Getting engaged is a huge step in a relationship. It’s a defining moment in a couple’s life, and is a moment you’ll think back on for many years to come. That’s why you want to try make it as special as can be.
However, choosing an engagement ring is never easy. Like finding the head-turning wedding dress the bride has always dreamed of, you have to try a lot of options to achieve the perfect look and fit.
Many different components make up this small piece of fine jewellery. As you play around with varying styles of setting, prong shapes, and diamonds or gemstones, you may struggle to stumble on one that ticks all the boxes.
That’s why designing your own engagement ring could bring you better luck at striking gold when you pop the question. After all, every love is unique, so why shouldn’t your engagement ring also be one-of-a-kind?
Why choose a custom engagement ring?
Building your own engagement ring may seem daunting, but it gives you the ability to design a ring that meets (and even exceeds) you partner’s expectations. Once you’ve decided to take your commitment to the next level, doing a little research beforehand is also important.
You might want to involve your partner in the design process. However, if you can’t bear the thought of missing out on catching them by surprise, you can still propose with a promise, proposal, or token ring. This offers all the elation of a proposal, while still allowing you both to be involved in choosing a ring together.
But why should you choose to express your love in such a unique way?
Control over every aspect of the ring
From the diamond colour to choosing the ring metal and design of the setting, every aspect of the ring is in your hands. Our experts will help you design a ring that fits within your budget, without sacrificing longevity and quality.
Add sentimental touches
Custom engagement rings allow you to incorporate a sentimental element into the final piece. Whether it’s the inside of the band engraved with your anniversary date or using a diamond from your grandmother’s jewellery collection, you can evoke memories of special people and places.
For a more subtle effect, you can even insert small touches into hidden spots, like an emerald inside the band. This little secret will be invisible to the outside world, but something intimate you can treasure together.
Expert craftsmanship
You’ll be amazed at what our jeweller’s hands can incorporate into your bespoke engagement ring. Their skill and attention to detail will see your ideas and vision transformed into a one-of-a-kind masterpiece.
All of Robert Gatward’s metal jewellery complies with the UK’s hallmarking regulations, and we hand-select the most elite percentage of the diamonds available worldwide for our engagement rings. We guarantee exceptional quality, so you end up with an expertly crafted ring that brings your unique love story to life.
What to consider when designing your engagement ring
Going custom takes more time
Our designers will talk to you about the process and timeline for your bespoke design. On average, a custom engagement ring takes approximately 2-4 weeks to complete, so bear this in mind if you want your ring in time for a specific occasion.
Gathering inspiration and creating and finalising the design is usually the most time-consuming aspect.
We’ll also let you know if you can make tweaks to the design (and how many), and at what stage the design is confirmed.
Budget
Set the budget for your custom engagement ring before you come and speak to us at Robert Gatward Jewellers. Don’t be afraid to ask what’s achievable with the amount you’re happy to pay. If your dream ring is out of budget, we’ll do our best to create a similar piece that doesn’t burn a hole in your wallet.
As with anything custom, the cost will vary by the materials you choose. Our designers will work to maximise your budget and prioritise the features you care about most.
Come prepared with ideas
Think about your styles and tastes before you come to see us. It’s helpful if you have an inkling of what you’re looking for — this includes both your aesthetic and practical preferences. For example, what width would you like your ring? What type of stones are you drawn to? What activities do you do?
Don’t forget you can draw inspiration from anywhere. From awe-inspiring architecture to an engraved engagement ring, don’t be afraid to bring in sketches or a mood board with images at the start of the design process.
Never ask a jeweller to recreate another designer’s work, it’s frowned upon in the industry. Of course, you can present other rings as inspiration in terms of look and style, but we thrive off the unique design challenges that every bespoke engagement ring project presents. We want to create something distinctive that reflects who you are as a couple and the special connection you share.
Ethical sourcing
The jewellery industry has become more accountable for ensuring the materials used in production are ethically and responsibly sourced. As you are involved in the design process, you can work together with your jeweller to create a custom engagement ring that has minimal negative impact on the environment.
Robert Gatward works with conflict-free diamonds and sustainable materials. You’ll have a divine and durable engagement ring that symbolises your love, but doesn’t carry a burden of guilt.
Top tips to help you through the custom engagement ring process
• Be open to our designer’s feedback on your vision if you have something particular in mind.
• Consider unusual stones with meaning (a birthstone, perhaps). Read our Meet The Gemstone series if you’re stuck somewhere between a rock and a hard place.
• If you wish for your engagement ring and wedding ring to work in perfect harmony, consider the cost of your chosen metal in a wedding band when selecting your engagement ring metal.
• Make sure you get an insurance or valuation certificate from the jeweller afterwards.
Feeling tempted to go the extra mile and design your own engagement ring? Whether it’s a custom diamond engagement ring or a custom gemstone engagement ring, creating something completely original is our speciality.
Get in touch today to schedule an appointment at one of our stores and see how our designers can conjure up something magical that showcases your individuality.
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