Question Engagement ring
QUESTION: I sent my engagement ring in for resizing. But as it got resized, the goldsmith advised me that the diamonds are falling out of their sockets. The reason being it got reduced in size (the ring after being resized). It was a size O. My finger is a J1/2. Is this possible?
ANSWER: Dear Marthie, thank you for the question and special added thanks for the photo. Seeing how the diamonds are set is quite helpful to me.
For the ring to be reduced in size from 0 to J1/2 (equivalent in USA measure of 7 1/2 to approx. 5 1/4) means an amount of metal of
5 1/2mm to 6mm was removed. Then the ring sides were brought together and rejoined.
What has likely happened is this: When the ring was reformed to the smaller "circle" this caused the settings of the stones to spread apart ever so slightly. The bend of the curve of the ring is greater than before.(If the ring had been made a larger size, the settings would have been pushed closer together slightly.)
Yes, it is very possible for sizing a ring to a smaller size to cause loosening of stones. Much depends on how the stones are set. The stones are set pave, into the surface of the ring. This very surface is reformed to the smaller circle, therefore spreading the settings apart just enough to loosen the gemstones.
I have seen this happen many times and generally advise a customer in advance of the possibility. I advise either an attempt to purchase the ring in the correct size or if the ring must be sized, that stones will very likely need to be reset when the work is done.
We have to estimate a higher price for the work considering extra work to either tighten or reset the gems.
When stones are set in a more limited part of the top of the ring, we can often bring in the sides and size the ring down to an oval shape, with no reshaping of the diamond section. The very full coverage of diamonds on your ring makes it quite beautiful and also adds to the problem of loosened stones.
Please get back to me if you need to or if some point is not clear to you.
God Bless and Peace. Thomas.
---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------
QUESTION: But it will be able to get fixed?
AnswerMarthie, you caught me just in time before I leave for my work place.
Without seeing the actual ring in my hand, providing an accurate answer is difficult. However, the sizing down is not too extreme. I would expect the jeweler to be able to tighten any loose gems and to reset any which have actually come out. This will mean pushing more metal over the stone edges. How much labor will be required I am not able to know.
The jeweler may find the work goes quickly or may have to spend more time than anticipated. Either way, I believe it can be fixed.
Best wishes with your lovely ring, Marthie.
Blessings and Peace. Thomas.
