TL;DR: when you cannot visit us, the CAD render is how you see the ring before it is made. Look at it from every angle, check the proportions against a ring you already know, ask questions about anything unclear and request changes at this stage. Nothing is made until you approve the design in writing, so take your time. Pieces start from £600.
What a CAD render is
CAD means computer aided design. A render is a realistic picture of the ring built from a digital model. We send views from the top, the side and the front, and often a rotating view. It shows the shape of the stone, the setting, the band and the finish.
What to look at
- The proportions. Is the stone the size you imagined against the band?
- The height. How far does the ring sit above the finger?
- The claws or rim. Are they where you expect, and thick enough?
- The band width and shape.
- The side view. A ring can look different from the side.
Checking size on screen
Screens can make a ring look larger or smaller than it will be. Ask us for measurements, and compare them with a ring you own. Print a ruler or lay a ring next to the screen to get a feel. We are happy to explain the dimensions in writing.
A review routine that works
- Look at the top view first, and ask whether the shape feels right.
- Then look at the side view, and ask whether the height suits your partner's life.
- Look at the underside, where the setting often shows its character.
- Compare dimensions with a ring your partner already wears.
- Leave it for a day, then look again with fresh eyes.
What a render cannot show
A render is lit perfectly and usually shown much larger than life. It cannot show exactly how the metal will look in your light, how the stone will sparkle as you move, or how the ring will feel on the finger. Metal colours can also shift slightly from screen to screen. Keeping these limits in mind helps you judge the render fairly. See how a render differs from the finished ring.
The stone in a render
A render shows a stone as a model, not as its real sparkle or colour. For the real stone, ask for photographs and video. Our guide to reading your invoice and certificate explains the documents.
Asking for changes
Tell us what to adjust, and be specific if you can. Examples include a thinner band, a lower setting, a different claw shape or a change of metal. We update the render and send it again. Changes are easiest at this stage. Our guide to changes after approval explains why.
Getting a second opinion
You are welcome to show the render to family or friends. If the ring is a surprise, think about who you can trust. See ordering a surprise ring secretly.
Giving written approval
When you are happy, you approve in writing. We keep the record. Our guide to how written approval works sets out the step.
After approval
Standard making time is 5 to 6 weeks, varying with your location and how busy we are. Overseas, the customer pays import duty and tax, and delivery is insured and tracked with FedEx. When the ring arrives, our ten minute inspection helps you compare it with the render.
Frequently asked questions
Is a render exactly what I will receive?
It is a close guide. Small differences in finish and stone can exist.
How many changes can I ask for?
We aim to get it right with you. Ask, and we say what is reasonable.
Can I see a physical sample?
We work by video and message. Ask us what we can show on camera.
Why does the ring look bigger on screen?
Renders are often shown larger than life, so compare measurements with a ring you own.
What if I am unsure?
Tell us. We would rather talk it through than rush you.