So How Do You Design An Engagement Ring?
I think most people would say that they like the idea of being different and standing out from the crowd, especially when it comes to their style! However, by nature humans like order, repetition and knowing what’s coming next.
If you take a deeper look, you’ll see that most art and design these days is a copy - or repetition - from another era, another creator, another artist. Being able to create something brand-spanking new is near enough impossible.
So, how can we design something that is truly bespoke to you?
Over the years, I have thought about how I can make the exciting process of creating bespoke engagement and wedding jewellery as streamlined as possible for you as a client. In order for us to get to the final, stunning, results - I need to ask you a few questions and give you a few prompts. I call this the ‘Six Stepping Stones’.
The Six Stepping Stones that I use to create your one-of-a-kind ring give you a roadmap of the whole process so you know what to expect every step of the way - just the way humans like it.
If you found this blog by typing into Google “how do you design an engagement ring?” Then you probably already know you don’t want a high-street off-the-shelf ring. Maybe you’ve seen something that caught your eye (but it’s not quite right) or perhaps you have absolutely no idea where to start.
The first step
that we take together is to brainstorm and collect some inspiration on your dream engagement or wedding ring.
What style do you like? Vintage/modern/classic?
What are your favourite colours/gemstones?
Are there any special dates, flowers or symbols you'd like included?
Do you have any photographs or art that you like or are inspired by?
Is there a certain time period that you like? Art Deco/20’s?
Do you have some physical objects that you like? (shape/form/metals)
Whether you choose to mood-board or love a good list, you’ll be amazed at what ideas spring to life when it’s all laid out in front of you.
From there, I’ll sketch a few ideas using the inspiration we have gathered and start piecing together parts of the design that can be rehashed throughout the process. This is where our collaboration and communication is at its highest. It’s so important to me that we are both open and honest with each other. Being upfront and honest on the physics of a ring and also the practicality of daily wearing is important and not something you think about when you see a shiny diamond sparkling at you.
I have always worked with diamond dealers who adhere to the Kimberley Process - working to reduce the flow of conflict diamonds. Where possible, I prefer to use recycled materials to limit unnecessary mining.
Choosing one more or gemstones can be fun, and such a special part of the ring-making process - it’s like picking out your favourite sweets in a candy shop - pick and mixing to find the perfect match! I’ll guide you through the vast options, which can be a little overwhelming, and once we’ve settled on the best option for you I’ll draw your final design so you can see it truly come to life.
There are only a couple of occasions in our lives that most of us will think about a piece of jewellery that means this much to us. It’s important to take our time, enjoy the process as well as the end result and stay personable. That’s why I love what I do - I feel that I have a special connection with each person, each ring, and I hope to leave a little imprint on their big moment that means the world to both them and me.
