Is Vatche "Better" Quality than Other Alternatives?

[bps413]

After much analysis and a lot of input from this great community, I've settled on an ACA for my SO's engagement ring! Now the hard part of choosing a Tiffany repro style setting. I was initially leaning toward going with the WF Knife Edge w/ mods but I've seen quite a few posts here about how when paired with eternity bands, they that eat at the solitaire prongs. I'm now looking in other directions to see what my best path forward should be. Vatche is the most expensive alternative but I can source through WF which makes it easy. Just wondering if it's worth the higher cost -- is the quality superior to other Tiffany style solitaires or is the price driven by the designer brand in this case? If you have one and pair it with an eternity, do you experience any rubbing against the prongs?

Thanks for the insight!

 

[tyty333]

Can you provide the link to the Vatche setting you're looking at?

 

[bps413]

link to the Vatche setting

Sorry....don't know why I didn't think to include in my original note. U113

https://www.whiteflash.com/engageme...-solitaire-engagement-ring-by-vatche-1778.htm

 

[lovedogs]

Sorry....don't know why I didn't think to include in my original note. U113

https://www.whiteflash.com/engageme...-solitaire-engagement-ring-by-vatche-1778.htm

A lot of people adore that setting and think its among the best tiffany inspired options. So IMHO yes it's worth the cost. WF has their own tiffany style solitaire that I know people have been happy with, but I've heard about more issues with the WF one vs the vache.

 

[bps413]

but I've heard about more issues with the WF one vs the vache.

Yeah, I saw a post just the other day and the OP had to go fully custom route to fix the issue and pay for the new design.

 

[bps413]

I see a lot of PSers recommend DK on here - I've reached out and he can create one for me at a very reasonable price (I was pleasantly surprised)...would the quality of that be on par here? I must admit, I'm a little intimidated to look at CADs and go that route given my inexperience...

 

[prs]

Just post the CAD here. You'll get all the help you need to make sure it's a perfect setting.

 

[lovedogs]

It's up to you, but I would probably get it all done by WF if possible to avoid having to insure your stone, ship to DK, do CADS, etc.

 

[tyty333]

You've probably already found these but if not, these threads are worth a look.

Show me your Vatche U-113 and wedding rings

I have found several photos of the Vatche U-113 (e.g. Diamondseeker's) which I plan to order from Wink for my CBI diamond. But what other rings/bands to you ladies wear with it? It looks like from the pictures that there is a slight "donut" at the base? Would love to see pictures of your sets...

www.pricescope.com

Show me your Vatche U113 + 7-stone shared prong

Hi everyone! My 1.5 upgrade is currently with GOG waiting to be set into a Vatche U113. For a band I'd love a 7 stone shared prong. The donut on the 113 is a little lower than the T&Co 6 prong, so I'm wondering if the head is high enough so the diamonds in the band don't gauge it up. Who has...

www.pricescope.com

 

[daisygrl]

OP, you might also consider that Tiffany slightly changes their classic 6-prong setting every 2 years to avoid its perfect reproduction by other jewelers. You cannot go wrong with any of the above mentioned vendors.

 

[mrs-b]

I love David Klass Jewelry - but I also love Vatche. Both vendors do beautiful prong work, and the U113 is very elegant.

You can't go wrong on this.

 

[december-fire]

After much analysis and a lot of input from this great community, I've settled on an ACA for my SO's engagement ring! Now the hard part of choosing a Tiffany repro style setting. I was initially leaning toward going with the WF Knife Edge w/ mods but I've seen quite a few posts here about how when paired with eternity bands, they that eat at the solitaire prongs. I'm now looking in other directions to see what my best path forward should be. Vatche is the most expensive alternative but I can source through WF which makes it easy. Just wondering if it's worth the higher cost -- is the quality superior to other Tiffany style solitaires or is the price driven by the designer brand in this case? If you have one and pair it with an eternity, do you experience any rubbing against the prongs?

Thanks for the insight!

Your concern is about eternity bands eating at the prongs of a solitaire, correct?

If so, the solution has nothing to do with the brand or expense of the rings.

If the girdles of the diamonds in an eternity ring come in contact with the prongs of a solitaire, then the metal prongs will be rubbed by the diamond girdles and will wear away.

The solution is to ensure a gap between the diamond girdles of the eternity ring and the prongs of the solitaire.

Some people wear a 'spacer' to achieve this result; a 'spacer' is simply a ring worn between the eternity and solitaire.

Having a donut on the base of the solitaire ring can also keep the eternity away from the solitaire (although, possibly not far enough so you have to look at the specific rings).

The larger the diamonds on the eternity, the higher the diamond girdle will be, thereby making it necessary to have a greater distance between the two rings.

I'm sure others can provide side views of an eternity and solitaire to illustrate the problem that can arise.

I suggest you speak to WF about your concern and see what they suggest.

Custom design is not necessary.

Wiser, more experienced PS members may wish to add their comments.
@diamondseeker2006 @yssie

Congratulations on choosing an ACA! It will be gorgeous!

 

[bps413]

It's up to you, but I would probably get it all done by WF if possible to avoid having to insure your stone, ship to DK, do CADS, etc.

That's a good point, I would have to pay for additional shipping and insurance to DK. Though compared to the price of the Vatche it would likely be cheaper!

You've probably already found these but if not, these threads are worth a look

Thanks @tyty333 the images are particularly helpful, especially the side profile! It seems like the Vatche has "broader shoulders" (my terms...probably not official ) so that the head sits a bit higher.

Tiffany slightly changes their classic 6-prong setting every 2 years to avoid its perfect reproduction by other jewelers

That is fascinating....I didn't know that! I'm surprised they make minor variations so frequently. Feels like there would be only so many tweaks you could make before you lose the integrity of the original design. Pretty cool!

I love David Klass Jewelry - but I also love Vatche. Both vendors do beautiful prong work, and the U113 is very elegant.

I have to say...your 4.5ct ACA had me in absolute AWE when I saw all of your photos. Just gorgeous. Your ring was what inspired me to initially go the WF semi-custom route and has led me to my current path of thinking. So thank you!!!

Your concern is about eternity bands eating at the prongs of a solitaire, correct?

Thank you for weighing in. You are correct, that's the main concern. To your point, it seems like the height of the eternity needs to be < = to that of the solitaire shank. For some reason, it seems like the Vatche is taller than other stock Tiffany repros, as I haven't heard many issues with the height. In terms the classic definition of "quality," agree that it's very likely no different from any other vendors - cast, same metal alloys, etc.

 

[mtran89]

Yeah, I saw a post just the other day and the OP had to go fully custom route to fix the issue and pay for the new design.

I just got my CAD drawings!! I’m super happy. There are some minor changes I asked to make. I want the the shank thinner, its a bit too thick. And I also just want the shoulders on the shank tapered higher near the head.

Other than that, I love how the head sits right on top of the shank so the eternity band won’t touch the prongs.

But this is basically how it will look.

1000% glad I decided to go custom and make both rings together.




I hope this helps you on your journey!

 

[diamondseeker2006]

Your concern is about eternity bands eating at the prongs of a solitaire, correct?

If so, the solution has nothing to do with the brand or expense of the rings.

If the girdles of the diamonds in an eternity ring come in contact with the prongs of a solitaire, then the metal prongs will be rubbed by the diamond girdles and will wear away.

The solution is to ensure a gap between the diamond girdles of the eternity ring and the prongs of the solitaire.

Some people wear a 'spacer' to achieve this result; a 'spacer' is simply a ring worn between the eternity and solitaire.

Having a donut on the base of the solitaire ring can also keep the eternity away from the solitaire (although, possibly not far enough so you have to look at the specific rings).

The larger the diamonds on the eternity, the higher the diamond girdle will be, thereby making it necessary to have a greater distance between the two rings.

I'm sure others can provide side views of an eternity and solitaire to illustrate the problem that can arise.

I suggest you speak to WF about your concern and see what they suggest.

Custom design is not necessary.

Wiser, more experienced PS members may wish to add their comments.
@diamondseeker2006 @yssie

Congratulations on choosing an ACA! It will be gorgeous!

I was thinking lately how I haven't seen you around here very much! Glad to see you back!

I was also going to say the same thing! A low set band will work with the WF ring. It's only if someone has a band that is higher than where the base of the prongs are on the engagement ring that there is a problem with stones rubbing the prongs.

I do have the Vatche and have never had a problem with any bands, but I don't have an eternity that has larger stones set too high, either. The key is getting the right band to go with the ring, in my opinion. In any event, I do recommend getting the setting from Whiteflash because it is sooo much easier.

 

[bps413]

1000% glad I decided to go custom and make both rings together.

It looks beautiful. I particularly love the custom eternity band. So classy! Please post some pics when it's finished!

 

[Dmndsr4evr11]

I just got my CAD drawings!! I’m super happy. There are some minor changes I asked to make. I want the the shank thinner, its a bit too thick. And I also just want the shoulders on the shank tapered higher near the head.

Other than that, I love how the head sits right on top of the shank so the eternity band won’t touch the prongs.

But this is basically how it will look.

1000% glad I decided to go custom and make both rings together.




I hope this helps you on your journey!

Love it! Can’t wait to see pics on your finger.

 

[mochidiamonds]

@mtran89: wow, the custom set looks beautiful, so happy for you!! Would you happen to know how wide the shank of the custom wf knife edge shank is in the CAD?What will it be after they thin it? Also, how many pointers are the diamonds on your open basket diamond band? I’m thinking of having WF make a 7 or 9 stone version of your eternity band, you think it’s feasible? Can’t wait to see your hand pics!

 

[Tayberry]

I like the airline band

 

[mtran89]

@mtran89: wow, the custom set looks beautiful, so happy for you!! Would you happen to know how wide the shank of the custom wf knife edge shank is in the CAD?What will it be after they thin it? Also, how many pointers are the diamonds on your open basket diamond band? I’m thinking of having WF make a 7 or 9 stone version of your eternity band, you think it’s feasible? Can’t wait to see your hand pics!

I’m still making some final edits but this is the latest edit that I have. They made the band thinner. I don’t know exactly how it’s going to look or if it’s still too thick. But I figure it’s better to make it too thick than too thin. Cause I can always have it grind down in the future if I want it thinner.

Also the reason I chose to have the band thicker on the top than the bottom is because it minimizes the gap between the ring and the eternity band. And the donut is less pronounced looking.

I’m still making some minor edits. I want to make the height of the shoulders a bit taller so it stands out more. And also possibly increase the height of the hole band.

I’ve attached the photos which show the exact dimensions. The diamonds on the eternity band are 10 pointers 3mm

 

[mochidiamonds]

@mtran89 Wow, thanks for all the details! This is very helpful info! I noticed the stock WF knife edge shank is 2.2mm on their site, if you go to 3mm, I wonder if you would feel it’s too thick, but I do understand that might be what it takes to close the gap. I wonder how Tiffany does it with no gap. I think making the shank/shoulder a bit higher is a great idea if that would allow your eternity band to be the same on the right and left sides as the ER. I’m not sure the term of that portion, but I marked vertical lines on the area I’m referring to. Is the Tiffany ER width the same as the Embrace width? Will they send you a wax model to examine before casting? The eternity looks beautiful!

 

[mtran89]

@mtran89 Wow, thanks for all the details! This is very helpful info! I noticed the stock WF knife edge shank is 2.2mm on their site, if you go to 3mm, I wonder if you would feel it’s too thick, but I do understand that might be what it takes to close the gap. I wonder how Tiffany does it with no gap. I think making the shank/shoulder a bit higher is a great idea if that would allow your eternity band to be the same on the right and left sides as the ER. I’m not sure the term of that portion, but I marked vertical lines on the area I’m referring to. Is the Tiffany ER width the same as the Embrace width? Will they send you a wax model to examine before casting? The eternity looks beautiful!

The Tiffany e ring is quite wide on the top and tapers slimmer near the palm. I think because of the knife edge it makes it look slimmer than it really is. The donut just blends seamlessly into the band so it really minimizes the gap.

Yes I think the height on the Tiffany e ring and the eternity band is about the same at around 3mm high. The width is also similar as well. The e ring is maybe a bit slimmer.

I’ve made a few requests for adjustments and should be getting the drawings back in a few days. I want the band still a bit thinner and to increase the height as well.

No they don’t create a wax model for you first. Not that I’m aware. That would be neat if they did! I’ll post them once they are complete

 

[CareBear]

@mtran89 I believe the open basket eternity settings is one of the 'taller' eternity band settings. Would you consider a different setting, perhaps a U-prong? Also, even with the two rings matching perfectly in height, you may still run the risk of the stones in the eternity band cutting into the e-ring prongs because your hands won't be stationary.

 

[Patty]

@mtran89 I believe the open basket eternity settings is one of the 'taller' eternity band settings. Would you consider a different setting, perhaps a U-prong? Also, even with the two rings matching perfectly in height, you may still run the risk of the stones in the eternity band cutting into the e-ring prongs because your hands won't be stationary.

BGD‘s open basket setting is 2.4mm high while the WF Annette U-prong is 2.9mm high, according to their sites.

I agree that the band still might scratch the engagament ring, though, due to movement.

 

[mtran89]

@mtran89 I believe the open basket eternity settings is one of the 'taller' eternity band settings. Would you consider a different setting, perhaps a U-prong? Also, even with the two rings matching perfectly in height, you may still run the risk of the stones in the eternity band cutting into the e-ring prongs because your hands won't be stationary.

I did consider the Annette U prong previously, but I decided I wanted a more classic look. I also don’t want to worry about the stones loosening over time (as I’ve read some ppl experience this) I like the extra protection the diamonds have in the open basket style. 2.4mm doesn’t seem too high for the eternity band. I would be okay with making the e ring up to 3mm high.

Also, you can’t make the U prong eternity bands into quarter sizes. Only full and half sizes and the size 5 is way too big. I wanted a quarter size up from my regular size 4.5 incase I gain weight or my knuckles change size with age. (Since eternity bands cannot be resized)

Yes I agree, the rings will move around on my finger. That is partially why I’m asking them to make the e ring taller than the eternity band.

If they do touch slightly here and there it wouldn’t be a huge concern for me though. The main reason for me was not just the aesthetics, but for the integrity of the prongs. I don’t want to have the prong damaged and weakened and I lose the stone.

I am probably the worst client to deal with as I am soo picky and extremely specific. I feel bad!!! WF has been so patient with me. I’m very grateful.

 

[daisygrl]

I did consider the Annette U prong previously, but I decided I wanted a more classic look. I also don’t want to worry about the stones loosening over time (as I’ve read some ppl experience this) I like the extra protection the diamonds have in the open basket style. 2.4mm doesn’t seem too high for the eternity band. I would be okay with making the e ring up to 3mm high.

Also, you can’t make the U prong eternity bands into quarter sizes. Only full and half sizes and the size 5 is way too big. I wanted a quarter size up from my regular size 4.5 incase I gain weight or my knuckles change size with age. (Since eternity bands cannot be resized)

Yes I agree, the rings will move around on my finger. That is partially why I’m asking them to make the e ring taller than the eternity band.

If they do touch slightly here and there it wouldn’t be a huge concern for me though. The main reason for me was not just the aesthetics, but for the integrity of the prongs. I don’t want to have the prong damaged and weakened and I lose the stone.

I am probably the worst client to deal with as I am soo picky and extremely specific. I feel bad!!! WF has been so patient with me. I’m very grateful.

I admire your patience. I would lose it by now. I want a new setting so I rigorously watch all of you getting settings/rings (for inspiration). So I stopped by DK and Amy told me that they make a wax model to try it on first to see if you like it. Their also do not charge anything until the ring is done. They prices are also far better than what I paid (wish I had known all this when I was getting my ring).

 

[bps413]

Just wanted to thank everyone for providing their input. After quite a bit of thought and a stop by Tiffany this weekend with my SO, I've decided to move forward with the Vatche U113 for the setting and ask for delicate claw prongs. She seemed to really like the Tiffany setting (especially when paired with the Embrace (shocker!....)

Excited to report back with photos and eventually hand shots! Now on to planning the proposal. Thanks again all!

 

[diamondseeker2006]

Just wanted to thank everyone for providing their input. After quite a bit of thought and a stop by Tiffany this weekend with my SO, I've decided to move forward with the Vatche U113 for the setting and ask for delicate claw prongs. She seemed to really like the Tiffany setting (especially when paired with the Embrace (shocker!....)

Excited to report back with photos and eventually hand shots! Now on to planning the proposal. Thanks again all!

Since that is not the standard prongs for that ring, I strongly advise you to provide a picture of what you mean by "delicate claw prongs" with your order. I think the Vatche setting is very nice and a great choice!

 

[bps413]

Since that is not the standard prongs for that ring, I strongly advise you to provide a picture of what you mean by "delicate claw prongs" with your order.

Thanks for the advice. I assume Vatche is the only actually doing the setting, and not WF bench? is that a correct assumption? If so, I agree and will provide an image of the style prongs I'm looking for. Good looking out.

 

[december-fire]

I was thinking lately how I haven't seen you around here very much! Glad to see you back!

@diamondseeker2006 ,
Thank you! It was so nice to see your comment. In addition to being very generous in offering advice and suggestions pertaining to diamonds and settings, you are also always gracious and lovely. My apologies for taking so long to respond!

@bps413 ,
Sorry for going off-topic! I'm looking forward to seeing the completed ring(s). A solitaire paired with a diamond band is such a beautiful, timeless look.