QuestionThomas,
I recently purchased several mystic topaz gems and originally planned to have someone else mount them, now after reading, I would like to try myself, but don't know how to go about picking a ring or pendant that would be the right size for the gem.
AnswerLaura, the first thing you will need is a millimeter gauge, the sliding kind with a jaw to fit on each side of the stone is best. Why? Most mountings come in designated millimeter sizes for gemstones.
Some mountings come in carat sizes for diamonds. For ones that come in carat sizes, you need to convert that to millimeters. There is a series of charts at this link to help in the conversion. You see, carat is weight and not size.
http://www.jewelrydays.com/product_info.php?cPath=134_136&products_id=1622
HOW TO MEASURE A GEMSTONE
Round stones: measure the diameter across the top.
Oval stones: measure the length and the width. The measurement will be two numbers, such as 10mm x 8mm.
Emerald and similar cuts: Again, measure length and width.
WHICH MOUNTING TO GET IF THE MEASUREMENT IS NOT VERY CLOSE
For instance, you measure a round stone and it is 6.5mm. The mountings you want come in 6mm and 7mm. The basic rule that works for me is to get the next larger size. It is easier to move the setting in than to spread it out! So, for the example of a 6.5mm stone, get the 7mm mounting.
Most mountings for colored gemstones are sold in millimeter sizes, not carat sizes. This fact makes picking a suitable setting for colored gems much easier.
So, measure the stone, look for the setting of the correct shape(round, oval, etc.) and pick the one you like which is the correct mm size. There you have it!
Best wishes in doing this. Be careful to go easy when tightening stones; you don't want to chip an edge. Once done, you will likely sit back and be quite happy with your work. It is a good feeling.
God Bless and Peace. Thomas. September 29,2007 11:02am
