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6 Steps to the Perfect Ring

At first glance, engagement rings seem like such simple things. A diamond, some shiny metal, a nice box, maybe an engraved message and that’s it.

When you begin the process of buying an engagement ring however, you learn that it’s anything but simple! As well as the big decisions like which metal, stone, shape, cut, and setting you want, there’s several other things to think about: the metal finish, your budget, the rings style.

So, take a deep breath, put the kettle on and take some time to read our guides to the perfect bespoke ring.

If it's all a bit too much right now, don't worry, our qualified Diamond grader will be more than happy to talk you through them, you can always refer back to the guide at a later time.

The key here is take your time, if your not sure, don't hesitate to ask and remember, what we want is for you to have not only the most beautiful ring for your partner but something that won't break your budget.

Spend what you can comfortably afford. Be responsible and keep the budget well within your means.

1 - Decide your Budget

Using an image or photograph, a sketch or even a piece of music and our use of state of the art 3D modelling technology coupled with award winning design will allow us to incorporate it as a design element into the resulting piece.

We can use these elements as an engraving, a motif embossed or cut into the piece, specific shapes and stones or a mixture of all of these to create something unique and personal to you and your partner.

This ensures that the resulting piece not only accurately reflects the story behind it but becomes an integral part of it.

We offer a fully bespoke service that ensures the design is exactly the ring you both want. Browse for inspiration and ideas, then feel free to let us know what you have in mind.

2 - Create your design

We can advise on both natural or lab grown diamonds, all of which are fully certified. If you would like to select any other gemstone, it's not a problem, simply ask and we will happily advise.

We have a guide to choosing the perfect diamond here.

3 - Choose your Stones

The best time of day to measure is in the evening, when fingers are largest. Avoid measuring when cold, as fingers are at least half a size smaller and when measuring your finger, always refrain from using a string, they tend to stretch, which can result in wrong size. ALWAYS use a paper strip about 1/2 inch width. You can then bring this piece of paper into the store, where we will be able to get a good estimate of sizing.

The simplest way to find your partner's ring size is to 'borrow' a ring they already wear. As engagement and wedding rings are typically worn on the third finger of the left hand, it's perhaps unlikely that that finger is already adorned.

( If your partner is likely to notice the disappearance of a ring, then carefully draw around the inside of the ring on a piece of paper, for an approximate size guide )

Your partner's friends and family are also a great source of help if you're still struggling to find the right size. They may be better placed to get the ring size without raising suspicion, so if you can enlist their help, take advantage of it. Just be sure that they will keep your secret if you want the proposal to be a surprise.

 If in doubt, choose a slightly larger size. It is easier to make a larger ring smaller without damaging the integrity of the piece, and it will also help to salvage the romance of the moment if the ring is a little too large than if it simply won't go onto your beloved's finger.

4 - Ring Size

We work in Gold, Platinum and Silver. There are benefits and drawbacks with each Alloy. Choose the one that most appeals to you and your budget. Our goldsmith and designer will be more than happy to explain the differences between them.

5 - Choose your Metal

At this stage we will request payment of a 50% deposit. You can check-out securely via most debit or credit cards or PayPal.

Your piece will then be cast, mounted, engraved and finished by hand in our central London workshops, Once complete your piece is then assessed & hallmarked at the London Assay office before the final finishing and quality assurance process.

6 - Sign Off and Proceed

We guarantee that all diamonds supplied are conflict free, based on personal knowledge and/or written guarantees provided by our suppliers. We will not knowingly sell conflict diamonds and, to the best of our ability, we will undertake reasonable measures to help prevent the sale of conflict diamonds.

Production Time

Collect or Delivery

The Perfect Fit

From design sign off, you can expect your ring to be ready between 10 and 28 working days.

Its your choice, you may collect your ring directly from our workshop, alternatively, we can arrange fully insured delivery.

If the ring doesn't fit perfectly, simply let us know and we will resize for you completely free of charge.

Telephone & Text 07703 697983 | studio@abbevilleau.com

AbbevilleAU is the trading style of CAVU Design Ltd - Registered in England 16310193
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