Custom Bridal FAQ
Everything You Need to Know Before Getting Started
Creating a custom engagement ring is an exciting experience, and it's natural to have questions along the way. We've answered some of the most common questions to help you feel informed and confident as you begin your custom design journey.
Getting Started
Do I need to know exactly what I want before booking a consultation?
Not at all! Some customers arrive with a clear vision, while others are just beginning to explore their options.
Our team will guide you through the process, helping you understand gemstone shapes, sizes, setting styles, metals, and design possibilities.
Bring any inspiration photos, sketches, or saved images you love, but don't worry if you haven't narrowed things down yet.
Can I choose between natural diamonds, lab-grown diamonds, and colored gemstones?
Absolutely. We source natural diamonds, lab-grown diamonds, and colored gemstones through our extensive network of industry partners.
We'll help you explore the differences between your options and find a stone that aligns with your personal preferences, design vision, and budget.
Can I use my own diamond or gemstone?
Yes. We can work with customer-supplied stones, including family heirlooms and personally sourced gemstones.
Before beginning, we'll document your stone's condition and discuss the considerations involved in setting a previously owned gemstone.
While we work with an experienced manufacturing partner, setting any stone carries some risk of damage. Customers are responsible for damage to their supplied stones during setting and for any associated replacement costs.
Our team will explain these details before proceeding.
How long does selecting a center stone take?
Stone selection often takes approximately two appointments.
During your initial visit, we'll help you explore different shapes, sizes, and carat weights using our sample collection.
Once we've identified your preferences, we'll source a selection of stones for you to review in person before making your final choice.
Design & Customization
What is CAD design?
CAD stands for Computer-Aided Design. It allows our manufacturing partner to create detailed digital renderings of your ring before it is produced.
These drawings help you visualize the ring's proportions, setting, and design details, while allowing us to make refinements throughout the design process.
Can I make changes to my ring design?
Yes! We encourage collaboration and feedback throughout the design process.
Your design fee includes unlimited CAD revisions and physical wax models before final approval.
Once you've approved your final wax model and authorized your ring order, design changes are no longer possible.
What is a wax model, and why is it important?
A wax model is a physical representation of your custom ring design.
It allows you to see and experience the ring's actual scale, proportions, band width, setting height, and decorative details in a way that digital renderings cannot fully capture.
This step gives you the opportunity to request changes before committing to production.
How long does the design phase take?
Initial CAD renderings typically take approximately one week, with each revision requiring an additional 2 to 4 days.
Physical wax models generally take approximately one week each.
The overall design timeline depends on the number of revisions, wax models, and time needed for review and approval.
Pricing & Payment
How much does a custom engagement ring cost?
Every custom ring is unique, so pricing varies based on your center stone, chosen metal, design complexity, accent stones, and setting requirements.
Platinum and 18k gold generally cost more than 14k gold.
We'll discuss your budget during your consultation and help you explore options that align with your priorities.
Your setting price will be confirmed once CAD details are available and before you authorize production. Because metal prices can fluctuate, any necessary pricing adjustment will be reviewed with you for approval before the order is placed.
Is there a custom design fee?
Yes. A flat, nonrefundable $600 CAD design fee is required when your custom design project begins.
This includes:
- CAD design development
- Unlimited CAD revisions before final wax approval
- Unlimited physical wax models before final approval
- Insured shipping of stones for your custom project
This fee is separate from the ring price and is not applied toward your final purchase or production deposit.
When are payments required?
If you purchase a center stone through Element79, full payment for the stone is required upon selection.
The $600 CAD design fee is collected when your custom design project begins.
Once your final wax model, ring size, and setting price are approved, a 50% deposit on the setting price is required when your ring is ordered for production.
Can I cancel or return my custom ring?
Because custom rings are made specifically for you, orders become noncancelable and nonrefundable once the final design is approved and the ring is ordered.
Completed custom rings are not returnable.
We'll review your design, pricing, and approval details with you before placing your order.
Timing & Delivery
How long does it take to create a custom engagement ring?
Manufacturing typically takes approximately 30 business days after your final wax approval and order authorization.
This does not include the time needed for stone selection, CAD development, revisions, and wax model approvals.
Because each custom design is unique, the full timeline varies from project to project.
What if I have a proposal date or special deadline?
We recommend sharing your ideal date at the beginning of your custom design journey.
This allows us to discuss the timeline and plan around your intended proposal or event.
While we'll do our best to help you plan, production timelines are estimates rather than guaranteed delivery dates.
Will I receive updates throughout the process?
Yes. We'll keep you informed as CAD renderings and wax models become available, when approvals are needed, when manufacturing begins, and when your finished ring is ready for collection.
Ring Sizing & Care
How do I know what ring size to choose?
We'll offer to measure the wearer throughout the design process, taking into account the intended band width, ring profile, and comfort preferences.
Finger size naturally changes with temperature, swelling, and daily conditions, so no ring fits exactly the same every day.
Our team will help you determine the size most likely to feel comfortable overall. You'll confirm your final ring size before production begins.
What if my ring needs resizing after it's made?
If your ring is manufactured to your approved size, any resizing requested later due to fit preference or changes in finger size is an additional cost.
Not all ring designs can be resized, and we'll review the possibilities and provide a quote before any work begins.
If a ring is manufactured in a size different from your signed order, we will correct that discrepancy at no charge.
What happens if there is a manufacturing issue with my ring?
We stand behind the quality of our craftsmanship.
If your ring has a manufacturing defect, we'll repair or replace the affected part at no charge.
Damage resulting from everyday wear, accidents, or misuse is handled separately.
Ready to Begin?
Every custom engagement ring starts with a conversation.
Whether you're exploring your options or ready to bring a specific design to life, our team would love to help.
Book Your Custom Engagement Ring Consultation
Visit Element79 in Cherry Creek, Denver.