jones at Winfield's, and Whiteflash. None of them will be able to do an exact copy due to copyright laws but you might be able to make some changes to get something close and closer to your budget.

 

[diamondseeker2006]

I''d choose Maytal Hannah as my first choice for a ring like that. But I don''t think anyone will make a good quality setting like that for $3000 when plain platinum designer solitaires are running $1500 and up.

http://www.maytalhannah.com/

 

[kcoursolle]

Did you contact leon and he said no? If you didn''t contact him I''d call him up just to make sure he won''t do it.

Other places to consider...
I would check out some beaudry settings, they have similar designs to this one. They will be cheaper than 10k for the setting, but are still quite expensive. Pearlmans carries the line.

You could also try singlestone in los angeles. They also re-create antique style settings and might be able to help you.

Another thought would be peternorman in brentwood. They have some beautiful hand-done platinum work.

Bottom line is that this setting is very intricate and requires hand work. No matter who you go through it''s going to be expensive.

If you simplify some of the gallery work, you could probably shave several thousand off the price of the piece.