What are my options ?

[DaniS]

I inherited a single 3.08 diamond - GORGEOUS and wanted it set into my wedding ring. The jeweler took the 7 stones that made up the flower shaped center and made a necklace then set the large stone as a replacement. The customized ring was taken in for inspection regularly as scheduled. It was appraised by a certified jewelry appraiser 4 years ago for $38,500. Pictures below. When I took the ring in last month, I was told one of the center prongs was getting thin. Ok better take care of that to avoid damage or losing the diamond. Next thing I know, I get a call from the jeweler saying the diamond is cracked on the bottom side of the stone. While I wear the ring daily, I do not wear it to the gym, doing housework or doing anything other than office or date night. I take it off when I get home and routinely do not wear it on weekends. I don’t see how routine day wear could cause a crack on the underside. Clearly the Jewish very concerned because the person that called said she had already called their district manager about it ( likely how they could or would get out of replacing it) Any advice or guidance as to how I should best proceed?

 

[AprilBaby]

I hope you had insurance on it.

 

[OECfan]

I’m so sorry to hear this. If you have insurance, maybe talk to your insurance provider first to see what your options are.

Some jewellers have insurance to cover damage to stones while in their possession... I’ve worked with jewellers who either work this into their fee, or charge it outright. Talk to them and see if they have insurance to cover your damaged diamond.

 

[Lookinagain]

Did the jeweler examine the diamond at the time you left it with them? If the setting is open under the stone should the crack have been visible then?

 

[DaniS]

Did the jeweler examine the diamond at the time you left it with them? If the setting is open under the stone should the crack have been visible then?

 

[DaniS]

The bottom is open and when they told me a prong was thinning nothing was said about a crack. It was only upon them replacing the prong that they “discovered “ and told me the crack. At this time, they still have the ring. I’ve provided the appraisal and receipts of regular inspections. Waiting on their response but want to be prepared.

 

[sledge]

Can you post pictures of the clarity plot shown on the lab report of the stone in question? Did it exhibit feathers or other inclusions on the pavilion side?

Trying to understand if there was a potential source for the crack to have occurred.

I would be curious to hear @oldminer thoughts as he is an appraiser and has lots of experience.

 

[Texas Leaguer]

Careful intake procedures are critical for jewelers. Establishing the condition of the piece is of paramount importance, requiring an expert inspection and notation of any issues. Over-communication is highly advised to prevent situations such as this.

Sometimes a small issue like a chip or scratch can be hiding under a prong and will not be noticed until the stone is unset. A "crack" suggests something bigger that should have been visible to an expert.

The fact that nothing was mentioned about an issue with the diamond when they took possession of your property puts the onus on the jeweler. However, your first line of defense is with your own insurance company if the piece was insured.

If not, you will have to negotiate with the jeweler to make it right. But you are not powerless.

As @sledge suggested, it would be good to see details of the diamond. You can get some solid guidance here and that info could be helpful.