A bespoke ring can be designed comfortably across 12 time zones by booking video consultations at an early morning or evening slot that suits both sides, and sharing photographs, sketches and CAD renders by email between calls. Most of the work happens in writing, so time differences matter less than you might expect.
In short: agree a regular call time, use email for detail, and confirm each decision in writing.
Finding a time
When the UK and New Zealand are 12 or 13 hours apart, an early morning in one place is an evening in the other. A call at 8am UK time is an evening call in Auckland. Use a world clock to check daylight saving changes, as they shift the gap by an hour at different points in the year.
What happens on a call
A first consultation usually covers your ideas, budget range, stone preferences and ring size. Photographs of rings you like help a great deal. Later calls review sketches or CAD renders, and stones can be shown on camera, though photographs and videos sent by email show more detail.
Photo: Pexels contributor via Pexels.
Working between calls
Most of the design work happens by email. You can review designs in your own time and reply with comments. Keep one thread for the whole project, so nothing is lost.
Approving the design
Ask for a CAD render from several angles, with measurements, before anything is made. Confirm the metal, stone, size and any engraving in writing. Our page on commissioning your ring remotely explains each stage.
Delivery and fitting
Ask about delivery timing well in advance, especially around holidays. If the ring needs resizing, ask whether a local jeweller can do it or whether it should be returned.
Tips for a smooth process
Write your questions down before each call. Ask for a short summary afterwards. Share your size in millimetres. Be clear about any date you are working towards.
Starting a commission
Our bespoke design page explains how a bespoke ring is designed, crafted by specialist goldsmiths.
Everyday care
Clean the ring gently at home with warm water, a drop of mild washing up liquid and a soft brush, then dry it with a lint free cloth. Take it off for the gym, heavy lifting, gardening and swimming. Have the claws checked by a jeweller about once a year, and add the ring to your insurance as soon as you have it, checking that cover applies when you travel.
If you notice a loose stone, a bent claw or a ring catching on clothing, stop wearing it and take it to a jeweller promptly. Small repairs are simple when caught early, and a regular check helps the ring last for generations.
Daylight saving
The UK changes its clocks in late March and late October, while New Zealand and much of Australia change theirs in early April and late September. For a few weeks each year the gap changes by an hour, so double check meeting times around these dates.
Sharing photographs and video
Photographs taken in daylight show colour most accurately. Ask for a video of the stone turning, so you can see its sparkle. If you are comparing two stones, ask for them side by side in the same light.
Sizing from afar
Share your size in millimetres as well as your local system, and get measured by a local jeweller if you can. Our ring sizing page explains how.
Frequently asked questions
Can I design a bespoke ring with a maker abroad?
Yes. Video calls, photographs and CAD renders make remote design straightforward.
How do we manage a 12 hour time difference?
Book early morning or evening calls and handle most of the detail by email.
Will I see the design before it is made?
Ask for a CAD render with measurements before production.