Safe & Trusted Diamond Jewelry Care: Finding a Reputable Jeweler

Question
I have two questions actually... I got engaged about 9 months ago, and have not yet taken my ring to be checked by a jeweler or cleaned as I've always been told not to let my diamond out of my site (and I am especially anxious about leaving my diamonds with anyone seeing as how they do not have a "number" inscribed on them).  Is there a better way to find a jeweler who will do repairs and cleaning in front of me other than calling everyplace in the tri-county area??? (I've already asked everyone I know, no one has a jeweler). My biggest issue is the repair I surely need done on my engagement ring.  I'm typically clumsy, but I try to protect the ring as best I can.  One day, all of a sudden I noticed my princess cut solitaire was rattling in its setting. There's nothing visibly wrong, but I'm worried about wearing it. The prongs all look square to each other and the diamond does not visibly move. Any ideas as to whats wrong or if there's anything I can do at home until I find a jeweler I trust???


Thanks!

Answer
Dear Michelle,

You have to have the prongs tightened if you hear the stone rattling in the mounting. And you will probably have to leave it. The jeweler from which you purchased it may do this for free.

Ask your jeweler to show you some identifying characteristics of your stone under a microscope. There are always a few. He should be able to point them out. Ask to measure your stones width in both directions with a "Leveridge gauge". Jot them down.

When you get your ring back measure it and have a look in the microscope. You'll know it's your stone.

Rich