Custom vs. Ready-Made Engagement Rings: 10 Key Questions Answered

Should you go fully custom, tweak an existing design, or pick a ready-made classic? Here we break down the most common questions to help you decide.

1) What are the benefits of a custom ring design?

Custom rings give total control—stone, cut, setting, metal, details—resulting in a one-of-a-kind piece that reflects your story. Personalisation, sentiment, and uniqueness are the biggest advantages, though they often take longer to make.

2) How long does a custom design take?

Simple designs: 4–6 weeks. Intricate or hand-engraved designs: 8–12 weeks or more. The process includes consultations, sketches/CAD renderings, gemstone sourcing, fabrication, and finishing.

3) Is custom always more expensive?

Not always. Costs depend on choices: stone size, design complexity, metals. Simpler custom rings can rival ready-made prices; branded rings often carry a higher markup than custom pieces of similar quality.

4) Can you modify a ready-made ring?

Yes. Resize, change metal, add accent stones, adjust settings or engravings. Semi-customising gives personalisation with quicker turnaround than full custom.

5) Can you use family stones in a new ring?

Yes. Family diamonds or gemstones can be reset in new designs, combining heirloom value with modern style. Jewellers assess stone integrity and create a design around it.

6) How do you start the custom design process?

Start with a consultation: discuss budget, taste, and lifestyle. CAD designs or sketches follow for approval. Once agreed, gemstone sourcing and production begin.

7) Can CAD technology show your design beforehand?

Yes. CAD renders a 3D model of your ring before production, letting you adjust proportions, stones, and finishes. It reduces surprises and boosts confidence.

8) Are custom rings harder to insure?

No, but detailed appraisals are vital. Photos, CAD files, and jeweller documentation establish replacement value. Insurers accept these just as with ready-made rings.

9) What if you don’t like the finished ring?

Reputable jewellers minimise this risk with CAD previews and prototypes. If issues arise, resizing, modifications, or stone swaps are usually possible. Clear communication avoids disappointment.

10) Which option retains value better, custom or ready-made?

Branded ready-made rings often hold better resale value. Custom rings are less liquid but carry unmatched sentimental value and uniqueness. Most couples prioritise meaning over resale.

Next steps

• See how we create custom engagement rings.
• Browse our ready-made designs.
• Not sure which suits you? Book a consultation with Steven.