Jewelry.com - Resetting Etiquette

Whether it’s an engagement ring that’s been relegated to the jewelry box, a diamond ring you’ve inherited or a generous diamond gift that just isn’t you, the question to reset or not is usually a painful one to answer. Diamonds are an emotional gem and to change their home is a difficult decision. But, before you decide one way or another, make sure you’re fully aware of all your options and when you decide, be happy with your decision.

Divorce is probably the number one reason why most women take off their diamond engagement ring. One of the most common questions I’m asked, is ‘should I sell the ring and if so, where?’ Just remember, the resale price of a diamond ring is way below the price paid for it. Most people after finding out how much they’ll receive, decide it’s not worth selling, but then have no idea what to do with the ring. Most don’t feel comfortable wearing the ring as is.
One of the most popular ways to re-set a diamond ring is either to take out the diamond and set it as a pendant, or reset the diamond with smaller gemstones surrounding it, to give it an entirely different look and feel.

If you have an heirloom the question of to reset or not is even harder. After all, this ring may have been passed down from generation to generation and to take it out of its originally setting is almost like breaking the chain. You are the only one to answer this question, there is no right or wrong when it comes to etiquette in this situation. If you have children, talk to them to see how they feel, after all it maybe theirs one day. If you do decide to reset, then when you talk to your jeweler, find out about having an antique setting that is more to your taste, but still keeping within the era of the original setting.

If the diamond was a gift from a generous friend, then be aware, if you do decide to reset the diamond, how will you explain this when they ask you where it is? Whatever you do, don’t reset without speaking to them first. After all, what’s more important, a piece of jewelry or a lifelong friendship?

If you do decide to take the resetting plunge, make sure you go to a reputable jeweler that specializes in resetting. Spend time with the jeweler and make sure you’re confident that they understand what you’re looking for.

A good idea is to have the diamond graded by a professional gemological laboratory such as IGI or GIA. They’ll examine the stone and you’ll receive a diamond certificate detailing the diamond’s properties. That way if any queries arise when you receive the diamond back in it’s new setting you can re-check that it is the same stone.

Make sure the jeweler insures the stone during the period they have it. If they don’t make sure your insurance covers the diamond during this time.

Find out how long it will take to reset the stone - you don’t want any nasty surprises.
If you’re having additional stones in the new setting, make sure they’re the quality you want, ask to see a sample of the types of gems of diamonds that will be surrounding the diamond, together with your diamond. Some colors or diamonds reflect in the main stone, making the stone appear duller than it is (and vice-versa, they may bring added brilliance to your gem).
The same applies if you’ve having it set in gold. Some diamonds appear to have a more pronounced yellow tint when set in yellow gold. White gold or platinum may make the stone appear more colorless.