Antique Aquamarine Ring or Loose Stone

[NYPrincess]

Hi All,

I am interested in purchasing an antique/estate/vintage platinum or white gold art deco style aquamarine ring. If I cannot find one, I am considering purchasing the stone separately and having the design I want made. Can anyone suggest websites that sell antique rings? Also, where could I purchase a loose aquamarine stone?

My favorite design is the art deco halo design (see link)http://www.faycullen.com/rings/800/d604r2ad.html but choice #2, http://www.faycullen.com/rings/800/c527r2ad.html is an edwardian style.

Many thanks.

NY

 

[chrono]

http://www.melsantiquejewelry.com/

I like Me''s for true antiques but I don''t know if she has an aqua currently for sale.

For loose stones I like to browse and buy from these vendors:
www.acstones.com
www.diamondexpert.com
www.customgemstones.com
www.whitesgems.com
www.winkjones.com

 

[NYPrincess]

Thanks Chrono.

Doesn''t that vendor have an ebay store?

NY

 

[NYPrincess]

Sorry. I just answered my own question and went on their website. They do have a store on ebay. They have gorgeous pieces. Have you or do you know anyone who has purchased from them? Are they reputable? I would never buy jewelry on ebay but I might from their online store if I had some references.

 

[twodoor2]

I think that antique aquamarine rings are extemely common. I was at a recent antique show in my area and there were some in every jewelry booth. If you want a true antique aquamarine ring, it should be easy to find, even at flea markets and such. However, if you are looking for a particular setting, and/or grade of blue in your aquamarine, you might do well with getting a calibrated loose stone and then shopping for a setting that fits your taste.

 

[NYPrincess]

That''s an excellent idea since I''ve found some antique platinum and diamond settings for sale on Mel''s antique jewelry website. Do you think it would be easier to purchase the setting I like first and then find a stone to fit it?

 

[twodoor2]

I am one of those people. that always chooses the stone first and then the setting around it. It''s up to you, but I always found it easier to find a setting for a stone then a stone for a setting. I hope that makes sense.

 

[chrono]

I always get the stone first, then the setting. It''s easier that way. With gemstones, it is difficult enough trying to find the right colour, clarity, hue, tone, saturation, shape, cutting (no zoning, extinction, and windows). No need to add another limitation by thinking about its physical dimensions.

I believe Widget has done business with Mel''s antiques. She has purchased a pair of OMC earrings (and gorgeous large ones too) from her.

 

[NYPrincess]

That''s good know about Mel''s. Actually I found a platinum setting I love on their website today. That''s why I posed the question about purchasing the setting or stone first. Here is a link to the setting. The price is right too!

http://www.melsantiquejewelry.com/product_info.php/cPath/24/products_id/456

I definitely want a vintage/antique setting in platinum however, it''s difficult to find one that is a small finger size. I wear a size 5 so want one that doesn''t have to be sized down several sizes.

Do you think I could find a nice aquamarine to fit the above setting? And which vendor should I contact?

 

[chrono]

For something this specific in size, I''d contact Wink at www.winkjones.com He may be able to find someone who can cut you an aquamarine to a specific size (but you''d better let him know your budget and colour preference too or it may get very pricey). Jeff of www.whitesgems.com may also be able to cut something to size for you depending on the rough he can get his hands on.

I''d say the easiest thing is to get the stone first then the setting but if you are set on that ring, then your option of vendors really narrows down significantly.