Build your own engagement ring - Is the design really yours?

This way of trading is usually highly cost efficient since you can place almost any design in certain budget frame. It also provides separate price for the diamond and the setting creating platform for comparing values and easier choice. Knowing that the customer is able easy to compare, the merchant is adjusting his margins to very competitive edge
There is a drawback however which I would like to point out. The “build your own ring” range has some design limitations clearly noticeable when you visit few of these sites. Most of these rings lack individuality and employ exactly the same, very high 4 or 6 square prong setting which I personally find impractical, especially for women with active lifestyle. Although there are pages of possible settings they look very much the same.  The reason for favoring this high setting comes from the need to provide significant tolerance in the diamond diameter without a need for alteration. If the order is with 0.40ct it is set low, while 1ct. - goes right on the top. To accommodate many different sizes the setting must have significant height and the bigger the diamond the higher the setting. It is very much “one-design-fits-all” scenario. However, if your diamond is big enough the lack of personality in the setting will surely go unnoticed.
To design your own ring is completely different matter. It means that you have to create it on paper or at least convey your vision to a designer who will render it for you. Then you have to commission a manufacturer to make it and set your diamond on. The cost effective option of buying the diamond loose online is still very much applicable with all the benefits of comparing prices and getting the best deal. Here are few tips:
It is not a bad idea to check if the jeweler you commission for the manufacturing is not going to give you good deal on the diamond too.  Some jewelers don’t work with customers diamonds for obvious reasons. 
You will definitely need the help of professional designer or studio jeweler to finalize your design prior manufacturing. Many good bench jewelers lack designing skills and you might end up with unbalanced disproportional ring as per your rough sketch. Proper technical drawing to scale is a must. 
In spite of the complicated process involved in accomplishing this task, designing your engagement ring could be rewarding and highly appreciated, especially if you know the preferred style of the receiver and include detail, color or shape she finds attractive. Personal touch and attention to detail add massive emotional impact, which often overcomes the intrinsic value of the ring. In other words, if you can`t afford large diamond put some effort to individualize you gift.