TL;DR: some Australians commission rings from overseas because they want a bespoke design, a particular style or a stone choice that suits them, and because video consultation makes it possible to do all of it from home. The trade offs are customs on arrival, the time zone and delivery. We work by video consultation and message, make nothing until you approve the design in writing, and deliver with insured, tracked FedEx delivery. Pieces start from £600.
Why look overseas?
People cite several reasons. Some want something that is not available locally, such as a specific design or a particular kind of stone. Some prefer to work closely with a maker who talks them through each stage. Others simply like the idea of a ring made by hand in a workshop in another country. These are personal reasons, and we do not suggest that a local jeweller is a lesser choice.
How it works from Australia
You do not need to travel. We talk through your ideas by video consultation and message, send sketches and CAD renders for you to review, and make nothing until you approve the design in writing. Our guide to ten questions international customers ask covers the process, and how written approval works explains the key step.
Working across time zones
Australia is many hours ahead of the UK, so a live call needs a little planning. Most of our conversation happens by message, which suits different time zones well, and we arrange video consultations at a time that works for both sides. Between calls you can review sketches and renders when it suits you, and reply in your own time. It is useful to agree early how quickly you would like to move, so the design does not stall.
The trade offs
- Customs: the customer pays import duty and tax, and thresholds apply.
- Time: standard making time is 5 to 6 weeks, plus design and delivery.
- Distance: sizing and any later adjustments need planning.
- Currency: ask which currency the invoice will be in, since exchange rates and card fees can change the final cost.
We explain each of these in writing before you order, so you can weigh them honestly. Our guide to Australian GST on imported jewellery and the A$1,000 threshold covers the tax side.
Sizing at a distance
Because adjusting a ring across the world is slow, get the size right before approval. Measure the inside of a ring that fits well in millimetres and tell us how you measured. A local jeweller can help. Our guide to sizing a finger for a bespoke ring from abroad explains the principles.
A sensible way to compare
If you are weighing a local jeweller against a maker overseas, compare like with like. Ask each for a written quote that shows the stone, the metal and its purity, the making time and what happens after delivery. For an overseas order, add a realistic allowance for tax and duty, and for the time it takes to arrive. Whichever you choose, the right one is the one that explains clearly and puts everything in writing.
After the ring arrives
Routine care and checks can be done locally, and we are available for advice. Our guide to aftercare for a UK ring when you live abroad explains how it works.
Paying safely
Paying a maker you have not met in person calls for care. Our guide to paying a deposit safely online explains what to check.
Frequently asked questions
Is it safe to commission a ring from overseas?
It can be, with clear written terms, careful payment and a design you approve first.
How long does it take?
Standard making time is 5 to 6 weeks, varying with location and how busy we are, plus design and delivery.
Who pays import duty?
The customer pays import duty and tax.
Do I need to visit the UK?
No. We work by video consultation and message.