The short answer: ordering a ring for a partner in another country works the same way as any bespoke order, with a design agreed over video and email, and extra planning for sizing, delivery and the proposal. Decide early where the ring will go and how you will handle customs and timing.
Long distance couples are common, and a ring can still be designed with real care. Here is how to plan it.
Start with the design
We work by video and email, so being in different countries from us or from your partner makes little difference to the design. We share a sketch and a render, you refine it with us, and nothing is made until you approve the design in writing. See written approval.
Sizing at a distance
Ask a friend or family member to help, or borrow a ring your partner already wears and measure the inside of it. We talk through the best way for your situation and explain how accurate each method is. It helps to know which finger the ring will be worn on and whether your partner's fingers change with the weather.
Where will the ring go?
| Option | Consider |
|---|---|
| Send to you | You carry or send it on yourself. |
| Send to the proposal location | Needs someone to receive it. |
| Send to a trusted person | A friend or relative who keeps it safe. |
Delivery
Delivery is by insured, tracked FedEx, so you can follow the parcel. Choose an address where a trusted person will be available to receive it, and we talk through the delivery options for your destination before dispatch.
Customs, duty and tax
You pay any import duty and tax that apply in the destination country. The rules differ by country, and we talk through what to expect for your destination before you order. Allow time for any customs process, and keep the invoice to hand.
Which country is it going to?
If you and your partner live in different countries, the ring may be made for one and worn in the other. Think about where the ring will be insured, where it will be serviced and which country's duty applies to the delivery. Sending it to the country where it will be worn often makes sense, but it depends on when and where you plan to propose.
Travelling with a ring
If you carry the ring on a flight, check the rules for your route and airline, and keep the ring with you in hand luggage. You may also need to declare it when crossing a border. See travel storage for rings and proposing abroad: customs, insurance and airport security.
Keeping it secret
Use a private email address and a delivery address your partner will not see. See ordering a surprise ring secretly.
Proposing at a distance
Some couples get engaged on a visit, and others plan the proposal for the moment they are finally in the same place for good. Whichever you choose, try to have the ring in hand a little before the trip, so there is no stress about deliveries. Our guide to proposing in a long distance relationship has more ideas.
Timing
Our standard making time is 5 to 6 weeks, which can vary with your location and how busy we are. Add time for design, for delivery and for any customs process, and plan backwards from the day of the proposal. Talk to us early, since the more notice we have, the easier it is to fit your date. Pieces start from £600.
- Agree the design.
- Sort the size.
- Plan delivery and duty.
- Plan the proposal.
See ten questions international customers ask. Browse diamonds.
Frequently asked questions
Can you deliver to my partner? We can discuss it, with the surprise in mind.
What if the size is not right? Tell us promptly, and we explain the options for your ring before you order.
Can we talk on video? Yes.
Which country's duty applies? Usually the country the ring is delivered to.
Can you help plan the timing? Yes, tell us your date and we work back from it.