Hi everyone - question from a newbie

[facetsnsparkle]

I have a question about setting a colored stone. I have a colored stone (a garnet) and a setting but I am not a jeweler and I don't know how to set the stone. These items were gifts and they are really special to me, so I don't want to let them out of my sight. Is it reasonable to expect there is a jeweler around who will set the stone while I wait? 4 prongs only. Let me know. I am in the US. Thanks in advance...

 

[facetsnsparkle]

thanks

 

[LD]

Generally no as it may take a while to do properly but it's always worth asking the question. You may find one that is happy to do so. What are your concerns with leaving the stones with a jeweller? Is it that they'll switch the stones or break them during setting? If it's switching then there are ways of dealing with that. If it's the breaking during setting, that could happen whether you're there or not.

One thing to be aware of is that IF a stone breaks during the setting process (and this doesn't happen that frequently) if you haven't sourced the gem from the jeweller, you will not be covered by their insurance. Some jewellers would do their best to help you if this happened but they would be within their rights to do nothing (as much as that stinks).

 

[smurfett_333]

My only advice is to shop around your local jewelers and find someone that you feel is genuine and trustworthy. I would only go to jewelers that I feel a will do the best job that they possibly can do, so if something happens unexpectedly you do not feel as though you got screwed or that they didn't really know what they were doing. Don't be afraid to "interview" different jewelers and ask them about their comfort level with working with your specific gemstone. Go with your gut and good luck!

 

[facetsnsparkle]

Thanks Smurfet. Good advice.

 

[pregcurious]

Because garnet is a softer stone, you may want to look for jeweler who has some experience setting garnets or stones of similar Mohs hardness. You can find the Mohs hardness scale on the internet. In general, a jeweler/bench person who has experience setting various colored stones should be okay. If they have only ever set a diamond, that might be an issue.

 

[JewelFreak]

Diamonds or corundum -- sapphires & rubies. Take a look at what's in their displays -- look for softer stones with similar MOH's rating to garnet. Then get into a conversation with them: do they set their own stones or buy pieces ready to sell? How much experience has their benchperson had with stones other than diamond & corundum? You can ask whether they offer services like re-setting or repair.

I find most good jewelers are delighted to talk about their business -- if the store isn't busy at the moment. You find out a lot just chatting with them about their attitude toward gems & jewelry & their experience level. Independent jewelers are the best bet -- avoid mall stores.

Have fun & good luck!

--- Laurie