Need help finding diamonds for halo setting + setting ideas

[oldcutclubmember]

To get a wax mold, the designer would have to complete the CAD for your ring. If you are willing to pay your jeweler for his time and work and your jeweler is willing to do that with the understanding that he will not be making the ring and that you will not be using his design and CAD, sure. But honestly I think it would be a waste of work, time and money for both of you.

You stated above that you are “indecisive.” Are you going to want to micromanage this design? There is nothing wrong with that but if you do, this may determine which designer you want to go with for the job as well. Most designers such as Sako (cicada design) and Caysie (CVD) will charge a separate fee for each change to a CAD. DK, on the other hand, will not. So if you are the type of consumer that is willing to trust your hired designer and let them do their thing for the most part, then you can probably go with most designers. However, if you are going to want to dictate the exact mm, the angles, etc., I think DK may be a better fit for you. Otherwise, this may end up being a very expensive endeavor for you and a frustrating situation for all parties involved. A right fit between a client and a designer is very important and not all vendors are the right fit for every client. Also do you have a set timeline for this project?

 

[Mrsz1ppy]

To get a wax mold, the designer would have to complete the CAD for your ring. If you are willing to pay your jeweler for his time and work and your jeweler is willing to do that with the understanding that he will not be making the ring, sure.

You stated above that you are “indecisive.” Are you going to want to micromanage this design? There is nothing wrong with that but if you do, this may determine which designer you want to go with for the job as well. Most designers such as Sako (cicada design) and Caysie (CVD) will charge a separate fee for each change to a CAD. DK, on the other hand, will not. So if you are the type of consumer that is willing to trust your hired designer and let them do their thing for the most part, then you can probably go with most designers. However, if you are going to want to dictate the exact mm, the angles, etc., I think DK may be a better fit for you. Otherwise, this may end up being a very expensive endeavor for you and a frustrating situation for all parties involved. A right fit between a client and a designer is very important and not all vendors are the right fit for every client. Also do you have a set timeline for this project?

And DK has plenty of vintage/antique experience. He’s very good. I just did my first custom project with him, and chose him because of the high regard in which he is held here. I’ll return, and work with him again. I was happy.

 

[oldcutclubmember]

Another way to go about this without getting completely overwhelmed may be to go with one of Caysie(CVB)’s pre-existing designs instead of going completely bespoke. You can still pick and customize the metal(s), finishes and certain aspects of the design but you wouldn’t have to start from scratch and try to reinvent the wheel. She can definitely source Lab diamond OECs for your project, probably OMCs as well.

Lumiere sounds like it’s in line with what you have in mind.

CvB Custom Jewelry on Instagram: "Exclusively #byCvB ... Really no words for this “Lumiere” halo featuring a knockout of a center stone, meticulously cut by the super talented gemstone maestro Jeff White...have a guess, what do you think this (old st

1,028 likes, 88 comments - cvb.inspired.design on March 4, 2021: "Exclusively #byCvB ... Really no words for this “Lumiere” halo featuring a knockout of a center stone, meticulously cut by the super ..."

www.instagram.com

CvB Custom Jewelry on Instagram: "Exclusively #byCvB ... & now, back to our regularly scheduled bling posts! The CvB teams are healthy & back at the bench crafting your dream pieces! We had a scary & unfortunate few weeks. ***Take seriously this vi

1,361 likes, 75 comments - cvb.inspired.design on January 26, 2021: "Exclusively #byCvB ... & now, back to our regularly scheduled bling posts! The CvB teams are healthy & back at the bench crafting your d..."

www.instagram.com

Or the Nimbus (with OECs for the halo)

CvB Custom Jewelry on Instagram: "Bespoke, exclusively #byCvB // Today’s #DailyDistraction ... The stunning Victorian era inspired “Nimbus” claw prong set halo ring, presenting a jaw-droppingly gorgeous top tier center stone fastidiously cut by extr

558 likes, 99 comments - cvb.inspired.design on April 17, 2020: "Bespoke, exclusively #byCvB // Today’s #DailyDistraction ... The stunning Victorian era inspired “Nimbus” claw prong set halo ring..."

www.instagram.com

Another Nimbus (with Rose Cuts for the halo)

CvB Custom Jewelry on Instagram: "Exclusively #byCvB ... this exquisite 2.8ct fancy color ovalish genuine antique old mine cut is embraced with glittering colorless rose cut diamonds in our signature “Nimbus” style halo...the 18k yellow gold patinate

990 likes, 72 comments - cvb.inspired.design on April 13, 2021: "Exclusively #byCvB ... this exquisite 2.8ct fancy color ovalish genuine antique old mine cut is embraced with glittering colorless rose c..."

www.instagram.com

Or the Delilah

CvB Custom Jewelry on Instagram: "// CvB Bespoke // Color...everywhere!!! // Calling all August babies!! // AVAILABLE for purchase ($2995): Antiqued diamond halo “Delilah” in platinum #byCvB presenting a stunning 2.22ct slightly orangey-pink, custom

779 likes, 43 comments - cvb.inspired.design on August 7, 2019: "// CvB Bespoke // Color...everywhere!!! // Calling all August babies!! // AVAILABLE for purchase ($2995): Antiqued diamond halo “Delila..."

www.instagram.com

CvB Custom Jewelry on Instagram: "Exclusively #byCvB - Delilah Halo A stunning rose cut diamond surrounded by brilliant cut diamonds, in antiqued yellow gold and platinum. A literal dream. Want the look? Contact me to chat more about the bespoke

522 likes, 16 comments - cvb.inspired.design on December 9, 2021: "Exclusively #byCvB - Delilah Halo A stunning rose cut diamond surrounded by brilliant cut diamonds, in antiqued yellow gold and platinum..."

www.instagram.com

 

[Lookinagain]

Would it be worth getting him to make a physical wax/plastic model of what I want to do, or is it considered best to just stick with the person who would be making the ring? I honestly have no idea. I feel so clueless!

The person who is going to make the ring should make the model. If I knew I wasn't going to work with a jeweler I wouldn't ask him to do either a CAD or a model, it just doesn't really make sense.

 

[Emerald City]

Yes, I have the pad. It is the third picture. I was being lazy because I’m typing prop-Ed up on one arm in bed. There is a thread about my pad journey…this being the third times a charm one!
Here it is again.

Oh my gosh, what a stunner!!!!!! I LOVE the Padparadscha sapphires that are more peachy than orange (though all of them are amazing!). It goes perfectly with your skin tone, too. I can't wait to see the finished ring!!! Have you thought about incorporating some rubies? The red and the pinky-orange would be very compelling.

 

[Emerald City]

Yes, I have the pad. It is the third picture. I was being lazy because I’m typing prop-Ed up on one arm in bed. There is a thread about my pad journey…this being the third times a charm one!
Here it is again.

Oh, I get it now! You meant the sapphire, not a drawing pad! I am now dying of embarrassment, LOL!!!

 

[Emerald City]

Another way to go about this without getting completely overwhelmed may be to go with one of Caysie(CVB)’s pre-existing designs instead of going completely bespoke. You can still pick and customize the metal(s), finishes and certain aspects of the design but you wouldn’t have to start from scratch and try to reinvent the wheel. She can definitely source Lab diamond OECs for your project, probably OMCs as well.

Lumiere sounds like it’s in line with what you have in mind.

CvB Custom Jewelry on Instagram: "Exclusively #byCvB ... Really no words for this “Lumiere” halo featuring a knockout of a center stone, meticulously cut by the super talented gemstone maestro Jeff White...have a guess, what do you think this (old st

1,028 likes, 88 comments - cvb.inspired.design on March 4, 2021: "Exclusively #byCvB ... Really no words for this “Lumiere” halo featuring a knockout of a center stone, meticulously cut by the super ..."

www.instagram.com

CvB Custom Jewelry on Instagram: "Exclusively #byCvB ... & now, back to our regularly scheduled bling posts! The CvB teams are healthy & back at the bench crafting your dream pieces! We had a scary & unfortunate few weeks. ***Take seriously this vi

1,361 likes, 75 comments - cvb.inspired.design on January 26, 2021: "Exclusively #byCvB ... & now, back to our regularly scheduled bling posts! The CvB teams are healthy & back at the bench crafting your d..."

www.instagram.com

Or the Nimbus (with OECs for the halo)

CvB Custom Jewelry on Instagram: "Bespoke, exclusively #byCvB // Today’s #DailyDistraction ... The stunning Victorian era inspired “Nimbus” claw prong set halo ring, presenting a jaw-droppingly gorgeous top tier center stone fastidiously cut by extr

558 likes, 99 comments - cvb.inspired.design on April 17, 2020: "Bespoke, exclusively #byCvB // Today’s #DailyDistraction ... The stunning Victorian era inspired “Nimbus” claw prong set halo ring..."

www.instagram.com

Another Nimbus (with Rose Cuts for the halo)

CvB Custom Jewelry on Instagram: "Exclusively #byCvB ... this exquisite 2.8ct fancy color ovalish genuine antique old mine cut is embraced with glittering colorless rose cut diamonds in our signature “Nimbus” style halo...the 18k yellow gold patinate

990 likes, 72 comments - cvb.inspired.design on April 13, 2021: "Exclusively #byCvB ... this exquisite 2.8ct fancy color ovalish genuine antique old mine cut is embraced with glittering colorless rose c..."

www.instagram.com

Or the Delilah

CvB Custom Jewelry on Instagram: "// CvB Bespoke // Color...everywhere!!! // Calling all August babies!! // AVAILABLE for purchase ($2995): Antiqued diamond halo “Delilah” in platinum #byCvB presenting a stunning 2.22ct slightly orangey-pink, custom

779 likes, 43 comments - cvb.inspired.design on August 7, 2019: "// CvB Bespoke // Color...everywhere!!! // Calling all August babies!! // AVAILABLE for purchase ($2995): Antiqued diamond halo “Delila..."

www.instagram.com

CvB Custom Jewelry on Instagram: "Exclusively #byCvB - Delilah Halo A stunning rose cut diamond surrounded by brilliant cut diamonds, in antiqued yellow gold and platinum. A literal dream. Want the look? Contact me to chat more about the bespoke

522 likes, 16 comments - cvb.inspired.design on December 9, 2021: "Exclusively #byCvB - Delilah Halo A stunning rose cut diamond surrounded by brilliant cut diamonds, in antiqued yellow gold and platinum..."

www.instagram.com

Thanks for posting these! These are all stunning and make me feel very poor, hahaha. I have a very specific idea of how I want the ring to look, and I can't seem to find a pre-made setting that would work, unfortunately. She does excellent work; I think I'll reach out to her to see if she might do my amethyst earrings (thread is here: https://www.pricescope.com/communit...be-fixed-need-help-designing-earrings.275674/)

 

[Emerald City]

The person who is going to make the ring should make the model. If I knew I wasn't going to work with a jeweler I wouldn't ask him to do either a CAD or a model, it just doesn't really make sense.

Ah, I see. I feel really stupid. I am such a newb at this. I'm sure you're wondering how I am allowed to drive, lol. I just have next to no knowledge of what goes into designing a piece from paper to finished item. I am certainly learning, though.

 

[Emerald City]

To get a wax mold, the designer would have to complete the CAD for your ring. If you are willing to pay your jeweler for his time and work and your jeweler is willing to do that with the understanding that he will not be making the ring and that you will not be using his design and CAD, sure. But honestly I think it would be a waste of work, time and money for both of you.

You stated above that you are “indecisive.” Are you going to want to micromanage this design? There is nothing wrong with that but if you do, this may determine which designer you want to go with for the job as well. Most designers such as Sako (cicada design) and Caysie (CVD) will charge a separate fee for each change to a CAD. DK, on the other hand, will not. So if you are the type of consumer that is willing to trust your hired designer and let them do their thing for the most part, then you can probably go with most designers. However, if you are going to want to dictate the exact mm, the angles, etc., I think DK may be a better fit for you. Otherwise, this may end up being a very expensive endeavor for you and a frustrating situation for all parties involved. A right fit between a client and a designer is very important and not all vendors are the right fit for every client. Also do you have a set timeline for this project?

It is now clear to me that I should work with the same person from beginning to end. That at least is one misconception cleared up.

I wouldn't say I micromanage, but I have very specific ideas of what I want. If we can get it figured out at the outset, I would be happy to leave the jeweler to do their thing. I also recognise that some of my ideas might not work as well as I imagine, and that the jeweler's alternative ideas might work better. As I've made abundantly clear in this thread, I really have no idea what I am doing as I've never done this before, so someone who can kind of take charge would be welcome!!

Forgot to say - I actually do have a timeline. The piece needs to be finished and in my possession by the first week of December at the very latest. Is this feasible?

 

[Emerald City]

And DK has plenty of vintage/antique experience. He’s very good. I just did my first custom project with him, and chose him because of the high regard in which he is held here. I’ll return, and work with him again. I was happy.

That is good to know! I looked through his instagram and his pieces seemed geared more toward modern jewelry with a few older-style pieces sprinkled here and there. His work is impeccable. Thank you for mentioning that; I had thought he might not be a good fit for this project, but happily I was wrong about that.

 

[oldcutclubmember]

It is now clear to me that I should work with the same person from beginning to end. That at least is one misconception cleared up.

I wouldn't say I micromanage, but I have very specific ideas of what I want. If we can get it figured out at the outset, I would be happy to leave the jeweler to do their thing. I also recognise that some of my ideas might not work as well as I imagine, and that the jeweler's alternative ideas might work better. As I've made abundantly clear in this thread, I really have no idea what I am doing as I've never done this before, so someone who can kind of take charge would be welcome!!

Forgot to say - I actually do have a timeline. The piece needs to be finished and in my possession by the first week of December at the very latest. Is this feasible?

Ooof… your timeline is basically about 7-8 weeks from today. This is going to be an extremely hard timeline for most vendors to meet especially right now with all of the holiday orders. Any inquiries you make to any vendor, you should let them know of your hard timeline. Unfortunately, many may say it’s a bit too short given the holiday orders that have already started coming in. Most vendors need 6-8 weeks from the completion of the design/CAD itself. It will be extremely important for you to let them know that you have this hard timeline from the get go so that you don’t end up being disappointed. I think DK may be able to meet it but that’s just a guess.

I also took a look at your amethyst thread. I actually think you should reach out to Sako for this one. He’s done a lot of repairs of antique pieces for retailers and consumers alike. I am not sure about the lead aspect but design wise, he can probably do a great job. I assume you don’t really have a deadline for the amethyst project.

 

[Mrsz1ppy]

My mama always said, you can only have 2 out of the three things you want—good, fast and/or cheap: your choice.

I usually opt for good and cheap.

(in mom speak, cheap means fair & reasonable)

 

[Emerald City]

Ooof… your timeline is basically about 7-8 weeks from today. This is going to be an extremely hard timeline for most vendors to meet especially right now with all of the holiday orders. Any inquiries you make to any vendor, you should let them know of your hard timeline. Unfortunately, many may say it’s a bit too short given the holiday orders that have already started coming in. Most vendors need 6-8 weeks from the completion of the design/CAD itself. It will be extremely important for you to let them know that you have this hard timeline so that you don’t end up being disappointed. I think DK may be able to meet it but that’s just a guess.

I also took a look at your amethyst thread. I actually think you should reach out to Sako for this one. He’s done a lot of repairs of antique pieces for retailers and consumers alike. I am not sure about the lead aspect but design wise, he can probably do a great job. I assume you don’t really have a deadline for the amethyst project.

Hmm. You've given me a lot to consider. I guess I don't have time to get any of these done right now, as the timeline applies to all pieces. I don't even know how long it takes to finish a project like this!

 

[Emerald City]

My mama always said, you can only have 2 out of the three things you want—good, fast and/or cheap: your choice.

I usually opt for good and cheap.

(in mom speak, cheap means fair & reasonable)

Yeah, that's an oldie. I didn't think I was asking for fast but apparently I am.

 

[Emerald City]

Ooof… your timeline is basically about 7-8 weeks from today. This is going to be an extremely hard timeline for most vendors to meet especially right now with all of the holiday orders. Any inquiries you make to any vendor, you should let them know of your hard timeline. Unfortunately, many may say it’s a bit too short given the holiday orders that have already started coming in. Most vendors need 6-8 weeks from the completion of the design/CAD itself. It will be extremely important for you to let them know that you have this hard timeline from the get go so that you don’t end up being disappointed. I think DK may be able to meet it but that’s just a guess.

I also took a look at your amethyst thread. I actually think you should reach out to Sako for this one. He’s done a lot of repairs of antique pieces for retailers and consumers alike. I am not sure about the lead aspect but design wise, he can probably do a great job. I assume you don’t really have a deadline for the amethyst project.

Also, thank you for reading the amethyst thread. I'll ask him about it as well - I've already sent an e-mail asking him about the ring project. I'll let him know about the timeline and my particular situation and see what he says.

 

[oldcutclubmember]

Also, thank you for reading the amethyst thread. I'll ask him about it as well - I've already sent an e-mail asking him about the ring project. I'll let him know about the timeline and my particular situation and see what he says.

Honestly given your timeline, I would reach out to EVERYONE immediately and ask for a quote and give your timeline. Unless your timeline is actually a bit more flexible than that and they are something you can take some time to focus on in the new year.

 

[tyty333]

I would just forget about your timeline. You're behind the curve. Not saying it cant be done but it sounds like you are new to custom
and you dont know what you dont know. Not a good time to be rushing a jeweler (or yourself). Besides, you want old stones for
your ring that have to be found or cut (could take a while). CADS have to be done. Wax sent and decisions made based on that.
You have to make all the decisions to ensure the ring comes out like you expect (because you are spending a lot of money on it).
You dont want to have to do a do-over. PLUS...you want to throw in another custom project at the same time??? That's just nuts in
my opinion. I was going to tell you to postpone the earrings until you are done with the ring and that was
before I even knew your timeline. In general, every time you go custom you learn more (and more) from the process. Lots of
Pricescopers have done custom myself included and I would in no way attempt to do what you are trying to do right now.

 

[Emerald City]

Honestly given your timeline, I would reach out to EVERYONE immediately and ask for a quote and give your timeline. Unless your timeline is actually a bit more flexible than that and they are something you can take some time to focus on in the new year.

I let Sako know and he and I are working something out. I thought I had a hard deadline, but it turns out I can be more flexible. I feel relieved; it's not a good feeling thinking the way I was.

I apologise for taking so much time to get back to you; some minor drama erupted and required my husband's and my immediate attention. I guess it adds spice to life. Or something.

 

[Emerald City]

I would just forget about your timeline. You're behind the curve. Not saying it cant be done but it sounds like you are new to custom
and you dont know what you dont know. Not a good time to be rushing a jeweler (or yourself). Besides, you want old stones for
your ring that have to be found or cut (could take a while). CADS have to be done. Wax sent and decisions made based on that.
You have to make all the decisions to ensure the ring comes out like you expect (because you are spending a lot of money on it).
You dont want to have to do a do-over. PLUS...you want to throw in another custom project at the same time??? That's just nuts in
my opinion. I was going to tell you to postpone the earrings until you are done with the ring and that was
before I even knew your timeline. In general, every time you go custom you learn more (and more) from the process. Lots of
Pricescopers have done custom myself included and I would in no way attempt to do what you are trying to do right now.

You're totally right, I am new and it's best to proceed slowly. My timeline as it turns out was based on some incorrect assumptions, so happily it is more flexible. No one is being rushed, yay

And you're also right that finding the right stones can take some time.

I took everyone's feedback to heart and decided that I was indeed nuts trying to do two projects at once. I am going to focus on the ring for now, and save the earrings for later. That was a hard decision, because both projects mean a lot to me. My thanks to everyone for their honest feedback! I get very excited about projects and tend to get swept away by them, so it's a good idea to hear from people who have been in my shoes that I'll be happier, my jeweler will be happier, and the pieces will turn out better if I just cool my jets and focus on one project at a time.

Thank you all so much

 

[Emerald City]

PS - Would it still be nuts if I at least tried to source the amethysts for the earrings right now?

(I know, I know...)