Your Guide to Designing a Custom Engagement Ring with Henne Jewelers

Designing a custom engagement ring is like watching Pittsburgh’s skyline come into focus from Mount Washington. At first, it’s a collection of individual lights and shapes, but as you move closer, every detail blends into a breathtaking, unforgettable view. Henne Jewelers in Pittsburgh is here to bring your vision into focus, whether you have a clear idea of what you want or need guidance in shaping the perfect design. 

Our custom design process is seamless, collaborative, and often more affordable than you might expect. With expert craftsmanship and personalized service, we’ll help you create a ring that captures your style, your story, and your future together. Here’s what you should know about the process, so you can confidently start designing your dream ring with us.

Woman wearing engagement ring holding bag that says

Start with Inspiration

Before diving into the design process, it helps to gather inspiration. Save photos, Pinterest pins, or screenshots of rings that catch your eye. If you're unsure about what you like, don’t worry. The Henne Jewelers team will be happy to guide you through the styles and settings in our showcases to help refine your vision. We have a wide selection of loose diamonds that you can choose from, or bring a family diamond.

Our goal is to create a ring that not only looks stunning but is also practical for everyday wear. We’ll consider your lifestyle and preferences to ensure the design is both beautiful and durable.

custom engagement ring resetting

Bringing Your Vision to Life

Once we understand your style, we’ll partner with one of our trusted vendors to begin the design process. We provide detailed measurements, photos, and specifics about your ideal ring to ensure every detail is captured.

Our vendor will then create CAD (computer-aided design) images and/or 360-degree video renderings of your ring, allowing you to visualize the final piece. You’ll also receive pricing options based on your choice of metal, diamond, or gemstone.

Thanks to modern technology and our established vendor relationships, custom engagement rings are more cost-effective than many people expect. Custom doesn’t necessarily mean expensive. It’s creating something uniquely yours that’s tailored to your budget and style.

wax mold of a custom engagement ring

Refining Your Design

In some cases, we may provide a wax mold of the ring before final production. This is particularly useful for complex designs or contoured wedding bands, allowing you to see how the ring will fit and feel before it’s crafted.

Once you’re completely happy with the CAD design and any necessary adjustments have been made, we’ll move forward with approval to begin manufacturing.

The Timeline:

What to Expect

The custom engagement ring process takes time to ensure every detail is perfect. While exact timelines may vary, here’s a general idea of what to expect:

  • CAD Design Creation
    This step takes 1-2 weeks, during which our vendor creates detailed CAD images and 360-degree video renderings so you can visualize your ring.
  • Customer Approval and Refinements
    You'll review the design and request adjustments if needed. The timeline varies based on how many refinements you’d like.
  • Manufacturing and Setting the Stone
    With your approval, we then craft the ring, set the stones, and apply the final touches. This process typically takes 4-6 weeks.

Every ring’s timeline differs. But when you partner with Henne Jewelers, you can rest assured that we’ll update throughout the entire design process and let you know as soon as your ring is ready.

Create Your Dream Ring with Henne Jewelers

A custom engagement ring embodies your and your partner’s style and commitment. At Henne Jewelers, we’re ready to bring your ideas to life with expert craftsmanship and attention to detail.

Let’s create something unforgettable.