The short answer: Los Angeles buyers can commission a bespoke engagement ring from us in Manchester online, approve the design in writing and receive it by insured, tracked FedEx delivery. 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.
Los Angeles is a city of sunshine, creative careers and big personalities. Buyers there often want a ring that photographs well and still feels personal.
A ring for sun and the outdoors
Sunny days mean sunscreen and sunglasses, and plenty of time outside on hikes, beaches and patios. Sunscreen leaves a film on a stone, so remove the ring before applying it and clean it weekly with warm soapy water. See hand cream, sunscreen and the film on your ring.
Design that stands out
Many LA clients ask for bold shapes, coloured stones or east west settings. Oval, radiant and emerald cuts are popular for their presence. See diamond shapes guide and east west settings explained.
A ring that works on camera and in person
If photographs matter to you, think about how a stone looks in different light. A brilliant cut sparkles in sunshine, while a step cut gives a calmer, glassy flash. We show stones on video in natural light, so you can judge for yourself.
Tips for a ring that photographs well
- A clean stone sparkles far more on camera, so clean it the day before.
- Elongated shapes such as ovals and emerald cuts look elegant in hand shots.
- A slim band lets the stone take centre stage in close ups.
- Yellow gold glows in warm evening light; white metals look crisp in daylight.
Bold without being impractical
A statement stone sits higher and catches more, so the setting matters. A hidden halo adds sparkle without extra height, six claws hold a larger stone securely, and a slightly wider band balances the weight on the finger. For an emerald cut, protected corners help it last. Our guide to settings for an emerald cut diamond explains the options, and we show each idea in a render before making.
Time difference
Los Angeles is roughly eight hours behind the UK for most of the year. An early morning call in Los Angeles is mid afternoon in Manchester, which works well for consultations, and most design work happens by message between calls.
US sizing
US ring sizes are numbered. Send us the size and a millimetre measurement too. See sizing a US finger for a bespoke ring from abroad.
Delivery, duty and tax
| Step | 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. |
See US import duty after de minimis ended for the current position.
Planning around a date
Count back from your proposal date: a few days spare, then delivery and customs, then 5 to 6 weeks of making, then the design conversation. Around three months ahead is comfortable, and more near the holidays.
Proposal ideas
Think a canyon hike at sunrise, a rooftop at sunset or a quiet stretch of coast. Check access, permits and fire or weather closures. Our Los Angeles proposal ideas has more suggestions.
See engagement ring etiquette in the US and written approval. Browse diamonds. Pieces start from £600.
Frequently asked questions
Can we plan around a proposal date? Yes.
Can I choose a lab grown diamond? Yes, and we label it clearly.
Who pays import charges? The customer.
Which shapes photograph best? Elongated shapes such as ovals and emerald cuts look elegant in hand shots.
Do I need to visit Manchester? No, we work by video consultation and message.