Question engagement ring
QUESTION: I had my engagement ring custom made and the designer got the band (shank) width wrong, it is too wide. I have tried to get used to it but I don't like it at all and I don't think that the wide band is flattering on my hand, it makes my fingers look stubby. My question is, is it possible to alter the band width without redoing the entire ring? I am concerned because there is engraving on the basket and I don't want this ruined. I haven't spoken to the designer yet, I only just received it but I wanted to ensure I had another opinion before I approach him. I also don't want to have to wait another month to get my ring back. Your advise would be greatly appreciated!
Engagement Ring
ANSWER: Hi, Amanda. I wonder if you got to see a model of the ring prior to it being made? The ring appears to have been cast and that is why I ask. Still, even if a model was available, it is sometimes difficult to realize how it all comes together as the finished ring.
I see only one possibility of making the ring shank narrower; however, that depends on what is or is not underneath the band where it joins the stone setting basket.
BTW: If this web site allows, I will attach an image. If not, please use the following link(copy and paste). I will leave the link up about a week.
http://www.renderosity.com/mod/rrfilelock/download.php?fileid=37648&key=8220
What image shows is simply where the ring cannot be altered in width, #1, and where it is possible. The center section is a unit it appears with the center gem and side stones. That width is pretty much set by the dimensions of the stones.
The part of the shank marked as line #2 could possible be made less wide but how it is done depends much on how the underside of the band looks and how it is all joined to the central basket section.
Look at the shoulders on each side of the row of stones going down the band. Are these shoulders hollowed out on the inside? Hollowing is the generally accepted method to save on weight of metal. If for some reason these sections are solid, the widths may certainly be cut down substantially. If hollow or if the hollow part joins the basket as a hollow section, trimming down will not work for obvious reasons. In that case, a major modification of the band would be needed, likely making a new band of more narrow design and adapting that to the basket section.
I fear what you really want might best be done as a total redo of the ring. Do you know if the ring was made from purchased items or if the jeweler may have used a wax model produced by a cad/cam computer design method? If cad was used, the ring can be redone with much less trouble than with other methods. However, this will still require a redo of the ring.
Amanda, I certainly wish I could provide you a simple solution. There is not a simple solution unless the sides of the band are solid and may be trimmed down.
Thanks for contacting me and feel free to use the follow-up option if you need.
God Bless and Peace. Thomas.
---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------
QUESTION: Thank Thomas, that was very helpful! I've examined the ring and the band is solid for all 3 splits. Based on that, do you think it would be possible to have the bands filed down on either side, perhaps taper them in from the basket, which would then not affect the join of the band and the basket?
AnswerAmanda, considering your follow-up information, tapering the band down should be a relatively simple operation.
I appreciate both the photo and the follow-up. That information made my work on this end much easier and more accurate.
Thanks again. Blessings and Peace. Thomas.
