Deric Metzger: Bezel set the center gem sideways (east west) with the two current flanking gems going down the shoulders vertically. Channel set two rows of 5pt rbc's paralell to the girdle of the center diamond in the "through finger" view. Grey gold.
Allan Mark Altman: I would have set the center stone a little higher. Also the center diamond could have been a natural vivid fancy color to stand out more. Beauty is in the eyes of the beholder.
Lido Jewelers: I would re do the mounting in Platinum- the yellow gold kills the diamonds.
Liz Proulx: Brad Pitt feigns to be an architect of sorts. This ring definately has an architectural aspect to it. Call me old fashioned though. Baguettes have no fire - give me a round any day!
Sunny White Hollister: Center stone too clear and plain, I personally like lots of facets. A stone that large should really shine and throw lots of light.
Brenda Hiscox: ... My Mom taught me, "If you're going to do something well, do one thing and stick to it." Mr Pitt is a wonderful actor, not so much on the jewelry design. Maybe the pressure got to him. It's the wrong design, wrong shape, wrong ring for her. She is too unique for white diamonds. She needs a huge round or oval color diamond with half moon accents. Too bad he didn't come to me!
Here's a sampling of comments from jewelers who liked the end result:
Alex Weil: Could the reason be that it was difficult to design a ring for Ms. Jolie because of her hands? In looking at the picture of her hands it seems she has large knuckles with a big drop off behind. Which is not something uncommon that jewelers stuggle with (spinning etc.). I think we see a difficult fit to her hand rather than not seeing a beautiful ring which it is.
Amber's Designs: The diamonds seem to have a bit of color, which add character and it's in yellow gold. Obviously they didn't want sparkly, but this is elegant. Not all jewelry needs to knock your socks off brilliant. Nothing original here, but comfortable...and big.
Jeanne Smith: Jennifer's ring seems dated to me while Angelina's has a contemporary feel; I like it. Brad can design a ring for me any day...
Some people didn't like that the question was posed (and I promised one in particular via email after he contacted me I'd be sure to run his opinion):
Jeffrey Bilgore: Bad taste - Bad form to even ask this question. Shame on you In-store! The ring is a classic design - the major design elements was the selection of an elogated emerald cut with complementary baguettes to complement Angelina's hand. For those who responded bad form too - one of America's most visible and loved Hollywood couples get engaged with a wonderful story of the groom actively participating in the design process and America jewelers actually pass judgement on the process and the result. Truely amazing - beware In-Store and all involved someday some one will pass judgement on your work. This story should have been applauded by the trade not critisized and sensationalized.
Others had no problem that the question posed:
Andrew W. Fox: Oy Vey! Can't you commenters get a life! What's the big deal if Instore asks us about a redesign. Personally, I would have given her a satellite top cluster ring with a couple half point single cuts, cost $19.99, and donated the rest to charity!
Personally, I like Mr. Fox's charitable solution the best. Thanks for all that participated, and keep a look out for a new (non-Angelina Jolie related) topic this Friday! And keep those comments coming!
