Q & A : Custom jewellery
Ever wondered what happens when you go to design your own engagement ring ? Or give an heirloom piece a new lease on life ? We asked some of Queensland ’ s premier jewellers what couples can expect from a bespoke experience — and why more and more couples are choosing to make their rock one of a kind .
p . s . Not engaged yet ? No judgement if you accidently screenshot this story and send it to your sweetheart …
Look for a jewellery showroom with an onsite workshop so you can see or speak directly with the person making your ring . It can also reduce turnaround time as you ’ re not waiting for the ring to be finished or delivered by a third party .
28 Autumn 2022
Note to self
[ Above ] Xennox Diamonds [ Below ] Clayfield Jewellery
Why go bespoke ?
You only have to walk into a jewellery showroom or take a leisurely scroll through their socials to realise there are a lot of incredible ready-made engagement rings out there . Real showstoppers . But there ’ s something extra special about a personal , made-for-you piece . It ’ s like choosing couture over ready-to-wear . “ It means you receive a custom ring with lasting memories over a mass produced or a machine-made ring ,” says Ben Lucas , Master Jeweller at Main Beach ’ s Just B Jewellery . “ A one-off piece that is completely unique and individual ,” Being involved in the design process ( either together or as a surprise ) is another draw for those looking for an out-of-the-box design . “ Playing a big part in the design process and working closely with their jeweller to design the perfect piece is a huge deciding factor for couples ,” says Ben . “ There are many reasons clients go for a custom ring ,” says Macy from Clayfield Jewellery . “ Maybe their engagement ring won ’ t fit next to a straight band or maybe they can ’ t find the perfect ring in store . But by far the main reason is because they ’ re looking for a unique piece that can ’ t be found anywhere else .” And remember , you ’ re wearing this beauty every day , so why compromise ?
So how does it work ?
To get your rock rolling , book a consulation or design appointment with your preferred jeweller ( these meetings are usually free ). At Xennox Diamonds ( in Brisbane ’ s CBD ), your design appointment might start with a single-malt whisky or glass of Champagne . Speaking our language already ! Once you ’ re comfy in the showroom , the team whisk away any jewellery pieces you might want professionally cleaned as you chat all things bling with a dedicated jeweller designer . Taking into account the shapes , stones , and metals you prefer , they will then sketch your dream ring from a 3D oblique perspective to give you an idea of how it will look . This initial sketch often becomes a precious keepsake once the ring is on your finger .
What if I don ’ t know exactly what I want ?
Don ’ t worry , the experts are there to listen and gently guide you , for a ring that is completely ‘ you ’. Xennox jewellery designer and author of Rock Her World , Karl Schwantes , notes the importance of a personal approach . “ We take the time to chat about things you love , what your daily work involves , and what will look good on your finger ,” he says . Oh , and don ’ t forget that folder of inspo pics you ’ ve been keeping since you were 12 .
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