How to Design a Custom Engagement Ring

How to Design a Custom Engagement Ring

Designing a custom engagement ring isn’t just about jewellery — it’s about storytelling.

It’s the freedom to choose exactly what your partner loves. It’s the chance to craft a piece that speaks to your shared journey. And it’s surprisingly accessible — especially with today’s technology and Diamond Lab’s guided process.

If you're not seeing your dream ring in any display, that's probably because it's waiting to be created — by you.

Why Go Custom?

More and more couples in Australia are embracing the idea of custom engagement rings. Why? Because:

• You get a ring that’s truly unique

• It reflects your partner’s personality and style

• You control the design, budget, and timeline

• It's often more meaningful than an off-the-shelf piece

Whether you’re envisioning a classic solitaire with subtle personalisation, or a dramatic, sculptural ring inspired by architecture or nature — custom gives you that freedom.

At Diamond Lab, we guide you from the first sketch to the final sparkle.

Step 1: Start with the Stone

Choosing your centre stone is the first major decision. We specialise in lab-grown diamonds and moissanite, offering ethical brilliance without the inflated cost of mined stones.

Not sure which to choose?

• Lab diamonds: Classic, identical to mined diamonds, ideal for traditionalists

• Moissanite: Fiery brilliance, more affordable, loved for its bold sparkle

We also offer precision custom-cutting. Want a 2.3ct marquise with French tips? Or a 1.8ct oval with perfect symmetry and claw prongs? It’s all possible.

Step 2: Choose Your Cut and Shape

Each shape tells a story:

• Oval: Elegant and elongating

• Emerald: Sleek and architectural

• Round: Classic and symmetrical

• Pear: Romantic and bold

• Asscher, Princess, Radiant, Cushion, Marquise: Every shape carries personality

Ask yourself: What kind of elegance does your partner love — understated? Modern? Vintage?

Custom design means you’re not stuck with generic proportions either. We can adjust the length-to-width ratio or create a custom facet pattern to suit your exact vision.

Step 3: Define the Setting Style

Once your stone is selected, think about the structure that holds it — the setting.

Some clients start with a general idea (e.g., “I love east-west rings”) and others bring detailed inspiration. Either way, we’ll show you CAD models and 3D renderings so you can visualise it clearly.

Popular styles to customise:

• Solitaire: For a clean, sculptural look

• Three Stone: Add side stones to enhance the centre

• Hidden Halo: A sparkling surprise beneath the main stone

• Bezel or Half Bezel: Sleek and secure

• Cathedral or Pavé: For added lift or glitter

All our rings are made with refined claw prongs for elegance and modernity — we’ve moved far beyond traditional chunky settings.

Step 4: Select Your Metal

Metals aren’t just about colour — they affect tone, weight, and longevity.

• Platinum: Cool-toned, naturally hypoallergenic, premium

• 18k White Gold: Bright and versatile

• 18k Yellow Gold: Warm and traditional

• 18k Rose Gold: Romantic and soft

All metals we use at Diamond Lab are solid, not plated — and you can choose your preferred band width, height, and tapering.

Want your ring to feel bold? Opt for a 2.2mm band. Prefer dainty? A 1.5mm width with rounded edges might be perfect.

Step 5: Personal Touches

This is where custom design shines.

• Add hidden birthstones inside the band

• Engrave a phrase, date, or coordinates

• Include vintage-inspired milgrain or filigree details

• Request a low-profile setting for everyday practicality

• Align it with a matching wedding band for a perfect future fit

You can even request different stone orientation (east-west, diagonal, north-south) or mix shapes — like a pear-cut centre with trillion-cut sides.

Step 6: See It Come to Life

Once we’ve finalised your design, we’ll show you realistic CAD images from all angles.

You can approve the design, request changes, or even do a video consult to review every detail with us live. Once approved, your ring is handcrafted by expert jewellers in Australia, typically within 4–6 weeks.

Each piece is quality-checked, photographed, and sent in luxury packaging with certification.

Step 7: Try It On (Virtually or In Person)

Want to be absolutely sure before production? We offer:

• Virtual consultations with real-time stone comparisons

• In-showroom appointments in Perth

• Guidance via WhatsApp, email, or video — whatever suits your lifestyle

You’re never left in the dark. We’ll show you how the stone looks in different lighting, explain customisation choices in plain language, and provide honest advice based on years of experience.

Real Couples, Real Designs

One couple recently asked for a ring that mirrored their favourite hiking trail — we engraved the coordinates inside the band and used a marquise moissanite to echo the mountain ridge.

Another client requested a ring inspired by her grandmother’s 1940s design, with modern updates for wearability. We recreated the scalloped basket in platinum and added a hidden halo to elevate the look.

Custom doesn’t have to mean flashy — it just has to feel right.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How much does a custom engagement ring cost?
A: Prices vary depending on the stone and materials. Most custom moissanite rings start from ~$1,800–$2,500, while lab diamond customs range from ~$3,000–$6,000+. You control the budget.

Q: How long does it take?
A: Approximately 4–6 weeks from design approval. Need it faster? We’ll try to help — just ask.

Q: Can I design without knowing exactly what I want?
A: Yes! That’s what we’re here for. You can start with as little as a Pinterest photo or a rough sketch.

Q: Do I need to visit in person?
A: Not at all. Our entire design process can be done online or over video if you're outside Perth.

Q: Can I customise an existing Diamond Lab design?
A: Absolutely. You can tweak stone size, shape, setting height, and more.

Ready to Design Your Ring?

Let’s create something unforgettable together. Whether you want to build from scratch or evolve an existing favourite, Diamond Lab is here to guide you every step of the way.

✨ Start Your Custom Design Here
📞 Book a Design Consultation