QuestionI took my wife's engagement ring to a jeweler to raise the center diamond by expanding the prongs in the engagement ring. The wedding band has diamonds around it as well and is made of white gold. They were soldered together.
The Jeweler removed the center stone from the engagement ring however when he put a flame to the area where the center setting was located was to weld on Platinum he burned the third diamond on the engagement ring. He additionally melted down two prongs on the wedding band and burnt two smaller stones on the wedding band as well.
I was first told where I purchased the diamond that it was enhanced and this is why it burned. I went to the reputable jeweler and I was told it was nonsense. He then pointed out that two stones on the wedding band was burned and I want back to the repair jeweler.
He told me he will try to get a diamond cutter to work on it.
My question is should a jeweler remove diamonds from a platinum setting is he is going to subject the area with intense heat?
Thanks for reviewing for me.
AnswerDear Joel, unless a jeweler is going to use a laser welder to do the platinum work you are totally correct.
Even when a laser is used there are times the most secure join is made with the diamonds out. Diamonds should always be removed when platinum work is being done close to the stones. A ring may be sized, etc., with the stones at the opposite side of the ring but even then care is exercised. Anytime heat is at the level needed for platinum or palladium, stones will be burned if at that location or if the torch flame is allowed to go beyond the area and contact stones on another side. White gold in proximity will certainly be damaged if not destroyed.
The white gold ring should have been removed first.
A diamond cutter will need to polish the surfaces of the frosted(burnt)stones. If the stones are badly damaged and not very large, I would recommend the stones be replaced with the same quality and not sent to the cutter.
As for a treated stone, the brand name is Yehuda. This is a reputable company and they use a glass like material to fill flaws in a stone. This makes a stone appear to be much better than it is it start. Yehuda is very positive in making sure consumers know the stones are treated. And, if a jeweler should damage the filling in the stone from heat, the company will retreat the stone. I am not suggesting the stones were treated and throw this in for your information.
Joel, best wishes with the situation being handled in a professional and satisfactory manner.
God Bless and Peace. Thomas.
