Do you want to enhance your romantic proposal with a
custom-designed engagement ring? While most people agree that this is an
excellent way to give real meaning to the ring, it can also be a daunting task
for those who aren't familiar with jewelry design.
If you're hesitant to attempt ring customization on your own
or feel you lack the know-how to do so, there's good news. You have many ways
to get the help you need to make a great ring. Here are a few tips anyone can
use.
1. Find a Jeweler Who Matches You
The biggest ally in designing the perfect ring is a custom
jeweler who matches your style and aesthetic. If you have a more eclectic
style, look for a designer whose inventory and portfolio includes intriguing
and one-of-a-kind styles. If you prefer simple jewelry, look for designs that
are clean and minimalist.
A good jewelry designer, of course, can adjust to fit the
needs of their clients. But if you aren't sure what you're doing, having a pro
who is on the same page as you from the beginning is particularly
helpful.
2. Look Around for Inspiration
You don't have to come up with the entire ring design out of
your own imagination. Today's clients have a plethora of ways to find
inspiration or a foundation to start with. Take a look on the internet, on
social media, and in magazines to see what you find appealing about existing
rings.
Rather than get too caught up in the overall look of example
jewelry, focus on individual elements. Which metal colors do you like? Do you
prefer large or small settings? How large is too large for a diamond? Do you
like the simplicity of one and the Art Deco style of another? Keep track of
these small inspirations and use them to give your jeweler something to start
with.
3. Talk With Your Partner
Unless the proposal is a total surprise, you may want to
consider talking rings with your partner. It will, after all, be them that
wears the ring forever. Let them know you want to design a special piece for
them, but don't feel the need to go into specific details. Then, the two of you
can talk about general features like metals, motifs, complexity, or gem size.
This lets you have more confidence that they'll love what you design.
If you don't want your partner to know about your plans at
all, talk with those who know them well - often a sibling, best friend, or
parent.
4. Focus on a Key Element
If you're not confident in your ability to design the entire
ring from scratch, focus on one or two particular features you want to make
special. This is particularly useful if you like many of the sample styles you
see in the jewelry store cases but want to put your personal stamp on your
partner's ring.
While it may not be cost-effective to alter a mass-produced
ring, choosing a base style for your design does most of the work for you. All
you would need to do, then, is to add your custom feature - such as a different
color gem stone, a different motif, or a new setting.
Designing a custom ring can be less stressful
than you think. The key is to look around for sources of help - from the
jeweler you choose to the samples in the store - and then add your own touches.
At
Marla's Gem Creations, we
can help. Make an appointment today to learn more about our customization
services and the options available no matter how much or how little you want to
create.
