There aren’t many things that will light your bride to-be’s face like a Custom Engagement Ring. And that is whether is it a surprise or not! The idea that you put a little extra time and thought into the ring is everything to her. And it isn’t even that much extra time and thought! We know guys who went to every jewelry store near them and agonized over a regular, mass produced ring. We can make it far easier than that. And of course, many of you are thinking, “a custom engagement ring is too expensive.” That is not true. Especially if you want diamonds in your ring and are looking at retail stores. Many times, a comparable ring from one of those stores can cost more because of their markup. And you aren’t getting exactly what you want at a chain store.
The History Of Engagement Rings
Engagement rings have a rich history dating back to ancient times. The tradition of giving rings as a symbol of commitment (and even ownership) can be traced back to the ancient Egyptians. They believed that the circle symbolized eternity, which was personified by the Ouroboros. The Ouroboros was usually depicted as a snake or dragon consuming their own tail. It is believed to a symbol for eternal cyclic renewal or a cycle of life, death and rebirth. You could find the Ouroboros on Roman talismans and pendants as well. In ancient Rome, rings were given as a promise of marriage, signifying a legal agreement between two people.
During the Middle Ages, engagement rings evolved to include gemstones with advances in gemstone cutting and setting. Diamonds became popular popular in the 15th century once they were figured out how to polish. The first recorded diamond engagement ring was given by Archduke Maximilian of Austria to Mary of Burgundy in 1477. This sparked a trend among European nobility to exchange diamond rings as a symbol of love and commitment.
In the modern era, engagement rings have become a widely recognized tradition across cultures. The diamond industry’s marketing campaigns in the 20th century further solidified the association of diamonds with engagement rings. So, you can thank DeBeers that this is where we are now. However, engagement rings continue to symbolize love, commitment, and the promise of a future together for couples around the world.
Engagement Rings Today
Engagement rings hold a special place in today’s society, symbolizing love and commitment between partners. With a wide variety of styles and designs available, couples now have more options than ever to choose a ring that reflects their unique relationship. From classic solitaires to modern halo settings, there is a ring to suit every taste and budget.
In recent years, there has been a growing trend towards custom engagement ring designs. Many couples are choosing to work with jewelers to create a one-of-a-kind ring that tells their unique love story. This personalized approach allows for creativity and individuality, ensuring that the ring is a true reflection of the couple’s bond.
This is where we come in. All we do is custom jewelry. We don’t carry any inventory. Everything is made to order and all of our stones are sourced for each project. We don’t do repairs unless we made the ring. We don’t even know how to change a watch battery. Custom jewelry is what we want do to, so we don’t mess with anything else. We create all kinds of things that you wouldn’t be able to find in a retail store. And that is how we like it.
Why Custom Engagement Rings Are Superior To The Chains
When it comes to purchasing an engagement ring, many people turn to chain stores for convenience. However, custom engagement rings offer a superior option for those who want a truly unique and special piece of jewelry.
Firstly, custom engagement rings allow for complete personalization. With a custom ring, you have the ability to select every aspect of the design, from the type of metal to the shape and size of the diamond. This level of customization ensures that your ring is one-of-a-kind and perfectly reflects your personal style and preferences.
Secondly, custom engagement rings usually have a higher quality than those found in chain stores. This is because they are crafted by skilled jewelers who take the time to ensure that every detail is perfect. Additionally, custom rings are typically more durable than what you find at the chain stores.
While chain stores may seem like the convenient option and have their place, custom engagement rings offer a superior choice for those who want a truly unique and high-quality piece of jewelry. With complete personalization and a higher level of craftsmanship, a custom ring is the perfect way to show your love and commitment to your partner.
Types Of Engagement Rings
When it comes to Custom Engagement Ring designs, there are various types to choose from. Ultimately, the type of engagement ring you choose should reflect your personal style and preferences. Whether you opt for a classic solitaire or a trendy halo ring, the most important aspect is that it symbolizes your commitment and love for your partner. Take your time exploring the different types available to find the perfect ring that speaks to your heart. If this is a surprise, ask your her friends and family what styles might work. You can also still talk to her about engagement ring styles without alerting her to what you are doing. Here are the most popular styles of engagement rings.
Solitaire
A solitaire engagement ring is a classic and timeless choice for those looking to propose. This type of ring features a single diamond or gemstone set on a simple band, emphasizing the beauty and elegance of the center stone. Solitaire rings are known for their understated and sophisticated design, making them a popular option for engagement rings.
In addition to their aesthetic appeal, solitaire engagement rings are also a practical choice. The single stone setting is easy to maintain and can be paired with a variety of wedding band styles. This makes solitaire rings a versatile and timeless option that will continue to be cherished for years to come.
Halo
A halo engagement ring features a center diamond or gemstone encircled by smaller stones, creating a “halo” effect. This design enhances the appearance of the center stone, making it appear larger and more brilliant. Halo rings come in various shapes, such as round, cushion, or princess cuts, offering a range of styles to suit different preferences. The halo setting adds a touch of elegance and sparkle to the ring, making it a popular choice for those seeking a glamorous and sophisticated look.
In addition to their aesthetic appeal, halo engagement rings are known for their romantic symbolism. The halo surrounding the center stone is often interpreted as a symbol of eternity and everlasting love. This makes halo rings a meaningful choice for couples looking to express their commitment and devotion to each other. Whether you prefer a vintage-inspired design or a modern twist on a classic style, a halo engagement ring is a timeless and beautiful choice to celebrate your love and partnership.
Three Stone aka Past Present & Future
A Three Stone engagement ring, also known as a Past Present & Future ring, features three gemstones symbolizing the couple’s journey together. The center stone represents the present, while the stones on each side symbolize the past and the future. This design is rich in meaning, making it a popular choice for couples looking to celebrate their past, present, and future together in a meaningful way.
The Three Stone ring is not only a beautiful piece of jewelry but also a powerful symbol of love and commitment. The three stones can be diamonds or other gemstones, each holding its significance. This type of custom engagement ring serves as a constant reminder of the journey a couple has been through, the joys of the present moment, and the promise of a future together.
Pavé
A Pavé engagement ring features small diamonds set closely together, creating a sparkling surface that resembles a cobblestone street, hence the name “Pavé,” which means “paved” in French. These rings are known for their elegance and brilliance, as the tiny diamonds enhance the center stone, making it appear larger and more dazzling. The Pavé setting requires great skill and precision to ensure the diamonds are set securely while maximizing their sparkle.
Pavé engagement rings are popular for their intricate detailing and timeless appeal. The delicate diamonds in a Pavé setting add a touch of glamour and sophistication to the ring, making it a stunning choice for those who appreciate fine craftsmanship and exquisite design. The Pavé style can be seen on various parts of the ring, such as the band or the halo around the center stone, offering a versatile option for those seeking a unique and eye-catching engagement ring.
Split Shank
A Split Shank engagement ring features a band that divides as it reaches the center stone, creating an elegant and unique look. This design typically adds extra sparkle and detail to the ring, making it a popular choice for those seeking a distinctive engagement ring style. The split shank can vary in width and style, offering a range of options to suit different preferences and tastes.
Many Split Shank engagement rings feature pave or accent diamonds along the split shank, enhancing the overall brilliance and glamour of the ring. This design detail can create a stunning visual impact and elevate the center stone, making it appear more prominent and eye-catching. The split shank design allows for creativity in customization, enabling individuals to personalize their ring with different gemstones, metals, and setting styles to reflect their unique style and personality.
Cathedral
A Cathedral engagement ring is a style of ring where the center stone is set high above the band, held in place by arches or prongs that resemble the graceful lines of a cathedral. This design allows light to enter from all angles, enhancing the brilliance and sparkle of the diamond or gemstone. Cathedral rings are known for their elegant and timeless look, making them a popular choice for engagement rings.
Cathedral engagement rings are cherished for their classic beauty and romantic symbolism. The elevated setting symbolizes the importance and prominence of the center stone, making it the focal point of the ring. Whether you prefer a traditional solitaire or a more intricate design with accent stones, a Cathedral engagement ring is sure to make a statement and capture the essence of everlasting love and commitment.
Bypass
A Bypass engagement ring features a design where the band splits and curves around the center stone, creating a unique and elegant look. This style symbolizes two paths coming together, making it a meaningful choice for couples embarking on a new journey together. Bypass rings can showcase various gemstones, from classic diamonds to colorful sapphires, allowing for personalization to suit individual preferences.
The distinctive design of a Bypass engagement ring offers a modern twist on traditional ring styles, making it a popular choice for those seeking a contemporary and eye-catching ring. The open design of the Bypass setting allows for ample light to enter the gemstone, enhancing its brilliance and sparkle. This style is versatile and can be adapted to accommodate different shapes and sizes of center stones, making it a versatile option for those looking for a unique and personalized engagement ring.
Hybrids
When having a custom engagement ring made, mixing styles can create a unique and personalized look. Combining different elements from various styles, such as vintage, modern, and classic, can result in a stunning and one-of-a-kind ring that reflects your individual taste and personality.
To successfully mix engagement ring styles, consider selecting a dominant style as the foundation. Then, incorporate elements from other styles as accents. For example, you can choose a classic solitaire setting as the base and add vintage-inspired filigree details or modern geometric shapes to enhance the overall design. Or, you can have a halo with a Pavé band. There are tons of combinations and what works is what you like.
What About The Stone In A Custom Engagement Ring
Gemstones like diamonds, sapphires, rubies, and emeralds are popular choices for engagement rings. Diamonds are known for their durability and sparkle, while colored gemstones can add a unique touch. Consider your partner’s style and preferences when selecting the stone – whether they prefer a classic diamond or a vibrant colored gemstone. Lab diamonds and gemstones are also possibilities.
When selecting diamonds for your custom engagement ring, consider the 4 C’s: cut, color, clarity, and carat weight. The cut determines the stone’s brilliance and shape, while color ranges from colorless to yellow or brown hues. Clarity refers to the presence of flaws or inclusions, impacting the stone’s transparency. Carat weight affects the size of the stone, with larger stones typically costing more.
Ultimately, choosing the stones for your custom engagement ring is a personal decision. Take your time to explore different options, consult with a jeweler for expert advice, and select a stone that symbolizes your love and commitment. Remember, the perfect stone is one that holds sentimental value and reflects your partner’s individuality.
The Bottom Line On Custom Engagement Rings
When shopping for a custom engagement ring, it’s crucial to set a budget beforehand. This will help narrow down options and prevent overspending. Additionally, consider the recipient’s style and preferences to ensure the ring reflects their personality. Lastly, choose a reputable jeweler with positive reviews and a good track record for creating quality custom pieces.
Communication is key when working with a jeweler to design a custom engagement ring. Clearly convey your ideas, preferences, and any specific details you have in mind. Be open to suggestions and advice from the jeweler, as they have the expertise to bring your vision to life. Regular updates and feedback during the design process will ensure the final ring meets your expectations.
Don’t rush the process of designing a custom engagement ring. Take your time to explore different design options, materials, and settings. Remember, this ring symbolizes your love and commitment, so it’s worth investing time and effort into creating a piece that is truly special and meaningful.
