An engagement ring is one of the most meaningful objects you'll ever buy - not because of its price tag, but because it carries the story of two people. If you're looking for something you won't find in a mall display case, this guide is for you.
How much does a custom engagement ring cost?
Honest answer: from ~€180 to €5,000+, depending on three variables: metal, stone, and complexity. Silver 925 is the most accessible, 14K gold hits the sweet spot, 18K gold and platinum are premium. Moissanite looks like diamond but costs 3–5× less.
Step-by-step: from idea to finished ring
- Consultation - tell us about your vision, your partner's style, and your budget.
- CAD design + 3D render - a photorealistic preview from every angle. Changes are free at this stage.
- Wax model or 3D print - a 1:1 physical prototype you can hold.
- Lost-wax casting - molten metal fills the cavity left by the burned-out wax. A 5,000-year-old technique.
- Hand finishing - filing, polishing, texturing. Optional oxidation or satin finish.
- Stone setting + QC - hand-set prong, bezel, or channel mount. Loupe inspection. Packaged and shipped.
Choosing your metal
| Metal | Karat | Durability | Color | Price* |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Silver 925 | - | Good | White (tarnishes) | $$ |
| Gold 585 | 14K | Very good | Yellow / white / rose | $$$ |
| Gold 750 | 18K | Excellent | Richer hue | $$$$ |
| Platinum 950 | - | Highest | Gray-white, never fades | $$$$$ |
14K gold is the most popular choice for engagement rings in Europe - great balance of durability and value. For sensitive skin, we recommend 18K gold (fewer alloys, lower allergy risk).
Diamond, moissanite, or colored gemstone?
- Natural diamond - hardest stone (10 Mohs), highest prestige, highest price. Graded by 4C (carat, cut, color, clarity).
- Moissanite - 9.25 Mohs, more fire than diamond, 3–5× cheaper. Visually identical to the naked eye.
- Sapphire / emerald / ruby - color adds character. Blue and pink sapphires are an engagement hit. Emeralds (7.5 Mohs) need a protective setting.
Finding the size when the ring is a surprise
With a proposal this is a real problem, because you cannot simply ask. Three approaches that work: borrow a ring she wears on the same finger for one evening and lay it on the circle chart from our printable sizer. Ask a relative or a close friend, since someone usually knows. Or order a middle size, 54 or 56, and plan the adjustment after the proposal.
That last option is less risky than it sounds. Resizing by one or two sizes is routine work for us, as long as the ring has no stones set all around and no inside engraving. That is why we engrave after the proposal, once the size is certain. If you know the size but in another system, convert it in the EU, US, UK and JP converter.
Timeline
- Simple silver ring - 1–2 weeks
- Gold with stone, standard casting - 2–4 weeks
- Complex multi-stone design - 4–6 weeks
- Express (surcharge) - from 7 business days
Tools for this topic
Jewelry with stones
Engagement rings and pieces using a stone you provide.
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