QuestionThe diamond stone recently fell out of my wife's engagement ring while we were hiking. It is lost forever now. My anniversary is coming up and I thought I would see about replacing the stone. She actually isn't much of a fan of diamonds but rather she likes pearls. Will I be able to put a pearl where there was previously a diamond? Will the difference in shapes of the stones matter? Do you think the setting in the ring was specifically for a diamond?
Thank you,
Matt
Answer
Pearl in Prongs
Matt, thanks for the question. Forgive the crude nature of the sketch done quickly with no templates.
Ok, generally the settings used for diamonds are made to accommodate diamonds although other stones will work as well. The difference with a pearl is the gem is round, without the girdle (waist between the top and bottom of a faceted gemstone). The prongs would have to be modified by cutting to hold a round shape. If the prongs are thick enough there is little problem.
However, round is round is round. A diamond setting for a marquise will likely have to be replaced. A setting for a princess (square) diamond will likely work fine. An emerald cut setting would likely have to be replaced unless the pearl was of a more rectangular shape from top view.
The sketch shows only two things: A round pearl set into prongs will need to be deep enough in the prongs to hold the pearl securely. The pearl will possibly set a bit higher than the crown(top) of the diamond set. The lower sketch is an alternative, using a larger pearl and spreading the prongs outward. To add security, a peg of the same metal as the original setting is soldered into the bottom of the setting. The pearl is drilled in the bottom and the pearl is set within the prongs but with the peg and cement providing security against loss. The second method even without a larger pearl allows the pearl to be set lower and be safe.
Without seeing your actual ring setting, I cannot say how difficult would be the job or even if it will work. With a round diamond, yes, generally no prob as with princess or square stones. Marquise is out and emerald cut is generally out, also.
If this answer helps you, I am a happy man. A local jeweler with a bench jeweler (the one who actually works with jewelry) should be able to provide a quick answer. Your are welcome to use the follow-up option to get back with me if you have that need. Thanks again, Matt.
God Bless and Peace. Thomas. May 28, 2008 7:02PM
