Recommended Custom Setting Jeweler for this Engagement Ring?

[RockAndRoll2006]

Hey all. As I move through this surprisingly exciting process of buying an engagement ring, I've decided I will purchase my diamond online and am now debating if I should have a custom setting created for me locally (here in San Francisco) or through a vendor online/somewhere else in the world. My initial instinct was to have someone locally do it since I would be able to sit down and craft (possibly through CAD) the design. My first quote I received by a reputable jeweler in SF was in my budget.

I don't think the design I'm looking for is terribly complex, but I wanted to post to gather feedback on a vendor who would be a good fit. My budget for the setting is +/- $2500. Also curious if people would recommend a hand forged or CAD vendor.

I'm looking for a platinum cushion halo for my RB (~1.4 ct.) diamond. I'd like a split shank with pave. If possible, I'd like a slightly more unique crown (see image below). I'd like the shanks to by fairly thin (since my girlfriend has small size 4 fingers) and for the pavilion to be quite low.





Thanks!

 

[liaerfbv]

Re: Recommended Custom Setting Jeweler for this Engagement R

You won't be able to get handforged with your budget. So CAD. I'd get quotes from ERD and IDJ but I really like ERD's pave. I think their prices have gone up a bit in the past year but you may be able to squeak in under budget.

 

[SB621]

Re: Recommended Custom Setting Jeweler for this Engagement R

You won't be able to get handforged with your budget. So CAD. I'd get quotes from ERD and IDJ but I really like ERD's pave. I think their prices have gone up a bit in the past year but you may be able to squeak in under budget.

Yup hand forged usually starts around 4k. The design isn't complex but pave actually is. A well done ring will have the pave set it securely (no popping out) and will show little metal. If you want to look locally I would ask to see other pave styles and rings your local person has done. Find out what they cover if pave pops out etc.

For me personally, with a 2.5k budget +/- I would probably stick with ERD, Love Affair Diamonds or Jewels by Grace. I think they all do pave extremely well for CAD.

 

[RockAndRoll2006]

Re: Recommended Custom Setting Jeweler for this Engagement R

Appreciate the feedback so far. I look forward to hearing other suggestions. Sounds like CAD will be way to go for me.

I've contacted the IDJ, love affair diamonds, ERD so far. Their prices seem to be comparable to the custom designer here in San Francisco ($2600-2800). Jewels by Grace was a bit out of budget.

Now it just comes down to finding the right vendor who can create the best product. Sounds like many appreciate ERD custom work.