Personalized Ring Design Process
At DDS Diamonds, we focus on collaborating closely with you with the design process from start to finish to create your perfect ring. Typically, you’ll start with a one-on-one consultation at our DDS Diamonds studios with our highly skilled head designer, Richard Moser. If visiting our studios isn’t possible, we can coordinate everything via phone and email. However, we always prefer meeting in person when feasible. Our team also includes other expert jewellery designers, each with decades of experience.
Step 1: Understanding Your Vision
We tailor the design process to match your level of knowledge and specific preferences. Some couples arrive with a clear vision, while others might have a general idea or seek guidance from our designers. Regardless of your starting point, Richard and the DDS team work to ensure you feel welcomed and at ease.
Step 2: Selecting the Stone Shape
Our first step is to choose the shape of the stone that best reflects your partner’s character and desires—whether it’s round, square, or a fancy shape. Once you determine the stone shape, we move on to the setting style.
Step 3: Choosing the Setting
In our studios, you can explore a vast selection of diamond engagement ring designs in white and yellow gold. Sometimes, one of our existing designs fits perfectly, but more often, you’ll find elements you like in multiple designs. We then combine these features to create a unique ring that fits your vision.
Step 4: Detailing the Setting
Next, we decide on the ring design process is the setting that will hold the centre stone securely. Your options include 4-claw or 6-claw settings, with various styles available.
Step 5: Design Process of the Band
After finalizing the ring setting style, we turn our attention to the band’s thickness and profile—whether it will be flat, rounded, or somewhere in between. If you plan to feature diamonds in the band, it is typically flat to accommodate them. Without diamonds, you have more flexibility in design options.
Step 6: Choosing the Stone Size
The next step involves selecting the size of the stone or stones. DDS Diamonds offers diamonds ranging from 0.50ct up to 5ct and beyond. We’ll discuss your budget to explore what’s achievable, considering the best shape and style of diamond to complement your design. Richard, a qualified Gemmologist, will explain diamond grading and help you choose the most suitable grade based on your preferences.
Step 7: Selecting the Metal
We then decide on the metal for your ring. For everyday wear, durability is key. Our 18ct white gold, high in Palladium, is harder-wearing than Platinum and maintains its whiteness through rhodium plating. If you prefer a purer white metal, Platinum is a prestigious option, known for its exceptional whiteness and durability. While other metals are available, 18ct white and yellow gold remain the most popular choices for engagement and wedding rings.
Finalizing The Ring Design Process
After finalising the basics—setting style, materials, band thickness, and stone size—we focus on the finer details of the design. This includes the overall height of the ring, whether the band will be straight or tapered, and any additional custom elements you wish to incorporate.
Step 8: Creating the Design
Once we settle on the design, one of our designers will hand-draw the ring, ensuring every detail, including the thickness of settings, claws, and band, is accurately represented. Our designers create life-size drawings with precise thicknesses and heights, capturing every fine detail.
Final Step: Complimentary Consultation
We offer a complimentary consultation that typically lasts about an hour. Our goal is to make you feel confident and comfortable by showcasing our professionalism, expertise, and competitive pricing. At DDS Diamonds, we ensure that your ring will be as unique and special as your love story.
FAQs on Custom Ring Design Process
Custom rings typically start at AUD 4,000–5,000 for simple designs and can go up to AUD 30,000+ for premium bespoke pieces. The final price depends on the diamond size, metal, and complexity of the design.
A typical custom ring takes 6–8 weeks, though simpler designs may take less time and complex pieces may take up to 12 weeks.
No—many clients come with only a rough idea. Our team will guide you through every step and help bring your vision to life.
Yes, you can provide your own stone. Our gemmologist will assess it and ensure it’s set securely within your custom design.
Platinum is more dense, naturally white, and hypoallergenic. 18ct white gold is lighter, more affordable, and requires rhodium plating to maintain its whiteness.
Yes. You’ll receive a CAD or hand-drawn sketch to approve before we begin crafting the final piece.
Absolutely. We can repurpose heirloom diamonds or reset existing stones into a brand-new custom design.
Step 1: We start with a personal consultation to understand your ideas and budget.
Step 2: Choose a diamond or gemstone shape that suits your partner’s style.
Step 3: Select a setting style—like 4-claw or 6-claw—that fits your stone.
Step 4: Pick the band shape and thickness (flat, round, or custom).
Step 5: Decide on the diamond size, from 0.50ct to 5ct+, with gemmologist guidance.
Step 6: Choose your metal—18ct white/yellow gold or platinum.
Step 7: Finalise details like band height, tapering, and any extras.
Step 8: Review a hand-drawn sketch of your ring before production.
Step 9: Your ring is handcrafted in our Adelaide studio with precision.
Step 10: Enjoy a complimentary consultation with no pressure to commit.