Build Your Own Engagement Ring Tips and Guide

When you’re at the jewelers, it may be difficult to pick out the perfect engagement ring. After all, there are so many different stones, settings, and metals to choose from. But what if you can’t find the ring that is just right for your special someone?

While this may have been a problem many years ago, there is a solution that has become more and more popular in recent years. These days, many couples choose to design their own customized engagement rings. If you choose to build your own engagement ring, you will be able to select not only the stone, setting, and metal, but the accents and band as well. Building your own unique engagement ring is the perfect way to create a long lasting reminder of your unique love for your future spouse.

The Center of Your World - Choosing the Center Stone
The first decision you will need to make when building your own engagement ring is what you want the center stone to be. One of the most common center stones in engagement rings is the diamond, but don’t let this limit your decision. The great thing about choosing to build your own engagement ring is that you can choose whatever stone you want, whether it is a diamond, a pearl, an opal, a sapphire, a ruby, or even an emerald.

The possibilities are endless! Generally, pearls and opals are not used in engagement rings because they are too smooth. Choosing the center stone is very important because it will come to determine other factors, such as the setting of the ring.

Other Things to Consider…
Other factors must be considered when you build your own engagement ring, such as the type of metal that you will use. Do you prefer a more traditional look? You may wish to choose a classic gold wedding band. Do you have more of a contemporary style? Then maybe silver, platinum, or white gold is the look for you.

The type of metal you choose depends not only on your personal style, but on your budget as well. Some metals, like gold or white gold, are less expensive than other metals, such as platinum. Whatever your decision, the type of metal you choose when you build your own engagement ring should highlight the center stone that you choose for your ring.

Many people decide to embellish their ring with other accents, such as side stones, filigree designs, and engravings. The inclusion of a birthstone or a personal message etched along the inside will further contribute to the engagement ring’s unique feel. When you build your own engagement ring, make sure to consider the wedding band that you will be wearing after the wedding ceremony and how the two pieces of jewelry will go together.

A Costly Engagement
The downside of choosing to build your own engagement ring is that it is usually more expensive than simply selecting one from the store. You can cut down on the cost of materials by using lower-grade metals, lower carat weight stone, and by reducing the amount of accents included on the ring.

However, even taking these measures will not reduce the labor costs associated with building your own engagement ring; most jewelers charge a hefty fee for this service because it is not a cost-effective process, and it is very time consuming as well.

Despite the costs involved, choosing to build your own engagement ring is one decision you will not regret. Because you are able to select the stone, metal, engravings, accents, and design, you will be creating a piece with a truly personal touch that will be treasured forever.

Next article: Unique Engagement Rings - Finding a Unique One For Her