Loose bezel set!

[reader]

If a stone in a bezel setting is loose, can they ''tighten'' it, or does the setting need to be remade?

 

[etienneperret]

Yes, usually the bezel setting can be tightened. In rare cases where the piece of jewelry has had a great deal of wear the bezel will need to be replaced.
When a gemstone is set in a bezel setting the metal which can be gold, silver or platinum is carefully pushed up against the stone. The jeweler tries to do this as evenly as possible making sure there are no ripples in the metal, or gaps in between the metal and the stone.
Sometimes after the stone has been set, it shifts in the setting due a knock or blow. If this happens the stone will be slightly loose in most cases. On rare occasions it can actually fall out. I have found a good way to tell if a gemstone is loose in its mounting is to hold the piece of jewelry up to your ear and tap it. If you hear a tingle the stone is probably loose and the piece should be taken to a jeweler for closer inspection.
If the gem is loose the jeweler will go through the same setting process to push the metal up against the stone. Try to bring it to the jeweler who did the job originally. They know the piece of jewelry more intimately than anyone else and should stand behind their work.

 

[reader]

Thank you very much for your words of confidence. Unfortunately, this was the Ritani piece I found on Ebay. The center stone is definately loose, I felt it shifting while I was cleaning it last night. I just got back from a local jeweler who promised to have it back to me tomorrow evening...

Oh, not only do I admire your bands (and the fact you will make them thin and colorful) but I love your avatar photo, great choice.