How much?!

Nearly two years ago one of the prongs that holds the main diamond in my wedding ring broke off. I took it to a local jeweler that I've heard does quality work on site and asked them for a quote. They said at the very least I needed to get all six prongs re-tipped ($240) but they recommended that I have the prongs replaced completely, which would set me back over $400.

Since that time, the ring has been sitting in my dresser drawer, waiting for the time that I have an extra $200-$400 sitting around. (Like that's gonna happen!) Some time ago I was talking about it to a friend, and she mentioned that she takes all her jewelry to a guy that works out of his home and she's always been very happy with his prices and his work. I meant to give him a call, but one thing lead to another and I just never got around to it.

Finally, I called yesterday and the guy told me to bring my ring by. I took the diamond solitaire as well as the wrap that goes with it. He checked them out and said that the only thing that needed done was to replace the one broken prong. I asked him how much it would cost and he said, "$100". I said ok and he burst into laughter and said, "No, I'm just kidding you!" I told him what I'd been quoted before and he got serious and said, "You took it to Jergen's, didn't you?" He told me how furious it makes him that they charge so much and do so much unnecessary work. He called me to come behind the counter to look at my ring under the miscroscope, to see for myself that the other five prongs looked strong and in tact.

He said he'd work on my ring today and call me when it's ready. The total cost: $15. If you need any jewelry work done, please call me. I'd love to send some business his way!