Vintage 2.44ct Diamond Engagement Ring Restoration

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Recently we had a client approach us with a ring she inherited from her husband's family. The ring has been gently loved for about 40 to 50 years and she would like to restore the glory of the design, as well as wear it on a daily basis. The diamonds have taken a few heavy blows over the years which contribute to their lack of brilliance. The center diamond has 2 large significant chips on the girdle of the stone and the major side baguette diamond is broken in half.

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The challenge for this project is multifaceted and this is why we felt this would make a great topic for a blog. We will need to work close with our diamond cutter to repair the damage on the center diamond. This needs to be done with minimal weight loss, as well as little to no effect on the symmetry of the modern cut. The diamond currently weighs 2.44 carat. We anticipate the diamond will weigh 2.10 when we are complete. This is a minor sacrifice for a major gain in beauty, brilliance and value. We will need to locate a tapered baguette replacement diamond for the side. This needs to blend seamlessly in color, cut, and shape to be considered a perfect match. Once these parameters are met, we can move onto restoring the platinum settings and the rest of the ring.

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While our professional diamond cutter is re-cutting the center diamond, we have the opportunity to sort through many potential baguette diamond replacements. The perfect baguette is one that matches all characteristics in shape, size, color, and clarity, ensuring the rings attributes are restored to its original make.

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Once the new diamond baguette has been selected, it is set within the restored tab prongs, not just for the newly selected baguette, but for all the baguettes within the ring. Not only does this ensure that all the baguettes, new and original will be secured for future years of wear, but it also creates a constant appearance throughout the ring.

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The center diamond is returned from our professional diamond cutter weighing in at 2.09 carats, which came close to our original estimate of 2.10 carats after being cut. The brilliant diamond can now be reset within four restored center prongs, ensuring the diamond is safe and secure.

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The entire ring gets a final polish and cleaning to ensure an exceptional appearance when being presented back to the owner.

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