We then present the CAD to our customer and upon approval move forward with the manufacturing process. In the case of the attached pictures, we used stones from our customer’s original wedding band along with sapphires from an heirloom ring.  We were fortunate that they were nearly the same diameter.  In the design process we were able to adjust the heights of both rings such that they would look good next to each other despite the difference in the size of the stones in the shanks.

Once the design is approved, creating the ring takes about a week to 10 days.  The end result is personal, unique and worthy of being yours.

Customers often send us images of multiple ring designs in which they like some details and would like to incorporate these to make something all their own.   We really enjoy doing such custom rings not only because they offer a bit of a challenge but also because we appreciate the thoughtfulness of someone who makes the extra effort to create something unique for their loved one.  Often times just a small detail can make a big difference in making something all the more special.

We recently had a customer send us a picture of a ring design his girlfriend really wanted.  The ring had a halo of diamonds around an emerald cut center stone but the diamonds around the center stone were very small and seemed out of proportion.  The ring had a lot of intricate detail under the head/halo and some extra detail, in an otherwise plain shank, which we didn’t think did much for the overall look and balance of the ring.  We decided to use slightly larger diamonds around the center stone and to eliminate the detail in the shank, keeping that part of the ring simple and drawing focus to where the center stone is.  In making those two minor modifications, it balanced the detail and proportion,  gave the ring a lot more ‘pop’ and made the ring a little extra special.

When creating a custom design like this it is always important to be sure we and the client are on the same page.  After discussing the ring details we create a 3D CAD image of the design which shows the general detail, shape and proportion of the ring.  Here are the CAD images of the custom ring discussed above:

After the customer approves the design it is then printed into a wax model, a mold is made around the wax and the metal cast into the mold.  The ring is then cleaned, pre-polished, set, polished and rhodium plated (for white gold and platinum).  All the setting details, pave beads and milgrain (beaded edging) is added by hand, during the setting process, providing a higher level of craftsmanship and finer detail.

Working together via email and phone we sent him images and information to help him make an informed and confident decision regarding the diamond.  He ultimately decided on a gorgeous emerald cut that had outstanding brilliance and shape appeal compared to the other stones we reviewed for him.

The completed ring is pictured above.

This can mean that instead of a traditional catered chicken or steak dinner, bride and grooms are choosing to have smaller stations of tapas and tacos. DIY projects replace the meticulously arranged flowers as centerpieces and a DJ list may be pulled directly from the couples iPod. Wedding rings aren’t just purchased off the shelf, but customized.

Customizing your ring can actually be a wonderful choice. It’s something you or your loved one will wear for the rest of their life, every day, so it should reflect their personal style more than any other purchase. While the wedding lasts a day, the ring lasts forever.

Diamond Ideals can make a ring to your specifications, based on your personalities and personal story. You can create the setting, choose the stone, and do it all within your price range. We’ll guide you along the way and work patiently until it is perfection. For more information, please click here.

We’d also love to hear your engagement story. To have it featured here on the blog, please email mara.siegler@gmail and don’t forget to post your photos on our Facebook Page.