BESPOKE DESIGN SERVICES

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Selecting a jeweller or a designer to create your bespoke ring is a big decision. To help you decide if we're the right people to create your forever ring, we've answered some of the most frequently asked questions about our bespoke design services below.

WHERE ARE YOU BASED?

Our head office is in the leafy suburb of Tapton in Sheffield. We create forever rings for customers all around the world, and host our consultations online via Zoom, so you can meet your designer and discuss your project face to face from wherever you are. If you'd prefer, we can also work with you via email.

WHO ARE YOUR DESIGNERS?

Our jewellery design team is lead by our principal designer and founder, Jessica Flinn. Her many accolades include becoming a finalist for the Jewellery Designer of the Year and Bridal Retailer of the Year. Jessica was awarded Yorkshire Jeweller of the year for two years running 2019 and 2020.  


Known for her unique designs and her ability to source and incorporate unusual gemstones, Jessica has gained a reputation as one of the best engagement and wedding ring designers in the UK, bolstered by over ten years' experience. 


To find out more about our wonderful team of designers, click here.


IS THERE A MINIMUM BUDGET?

Yes. Creating your perfect ring shouldn't be rushed, which is why we have a minimum budget to allow our designers to dedicate time to each ring. For a truly bespoke ring, our minimum budget is £2000 for engagement rings and £1500 for wedding, stacking and tiara rings. 


If you already love one of our existing designs and would like to make a minor change, such as sourcing alternative stones of the same size, our minimum spend is £1500. 


All of our Signature Collection wedding bands can be adjusted to sit perfectly with your existing ring with no minimum spend - simply purchase our Shaped Wedding Band package.


All of our earrings and necklaces can be customised, with a minimum spend of £500, and we can create bespoke designs with a minimum spend of £750.

HOW DO I BOOK AN APPOINTMENT?

You can book an in-person or virtual appointment here.

WHAT HAPPENS AT A DESIGN CONSULTATION?

During your online design consultation we will ask you questions. Of course we'll ask lots of important questions about how you met, when you get married and the styles of ring you like. However, we'll also ask questions about the wearer's hobbies, personal style and interests. This really helps us during the design process to not only capture the personality of the person who will be wearing the forever ring we're creating, but to also ensure it is appropriate for them. 


We will then talk to you about your ring. We'll take you through all of the material choices, such as metals and gemstones, and discuss these in relation to your budget. 


At the end of the session we will tell you what to expect next - which is usually further communication via email with our design team.

WHAT SHOULD I HAVE READY FOR MY DESIGN CONSULTATION? 

Before your design consultation it would be great if you could have a few things ready. Firstly, you've probably taken a look at other rings and have already seen some you like. If you could save these images so we can talk through the elements you like within each ring. 


Secondly, it's great to know a little about the person you're designing the ring for. If it isn't for yourself, here's a few things to look for: 

- Do they wear jewellery? If so, what metal do they prefer? 

- What colours do they like to wear, both in other jewellery but also clothing?

- Do you know or can you find out their ring size? 


Finally, think about your budget and how much you would like to spend. 


That's everything - we're here to walk you through the whole process and can help you with all of the above if you are unsure.

WHAT GEMSTONES DO YOU USE?

Within our Signature Collection pieces we typically use diamonds and other precious gemstones, but when it comes to bespoke rings, we can source a huge array of colourful and dazzling gemstones. 


Our bespoke rings have featured Tanzanites, Morganites, Sapphires, Garnets, Rubies, Amethysts, Tsavourites and many more. Unusual gemstones are our speciality, and within the diamond and sapphire family we love to work with salt & pepper diamond, black diamonds, coloured diamonds, the whole rainbow of sapphires and of course, colour change sapphires. 


If you're creating an engagement ring, we fully believe that diamonds don't ask the question - you do! And the gemstone you choose should be as unique and magical as the person you're choosing it for. If diamonds don't speak to you - let's find something that does. 


Please note that we do not work with opals and other soft gemstones - due to the softness of the stone we cannot guarantee it as a 'forever' piece.

WHAT METALS DO YOU USE?

We work with 9ct, 14ct and 18ct golds in yellow, rose and rhodium plated white gold, in addition to platinum. If you're designing a piece to sit alongside an existing ring, we recommend that you use the same metal to prevent the two bands from rubbing and damaging the softer metal of the two. 


We don't make engagement rings and wedding rings with steel or titanium, however you can find these at our sister site Flinn & Steel Rings. Please note that we don't work with black metals and black coated metals.

WHAT STYLE OF RINGS CAN YOU CREATE?

As a team we're passionate about timeless design. We want everything we create to stand the test of time, and to look as wonderful in 100 years time as it did the day it was made. 


Beyond this, anything goes. We've created stunning designs from contemporary a-symmetrical rings, to art deco and vintage pieces inspired by years gone by. Working with us on a bespoke ring is a chance for you to tell a story through a design - we've included favourite gemstones, modelled a design on a paw print, sourced gemstones of favourite colours and unusual shapes, and added personalised engravings. We're here to listen to your ideas and to help you bring them to life in a truly timeless piece.

WHAT HAPPENS AFTER MY CONSULTATION?

Each process is slightly different, dependant on the complexity of the design or the rarity of the gemstones. You can expect to receive: 

- A concept sketch and quote via email 

- A choice of available gemstones from our trusted suppliers

- A CAD image of your final design (we may go straight to this stage if your design is straight forward) 

- Production and then stone setting using our skilled UK-based stone setter 

- Dispatch via insured Royal Mail delivery (unless based overseas where suitable alternatives are used)

HOW MUCH DOES A QUOTE COST? 

When you come to us with a design idea, we can usually tell you if it's within your budget, but we can't give you an exact cost. To do this we need to go through the full design process. Once we have an idea of your design ideas, we will invite you to pay for our Bespoke Design Package, which costs £145. This non-refundable deposit allows us to complete your design, including CAD drawings and gemstone sourcing, to give you a final price. We can discuss options such as alternative gemstones as part of this process to bring it in around your budget if required. (Please note that minimum spends apply)

HOW MUCH DO YOUR RINGS COST?

The cost of each ring varies and is based on the gemstone or metals you decide to use. For our custom rings (with a minor tweak to one of our existing designs), you can expect to pay upwards of £1500 and up to around £12,000. Our bespoke rings typically start at around £2000 up to around £15,000. 


Of course, when it comes to some gemstones there is no upper budget if you're seeking the most flawless and brilliant stone.

HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TO MAKE YOUR RINGS?

We say to allow a minimum of 6 weeks for your ring to be produced once your design has been finalised. Typically we say between 6-10 weeks depending on the complexity of your design.

DO YOU MAKE WEDDING RINGS TOO?

Of course. If you love one of our existing designs, you can simply purchase our 'shaped wedding ring package' to have it adjusted to sit beautifully with your existing ring. 


However, if you'd like to create something completely unique, we'd love to work with you. Our minimum spend for this service is £1500 and is well suited to intricate designs, incorporating unusual gemstones and dramatic stacking rings.

I WANT TO INVOLVE MY PARTNER IN THE DESIGN PROCESS - CAN THEY JOIN US ON OUR CALL?

Some partners like to propose to their better half with a promise ring and involve them in the design of the engagement ring. It's wonderful working with couples and an experience you can share together. We're all in for you creating it as a duo!


Want to choose your own centre stone and design the ring together with your partner? Propose with a gemstone and get back in touch with us to create your bespoke or custom design! Simply purchase a loose gemstone from our selection online, and choose 'Gemstone Proposal'. You can read more about our gemstones here.

ARE YOU INCLUSIVE?

Abso-flippin-lutely. Whoever you are, and whoever you are marrying, making a commitment to or celebrating - we are here for you. Everyone is welcome at Jessica Flinn.

ANY OTHER QUESTIONS?