The No Stress Guide to Commissioning a Bespoke Engagement Ring

​The first step towards walking down the aisle? Why getting engaged of course! Whether it's a low key proposal, or a super romantic grand gesture, all eyes will be on that all important engagement ring.

If you want your ring to be totally unique, you may have considered commissioning a bespoke engagement ring. This allows you to pick everything from the type of gemstone, to the style and setting of the ring.

But where do you start? UK based engagement ring jewellery specialists Jana and Ross from JanaReinhardt.com have all the answers. Here are their top five tips for commissioning a bespoke ring:

1. Find the right jewellery designer for you. Shop around and make sure the jeweller you choose understands exactly what you want. Most retailers will offer a quote and initial designs with no fee, and no obligation to buy. Make sure you check their terms and conditions before you start talking specifics. 

2. How much do you have to spend? Work out a budget and stick to it. A little unromantic, but its crucial you let your designer know, so they can use their skills to create the ring you want, with the best quality materials for your budget. As with all the big purchases in life, get quotes from a variety of jewellers to compare. 

3. Compile a brief. Start by photographing the type of jewellery your partner already wears. Do they have a favourite gemstone? Or are you certain they've got their heart set on a diamond? 

No ideas? Do some detective work. Ask friends and family for some pointers - has your partner ever discussed their dream engagement ring with them? Just make sure they don't blab before the big day! 

4. Find out the finger size secretly. Not as tricky as it sounds if she already wears rings. Simply sneak away one worn on the wedding finger (4th finger on the left hand) and use our DIY sizing guide to measure. 
          
Alternatively, just wait until she's asleep (or had too much wine, yes we've had clients that did this!) and measure her finger. If all else fails, let the jeweller know you don't have an exact size and they should be able to resize the ring after the proposal. 

5. What kind of timeframe are you looking at? Are you planning your proposal in 6 weeks, or 6 months? Tell the jeweller, to ensure your ring is ready at the crucial moment. If you want an intricate design or a special stone in a short space of time, your jeweller will be able to advise what is and isn't possible.

Article written by Julia Ross for Jana Reinhardt.