| Choosing
A Diamond Ring
Tips
on Buying Custom-made Rings
If
you're unable to find a ready-made diamond ring that's attractive,
comfortable, and suitable for your needs, you might try having
one custom made. Not only will your ring be unique, it will
probably mean more to you if you participate in creating it.
Having
a ring made to order should be a positive experience, and
you can help prevent it from turning into a disappointing
one by taking the following precautions:Try on rings that
resemble the one you want to have made.What looks good in
a picture may not look or feel good on your hand.If possible,
have good drawings, photos, or models of the ring you want
made. Never assume that the jeweler understands your verbal
description of what you want.
Don't
assume a ring will look exactly like it does in a photo. It
should however have a close resemblance. The best way to get
exactly what you want is to have a model or a sample ring.
Be
as specific as possible about ring features that you consider
important. For example, state in advance if you want the prongs
holding your diamonds to be rounded off or hammered in a square
or triangular form. Otherwise, the jeweler will assume that
the prong style doesn't matter to you so long as the prongs
are secure and uniform and don't cover too much of the diamonds.
You should also tell the jeweler beforehand if you want the
inside of your ring to have a special look. In one instance,
a lady wanted thin bars under every stone of a diamond eternity
band instead of under every other stone. Unless jewelers are
told otherwise, they will probably assume that as long as
the inside of a ring is smooth and well polished, its appearance
won't matter much to a customer since the inside doesn't show
when the ring is worn.
If
you have a ring that fits well and has about the same band
width as the custom ring you are ordering, show it to the
salesperson or jeweler so they can choose the best ring size
for you. The sample metal rings they have you try on can sometimes
suggest the wrong size.
Always
tell a jeweler you need the ring earlier than you actually
do, especially if it's a complicated job. Work out an acceptable
delivery date and have it put in writing. But still be prepared
for delays. It's best not to rush custom-made jewelry.
If possible, avoid having jewelry custom made in December
in countries that celebrate Christmas. Since jewelers are
rushed and overworked at that time of year, they might not
do their best work then.
Get
a written estimate of the cost of the ring. If more diamonds
are needed than estimated, the jeweler is not expected to
give them to you free of charge. He should, however, get your
permission before doing anything that would increase the estimated
cost of the ring.
A
third explanation
Choose
the shape
Sharp
edges which
Designed
as a pyramid
Pouring
the plaster
Mountings
that require
The
prongs holding
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