The short answer: once you have approved a design in writing, changes are still possible in some cases, but they depend on how far the piece has progressed, and they may affect time and cost. Tell us as early as you can, and we explain what is possible.
People sometimes change their mind or spot a detail after approval. Here is how it works in practice.
Why approval matters
Nothing is made until you approve the design in writing. That approval is the point where the design is fixed for making. See written approval.
Making a change
| Stage | What may be possible |
|---|---|
| Before approval | You can keep refining the design with us. |
| Just after approval, before making | Often possible, and we explain any effect on time or cost. |
| During making | Limited, and may affect cost and time. |
| After completion | Usually a new commission or an alteration. |
We explain how a change would be handled for your order, in writing, before anything is agreed.
What happens once making starts
Making a bespoke ring is a sequence of steps that build on each other. Once the design is prepared for production and the metal has been formed, changing the shape of the head or the width of the band usually means starting that stage again. Changes that sit on the surface, such as a finish or an engraving word, are easier until the final polish. This is why we ask you to raise anything as soon as you notice it: a day can make a difference.
Small and large changes
- Small changes, such as a polish or an engraving word, are easier.
- Larger changes, such as a different stone shape, may mean redesigning.
- A change of metal can affect the look, the weight and the cost.
The stone
If a stone has been ordered for you, changing it may have consequences. Ask us before you decide. Browse diamonds to compare options.
How to request a change
- Contact us promptly and in writing.
- We tell you what is possible and what it would involve.
- You confirm in writing.
Avoiding changes
Look closely at the render before you approve it. Ask for views from several angles. Check the size and the engraving text carefully, letter by letter, and have someone else read the wording too. Think about how the ring sits beside a wedding band, and whether the width and height work for daily wear.
A checklist before you approve
- Stone: shape, size, colour and whether it is natural or lab grown.
- Metal: type and purity, written out in full.
- Size: the ring size and how it was measured.
- Dimensions: band width, setting height and profile.
- Engraving: every character, checked twice.
- Timing: the making time and any date you are working to.
Our guide to how a CAD render differs from the finished ring explains what a render can and cannot show, so you know what to look for.
Timing
Our standard making time is 5 to 6 weeks, which can vary with your location and how busy we are. A change may alter that, and we say so before you confirm. Pieces start from £600.
See what to do if the ring is not what you expected.
Frequently asked questions
Can I cancel after approval? Ask us, and we explain the position in writing before you approve.
Will a change cost more? It can, and we say so first.
Will it delay my ring? It can, and we tell you how much.
Can I change the engraving? Often, if it is raised early enough.
What should I check before approving? The stone, metal, size, dimensions, engraving and timing, all in writing.