The short answer: we do not start making a ring until you have approved the design in writing, and that approval covers the stone, the metal, the style, the size and the price. It protects you and us by making sure we both know exactly what is being made.
Written approval is a simple step with a big effect, particularly when you are ordering from another country and cannot pop in to see the ring in progress. Here is how it works.
What you approve
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Design | The sketch and render, from several angles. |
| Stone | Type, shape, size and whether natural or lab grown. |
| Metal | Which metal and its colour. |
| Size | The ring size. |
| Engraving | Any text and its placement. |
| Price | The agreed price. |
How it works
- We share a design and render.
- You ask for changes until you are happy.
- You confirm in writing, such as by email.
- Only then do we begin making.
Reading a render
A render is a detailed digital picture of the ring, but it is not a photograph. It is usually shown much larger than life, under perfect lighting, so a real ring on your hand will look smaller and more delicate. Ask us for views from the top, the side and the back, and for a view on a hand if that helps you judge scale. Our guide to how a render differs from the finished ring explains what to expect.
Take your time
There is no need to rush. Ask questions, look at the render from every angle and think about it. Show it to someone whose opinion you trust. A day or two of reflection is cheaper than a change later.
What to check
- The proportions and the setting height.
- The stone shape and size, and whether it is natural or lab grown.
- The ring size and the engraving spelling.
- How the ring sits beside a wedding band, if you plan to wear one.
- The price and what it includes.
A simple approval message
Approval does not need formal language. A short reply that confirms the design, the stone, the metal, the size, any engraving and the price is enough. Writing out the engraving text in full in your message is a good habit, because it doubles as a final spelling check. Keep a copy of the message with your other paperwork.
After approval
Our standard making time is 5 to 6 weeks, which can vary with your location and how busy we are. If you need to change something, tell us as soon as possible. See how changes after approval are handled.
Why it matters to you
Approval keeps surprises to a minimum. The ring you receive is the ring you agreed, and you have a written record of what that was. It also gives us a clear reference to check against before dispatch. See what a goldsmith checks before dispatch.
International orders
Approval by email works from anywhere. We can also talk on video, and you can ask for extra views of the render. If you live outside the UK, remember that you pay any import duty and tax that apply in your country, and we explain what to expect before you order.
Pieces start from £600.
See paying a deposit safely online. Browse diamonds.
Frequently asked questions
Do you make anything before approval? No. Nothing is made until you approve the design in writing.
Can I approve by message? Tell us how you would like to confirm, and we agree the method with you.
What if I do not like the render? We refine it with you until you are happy.
Can I ask for another view? Yes, and it is a good idea.
Does my partner need to approve too? Only if you want them to, and for a surprise you approve on your own.