For some, the decision to propose comes as an epiphany moment, where it’s suddenly crystal clear that this is the person you want to spend your life with. For others, it’s a number of quiet moments, discussions, and decisions as a couple that culminate in the right timing.
However you’ve come to your decision, excitement can quickly meet overwhelm when it comes to choosing the perfect ring. With styles, settings, diamond types and budgets to contend with, it can feel as though you’re stepping into an unknown world. Finding the right guidance to follow can remove a layer of stress for what is such an exciting time.
At Banks Lyon, we’ve guided many nervous clients through the overwhelming process of choosing the perfect diamond engagement ring. One of the first decisions to make is whether you want to choose a beautifully crafted ready-to-wear ring, or to create something entirely your own with a bespoke design. Both have their own unique merits, and having an understanding of what each type offers will help you to decide what feels right for you.
Ready-to-Wear Engagement Rings: What to Know
A standard, or ready-to-wear engagement ring, is exactly what you’d expect it to be – a beautifully crafted ring that can be worn straight from the store. Â
Our carefully curated collection of ready-to-wear engagement rings has been shaped by decades of expertise in fine jewellery. Each design has already been refined but still leaves you with the meaningful choices of diamond shape, metal type, and setting styles.
For many clients, this route offers clarity and confidence as you can see the ring, try it on, and know exactly what you’re choosing. If you’ve already decided on the date you’re going to propose, a ready-to-wear ring also offers the reassurance of a shorter timeline.
I’d always recommend visiting our Lancaster showroom to choose your perfect ring. We have a bar area away from the view of the street, so you can select your ring in private and keep the element of surprise. Often, we find that you will fall in love with a design the moment you see it, and so this is typically the traditional path for selecting your perfect engagement ring.
Bespoke Rings: What It Actually Means
For those wanting something unique, a bespoke engagement ring option is another avenue to explore. ‘Bespoke’ can sound like a daunting concept, but we don’t expect a fully formed vision of what you want at our first meeting. We believe the design of something so special and sentimental requires a collaborative process, where we can translate your ideas into something tangible and wearable.
The design process will start with a simple conversation.
You may have some inspiration already, such as a photograph or a detail you love, and this will be the starting point of our design process. As we tweak and amend detailing of your design, you’ll be shown digital previews of the ring, allowing you to see proportions, settings, and diamond placement before anything is made.
For those considering custom engagement rings, this process offers something unique. It’s the opportunity to create a piece that reflects your relationship, heritage, or legacy, not just a style.
Key Differences Between Bespoke and Ready-to-Wear Engagement RingsÂ
Both avenues to choosing the perfect ring are filled with excitement and tailored to your unique preferences. That said, there are some key differences between ready-to-wear and bespoke engagement rings, that may help you decide which is the right path for you.
Ready-to-wear
- Available immediately or within a short timeframeÂ
- Fixed price based on the finished pieceÂ
- A selection to choose from and some variations available (such as carat size)Â
- Able to see distinctive styles next to one another to help with decision-makingÂ
Bespoke
- Typically several weeks from initial design appointment to completionÂ
- Flexible pricing based on the design, materials, and diamond choiceÂ
- Fully personalised and tailored to your preferencesÂ
- Ability to see a digital render of your ring before anything is created to help with your decision-makingÂ
The Bespoke Process Step by Step
When designing your own engagement ring, we’ve found it helpful to understand the process beforehand to take away some of the overwhelm that comes with designing a ring from scratch.
At Banks Lyon, we typically have six steps between the beginning and end of the process.
Consultation
Our initial conversation can take place in our Lancaster store or virtually. This first meeting is very relaxed and designed to be exploratory, so we can consider ideas, preferences, and pricing.
Design Brief
We will then translate your ideas into a clear direction. This might include diamond shape, setting style, and overall aesthetic.
Renders
You’ll receive detailed visual previews of the ring to allow you to see the design from multiple angles and request adjustments.
Approval
Only once you’re completely happy is the design signed off. There is plenty of opportunity to revisit your preferences and make sure everything is perfect before moving on to the next stage.
Making the Ring
This is where we bring your design to life, setting the diamond and finishing every detail by hand.
Collection
The finished ring is then ready for collection and one of the most meaningful moments of your life.
We ensure that every stage is completely transparent, so even though timelines can vary widely depending on complexity, you’ll always be aware of what stage in the process you’re at. Â
What Engagement Ring Type Is Right for You?
In my experience, many people initially lean towards a standard engagement ring because it feels more straightforward. It also gives the benefits of immediacy, clarity, and the confidence of seeing your ring in person straight away. However, once people understand that the bespoke process is far more accessible than they initially realised, they may be drawn to the idea of creating something deeply personal and unique to them and their relationship.