Shop for a Custom Engagement Ring in 2021
There is a common misconception that a custom engagement ring can cost a bomb. This needn’t be so. In fact, a custom engagement ring can help you save costs. Many men think engagement ring shopping is just like buying things off the shelf, though you could do so; getting one custom-made is not only special but can also be lighter to your pocket.
In this post, we’ll walk you through the process of buying a custom engagement ring.
Start Early
For a custom engagement ring, you will need to plan well in advance to get the desired ring available to you on a date of your choice. Based on the complexity of the design and other factors, your jeweler will need a few weeks to even months to get your custom engagement ring ready.
State your budget
An experienced jeweler dealing in custom design jewelry would help you design an engagement ring within your budget. He would present to you the options you have and ways to cut costs. For example, you could go for a cheaper lab-grown diamond instead of a natural diamond of the same carat weight. Doing so would help you save 40 percent of the budget for the prominent diamond.
Difference between made-to-order and modified-to-order
When we say modified-to-order, it means you choose an engagement ring design and modify it to suit your preferences. For example, you could get an engagement ring made in silver and with lab-grown diamonds as against using platinum and natural diamonds for the same setting.
On the other hand, made-to-order rings are where you come up with a design and get the ring made from scratch. There are many ways to do this- you could come up with your own design or take inspiration from an existing design to create a unique diamond engagement ring.
Choose the ideal jeweler
You shouldn’t contact the first jeweler you find on Google. Instead, vet each jeweler till you find a reputed jeweler who has the right credentials. See their profiles on social media, their testimonials, and ask around to know which jeweler would be best for your requirement.
Try a lot of different rings
Don’t restrict yourself to a particular type of design. There is so much for you to choose from. If you’re planning a surprise proposal, it makes sense to understand your better half’s choices and choose a ring setting that truly mirrors her personality. Also, it isn’t necessary to choose a ring setting where there is a prominent diamond. You could get a design where there is a blend of diamonds, other precious stones, and a design that looks amazing.
Be creative
Why not take the road less traveled? You do not need to blindly follow trends; you could choose a unique setting representing your love and commitment. For example, you could use a lighter-on-the-pocket salt and pepper diamond engagement ring that has its own dimension of beauty.
Prepare to be involved
For a custom-made diamond engagement ring, you will have to be in constant touch with the jeweler and follow up with updates for the ring. He will give you a timeline for making the ring. There may be cases where your inputs may be needed. For instance, you may need to visit the jeweler to choose the right diamond or follow up on the work’s progress.
Consider your wedding band
The engagement ring isn’t the only jewelry you’ll be gifting your better half. You will also need to exchange wedding bands on the day of your nuptials. Some couples choose their wedding bands to go with their engagement rings, while others wear the wedding band on the opposite hand. Consider this when you choose the design you want. If needed you could get your jeweler to make you an engagement ring as well as a pair of wedding bands.
Aftercare and Warranties
After finalizing the ring’s design, take everything your jeweler says in writing- the date of delivery, the amount to be paid, diamond and metal to be used, and what to do in case delivery is delayed. Ensure both of you sign the document and keep it safe till the custom engagement ring is delivered.
Once you receive your engagement ring, you also need to make sure to collect the diamond’s GIA/IGI certifications as well as the metal’s purity certificate.
This does not mean that getting a diamond engagement ring will take a lot of your time- you just need to act smartly and negotiate well. A custom engagement ring for her is sure to give you brownie points and make her feel extra special.
