The short answer: Brisbane buyers can commission a bespoke engagement ring from us in Manchester online, approve the design in writing and have it delivered insured and tracked by FedEx. Import duty and taxes are paid by the customer, and our standard making time is 5 to 6 weeks, varying with location and how busy we are.
Brisbane is warm and humid for much of the year, with the river, the bay and the islands close by.
A ring for heat and humidity
In humid heat, hands swell, so a ring that fits in winter can feel tight. Sunscreen and insect repellent leave a film on a stone, so take the ring off before applying them and clean it weekly with warm soapy water. See hand cream, sunscreen and the film on your ring and ring care in tropical, dry and cold climates.
Water and the coast
If weekends mean the bay, the islands or a pool, take the ring off for swimming and store it safely. See beach holiday ring care.
Choosing a stone
Sapphires come in many colours and suit active, outdoor lives, while diamonds suit a classic look. We label every stone clearly as natural or lab grown. Browse diamonds, or ask us about sapphires. If you would like a stone with an Australian story, our guide to Australian parti sapphires is a good place to start.
A comfortable fit in a warm climate
A comfort fit band, slightly domed on the inside, slides on and off more easily when fingers swell, and many people in warm places prefer it. A slightly lower setting is cooler and less likely to catch on light summer clothing. If your size changes noticeably between seasons, tell us and we will suggest a fit that is secure in the cooler months without pinching in February.
Time difference
Brisbane does not use daylight saving, so it sits about nine to ten hours ahead of the UK depending on our clocks. An evening call in Brisbane reaches us in the morning, and most design work happens by message between calls.
Process, delivery and duty
| Stage | Detail |
|---|---|
| Design | Sketch and render, refined with you. |
| Approval | In writing, before making. |
| Making | Standard 5 to 6 weeks, varying with location and how busy we are. |
| Delivery | Insured and tracked with FedEx. |
| Duty and tax | Paid by the customer, and we explain what to expect. |
Our guides to Australian GST on imported jewellery and paying for a UK bespoke ring in AUD explain the tax and currency side.
Sizing
Australian sizes use letters. Measure at a calm moment, since heat makes fingers larger, and send a millimetre measurement too. If you are between sizes, tell us and we advise.
Planning around the weather
Summer storms can arrive quickly. If you plan an outdoor proposal, keep a covered backup nearby, and keep the ring in a secure pocket until the moment.
Planning around a date
Many proposals fall over the summer holidays, which is also the busiest time for couriers and customs. Count back from your date and start in early spring if you can. Tell us your date at the start and we will say plainly in writing what is realistic.
Proposal ideas
Riverside walks, a lookout at sunset or a day trip to the bay islands all suit. Check ferry times and access.
See proposing on the Gold Coast and in Noosa and written approval. Pieces start from £600.
Frequently asked questions
Will the ring cope with humidity? Regular cleaning keeps it bright.
Should I size up for the heat? Tell us and we advise.
Who pays import charges? The customer.
What is a comfort fit band? A band slightly domed inside, so it slides on and off more easily.
Can we video call? Yes.