It goes without saying that an engagement ring is one of the most special purchases in life. In recent years, more and more people are opting for bespoke engagement rings to celebrate this tremendous promise of true love and commitment towards each other. Bespoke rings can tell a story and be much more personal but incorporating a family gem will truly add to their sentimental value. Whether it is from a grandmother’s engagement ring or jewels that have been passed down for generations, doing this adds another level of beauty to the sentiment of the engagement ring.
Although incorporating antique jewellery into an engagement ring is undoubtedly delightful, there are some things that you should know if this is something you are considering, so we have decided to provide you with some dos and don’ts and top tips on how to create a bespoke engagement ring using family heirlooms.
Before getting too excited
Pretty much every gemstone can be repurposed and incorporated into a new piece of jewellery, but sometimes there can be complications. Although it isn't a regular occurrence, it is a good idea to check the hardness of the stone before getting too excited and creating a design. Of course, diamonds are the hardest gemstones, and it would be rare to encounter any problem, but other gemstones, such as turquoise, for example, may be more difficult. If the stone you want to use is antique, it may be a little tricky or even dangerous for the jeweller to remodel if it is a softer variety. It is good to consider this and consult your jeweller if your family gem is not a diamond.
Let the stone do the work.
An old stone will have a unique personality and tell a story of its own. You want to ensure that your ideal design doesn’t detract from this alluring aspect. When designing a bespoke ring with an heirloom, consult with your jeweller to ensure your design doesn’t encroach on the gem’s magnificence. Often, a minimal setting will work wonders to retain its character and boast a stone’s long-lived glory. Remember, the stone is the centrepiece of your creation.
However, ensure that your jeweller can draft designs before anything is agreed upon. Although you might lose some say, it is your decision, and the ring needs to be perfect for you and your soul mate.
Don’t forget the appraisal
Often, an heirloom will be stored until a special occasion, and you certainly didn’t buy it yourself. This can mean that the stone has not been appraised and given an accurate value. When incorporating family gems into a bespoke engagement ring, there is always a risk. It might be a small risk, but it is an absolute must to get it appraised and insured. You should always cover yourself when valuables are placed in someone else’s hands.
Know what you want
By using a family gemstone, the concept of this piece of jewellery is already unique and carries much emotional value. When you are coming up with your bespoke design, it can seem a little overwhelming; after all, this probably isn’t your field of expertise. If you’re intimidated by the process and want to hand over full reigns to the jeweller, you may lose some of the character you want to create. A jeweller isn’t going to know your relatives from whom the stone has been passed down, nor will they know the intricate details that make your relationship so special.
If you keep drawing a blank regarding the design, you need to become a detective. First, take a look through your partner’s jewellery box or magazines to get an idea of their taste. Another great place to look is Instagram or Etsy. Hundreds, if not thousands, of great jewellers and artists are creating one-of-a-kind pieces for you to peruse. Knowing what you want is difficult, so gather as much inspiration from as many sources as possible. You might not feel confident now, but you certainly know better than your jeweller. With the proper background knowledge and information, a skilled jeweller will truly create an incredible engagement ring with your family stone.
Some things to be mindful of
There are two very important things to consider when using a family gem for an engagement ring. More often than not, everything goes smoothly, but you must be cautious in the following areas.
- Find a Jeweller whom you can trust: When deciding on what jeweller you will use, it is essential to find one with experience working with heirlooms. Though the process is similar to creating a new ring, it can be much more delicate. Therefore, there is much less risk when working with a jeweller who has the knowledge and experience. Ask to see some samples of their previous work to see if it feels right for you. Also, ask about the process and make sure you understand what to expect throughout the transition.
- Make sure nobody minds you using the stone: As it states in the name, one of the things about family gems or heirlooms is that they often belong to the family. Sometimes family members might want them to stay this way. Before getting too involved in the process or even contacting a jeweller, share your idea with family members and see what they think. Although it will probably be fine, it is undoubtedly the polite thing to do. You also don't want to start the magical journey of marriage with a family feud. All of this is easily avoided with a quick discussion.
Any more questions?
We hope our guide on how to create a bespoke engagement ring using family heirlooms has been helpful. If it is something you are considering or want to know a little more about, feel free to get in touch. At Bejouled, we have the knowledge and experience to help you create the perfect bespoke engagement ring to celebrate your love. With over twenty-five years of experience, we know how to make the process as enjoyable, simple, personal, and rewarding as possible.
