Embarking on the journey of creating a bespoke engagement ring is an exciting and deeply personal experience. At Antonia Guise, we believe that your engagement ring should be as unique as your love story. If you're considering a custom-designed ring, inspired by your unique relationship, but aren't sure what to expect, let us guide you through the process of bringing your dream ring to life.
Step 1: Initial Consultation
Your bespoke journey begins with a one-on-one consultation with our founder, Antonia. This is where we ask a series of questions designed to get to know you, your partner, and your vision. We'll discuss your style preferences, lifestyle, and budget. Don't worry if you're not sure exactly what you want – that's what we're here for! Bring along any inspiration photos, sketches, or even heirloom pieces you'd like to incorporate. All this information feeds into the Bespoke Proposal, a document which outlines our understanding of the project, the general design direction and relevant costings for the bespoke ring.
Step 2: Stone Selection
Our rings designs are stone lead, so the first step is to source and guide you through selecting the perfect centre stone, whether it's a diamond or a coloured gemstone. We'll also discuss metal options, considering factors like durability, colour, and ethical sourcing. At Antonia Guise, we're committed to using only recycled metals and ethically sourced gemstones.
Step 3: Design Conception
Once we've selected the perfect centre stone Antonia will create preliminary sketches of your ring. This is an iterative and collaborative process – we'll present you with various options and refine the design based on your feedback. We encourage you to be open and honest about what you love (or don't love) about each concept. Remember, this is your ring, and we want it to be perfect for you.
Step 4: 3D Modelling and Approval
To help you visualise the final product, we create a 3D computer model of your ring. This allows you to see the design from every angle and make any final tweaks before production begins. We'll also provide the final detailed quote at this stage, ensuring everything aligns with your budget.
Step 5: Crafting Your Ring
Once you've approved the final design, our skilled artisans get to work. Each Antonia Guise piece is handcrafted in our UK workshop, ensuring the highest quality and attention to detail. Depending on the complexity of the design, this process typically takes 4-6 weeks.
Step 6: Quality Control and Hallmarking
Before your ring is ready for collection, it undergoes rigorous quality checks. We ensure that every detail meets our exacting standards and your expectations. All our jewellery is then hallmarked at the prestigious London Assay Office with our unique hallmark.
Step 7: The Grand Reveal
The most exciting part of the journey is when you finally get to see and hold your bespoke creation. We love witnessing the joy and emotion of this moment – it's why we do what we do!
Step 8: After-Care and Support
Our relationship doesn't end when you leave with your ring. We provide ongoing care advice and offer cleaning and maintenance services to keep your ring looking its best for years to come.
Creating a bespoke engagement ring with Antonia Guise is more than just a transaction – it's a collaborative design journey that results in a unique piece of wearable art. It's an opportunity to be part of the creative process and to invest in a ring that truly reflects your individuality and love story.
Ready to start your bespoke journey? Book a consultation with us today and take the first step towards creating your dream engagement ring. Remember, for those planning a Christmas or New Year's proposal, our deadline for bespoke orders is October 1st. Don't miss out on the opportunity to make this holiday season truly unforgettable with a one-of-a-kind Antonia Guise creation.