How to Design Your Own Engagement Ring

Getting engaged is one of the most exciting things to happen in a person's life. The engagement ring is the symbol that you've found the person you want to spend the rest of your life with. There are hundreds and hundreds of beautiful engagement rings on the market today, but some people are opting to design their own rings from scratch in order to make a more personal statement. Designing your own engagement ring is a fairly simple process. Use your imagination, and you are well on your way.

Instructions

1. Choose what style of ring you want. Some like traditional, but more adore a modern look. Antique rings are gorgeous, and even a custom-designed ring can look like an antique.

2. Use a paper and pencil to make some sketches of your ideal ring. Most traditional engagement rings are a gold or silver band with a single gem mounted on top. Use that idea as a starting point. Play with the number of stones and the width of the band.

3. Pick a stone for your ring. A solitaire diamond is the most common stone found on engagement rings. However, you're not bound to diamonds. Some of the most beautiful engagement rings are made with sapphires, rubies and emeralds. You could also combine diamonds and colored stones. Play with the order and arrangement of the stones. A bigger stone in the middle often looks good surrounded by smaller stones. The shape of the stone is also key to your design. The stones can be round, square or oval .

4. Select a band style. Bands can be wide, medium or very thin. Keep in mind what stones you've picked when choosing a band style. A lot of stones will require a thicker band. A simple, elegant solitaire diamond looks lovely with a slim band.

5. Choose the metal of your band. Gold bands are very traditional, but silver or white gold bands are quite nice, too. A very popular choice is a platinum band. Platinum bands are gorgeous, but they are also the most expensive.

6. Find a jeweler who's willing to help you design the ring of your dreams. Speak to several. Evaluate who can offer you the guidance you need at a good price.

7. Bring your sketches and your ideas to the jeweler. Discuss both your designs and budget. Come to an agreement, and put it in writing.

8. Receive the ring that you designed yourself, and wear it with pride as a symbol of your love.

Tips & Warnings

• Ask your future husband for input and advice on the ring. It will be something you two both look at for the rest of your life.

• Don't stick with diamonds because they are more popular. Think outside the box for a ring that expresses you and your love.