How a Custom Engagement Ring Is Made: A Step-by-Step Guide

October 13, 2026

Ordering a custom engagement ring can feel like handing over a lot of money and hoping for the best. It should not. A well-run process has clear stages, and you should see and approve your ring at each important one. Here is how it works, step by step.

Step 1: Your enquiry

It starts with a quote request or a consultation. The more you share, the better the first answer will be. The most useful details are:

the diamond shape you love
the carat weight you are considering
your preferred metal
your budget
your ring size (or your best guess)
any screenshots or Pinterest boards

Step 2: A personal reply

A real person should read your enquiry and reply to it. At Lailah & Co that person is me. You will not receive an automated price sheet. The first reply usually includes the costing along with any relevant advice or recommendations where needed.

Step 3: Choosing your diamond

Next, we source diamonds that match your brief and your budget. I will explain the trade-offs between options in plain language, for example why one stone with a slightly lower colour grade might look better than another because of its cut.

Step 4: CAD design and the CAD Reveal

CAD stands for computer-aided design. Your ring is modelled digitally to the exact size of your diamond and finger. You see a rendered image of the finished ring from several angles before any metal is cast. This is the moment to ask for changes, such as a thinner band or a lower setting. We call this the CAD Reveal.

Step 5: Casting and setting

Once you approve the design, the ring is cast in your chosen metal. It is then cleaned, polished and prepared for setting. Your diamond is not set yet.

Step 6: Quality control

Before setting, the piece is checked for finish, symmetry and comfort. Claws or bezels are inspected so they will hold the stone securely.

Step 7: The Diamond Reveal

Before your diamond is set, I send you a video of your actual stone. Not a stock photo, and not "one like it". You see it move in the light and you confirm you are happy before it goes into your ring. We call this the Diamond Reveal, and it is one of the reasons clients return to us for their wedding bands.

Step 8: Your ring comes home

After setting and a final polish, I share videos and photos with you of your ring before it's packaged and delivered with its certificate.

How long does it take?

Timelines depend on the design and on sourcing, but most custom rings take several weeks from approved quote to delivery. Complex designs, unusual shapes and busy seasons take longer. If you have a proposal date in mind, communicate that with me at the very first step so the schedule can be planned backwards from it.