Custom Engagement Rings | Vanessa Nicole Jewels (2024)

Custom engagement rings are a unique and meaningful way to symbolize the love and commitment between two people. They allow couples to express their creativity and individuality in a meaningful way that they can't achieve with a standard off-the-shelf ring.

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Things To Consider During The Custom Ring Design Process

When designing a custom engagement ring, there are several factors to consider. We'll cover the most critical aspects and the process we use when creating a custom engagement ring for our clients.

Step 1: Select the Style of Your Setting

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Solitaire engagement ring setting

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Halo engagement ring

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Three Stone Setting

These are the three styles Vanessa Nicole specializes in – each has variations based on the center diamond shape. Please read our guide with videos and image inspiration on these variouscustom ring design options.

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Step 2: Select the Center Stone Diamond Shape

Diamonds come in many shapes and are not limited solely to the six most popular listed below. The term "cut" refers to the shape that the diamond has been cut into, which is not to be confused with the 4C's 'Cut' grade. You can read our complete guide with videos on thevarious diamond cuts or shapesfor an engagement ring center stone.

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Round Brilliant Cut

The round brilliant cut is the most popular choice for an engagement ring – timeless and classic.

Cushion Cut

A cushion-cut diamond may be a perfect choice if you're looking for a vintage-inspired ring or something that stands out. This shape has been around for over 100 years and was once the most popular diamond shape before being replaced by the brilliant round cut.


Oval Cut

The oval cut diamond is a beautiful alternative to the traditional round brilliant. This elongated shape can make your finger appear longer and slender. You can find them in varying ratios of length and width.

Learn more about custom oval engagement rings here.

Emerald Cut

The emerald cut is a classic rectangular shape with angled corners. The linear facets make this one known for its elegant and sophisticated look. This diamond cut can be traced back to the Art Deco period when it was first introduced and looks more modern than other cuts.

Radiant Cut

The radiant cut diamond is similar in shape to the emerald cut with angled corners. However, the faceting on the radiant cut emulates the scintillating sparkle of a round brilliant vs. the modern, linear facets of an emerald cut.

Learn more about custom radiant engagement rings here.

Princess Cut

The princess-cut diamond is a traditional square with pointed corners. However, you can find them in rectangular shapes as well.

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"The proposal went amazingly well! Andrea fell head over heels for the ring! She absolutely loves it. She still just stares at it all day. You did an amazing job with the ring and we couldn’t be happier.
Sincerely, Andrew"

Step 3: Select the Material for Your Setting

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White Gold

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Yellow Gold

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Platinum

Ring setters make settings from gold or platinum, depending on the hardness and color of the metal you desire. Gold settings offer more variety in color: white gold, yellow gold, and rose gold. Yellow gold is popular because it is flattering on many skin types. White gold and platinum are also good choices for complementing the whiteness of the center diamond.

What is the difference between white gold and platinum?

Platinum is softer, so it can more easily bend, but it doesn't have to be rhodium-plated like white gold. It is also more expensive than gold because it is a rarer metal and takes more effort to extract from the ground.

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Decorative Elements And Personalization Ideas To Consider

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Milgrain

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Engraving

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Hidden Birthstone Set Inside The Ring

Milgrain

Milgrain is a jewelry design technique that features a row of tiny beads around the edge of the band. Setters make the beads out of metal, spaced evenly around the ring's circumference. Milgrain settings add a touch of elegance and vintage flair.

Engraving

Engraving a message inside the band of your ring is a great way to add a personal touch. Not only will it be a constant reminder of your love for each other, but it will also serve as a unique identifier if your ring is ever lost or stolen. When choosing what to engrave, keep it simple and concise. A date or initials are always popular choices. Still, you can also choose something that reflects your shared interests or inside jokes.

Hidden Gemstone(s) Set Inside The Ring

Most people know their birthstone - the gemstone traditionally associated with the month they were born. But did you know there can also be a hidden gemstone inside your wedding ring? Whether you choose a diamond, sapphire, emerald, or ruby, a hidden gem inside your wedding ring will serve as a secret only you two will know. Aside from your birthstone, if she's traditional, it can also be a blue sapphire representing her "something blue."

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“I sincerely could not be happier!”

"I think Vanessa is an angel from above! She and my fiancé designed my engagement ring, and I sincerely could not be happier. My ring is perfectly me; I could not have done any better. Vanessa is so sweet and completely empathetic towards budget. The quality is there ten-fold. I would recommend her to anyone! She is super helpful, knowledgeable, and a joy to encounter."

~Alicia R.

What Size Diamond Should You Choose???

When picking the perfect diamond size, it is essential to keep in mind that the size of the diamond is not the only factor determiningits quality. Thecut, color, clarity, and carat weightare all critical factors to consider. Nonetheless, clients often wonder how a particular size and shape will look. This guide outlinesDiamond Price Secretsthat many of our clients find very insightful.

And as valuable as the diamond is, the ring setting is the "house," which keeps it safe, so it's vital to ensure that it is high quality. Hence, it lasts a lifetime and beyond.

We've heard so many horror stories from women who purchased their ring setting online, from a big box store, or a mall jeweler, only to find that the craftsmanship is poor. Most engagement rings are made on an overseas assembly line, creating the ring from a mold with the metal as thin as possible. This process keeps the cost low, but you must continually visit the store again and again for repairs. Working one-on-one with an artist can ensure you will have an heirloom piece.

Below is an example of the type of diamond video we create for clients showing gorgeous diamond options for them to consider for their custom engagement ring.

Diamond Halo

There are tricks to making that center stone diamond look more prominent. Incorporating a diamond halo style into your setting does precisely that. A halo setting is a ring setting that features a central diamond surrounded by smaller accent diamonds.

Vanessa Nicole specializes in a "Seamless Halo," meaning the gap between the center diamond and the halo is as tiny as possible.

You'll see that a diamond with a halo covers the finger witha lotof sparkles. Halos are a beautiful design element that allows you to get more sparkle for less money invested in the center diamond. The result is a sparkling, eye-catching ring that stands out from the crowd.

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Cushion Cut Halo

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Oval Cut Halo

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Round Cut Halo

Learn more about custom halo engagement rings here.

How is Vanessa Nicole Different from Other Jewelry Stores for Custom Engagement Rings?

1. You get to work one-on-one with the artist making your ring rather than buying a pre-made ring from a salesperson or jewelry consultant. It allows for your custom engagement ring to be significantly more meaningful. It will show you put extra thought into making it spectacular. (Bonus points for you!)By working one-on-one with Vanessa, the company's owner, you can be sure that her reputation is highly valued. Therefore it brings high accountability to make sure you have an AMAZING experience.

2. Vanessa is an international diamond setting consultant who teaches other jewelers and jewelry experts worldwide how to create custom engagement rings. She apprenticed with a 3rd generation Russian master jeweler to become an expert diamond setter specializing in micropavé. With millions of Youtube views, Vanessa guides future brides & grooms on the best ways to design their unique rings.

3. A Making of the Ring™ DVD service is available with every engagement ring, which documents the entire design process of creating her custom,one-of-a-kind engagement ringup close. Vanessa interviews each person about what they love about their future fiancé and what they're looking forward to in their marriage. Then she layers the voiceover on top of the footage showcasing how her one-of-a-kind ring is made exclusively for her.

Example of a Making of the Ring™ DVD for your engagement ring.

Meet Vanessa, Custom Ring Jeweler, Master Diamond Setter

I'm Vanessa Nicole, and I help clients create the perfect engagement ring of their dreams.
My specialty is micropavé, a highly specialized diamond-setting skill performed under a microscope. It is a popular design element for custom engagement rings.
I would hate for anything to go wrong with my engagement ring because there is SO much sentiment behind it. I'm sure you feel the same way.

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Suppose you decide to go the route of designing your custom engagement ring rather than a pre-made ring. In that case, I can guide you through the FUN process with inspirational design ideas and digital renderings before we make your ring. You don't have to be a jewelry expert – I've helped thousands of clients create a unique ring to commemorate their love stories with a 100% happy client rating.

I know how important this ring is to you. She's an extraordinary woman in your life, and I take seriously the responsibility of creating an exceptional ring for her.

I promise that so much love, thought, and careful attention will be put into her one-of-a-kind ring that there will be no other like it, much like she is to you.

Let me know if you need any guidance –I'm happy to help.

Warmly,

Vanessa Nicole

“Vanessa has mastered her craft”

"Vanessa Nicole Jewels Vanessa was a pleasure to work with from start to finish, and her work is amazing. My ring is just stunning! I feel like she had a better understanding of what I wanted than I did. Vanessa has mastered her craft, and I'm so glad my fiancé found her company." ~Alyssa C.

Worried If She'll Like It?

Some clients are apprehensive about creating a custom ring rather than purchasing a pre-made one because they fear it will look different from what they want.We have a solution for that!

Vanessa creates a computer CAD model for all custom rings that shows every angle of your ring before constructing it in metal. You can adjust your ring's CAD model until you approve the final design.We've never had anyone dislike their ring once they see it in person.

When you purchase a pre-made ring at a traditional jewelry store, tens of thousands of other women are wearing the same ring. There is undoubtedly value in overseas manufacturing, but not when it comes to engagement rings.

We don't carry an inventory of rings made months or years ago at Vanessa Nicole Jewels. Each ring is created one at a time, just for you.

Watch Christine Receive Her Custom Engagement Ring:

Working With Us If You're Outside of San Diego

80% of our engagement rings are created for clients who don’t live in San Diego where our studio is located.

There are many options when it comes to the design of your ring; we can do pretty much anything you desire! You’ll see a lot of designs to choose from, and we would be delighted to discuss the engagement ring of your DREAMS.

Contact Vanessa To Request A Consultation

Click HERE to view our custom engagement ring gallery.

*If you liked this article, you may also find the following articles extremely helpful:

How Much Does An Engagement Ring Cost >>

Everything You Need To Know To Get An Amazing Custom Ring >>

FAQs

Is it always more expensive to custom-make an engagement ring?

No! Often, creating a custom engagement ring costs about the same orlessthan purchasing acomparable qualityring from a retail store. How is that possible? When working with a custom jeweler like Vanessa, you avoid substantial retail markups to account for high rents, stocking inventory, and increased sales commissions. You only pay for what you want, and you have ensured the best quality.

How much does it cost to have a custom-made ring?

The price of a custom-made ring will depend on the materials used and the complexity of the design. The cost of the center stone diamond will significantly affect the price. On average, clients invest at least $10,000 for a custom-made engagement ring.

How long does it take to have a custom engagement ring made?

The entire process, from design to delivery, typically takes about six weeks, sometimes sooner, depending on the piece's complexity. Contact us so we can best coordinate with your timeline.

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FAQs

Is $10,000 too much for an engagement ring? ›

Perhaps one that offers a bit more than just a diamond? If so, then $10,000 is an excellent budget to work with. You may have heard by now that $10,000 engagement rings are becoming more and more popular. The average of spending $5,000 on your engagement ring may soon be a thing of the past.

Is it more expensive to get a custom engagement ring? ›

Custom Engagement Ring Price Range

However, this rumor is far from the truth! Similar to other jewelry pieces, custom options are available in a wide range of price points, so just about any buyer can find room in their budget for a personalized piece.

What is a reasonable amount for an engagement ring? ›

You Should Spend Three Month's Worth of Your Salary on a Ring. "There is a long-standing cultural tradition of spending two to three months' salary on an engagement ring.

How long does a custom made engagement ring take? ›

Few people realise how long it takes for an engagement ring to be made compared to off-the-shelf engagement rings. An individually crafted ring can take three to six weeks, depending on the complexity of the design.

How much should I spend on an engagement ring if I make 100000 a year? ›

If you make $100,000 a year, you're supposed to spend $25,000 on an engagement ring. If you make $200,000, the ring clocks in at $50,0000.

How big a diamond will $10,000 buy? ›

For $10,000, you can expect to find a high-quality diamond that is between 1 and 1.5 carats, depending on the other 'Cs'. It's common to see a trade-off; for instance, a larger carat weight could mean a compromise on clarity or color.

What is the golden rule for engagement ring prices? ›

According to this 'standard,' you should spend two months of your salary on your beloved partner's engagement ring. While it's not wrong to follow this rule, it's not required! The two-month rule isn't rooted in any cultural tradition. It started out as a marketing strategy by the diamond corporation De Beers.

How much of a man's salary should be spent on an engagement ring? ›

One of the most infamous wedding etiquette rules revolves around how many months' salary one should spend on the engagement ring. It's known as the "three months' salary" rule, and it implies that a buyer should put three months of their salary toward a sparkler for their future spouse.

Is $20000 a lot for an engagement ring? ›

The answer to whether $20,000 is a lot for an engagement ring depends on your personal financial situation, preferences, and what you believe the ring represents. It's a significant amount of money for many people, but it's essential to find a balance that aligns with your values and budget.

Are lab grown diamonds real? ›

Lab grown diamonds are as real as diamonds mined from the earth. Lab grown diamonds are identical to earth mined diamonds in every way, except that they are grown in a lab. They have the same chemical, physical, and optical properties as mined diamonds and exhibit the same fire, scintillation, and sparkle.

Are lab grown diamonds cheaper? ›

Lab diamonds cost a lot less than natural diamonds - typically a lab diamond will cost between 60% and 85% less than a natural diamond with identical carat weight and grades.

How many carats should an engagement ring be? ›

Half-carat diamonds are the golden mean of engagement rings. They don't look too hefty on fingers and modestly reflect lady's charm. One-carat diamonds are the most sought-after products, and their prices start at $4,500. You can stretch your dollar by selecting a fancy shape.At 1.50 CT, diamonds certainly stand out.

Why choose a custom engagement ring? ›

Not only do you get the satisfaction of wearing this unique piece of jewelry for the rest of your life, but its one-of-a-kind nature makes it an, even more, special and precious heirloom that you can pass down to the next generations of your family.

How far in advance should you buy an engagement ring? ›

Your Ready to Propose!

If you're going with a pre-designed ring, make sure to purchase that at least one month before your proposal date, while two months minimum should be allotted for a custom ring.

How do I choose a custom engagement ring? ›

6 Tips for Designing a Unique Custom Engagement Ring
  1. Set a Budget. It's vital to have a budget in mind when searching for a custom engagement ring. ...
  2. Consider Your Partner's Taste. ...
  3. Look for Inspiration. ...
  4. Choose a Style and Setting. ...
  5. Select the Material. ...
  6. Choose the Stone.
Mar 17, 2022

Is a 10k engagement ring worth it? ›

Because of its lower percentage of pure gold, 10k gold jewelry is very affordable and easily accessible regardless of what kind of jewelry you're looking for. The other major benefit of 10k gold is its durability. This makes it a great choice for rings, and it has even become a popular choice for wedding bands.

Is 10k gold bad for engagement ring? ›

10k gold is fine for fashion jewelry. It holds up well and has a nice look and is the most affordable type of gold that you will probably consider. Avoid choosing 10k for engagement rings or wedding rings unless you are buying it for yourself and have a specific reason to do so.

What is an acceptable amount to pay for an engagement ring? ›

We have all heard of the saying 'an engagement ring should cost 3 months' salary' and although this is a great way to set a goal for saving there is no set rule for this.

Is $20,000 too much for engagement ring? ›

According to tradition, the amount you choose to spend on an engagement ring should approximate the amount of your monthly salary times two. By this measure, anyone who earns $2,000 a month should be looking at models in the $4,000 range. For someone earning $10,000 a month, a $20,000 ring would be about right.

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