Custom Engagement Ring Guide

For those who believe their love story stands out from the rest, a custom engagement ring is the perfect emblem of your unique bond.

There’s nothing quite like a tailor-made engagement ring to symbolize your union. It’s a one-of-a-kind creation, crafted with care to reflect your personal love story.

A custom ring also means a design that fits your budget and style preferences perfectly. We understand the mix of excitement and nerves that come with this step in your wedding journey.

Through this guide, we’ll arm you with the necessary tips and knowledge to design your dream engagement ring with Proud Diamond — and we’ll show you why we’re the best choice for bringing your vision to life!

Step 1: Understanding diamonds and making your choice 

First, let’s dive into the essentials of diamond quality, known as the 4 C’s. Working within a budget? Perfect. Our experts are here to maximize your investment, focusing on rarity rather than just aesthetics when it comes to pricing.

Choosing a custom engagement ring also allows you to select diamonds according to your budget and exact preferences.

Wondering about the right carat size, clarity, or shape for your diamond? Don’t worry if these concepts seem new or if you’re looking for a refresher – we’ve got all the details coming up next!

The 4c’s of a diamond’s quality 

WHAT IS DIAMOND CARAT?
The term ‘carat’ refers to the weight of a diamond, not its size: a common misconception, but an important distinction. As the carat weight increases, so does the price—larger diamonds are rarer because of the complexity of creating them.

WHAT IS DIAMOND CUT?
The cut of a diamond refers to the precise geometric shaping of the stone after it’s been crafted. Each cut has its own unique appeal and varies in popularity. It’s not just about shape; a well-cut diamond will reflect light beautifully, enhancing its sparkle and fire.

WHAT IS DIAMOND CLARITY?
Clarity is all about the purity of a diamond. It’s assessed based on how cleanly light can travel through the stone without being hindered by inclusions—internal imperfections like blemishes or spots. The fewer the inclusions, the more brilliantly the diamond shines.

WHAT IS DIAMOND COLOR?
While diamonds may appear colorless, many possess subtle yellow or brown hues. They’re graded on the IGI color scale from D (completely colorless) to Z (noticeable yellow tint). The clearer the diamond, the higher its grade.

Most known and sought-after shapes

ROUND BRILLIANT CUT
The round cut is engineered for maximum light reflection across its 58 facets, achieving unmatched brilliance. It’s the epitome of sparkle, designed to catch every ray of light.

OVAL CUT
Oval cuts are celebrated for their elegant curves and extended shape, delivering brilliance and sparkle on par with traditional round cuts. Ideal for those seeking a touch of distinction without compromising on luster.

PEAR CUT
The pear cut, celebrated for its teardrop silhouette and tapered point, is a sophisticated choice for those with an eye for luxury and style. It’s a cut that elegantly combines the soft curves of an oval with the sharp point of a marquise, offering a unique and fashionable look.

RADIANT CUT
The radiant cut is admired for its square shape with trimmed corners, enhancing the diamond’s brilliance through its unique facet pattern. It’s a vibrant choice for those who appreciate a blend of classic and contemporary styles.

EMERALD CUT
The emerald cut, inspired by the classic green gemstone, radiates sophistication. Its rectangular or square shape features step-cut facets, emphasizing clarity over fiery sparkle. An understated choice for refined taste, it whispers elegance & chic.

CUSHION CUT
The cushion cut is renowned for its pillow-like shape: a graceful blend of a square stone with soft, rounded corners. It’s a timeless design that combines classic structure with a touch of softness.

MARQUISE CUT
The marquise cut, with its football-like shape, graces the finger with elegance, offering an elongated appearance and pointed ends that create a striking effect. It’s a cut that combines flair and sophistication.

PRINCESS CUT
The princess cut features a square or rectangular silhouette with a distinctive inverted pyramid profile from the side. It’s a modern classic that offers both elegance and brilliance.

ASSCHER CUT
The Asscher cut mirrors the emerald’s elegance but stands out with its square shape, broad step facets, and distinctive “X” pattern visible from above. It’s a vintage-inspired choice that offers depth and sophistication.

HEART CUT
The heart cut is the ultimate emblem of love, perfect for those who want to fully embody their devotion. Its iconic shape is both a romantic gesture and a testament to enduring affection.

CUSTOM DIAMOND CUT
Choosing a custom diamond cut, such as the shape of your spirit animal, a delicate flower, or anything that speaks to you for that matter, allows you to express your unique style and personality through your dream ring. This bespoke option transforms the diamond into a personalized work of art, making your engagement experience truly one-of-a-kind.

Step 2: Pick a precious metal best suiting your style

WHITE GOLD: A MODERN CLASSIC

• Color: White gold exudes a contemporary elegance. It’s created by alloying pure gold with white metals like palladium or nickel.
• Characteristics: Sleek, lustrous, and versatile. It complements all skin tones and pairs beautifully with diamonds.
• Symbolism: A timeless choice that whispers sophistication.
  
  

ROSE GOLD: THE ROMANTIC HUE

• Color: Rose gold, with its warm blush, captures hearts effortlessly. It’s an alloy of gold and copper.
• Characteristics: Romantic, vintage-inspired, and flattering. Perfect for those who adore uniqueness.
• Symbolism: Like love itself—soft, warm, and enduring.

YELLOW GOLD: THE CLASSIC ICON

• Color: Yellow gold is the quintessential choice. Pure gold blended with copper and silver creates its rich hue.
• Characteristics: Traditional, regal, and steeped in history. It ages gracefully, developing a patina over time.
• Symbolism: A nod to timeless love stories.
  
  

PLATINUM: THE NOBLE METAL

• Color: Platinum boasts a cool, silvery-white tone.
• Characteristics: Rare, durable, and hypoallergenic. It’s ideal for sensitive skin.
• Symbolism: A commitment as enduring as the metal itself.
  
  

Remember, the metal you choose becomes part of your love story—a reflection of your unique bond. Whether it’s the icy brilliance of platinum or the warm embrace of rose gold, let your heart guide you. After all, this ring will witness a lifetime of shared moments, whispered promises, and stolen glances. Choose wisely, and may it sparkle forever.

Step 3: Choosing your preferred engagement ring setting

Now that you’ve picked the perfect gemstone, precious metal, and color, it’s time to choose an engagement setting that is unique to your individual taste and personal lifestyle!

You also need to consider the everyday wear and tear aspect. For example, if someone’s job forces the regular use of hands, a bezel-setting would be a smarter design due to the center stone protective element.

Furthermore, you may want something simple and delicate like this Hidden Halo Solitaire Engagement Ring designed in-house.

How Do You Want Your Diamond To Be Set?

PRONG SETTING
The prong setting is the go-to choice for its simplicity and elegance. These small, claw-like prongs cradle the gemstone securely, available in single, double, or even triple configurations for added security and style. It’s a classic technique that allows maximum light exposure to enhance the stone’s brilliance.

BEZEL SETTING
The bezel setting, a timeless and elegant choice for securing gemstones, is renowned for its distinctive metal rim that not only encases but also securely holds the stone in place. This setting is particularly favored for its dual benefits: it provides unparalleled protection for the gemstone against knocks and friction, while also delivering a contemporary look that is both clean and sophisticated.

CHANNEL SETTING
In a channel setting, a groove is carved into the band, creating a secure space where small stones nestle between two strips of metal. This setting style allows for a smooth surface and a sleek look, with the center stone often highlighted in a distinct setting for contrast. It’s a modern choice that offers both elegance and durability.

TENSION SETTING
The tension setting is a bold choice that gives the illusion of the gemstone suspended in the air. While it may seem delicate, a master jeweler ensures it’s securely held, combining drama with safety.

Pick a Style of Engagement Ring Setting Fit For You

SOLITAIRE
A timeless favorite, the solitaire setting features a single gemstone on a sleek band, with options for channel or pave settings. Custom engravings add a personal touch to this classic choice.

HALO
The halo setting encircles your chosen gem with a luminous ring of diamonds, perfect for those who adore a bit more sparkle and a statement of elegance.

THREE STONE
Symbolizing the past, present, and future, the three-stone setting showcases a prominent center stone flanked by two smaller gems, embodying friendship, love, and fidelity.

SPLIT SHANK
Favored by the stars, the split-shank setting features a band that parts elegantly, offering a modern twist to the traditional band.

TWISTED BAND
For a dynamic look, twisted engagement rings intertwine the band, creating a captivating pattern that can be accentuated with pave diamonds.

THIN BAND PAVÉ
The low-profile pave setting presents a subtle band dotted with tiny diamonds, ensuring your central stone stands out with understated grace.

CLUSTER
Opt for a cluster setting for a distinctive style, where diamonds of varying sizes come together in a stunning arrangement, allowing for endless creativity.

NATURE-INSPIRED
Drawn from the earth’s beauty, nature-inspired rings incorporate motifs from flora, fauna, and natural landscapes, offering a ring as unique as your love story.

ARTISANAL
Artisan rings boast a handcrafted, one-of-a-kind look with asymmetrical patterns and textures, perfect for those seeking an unconventional, earthy aesthetic.

ANTIQUE STYLE
Inspired by historical eras, vintage-style rings feature intricate designs and geometric diamond cuts, evoking the romance and glamour of times past.

Step 4: Determining ring size 

Determining the correct ring size is a crucial step in creating your custom engagement ring. It ensures a comfortable fit that’s neither too tight nor too loose.

To find the perfect size, you can visit a jeweler for a professional measurement, use a ring sizer tool, or measure a well-fitting ring you already own with a sizing chart.

For surprise proposals, borrowing a ring from the recipient’s jewelry box for sizing can be a discreet solution. Remember, factors like weather and time of day can affect finger size, so it’s best to measure at different times for accuracy.

Once you have the size, your custom ring can be crafted to fit like a glove, symbolizing your perfect union.

To learn how to find the perfect ring size, check out our ring sizing guide.

Step 5: Should I match my engagement ring with my future wedding band?

Embracing creativity and innovation is key to crafting your unique bridal set. Consider creating a harmonious collection by pairing your custom engagement ring with a matching wedding band.

The beauty of designing complementary bridal sets lies in efficiency and cost-effectiveness. It’s an opportunity to craft a cohesive look while managing your budget.

By choosing to design both rings simultaneously, you’re not only making a smart financial choice but also ensuring a seamless aesthetic between the two pieces.

At Proud Diamond, our commitment to excellence ensures that your significant investment is met with unparalleled value, reflecting our dedication to you, our cherished Proud Diamond customer!

Conclusion

In conclusion, this guide has journeyed through the art of custom engagement ring creation, illuminating the path from selecting the perfect diamond to choosing a ring setting that resonates with your individuality.

We’ve explored the nuances of each cut, the significance of the settings, and the importance of matching metals to lifestyles and tastes. With a focus on individuality and the expertise of skilled artisans, the guide underlines the value of crafting a ring that’s as unique as your love story.

Eager to explore custom design possibilities for your custom engagement ring? Book a virtual consultation with our bridal jewelry and diamond connoisseurs now!