What Does “Custom” Really Mean?
When someone says custom engagement ring, the clue is in the title. It’s a ring made specifically for that client. It’s not off the shelf. It’s not something they’ve seen before in a shop window. It’s designed and made for their needs, their requirements, and their desires. Often referred to as a bespoke engagement ring.
Why People Are Choosing Custom Over Off-the-Shelf
Over the years I’ve noticed more and more people drawn to custom engagement rings. And the reason is simple: individuality. Many people are fed up with having the same thing that everyone else has — of being a bit of a sheep. They want their dream ring.
A custom engagement ring shows strength of character, confidence, and self-expression. When you choose something created just for you, it reflects your personal style, your taste, your individuality, your love. It’s not about following bloody Kardashians or whoever’s trending at the time. This is about you — not them. Its about creating the perfect ring for you!
Price Range for Custom Engagement Rings
There are two parts to a custom engagement ring: the design consultation and the making of the ring.
The design stage typically costs between £1,000 and £1,500. If the ring is particularly complex, it can go beyond that, but most projects fall within that range. That price includes an in-depth consultative process where I really get under the client’s skin — their style, their character, what the ring must represent, their partner’s taste, the brands they love (and the ones they don’t), and the emotions they want the ring to capture.
From there, I create concepts, refine and tweak them, until we both reach the point where we’re both absolutely delighted. I investigate all elements of the ring from setting style, carat weight of centre stone and so much more. The final stage of the design includes a resin model of the ring, life-size and in 3D, so the client can try it on their finger before it ever goes into metal. That way, the proportions, balance, and beauty can all be confirmed in advance.
When the design phase is ready, its time to make this unique engagement ring a reality. The cost of this would be discussed within the first phase and this can be anywhere upwards from £1000 and is totally dependant on such things as if the client opts for lab grown diamonds or natural, amount of time involved in the ring crafting, metal choices such as yellow gold, rose gold or platinum.
Do Clients Expect Custom to Cost More?
Most clients now understand that bespoke design carries a premium — and it has to. But what often surprises them is the depth of my process. It isn’t a quick sketch-and-done exercise. It’s detailed, thoughtful, highly involved and I guide you through every step.
There are emails, WhatsApps, and plenty of back-and-forth. But it’s enjoyable — my clients tell me they like being part of the creative flow. Their job is simply to respond to my questions and share their opinions on the designs I produce. Together we shape something that feels personal and unique and ultimately I am bringing your vision to life.
Getting It Right First Time
This happens more often than not, I’ve got to be honest. When I have my consultation with clients, I ask them many questions. I take in all that information, and as it percolates inside me, the design begins to take form. It’s almost an intuitive response — the ideas start shaping themselves before I even put pencil to paper.
Often I’ll sketch just one concept to present, and even though it might not be fully refined, the client’s reaction is immediate: “That’s it. You’ve got it.” It’s happened on many occasions, and it’s a moment that never gets old. Seeing someone totally blown away by a design that reflects them so perfectly is what makes this work so rewarding.
Advice for First-Time Clients
If you’ve never commissioned a ring before, the first thing to understand is that there’s communication involved. You’ll be part of the process — and with the right designer, that process can be super enjoyable. It might surprise you how much depth goes into creating such a small object. I go deep into every detail to make sure the ring is perfect for you.
Also, give it time. A custom ring isn’t something that should be rushed. Yes, it can be done quickly if absolutely needed, but ideally you allow space for the design to breathe. That’s when the best work happens. Think of it as an opportunity to express yourself — to create something unique that reflects your partner and the love you share.
The Biggest Mistake to Avoid
The biggest mistake people make is assuming they won’t be involved in the process. Commissioning a ring doesn’t mean you hand it over and disappear until the end. This isn’t “work” in the traditional sense — it’s enjoyable.
Your role is to respond, to make choices, and to share your thoughts. Together, we shape the design. What you shouldn’t do is rush it. If there’s a tight deadline, then fine — but if not, don’t rush an artist. Good design takes time.
Oh yes it’s important to add that getting the ring size right can be a challenge but we have means and ways to do this! This Instagram Reel is a great ring size guide if you are unsure of your partners measutrement.
Symbolism, Practicality, and Design Aesthetics
When it comes to a custom engagement ring, I encourage people to think about all three.
Symbolism is important to many, though not to everyone. For those less focused on it, there are still subtle ways to personalise a ring — engraving inside the band, for example, to carry a message just for the two of you.
Practicality is absolutely essential. Will the stone remain secure? Will the ring last? Is it suitable for the type of wearer? If the client has a heavy-handed lifestyle where the ring comes into frequent contact with hard objects, then the design must be robust enough to withstand it. I also always think ahead: what will the wedding ring look like against it? What about the eternity ring? Does the gemstone suit the lifestyle and have the longevity required for daily wear?
And of course, design aesthetics are at the heart of any bespoke ring. It’s about how the ring looks — for the client, for their partner, and for both of them together. A ring is a daily representation of a relationship. It should be loved, admired, and cherished for years to come.
How Long Does a Custom Engagement Ring Take?
The timeline really depends on several factors: the complexity of the design, my workload, and the client’s availability. In rare cases, a design consultation can be completed in as little as two weeks. More commonly, the design stage takes one to two months, allowing time for questions, refinements, and approvals.
Manufacturing can sometimes be done in as little as two weeks if it’s an absolute rush job, but in most cases it takes four weeks, and occasionally up to six. Put it all together and you’re usually looking at six to ten weeks from first idea to finished piece.
What Can Speed Things Up or Slow Them Down?
Quick approvals always make the process faster. On the other hand, sourcing a particular stone or commissioning one to be cut specifically for the design can take time. The more complex the design, the longer it takes to resolve details and make sure everything is perfect.
Working to Tight Deadlines
Yes, I’ve worked to very tight deadlines before, and the results have always been splendid. That said, I prefer not to rush. My best work happens when the process has room to breathe, and when both the client and I can enjoy the flow of creation. Deadlines can be met, but ideally, a custom engagement ring should never feel hurried.
Do Trends Matter in Custom Engagement Rings?
I’ll be honest with you — I’m not a trends man. I’m not a designer who follows what’s “hot” this year. I like to think my work surpasses trends.
That said, certain elements — like halos — have been popular for many years. But to me, that’s less of a trend and more of a staple in ring design.
If a client wants something inspired by a current trend, of course I can do that. But I always make them aware that trends come and go. What we’re trying to create together is something beyond trends. A custom engagement ring should be about personal expression — not what happens to be in fashion today.
Some months back I was walking in Hatton Garden, the jewellery capital of the UK. And I as looked in the jewellery shops windows I lamented how everything looked the same. Fashion has a lot to answer for!
Shifts in Client Requests
One change I’ve noticed over the past five years is a growing demand for bespoke work. People are less interested in off-the-shelf ring styles. Even when they start with one of my collection rings, they often want to modify it to make it their own.
It all comes back to individuality. Clients want something that expresses who they are, not something that looks like everyone else’s ring.
Different Types of Custom Work
In my work, custom takes many forms.
Sometimes it’s a small tweak to one of my collection designs even as simple as changing the diamond or gemstone. Other times it’s fully bespoke, built from scratch around the client’s vision. Then there are what I call design amalgamations — a client might say, “I love the Cannelé design, but I also love that three-stone ring. Can you bring them together?” The answer is yes, and the result is something unique.
A big part of my work also involves heirloom stones. Many clients want to use a diamond or sapphire that’s been in the family for years. Whether it’s incorporated into an existing collection piece or used as the centre of a new bespoke design, I love finding ways to give these stones new life.
What Inspires Me Most
What excites me most personally is when a client is truly invested in the process. When they put their heart on their sleeve and tell me how they feel about their partner, and what this ring is meant to represent, I’m all in.
That depth of emotion inspires me to create my best work. A recent project with a client named Charles is a perfect example. He was designing a ring for his partner Rowan and was incredibly engaged throughout the process. Because of his enthusiasm and openness, together we created one of the most beautiful and graceful rings I’ve ever made.
Why Custom Engagement Rings Matter to Me
I’ll be honest — custom engagement rings take a huge amount of my time. But the result is phenomenal. To me, it feels like a collaborative performance of art.
In some ways, yes, I’m showing my skills to the client. But more than that, it’s about gratitude. I feel honoured to be asked to create what is probably the most important and symbolic piece of jewellery someone will ever purchase. It’s not just a ring — it’s a marker of love, commitment, and individuality.
To Anyone Hesitating About Going Custom
If you’re considering a custom ring but feel hesitant, my advice is simple: have a conversation with me. Give me a call and let’s chat it through. It may be that a collection ring — or a small tweak to one — is the best option for you. But if I believe a custom design is what you’d truly benefit from, then we’ll explore it together.
How Clients Feel When They First Reach Out
Most clients are excited, though there’s often a touch of nervousness — especially for the guys. They’re putting a lot of trust in me. But from what clients have told me afterwards, that nervousness disappears almost instantly when I tell them I’ve got their back. That reassurance is vital, and I never let them down.
The Best Moments in the Process
There are so many high points. Clients love seeing the first sketches, because they’re amazed at how the design expresses what they told me. There’s a real sense of awe and delight. Choosing the stones can also be a wonderful moment — holding them, comparing them, finding “the one.”
But nothing compares to the moment the finished piece is revealed. Opening that box for the first time — the reaction is always unforgettable. Excitement, joy, sometimes even tears. That’s the moment everything comes together.
