Story Behind a Resetting - Tammy’s Marquis Diamond Wedding Ring Story

I have an exceptional client that comes to me on a regular basis for quality stone resettings.  I asked her if she would share the story behind one of her favorite pieces, and she immediately responded with her Marquis Diamond story, our first project together.

"My husband bought my Marquis Diamond over 20 years ago for our wedding. We lived in McAllen, Texas at the time, and he knew several friends that were jewelers.  It was set in yellow gold.  It truly is a beautiful stone. I loved it!  When we got back together a few years ago, I wanted it to be different…special for our renewed love and 2^nd marriage to each other.  So I was thinking to have it dipped from gold to platinum.

One day, I was just scrolling the web on having rings dipped from gold to platinum, and somehow I ran into Amy’s website and caught sight of two rings with tiny diamonds all around.  They were also hammered. I'm a huge fan of hammered jewelry. So, I called her, and we took off from there.  Since I turned it over to Amy Certilman, I don't have the words to express how beautiful her work is. My wedding ring is the prettiest setting I have ever seen. Ever!!  I am so tickled I found her."

"Another thing about my ring is it's so very unique. I had some friends over the other day, and one man said my ring was absolutely gorgeous!

Amy’s work is so impeccable, and she’s so wonderful about making what you want, just the way you want.  I will always have Amy for my friend. Not only as a friend but she will always make new jewelry for me. A big thank you again, Amy."

Thank you Tammy! So glad we were able to make such beautiful jewelry together. 

Baby it's cold outside! What jewelry to wear this fall and winter

Jewelry has a magical way of transforming how we look and feel. As an accessory it accents an outfit and can even tell a story. Some of us have a signature piece of jewelry that we wear everyday. Others are lucky enough to have amassed a collection over time that represents the many phases of their lives. 

Various colors and shapes of topaz

Certain months bring about the celebration of certain gems. This month, as we move into cooler weather, November Birthday Girls will for sure be wearing pieces with topaz they have gotten over the years that represent their various birthday celebrations.

TIP: As we bundle up, make sure to wear jewelry choices that will still be seen amongst the gloves and scarves. Consider dangle earring to be seen when wearing a scarf or thick cuff type bracelets that will be a statement for when your neck is covered. Of course when you take your gloves off, nothing pops more than a statement right-hand ring!

Topaz and sapphire earrings on a wire.

 

 

 

 

Earrings on a wire will stand out when wearing a scarf or turtleneck sweater

Akoya Pearl bracelet with onyx center and topaz accents

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A thick bracelet or cuff will pop through a long sleeve sweater, especially when you push your sleeves up.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Right Hand "Statement" Ring Bezel Set Diamond in 18K Gold

 

 

 

 

A substantial "statement-ring" is perfect for when you take your gloves off.

Floating on Clouds ~ A Custom Made Proposal

A while back I was contacted to create a custom engagement ring.  My client Tim had a surprise lined up for his girlfriend Cori, and he wanted the perfect engagement ring for his proposal.  I recently spoke with Cori about her reaction to Tim’s proposal and her custom made engagement ring:

 “I was so excited.  I felt like I was floating on clouds.  The ring

is gorgeous…delicate and yet stunning!  I feel like the Queen

 of England wearing it, and that someone should bow and kiss my

ring.  It is exactly what I wanted on my finger.”

                                                                                                                                           ~ Cori

The Fairytale Proposal:

“Tim and I met at work.  We soon became very good friends.  He asked me to dinner one day and took me to 75 Chestnut in Beacon Hill, which soon became one of our favorite places to eat together.

Tim had mentioned a few weeks earlier that he planned to take his Dad out to dinner around Father’s Day and really wanted me to come.  We planned it for June 20^th.  That morning Tim called and told me to bring a dress, that we’d meet his Dad, have dinner at a nice restaurant and go see a motion picture.  So I quickly grabbed a dress, tossed it in the back seat of the car and headed for work. 

It was a crazy busy day.  I was meeting Tim after work close by at the entrance of Boston Public Gardens, a place we enjoyed and took walks in regularly.  After work I quickly threw my dress on and ran out the door.  He was waiting there for me.  Dad wasn’t around, so Tim said:  “We’ll walk through the gardens and meet my Dad.” I was a mess, so I asked to sit on a nearby bench for a minute to put myself together and tidy my hair.  Tim seemed restless and let me take about one minute before he was up and pulling me.  He said:  Let’s go this way.  I need to talk to my Dad about the landscaping and trees over here in the garden.  I thought it a bit weird, but his Dad was a landscaper, so we headed in that direction.  We meandered through the beautiful trees enjoying the scenery and each other’s company and came to a stop at a pond nearby.  We kissed.

At that point I was relaxed enough to realize Tim was wearing a very nice suit.  So I said:  “You look really nice all dressed up.”  He then reached into his pocket, pulled out a small box, knelt down and I knew…

He then opened the box to reveal the most beautiful ring ever, and said: “Will you marry me?”

I was so excited!  I felt like I was floating on clouds.  The ring was gorgeous…delicate and yet stunning!  I felt like the Queen of England wearing it and that someone should bow and kiss my ring.  It is exactly what I wanted on my finger.

A band then emerged from behind a tree and played one of my favorite songs.

  

Cory's Diamond Engagement Ring

I found out that Tim had been planning this for a while and had met videographers, photographers and the band earlier that day to set things up.  It was a beautiful surprise!

The evening didn’t end there.  We went to dinner at our favorite restaurant (mentioned above).  Tim then asked me where I’d like to go for dancing and drinks afterward, so I picked one of my favorites, a place called Hong Kong.  When we got there, he took me upstairs where they have karaoke, and where we just happened to run into 50 of our closest friends and family, some even having flown in from other cities (another surprise for me).  I was elated!  The whole evening was amazing!”

The Perfect Setting is a full service jewelry company that specializes in custom jewelry design, engagement rings, wedding bands, and gift selection. GIA Alumnus, Amy Certilman will help you choose new diamonds, or we will expertly reset your heirloom stones into something new and wearable. Visit www.theperfectsetting.com, or call 516-422-1220 for a cost-free consultation.

She said YES.... wouldn't you??? Process to create custom three stone oval and round diamond halo ring

She said YES.... Wouldn't you ?? Custom three stone oval and round diamond halo ring #diamond #engagement #envy #rings #romance #wedding #love #luxury #shop #style #fashion #accessories #accessory #anniversary #trend #classic #jewelry #the_perfect_setting, a photo by the-perfect-setting-jewelry on Flickr.

I so enjoyed making this ring for my clients. She wanted something special and a little different - so we choose an oval for the center stone to give the ring a bit more height and used two matching round brilliant diamonds on either side. Hard to imagine but this ring looks even better in person :)

Stone selection - Center Oval 1.04 ct  - sides .50 ct each:

Choosing the "perfect" diamonds

Here's the design process CAD image:

CAD image of design process three stone ring

Gold raw cast ready to have diamonds set:

Gold raw cast ready to have diamonds set

Finished ring ready to go!

Choose your stones -- Perfect for birthdays and baby push-gifts!

Choose your stones! Perfect for birthdays and baby "push-gifts" Customizable gold stacking rings - made to be worn together or apart! #garnet #sapphire #diamond #ruby #emerald #topaz #turquoise #the_perfect_setting_jewelry#ring #style #rustic #romance #ri, a photo by the-perfect-setting-jewelry on Flickr.

I was recently told about "push-gifts" to be given after the birth of a child - and I thought of this setting immediately - garnets, rubies, sapphires - I especially am keen to the idea of turquoise and diamonds together - just because I think it would be beautiful.

Tennis Anyone?

Tennis anyone? #diamond #tennis #diamondtennisbracelet #tennisbracelet #bezel #bezelset #romance #love #sports #special #everyday #gold #platinum #18kgold #customjewelry #jewelry #the_perfect_setting_jewelry#gift #pushgift #fun #bling #envy, a photo by the-perfect-setting-jewelry on Flickr.

Love this bracelet - and so do so many tennis ladies! This is one of those items that I made for myself and have sold several off my wrist! It is comfortable, durable and can go from the tennis court to the dance floor!

Classic is always stylish - and I made these sapphire and diamond earrings for one very stylish client!

Classic is always stylish - and I made these for one very stylish client! #diamond #earrings #sapphire #gold #jewelry #envy #everyday #engagement #wedding #specialoccasion #luxury #classic #style #fashion #ilovemyjob #beautiful, a photo by the-perfect-setting-jewelry on Flickr.

Just love these sapphire and diamond earrings. The client I made these for wanted something that she could wear from work to dinner or a cocktail party without being too flashy. The hinged wire adds extra safety and comfort.

TPSJewelry WeddingWire Video

Very appreciative to WeddingWire for making this video of my jewelry for me.

A DIAMOND, RUBY AND SAPPHIRE AMERICAN FLAG BROOCH, BY TIFFANY & CO.

Iconic, simple and elegant. Tiffany's diamond, ruby and sapphire American flag perfectly exemplifies all things American and what I strive for as a jeweler. Classic, elegant, high quality, perfection. Happy 4th of July to all!

Photo from http://www.christies.com/lotfinder/jewelry/a-diamond-ruby-and-sapphire-american-flag-5277475-details.aspx

Alexandrite and Diamond Anniversary Ring - Creation Story

Following are the photos from a custom ring I made for a 45th wedding anniversary. I have attached the email I received from a client wanting to create a very special ring - and photos of the process.

The alexandrite was from her pendant - some additional stones were provided and I selected new diamonds to match.

"Amy,

The main stone is synthetic alexandrite that was given by my Dad when he proposed to her. At that time, my Dad thought it was a natural stone. He got it from local jewelry store in Vietnam about 45 years ago. Anyway, she made a necklace with this stone and she's been wearing about 40 years. She gave this to me about 3 years ago when I had my first daughter. But I know that how much she treasured this stone. So, I just want to make a very special ring for her with this stone for her 45th anniversary.

Sketch of Anniversary Ring to be Created

Sorry for the long email but, I really want this ring to turn out a very special and fine ring. Also, I want this ring to look like a art deco and delicate(don't want to look either thick nor bulky). Any comments or advice will be greatly appreciated. Thank you so much!!" P .Kim, April, 2013

Wax of Custom Anniversary Ring

18K White Gold Raw Cast

Final 45th Anniversary Ring - Custom Alexandrite and Diamonds 18K White Gold Ring
"Amy, I got the ring this morning and was blown away by how well this ring was made and how beautiful this ring is. I really appreciate all your work and effort. "

Jewelry Creation Story - 3 Stone Diamond Ring

I was contacted by a successful businesswoman who lives in Maryland. She had lost all hope of ever having a substantial diamond ring for her very tiny size 4 finger. I had recently designed a necklace for a colleague of hers and in her words I was her "last hope". 

Simply put, she wanted a large three stone diamond ring - the center about 1.5 cts and the two side diamonds to be a "big as possible without looking like side stones". 

Mary had gone to several jewelers who advertised that they would customize rings but all had said what she wanted "couldn't be done". Well, I LOVE a challenge!

However, truth-be-told, this project wasn't really the challenge Mary had presented to me. We had to change the model to fit her finger, which is what custom jewelry making is all about.

The Process (Illustrated in Photo Collage Below):  

Typically when making a custom ring I chose the diamonds first, then make the setting - in this case, I first made the setting to ensure that the size stones we wanted would fit. The first CAD image was approved and I had the ring cast in a base metal to send to Mary and test the sizing. While it fit her size four finger, the curve of the stones was more than she wanted - so I adjusted the design to raise the side stones and "flatten out" the top of the ring a bit - not only was this a more comfortable option, but the look of the ring became much more dramatic!

The next step was to select the diamonds to meet her quality and price specifications. Once the diamonds were selected I adjusted the prongs and depth of the setting to accommodate the stones. 

We next cast her ring in two parts - the trellis/gallery was cast in 18K yellow gold and the base of the ring in platinum. 

Process of The Creation of Three Stone Diamond Ring

The pieces were soldered together; the diamonds set and Mary got her new ring delivered a few days later.

“Amy is fantastic at blending her own expertise and her client's wishes to deliver beyond expectations. She has great listening skills but is not afraid to give advice as well--just what an expert should be.”  From LinkedIn -  qualities: Great Results, Expert, Creative

- Mary S, Chevy Chase, MD

Jewelry Creation Story - Marquise Diamond Ring

I was contacted on January 26th to recreate a marquise diamond scroll ring and create a matching ring without a stone - the rings were needed by 8 weeks later, by April 1st. We started right away and 24 days later designed and produced the two rings as ordered - below is our "Creation Story". Thanks for reading!

From the Client:

Marquise Diamond Scroll Ring - Wants a matching band

"Originally my plan was to have this style of ring customized with a different pattern (double reverse meander with 1 turn which forms a series of 'S's forwards and backwards representing the intials of our first names - Satchel & Stuart) which my fiancee and I had discussed. To my surprise when she saw this pattern, she abandoned the idea of the other pattern, feeling it doesn't compliment the style as much as the pattern shown here. So...I like to discuss making a matching set of rings - one for her with the marquise diamond, and one for me without the diamond. The rings would be needed by the 1st of April." Stu, Long Beach, California - January 26th, 2013

Diamond Selection Process via E-mail

Step #1 - Start to search for a marquise diamond that would fit the style, shape and size of the ring - size 8 - as well as the given budget. After comparing about half-dozen stones, three were identified and the choice was between two. 

Comments from client - 

"Good morning Amy! Thanks for sending the photos. After viewing the diamond photos, reading about the 4Cs on your website (very informative), and even viewing the GIA report I agree with your recommendation about Option #2 - GIA-2151148987. I am certain this stone will look beautiful on the ring, and my bride will be very delighted. Thank you so much for all your guidance" - Stu - February 1, 2013

CAD images of Custom Scroll Rings

Step #2 - Create a matching Scroll Ring - decided that the back should not taper. Sent client CAD image for approval on February 5, 2113. 

"Hi Amy -Very nice, makes a really stunning set of rings.  The rings are just how I pictured it.  Thanks!" - Stu

Step #3 Raw Cast of 14K White Gold Scroll Rings

Step #3 we decided to go straight to 14K White gold Cast - 

On February 15th got the go-ahead to size, polish, clean and set the diamond


Step #4 - We polished, sized and set the chosen diamond - all done - 24 days after start of project.

Wedding Set 14K White Gold Scroll Rings - one with Marquise Diamond

From my client:

Amy the rings are simply beautiful, much more than imagined - I'm really at a loss for words right now!. Their presentation during the wedding ceremony in April will certainly capture the heart of my lady, and will be treasured during our lifetime, and by those to whom we'll pass these along. Thank you so much for these creations!! Stu - February 21, 2012

14K White Gold Scroll Ring

Buying diamonds on the Internet?

Attention Internet Shoppers!

Recently I worked with a client buying a 1.5ct engagement ring. While we were looking at stones he told me he had seen a diamond ring on Costco's website that seemed similar to what he wanted.

For the record - I am a huge fan of Costco. The Kirkland brand is exceptional. So we logged on to see what was what and I'm glad we did. Yes, Costco and Blue Nile sell GIA Certified Diamonds. But as I tell my kids, "Don't judge a book by it's cover" and, "Just because you can, doesn’t mean you should".

Listen, I get it. The on-line industry and many local retailers sell certified diamonds and want to you think that all diamonds of a certain grade are the same. Well they’re not. Just like us, each diamond has it’s own DNA and no two are exactly alike. Think of identical twins – at first glance you can’t tell them apart. But the more you look – the more you get to know them- you can easily see different characteristics that at times make them seem completely different. 

To a trained eye the same goes for diamonds. Each diamond “rough” is unique. And depending upon the stonecutter, two diamonds from the same rough can be cut to look completely different – even when cut to the same shape.

Why is that?

Think Giorgio Armani vs The Gap.  They could be using the same fabric yet the end product will look totally different because the tailor's skill level and process is not comparable -which is why you pay more for designer clothing

My clients know that I love to talk about diamonds. Not just the glitz and glitter but the unique elements that make each diamond such a gift from nature.

So you may be thinking... "Amy, are you saying not to buy diamonds on the internet?" No, I'm not. And as a disclaimer I should add that I sell diamonds via my website all the time.

While Costco and Blue Nile are reputable retailers and will sell you what they say, as a small business owner I personally work with my clients and only sell diamonds that I have hand-picked myself to suit their budget and style. 

H SI1 Excellent Cut diamond on left
vs
G SI 1 Excellent Cut diamond on Right
which would you choose?

If you've ever seen a poorly cut diamond you will know what I'm talking about and how important Cut is to the finished product- not just in the beauty of the stone - but to the value of it as well. Additionally, when one compares diamonds from a "list" on the internet, while on paper the specifications are the same, in person they may look quite different. This is due to the fact that even though a diamond has an "excellent" rating, the rating is a "range" and the stones in person will look different. 

To make this point - Both stones in the photo here are rated as GIA Excellent. But I bet you would choose the H SI1 diamond in the photo above over the G SI 1 stone if you were not told the specifications - and would have a prettier ring.

Custom Diamond Halo Engagement Ring with
GIA Certified H SI 1 diamond

As a jewelry professional and diamond lover I truly believe it is important to fall in love with a stone. Much like how you need to actually read a book to form an opinion, when spending thousands of dollars buying a diamond I recommend personally comparing several stones or hire a professional who will.