How to Use the Stone From a Family Heirloom Ring to Make a New Engagement Ring

People choose to reset stones from heirloom rings for a variety of personal and practical reasons. Personal taste, a more practical setting or a more flattering setting are all reasons to have a stone from a family heirloom reset. If the heirloom stone is damaged, selecting a different setting positioning it closer to the hand prevents further damage to the stone and helps hide imperfections. A skilled and reputable jeweler can help you select a setting that works best for your heirloom stone.

Instructions

1

Get an appraisal, mapping and lab report on the stone noting its worth, exact size, color, inclusions and carat weight. This helps ensure that you get the exact stone back in the new piece of jewelry.

2

Find a reputable jeweler that you trust completely and who has experience working with estate or antique jewelry.

3

Ask if your stones will be reset on the premises or sent to another location. If they are being sent elsewhere, find out the reputation of the jeweler doing the work, insurance against theft or loss and an estimate of how long the work will take.

4

Select a setting best suited to your stone's color and condition. A yellowish diamond set in a white gold or platinum setting appears whiter. If your stone is damaged, select a setting, such as a bezel, that best holds the stone to prevent further damage.