Problem with a Platinum Setting - Loosening of Center Stone!

Raptor610 · Mar 30, 2015

Proposed to my fiancee just two months ago. Didn't find a setting that really caught me when shopping so I had one made. She's very happy with the ring and I couldn't have asked for a better match at what I was asking for.

Unfortunately the stone has come loose 3 times now. The latest time, it was repaired and came loose 2 days after. It's barely loose, but it can turn a few degrees. I would like very much to not change the setting, but I want to hear opinions on whether that's the only option.

Platinum setting, 4 prong head, just under 2 ct round F VS1 GIA Triple excellent. Here are a few pictures, certainly not the best quality pics, sorry!

Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

Click below for pictures:
https://drive.google.com/file/d/0Bxegw8JnVdBccVk2aTByV1FVM00/view?usp=sharing
https://drive.google.com/file/d/0Bxegw8JnVdBcRENvSGxnUFdXYXM/view?usp=sharing
https://drive.google.com/file/d/0Bxegw8JnVdBcNERnM2V0Q2hsdTg/view?usp=sharing

JoshuaNiamehr · Mar 30, 2015

Re: Problem with a Platinum Setting - Loosening of Center St

Was the ring made custom for that center stone?

What might be happening is that the ring is being re-polished and plated and becoming loose during the process.

I would re-tighten the center stone prongs AFTER the polish - your jeweler may be worried about tightening the prongs as to not scratch the center diamond prongs. He may want to invest in a pair of plastic pliers as to avoid scratching the prongs.

Prongs should always be re-inspected and tightened after polishing.

Now I could be wrong about all of this, but in my experience if this step is skipped or forgotten, it could lead to the same issue over and over again.

ame · Mar 30, 2015

Re: Problem with a Platinum Setting - Loosening of Center St

It doesn't sound like it was properly seated.

Is she hard on her rings? Is she wearing them ALL the time? That could also be part of the problem. Taking it off while cleaning, cooking, showering, etc, is important.

Raptor610 · Mar 30, 2015

Re: Problem with a Platinum Setting - Loosening of Center St

Thanks for the replies.

Yes the ring was custom made for this stone, they had it for 6 weeks or so.

She's not especially hard on her jewelery, she does take it off when showering and cleaning. She alternates sleeping with it on.

The jeweler on Friday, saleswoman anyhow, suggested we consider split prongs or a six prong. My fiancée is not interested in either except a last resort at all costs.

I'll grab some better pictures. Should I keep bringing it back or try another jeweler on the repair?

JoshuaNiamehr · Mar 30, 2015

Re: Problem with a Platinum Setting - Loosening of Center St

I would talk to the jeweler first.

Taking it to another jeweler for repair may void any lifetime warranty you have (ask about this).

If she wants 4 prongs, isnt hard on jewelry - I personally dont see why she shouldnt stick to 4 prongs.

Joshua

caf · Mar 30, 2015

Re: Problem with a Platinum Setting - Loosening of Center St

Most on PS advise against sleeping with rings on. But it sounds like your problem is a "repeat" one and more likely what JoshuaN says. I would speak to the bench jeweler...not the saleswoman. I know there are amazingly competent sales people. But since this keeps happening = the bench should tell you what is going on and what can be done. I have never had a ring where the center stone loosened...even my engagement ring that I wore daily for years and years (though it was taken in to be checked out routinely.) Hope you get an answer soon. In the meantime, make sure the ring and stone are insured.

Raptor610 · Mar 30, 2015

Re: Problem with a Platinum Setting - Loosening of Center St

Here are a couple better pictures. Also noticed there is a spot under the top that seems to be a void (Last picture, right hand side of the upward triangle cut in). Not too pleased with that either now. She really does love the design, so it's a shame for everything to not be perfect.