Where to get a stone set in DC?

[blingbunny10]

Any recs for jewelers in the Washington, DC area? I've contacted Quest (which said setting a stone STARTS at $120) and a few other spots. Seems ridiculously high. This is my first setting purchase, so I don't have any relationships with jewelers here, but I know Pricescopers have mentioned getting stones set for $35 or even less....

I'm also considering shipping the stone off to IDJ. Anyone know how much he charges to set a stone, if you buy the setting from him? I've emailed back and forth with an associate, but have yet to get a straight answer!

 

[Jereni]

You might try Boone & Sons downtown. They made me a custom ring recently, it came out very nice, and they were more affordable than Quest for the custom stuff anyway. Not sure about just setting a stone.

Edited to add: the last time I asked WF this question, they quoted me $125 or $150.... Now I know they don't set stones not bought from them anymore, but just wanted to note that Quest may not be higher than other shops that offer similar quality.

 

[VAgemguy]

Not sure if you mean the DC area or DC proper, but I've had good results with The Nugget in Alexandria and Solovey Jewelers in McLean. Either of those places should charge around $50-60 to set a stone (unless prong work or other labor is needed). The one & only time I went to Quest, they wanted $120 to set one of my stones. Needless to say, I haven't been back.