TL;DR: when you pay a UK maker from the US, your bank or card provider converts pounds into dollars, so the final cost depends on the exchange rate on the day and on any foreign transaction fee your card charges. Check your card's terms, compare any conversion offered at payment with your bank's rate, and confirm the invoice currency in writing.
How currency conversion works
A price in pounds is converted to dollars by your card issuer or bank when the payment is processed. The rate moves daily, and the amount you finally pay can differ slightly from an estimate you worked out earlier. For a bespoke ring paid in more than one stage, each payment may convert at a different rate. Our only quoted starting point is that pieces start from £600, and we confirm the price of your design in writing before you commit.
Foreign transaction fees
Some US cards charge a foreign transaction fee on purchases made in another currency, usually a small percentage, while others charge none. Check your card's terms before you pay, and consider asking your bank which of your cards is best for an overseas purchase.
Converting at payment or at your bank
Sometimes a payment page offers to convert the amount into your own currency for you. That can be convenient, but the rate may be less favourable than the one your bank would apply. If you are given the choice, compare the two before deciding. We explain which currencies and payment methods are available when we confirm your design, so please ask us rather than assume.
Deposits and staged payments
Bespoke pieces are often paid in stages. We explain any deposit and balance terms in writing before you order, and nothing is made until you have approved the design in writing. Our guide to paying a deposit safely online covers what to look for when paying anyone you have not met in person. Because rates change, the dollar total can differ a little between stages.
Questions to ask before you commit
- Which currency will the invoice be in?
- Which payment methods are accepted, and are there any fees?
- How are deposits and final payments staged?
- Who pays any import duty or local tax, and when?
- What happens if the ring needs a change after approval?
Ask for the answers in writing and keep them with your invoice. We explain what to expect on each point before you order, and our guide to changes after approval covers the last question.
Duty and tax on arrival
The customer pays import duty and tax, and the rules differ by country, so we explain what to expect rather than quote figures that may change. Delivery is insured and tracked with FedEx. It is worth budgeting for these costs alongside the ring itself so there are no surprises when it arrives.
Keeping records
Keep every invoice, receipt, payment confirmation and design approval in one folder, along with any grading report. These help with insurance, any customs query and future valuations. Photographs of the finished ring are useful too, especially if you ever need to make an insurance claim. Our guide to reading your invoice and certificate explains what each document tells you.
Frequently asked questions
Will I pay in pounds or dollars?
Please ask us when you commission your piece. We confirm the currency and payment method in writing before you order.
Do US cards charge a fee for paying in pounds?
Some charge a foreign transaction fee and some do not. Check your card's terms.
Is it better to pay in pounds?
It depends on the rate and your card. Compare your bank's rate with any conversion offered at payment before deciding.
Who pays import duty?
The customer pays import duty and tax, which differ by country. We explain what to expect before you order.