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There’s always been a misconception that designing your own engagement ring is more expensive than buying from the jeweler’s stock. If you’re in the market to get your future bride a ring as one-of-a-kind as she is, you may be surprised to learn that customizing your own ring is less costly than you might think.
Shop around different jewelers and speak to them personally about the design process. Some shops may keep a bigger selection of loose diamonds and settings in stock while others may be able to order what you’d like. Be sure you ask to speak to the jeweler on staff who would be creating the ring to get his input on which stone sizes and shapes best fit with your favorite setting. You may be surprised to find the perfect ring online rather than in-store, so check out virtual inventory to get a better idea of what you would like to create.
To make the ring even more meaningful, think outside the box. Opt for a sapphire or other gemstone instead of a diamond. Even if you choose a diamond for the center stone, personalize the setting with colored gems. Before making final decisions, consider your fiancé’s preferences. Is she a modern woman who would prefer a more contemporary setting or does she have a flare for vintage and would prefer an antique-inspired band? If in doubt, ask her friends and family for advice and consider the types of jewelry she currently wears. If all you’ve ever seen her wear is white gold or silver, chances are she won’t like a yellow gold band