FAQ: How does the custom engagement ring process work?

We make each custom engagement ring individually, beginning with the selection of the
diamond or gemstone and continuing through the design, model approval and final production.

Step 1. The initial conversation
We begin by discussing the ring you would like to create. You may already know the exact
diamond shape, setting and details you want. Or you may have a few images showing different
designs you like. And if you have absolutely no idea what you want, that can be a great place to
start, too. We happen to enjoy a little creative freedom.
We make initial sketches together to explore your ideas and begin developing the
design. 
Once we have established the direction of the design, we can begin looking for the right diamond
or gemstone. The final proportions of the setting will be developed around the exact stone you
select.

Step 2. Selecting your Diamond or Gemstone
Once we understand what you are looking for, we begin sourcing the center stone.
For diamonds we consider the shape, proportions, carat weight, color, clarity and quality of the
cut. We pay particular attention to how the diamond actually looks, not simply the grades on its
report.
We can source natural or lab-grown diamonds and colored gemstones. If you are looking for a
lab-grown diamond with unusual proportions or a particular color, it may be possible to have one
grown specifically for your ring.
Once we have selected your diamond or gemstone, agreed on the direction of
the design and provided a complete price estimate, we ask for a 50% deposit
to begin work on your ring.

Step 3. Reviewing the three dimensional model
Before making the ring in precious metal, we create a three-dimensional plastic model of the
design. This is one of the most important stages of our process.
The model allows you to see the actual proportions of your ring rather than trying to judge them
from a computer image. You can examine the width of the band, the height of the setting, the
shape of the gallery and the relationship between the center stone and the surrounding design.
We do not use CAD renderings as the primary way of presenting a design for approval. Although
computer drawings are useful in developing a ring, they can be misleading when it comes to
judging scale and proportions. We prefer you to see the design in a physical form.
If something needs to be changed, this is the time to do it. We can adjust the model before
approving the design for production. The plastic model shows the construction and proportions
of the ring. It does not reproduce the final appearance of polished precious metal, diamonds or
hand finished details. Once you are satisfied with the model, we approve the design and begin
making the ring.
The Final Step — Your Ring Is Ready
And finally, the moment we have all been waiting for. Your engagement ring is ready!
Before it leaves our workshop, we carefully inspect every detail, from the security of the setting
and the finish of the metalwork to the final polish. This is also when the most personal finishing
touches come together.
You may choose to have a meaningful date, initials, a few private words or even a little secret
engraved inside the band. We can also incorporate a small gemstone into the inside of the shank,
a birthstone, a favorite color or a stone with a meaning known only to the two of you. These
details are discussed and planned during the design process, so they become part of the finished
ring.
And now comes our favorite part: the moment you open the box.
The ring is ready. The proposal is yours. And we can't wait to hear how it goes.