AboutThomas Expertise Have a question about jewelry repair or working with gold or silver jewelry and gemstones? I am a working professional bench jeweler, involved everyday with setting stones in mountings, designing and making jewelry, repairing and some custom manufacture. Over 30 years experience. If you work with jewelry as a hobby or as a profession, I might be able to help. I deal with the retail business, not mass production. Ask privately if you wish. See the box for that: It keeps your question between us. Please DO NOT ask MAKER'S MARKS, but metal quality marks are fine to ask. Please DO NOT ask diamond prices. See a gemologist for that.
Experience Education is English/Physics!Started in human resources, to advertising, to jewelry...wow, what a road. Now a jeweler for many years. I have had formal training in jewelry work and many shared experiences with top grade jewelers. We just never know were we will go or be. Follow your best, your dreams, with some discretion!
Expert: Thomas Date: 7/3/2008 Subject: Removal of center stone
Question Dear Thomas,
I have to rings set in a 6 prong head the center stones are 8mm I am wondering how can I remove them myself?
Thank you,
Nancy
Answer Nancy, you can remove the center stone yourself but there is a good chance this will mess up the prongs on that head.
We use a special tool called a prong lifter which has a sharp edge to gently grasp the tip of the prong and lift it up. At home, you can use a fine set of needle nose pliers and grasp a prong on the side. Gently twist the prong sideways and outward away from the stone.After 4 prongs you should be able to remove the stone.
Take care not to force the prong in toward the stone or put pressure on the stone.
