Is Custom Made Jewelry More Expensive?

Every couple is unique and hence the extent to which they want to customise their ring varies. Many people will find the perfect wedding ring by selecting and combining individual elements: diamonds or gemstones, metal, setting, band style and using these basic building blocks to uncover an infinite number of truly unique styles. Others will want to add personal touches to their rings.

Is Custom Made Jewelry More Expensive?

Typically, custom Jewelry cannot compete with mass-produced Jewelry in terms of cost because mass-produced Jewelry designs are completed and paid for once before being mass-produced. However, having custom Jewelry does not have to cost a fortune. Furthermore, with custom jewelry, you can work with the designer to meet your budget because custom-made Jewelry has several cost-cutting options that mass-produced Jewelry does not.

How to Customise Your Engagement Ring?

The specifics will vary depending on your requirements and the jeweler you choose, but here is what you can expect when designing a custom engagement ring.

Sketch Out Your Idea

Begin by asking yourself, "Do I have a clear vision of the ring I want?" Remember that simply wanting “something different” does not necessitate going the custom route, because any engagement ring or an anniversary ring can be made to be different. 

Then, as best you can, sketch out your concept. If your concept isn't too specific or if you want to further articulate your desired style, start browsing Jewelry stores and the Internet and sketching elements that catch your eye (filigrees, unique settings, organic lines, mixed metals).

Find the Right Jewelry Designer

Once you've decided on an idea, you'll need to find a jeweler who can create a custom design for you. If you have a jeweler you know and trust, start there. Often, your jeweler will have someone in-house who can create custom designs or refer you to a reliable colleague. Otherwise, seek referrals from family and friends and follow all of the same guidelines for finding a jeweler as you would if you were buying a non-custom ring.

Collaborate

Once the custom ring design process begins, be sure to review a full-color illustration, a computer-aided design, or CAD image, or a wax mock-up of the final product so you can provide feedback and change directions if it isn't what you expected or want.

Protect Yourself

When working on a custom ring design, take extra care with warranties and guarantees. Everything, from what elements you agreed to include in the ring to a final appraisal that includes the custom design and designer, should be in writing.