Something Different

Custom engagement rings are designed specifically to reflect your individuality and style, unlike mass-produced rings. By working with an experienced jeweller, you can shape every aspect of your ring, from selecting a rare gemstone or diamond cut to choosing a particular metal type like platinum, gold, or even a custom alloy blend. With bespoke designs, you can add personal touches like engraved initials, symbolic motifs, or even hidden elements that carry a special meaning, such as birthstones or a unique design feature that represents an inside joke or significant memory between you and your partner.

Additionally, custom rings are an opportunity to incorporate meaningful family heirlooms, such as repurposing a grandmother’s diamond or reshaping a vintage ring into a new piece that holds both modern appeal and cherished history. With a custom engagement ring, you have the chance to create a piece that tells a story—a piece that not only symbolises your love but also stands out as a work of art. The design process itself can be a rewarding experience, allowing you to see your ideas evolve into a tangible, lasting symbol of your commitment.

Yes, when creating a custom engagement ring, you have the flexibility to choose between lab-grown diamonds and natural diamonds, each with its unique benefits. Lab-grown diamonds are formed in controlled environments, offering the same physical, chemical, and optical properties as natural diamonds but often at a more accessible price. They are an eco-friendly option, appealing to those concerned about environmental sustainability and ethical sourcing. Choosing a lab-grown diamond can allow you to select a higher carat weight or invest more in other aspects of your ring design, such as custom settings or additional stones.

Natural diamonds, however, carry a timeless allure with their unique journey of formation over millions of years. These diamonds are often valued for their rarity and traditional appeal, making them a perfect choice for those who value the story behind each gemstone. Additionally, you can opt for coloured natural diamonds, like fancy yellow or blue diamonds, which add a distinctive touch to your ring. Both types of diamonds can be cut into various shapes, including round, princess, emerald, or cushion cuts, providing endless options for personalisation. When designing a custom ring, the jeweller will guide you through the differences, helping you make the best choice based on your preferences, values, and budget.

If you don’t find a design that fits your vision in the existing collection, you have the opportunity to work directly with a seasoned designer to create a completely custom piece. The customisation process is a collaborative journey, starting with an in-depth consultation. During this meeting, the designer will take the time to understand your tastes, inspirations, and any particular styles you admire. Whether you have a clear design in mind or just a general idea of what you’re looking for, the designer can help translate these concepts into a unique ring design.

Following the initial consultation, the designer may create sketches or digital renderings, giving you a visual representation of your custom engagement ring before any work begins. This step allows you to make adjustments to details like the shape of the band, the style of the setting, or even the overall proportions of the ring. Once the design is finalised, expert jewellers begin the meticulous process of crafting the ring, using techniques that ensure both durability and beauty. The end result is a one-of-a-kind piece that embodies your personal style and serves as a reflection of your relationship.

The engagement ring designer at Ernesto Buono brings over 20 years of experience in the art of luxury jewellery design. This extensive expertise allows them to guide clients through every aspect of the design process, from selecting the right stone to refining the final details of the ring’s setting. A designer with decades of experience has an eye for balance and proportion, ensuring that each design is aesthetically pleasing while being practical for everyday wear. Their knowledge spans various gemstone types, diamond cuts, and setting styles, providing you with expert insights that help refine your vision.

An experienced designer also has the ability to incorporate both traditional and contemporary techniques, blending classic elegance with modern innovations. For example, they can recommend unique settings like tension or bezel styles that showcase unconventional diamond shapes or suggest ways to combine different metal types for a truly custom look. Beyond technical skills, a designer’s ability to understand the sentimental value and emotional significance of an engagement ring makes the process more meaningful. With their guidance, you can rest assured that your custom engagement ring will be a piece you’ll cherish forever.

Designing a custom engagement ring is an exciting process that allows you to play a direct role in creating a piece that holds special meaning. The journey typically begins with a one-on-one consultation, either in person or virtually, where you discuss your preferences, inspirations, and budget with the designer. This stage is where your ideas start to take shape. You may share photos, sketches, or describe elements you admire from existing rings—such as a specific diamond shape, a type of setting, or the overall style you want, be it vintage, modern, or something completely avant-garde.

Next, the designer will present you with design sketches or 3D renderings, offering a visualisation of the potential ring. You’ll have the chance to provide feedback and request modifications, ensuring the design is perfect before it moves to the crafting phase. This might include adjustments to the stone size, changes to the band design, or tweaking the prong style for better security. Once you approve the design, the jeweller selects the materials and begins the meticulous process of handcrafting your ring. This can take several weeks, depending on the complexity of the design, but the result is a beautifully crafted ring that is uniquely yours.

Yes, browsing through a collection of ready-made rings is a great way to gather ideas and refine your vision for a custom engagement ring. Ernesto Buono’s dress ring collection, for example, features a variety of designs that can provide inspiration, from simple solitaires to intricate halo settings adorned with coloured gemstones. Even if none of these pieces perfectly match your vision, they can serve as a valuable reference point for your custom design. This can help you identify aspects you love, such as a particular diamond cut, a unique band shape, or a setting style that complements your aesthetic.

Viewing existing designs also gives you a sense of the jeweller’s craftsmanship and attention to detail, which is crucial when entrusting someone with the creation of a custom piece. You can see how the jeweller works with different metals, integrates unique design elements, and balances the proportions of a ring. After gathering inspiration, you can discuss your favourite aspects with the designer, who can incorporate these ideas into a design that is entirely your own. Whether you’re drawn to the timeless charm of vintage designs or the clean lines of modern styles, exploring ready-made options helps you articulate your preferences for a truly personalised piece.