How to design a unique engagement ring: An easy step-by-step guide

Engagement rings are that tale-as-old-as-time symbol of storybook romance, revered by Hollywood, celebrated in glossy magazines and cherished as a universal icon of love.

That long-held image of the sparkling diamond solitaire is more than just a tradition. It’s an ideal that has been meticulously crafted (and gleefully upheld) by global diamond corporations for decades.

But what if your love story feels less like a perfectly scripted rom-com and more like a beautifully uncharted adventure?

In this guide, we condense over a decade of engagement ring design experience into a simple, stress-free process (that might even be easier than you think).

It’s time to unlearn the traditional engagement ring rules. 

We'll cover:

• What makes an engagement ring unique
• Why customise your engagement ring
• How to set a budget for your dream engagement ring
• How to infuse your story into your engagement ring
• How to choose your engagement ring gemstone
• How to personalise your engagement ring
• How to create a sustainable engagement ring
• Things to consider when designing your engagement ring
• Planning an engagement ring in secret
• How to find your engagement ring designer
• Success stories: Real couples, real rings
• FAQs: Answers to the most common engagement ring questions
• Key takeaways: Crafting your perfect engagement ring

We recommend you start from the top and make your way down. But you'll also get tonnes of value by skipping to the sections you're interested in. There are no rules.

What makes an engagement ring unique?

An engagement ring is never one-size-fits-all.

It’s not about following trends or tradition. It’s about celebrating what makes your story, and your relationship, extraordinary.

As a piece of jewellery designed to be worn for life, this is your chance to infuse your story, values and style through thoughtful gemstone choices, meaningful design elements and ethically sourced precious metals.

But what is a unique engagement ring really? Let's get one thing straight. "Unique" doesn't mean that your design has to be completely left of field. “Unique” can still be traditional. Like a solitaire diamond with a hidden feature no one but you and your partner know about.

Aside from considerations around practicality and durability, your design can be whatever you want it to be. Check out the Design Gallery for more unique engagement ring inspiration in gold, diamonds, sapphires and other wild and wonderful gems.

This is where the fun starts.

Why customise your engagement ring?

Creating a completely customised engagement ring gives you freedom.

It means you can celebrate your relationship in a way that feels personal and meaningful. After all, it’s the one keepsake you can wear daily for life.

Here’s why more couples are opting for custom designs:

• To reflect your story and values: A custom engagement ring allows you to incorporate elements that represent your individuality and your one-of-a-kind relationship.
• To add personal significance: Include gemstones, textures, symbols and engravings that hold special significance to you and your partner.
• To craft a one-of-a-kind piece: Creating a unique design ensures that no one else in the world has a ring quite like yours.

A bespoke engagement ring is a refreshing departure from the rows of mass produced cookie-cutter designs that line shopping mall shelves. It's a keepsake that tells the story of your relationship - quirks, milestones, inside jokes and all.

As a custom jeweller, I see over and over again how storytelling jewellery has the power to become personal heirlooms that grow richer over time.

Wear your ring as a reminder of the moments that brought you together, a bold statement about who you are as a couple and a treasure that's entirely your own.

What could be more special than that?

How to set a budget for your dream engagement ring

Setting a budget is a practical first step in the engagement ring design process. While it’s easy to get swept up in the excitement, being clear on your boundaries provides a practical foundation for the creative decisions that follow.

The budget figure you give your jeweller can be a range (eg. $5,000 - $8,000) or a limit (eg. no more than $20,000). It can be accompanied by design, style or gemstone preferences. Or it can be left open, so your jeweller can guide you.

You may have heard of the “three month rule”, the idea that you should spend three months’ salary on an engagement ring. Here’s the truth: There’s no real rule or guideline for how much you should spend. Throw that myth out the window and focus on what feels right for your budget and your relationship.

The overall price of your engagement ring will be influenced by these factors:

• Gemstone: The type, size and quality of your gemstone can have a significant impact on your budget. Fortunately, there are smart swaps that can help you achieve the look without breaking the bank. For example (and keeping your preferences in mind), you might consider a more budget-friendly Australian sapphire instead of a pricier Ceylon sapphire, or choose a lab grown diamond over a mined diamond for a more accessible price point. Your jeweller can guide you on the best swaps to bring your design as close as possible to your budget.
• Metal: Gold and platinum are popular choices for their durability and beauty. In recent years, we’ve seen gold prices continue to rise, making platinum an increasingly attractive option for those after a bright white metal. If budget is a priority, 9ct gold offers a more affordable alternative to 18ct gold. However, 9ct gold is less durable, which may affect its longevity with daily wear. Ultimately, your priorities should guide your choice.
• Design: Choosing a custom design gives you the freedom to create a ring that’s truly personal and one-of-a-kind. However, because custom engagement rings require more time and personalisation, they typically come at a premium compared to ready-made rings. If you're going down the custom route, keep in mind that elaborate designs like intricate settings or multi-stone rings can also sit at a higher price point.

Read more about the three engagement ring myths to bust.

When setting your budget and discussing options with your jeweller, here are a few things to consider:

• Be realistic: Start with a budget that feels comfortable and achievable for you. In some cases, your budget will change with your priorities as you learn more about the options available. Be flexible, but also be honest with yourself and your jeweller about where your limits are. Your engagement ring should be a source of joy, not financial stress.
• Think long term: Sometimes, budget-friendly options come with trade-offs in durability. For example, semi-precious stones may cost less than sapphires or diamonds but may not withstand the wear and tear of daily life. Choosing high quality designs and durable materials can save you from costly repairs or replacements down the track. That said, it’s completely okay to prioritise your budget once you understand the options. Some people choose a more affordable ring now with plans to upgrade in the future, while others opt to allocate funds toward different priorities in life. Ultimately, your engagement ring should reflect your values. Don’t let anyone tell you otherwise.

How to infuse your story into your engagement ring

First things first. The key to designing a completely unique engagement ring is identifying the story it tells.

Here are some simple steps to help you uncover meaningful details and create a truly personal ring (or cut the work and use Storysmith, our engagement ring idea generator):

• Find your story: Reflect on the moments that define your relationship. Think about how you met, the passions you share and the experiences that shape your journey together.
• Identify your style: Think about your personality, lifestyle and preferences. What are the top five adjectives that describe you?
• Collaborate with a designer: Bring your story and style insights to your jeweller. Share the storytelling moments you identified and collaborate on a design tailored to your personality.

We give you the exact questions to ask yourself in this guide to designing a storytelling engagement ring.

Need inspiration? Try our AI-powered idea generator, Storysmith, and we’ll send you a personalised engagement ring idea crafted from your story.

How to choose your engagement ring gemstone

Now that you’ve uncovered your story, it’s time to bring it to life with a beautiful gemstone.

The gemstone is often the centerpiece of your ring and offers the perfect opportunity to capture the character of your relationship.

Here’s how:

• Colour: Incorporate colours tied to shared memories or favourite places, like the blue-green of the ocean on your first beachside date.
• Origin: Explore gemstones from places that matter in your relationship. For example, an Australian sapphire to remind you of home or a Canadian diamond for the country you first met.
• Durability: Choose gems that are durable enough for daily wear, such as diamonds, moissanites, sapphires and rubies.

We recommend starting your search with durability in mind, and then selecting your stone based on colour.

If you're after a white gemstone, diamonds and moissanites are a great place to start.

If you're keen on colour, sapphires come in a range of shades including blues, teals, purples, pinks, oranges, yellows, greens - and even mixes of colours in a single stone.

Your jeweller will also be able to advise on coloured diamonds like champagne, cognac, yellow and salt and pepper stones. For more cost effective options in the diamond category, ask about treated diamonds and lab grown diamonds.

Get more insights into these five surprising engagement ring gemstones to say "I do" to.

Book a custom jewellery consult to find your perfect gemstone.

How to personalise your engagement ring

Designing a personalised engagement ring is about weaving your story into the details.

The unique elements don’t have to overwhelm the design. The goal is to create a piece that’s both meaningful and practical - a daily reminder of your journey together.

Here’s how to guide your decision-making.

Explore different engagement ring styles

• Solitaire rings: This style highlights a single, significant gemstone in its purest form.
• Halo rings: A centre stone is framed by smaller gems, amplifying its brilliance. "The halo effect" is particularly appealing for those who love extra size and sparkle, and can be adjusted to fit different centre stones.
• Trilogy rings: Tell a symbolic story of your past, present and future together, with a stone representing each chapter.
• Cluster rings: Mix multiple gemstones in playful, organic arrangements, offering endless opportunities for personalisation.
• Signet rings: Traditionally used as seals, signet rings offer the perfect canvas for personalisation. Engrave meaningful initials, dates and symbols, or modernise your ring with uniquely shaped gemstones.
• Asymmetric rings: Embrace individuality and unpredictability. This is one of our top picks for those who love bold, non-traditional designs.

Read more about how you can personalise these classic ring designs.

Choose your metal colour

The precious metal you choose can define the character of your ring. Choose from:

• Yellow gold: A classic choice that radiates warmth and elegance. Perfect for vintage-inspired or traditional designs, it also brings out the vibrance of coloured gemstones.
• Rose gold: Soft and romantic, this blush-toned metal brings a contemporary edge while evoking a sense of nostalgia. It pairs beautifully with peach and pink gems like morganite, tourmaline and sapphire, as well as champagne diamonds.
• White gold: Sleek and modern, this neutral-toned metal provides a clean backdrop that lets your gems take centre stage.
• Platinum: Durable and luxurious, this bright metal is perfect for gem-set designs. Unlike white gold, it has a naturally white colour that doesn’t need plating.
• Mixed metals: For a modern aesthetic, consider combining metals. Mixing yellow, rose and white metals can create a multi-tone design that adds depth and personality to your ring.

Check out this guide to choosing the perfect metal colour for your surprise engagement ring.

Want to delve a little deeper? Read about the difference between white gold and platinum and the difference between 9ct and 18ct gold.

Add meaningful details

Elevate your ring’s personal significance with symbolic design elements:

• Gemstones: Choose stones that reflect shared memories, favourite colours or important milestones in your journey together.
• Engravings: Add a secret engraving of a meaningful phrase, date or symbol.
• Textures: Incorporate unique textures, such as a modern brushed finish, organic hammered finish or rustic finish inspired by nature.
• Hidden features: Include subtle design elements, like a birthstone tucked beneath the setting or a hidden heart-shaped detail.

Balance style with practicality

While creativity is important, there are a few things to keep in mind to help your ring stand the test of time:

• Lifestyle: If you lead an active lifestyle, consider a low-profile setting and choose designs that are secure and snag-resistant, like bezel or flush settings. Claw or prong settings are loved for their minimalist look, but need to be worn with more care.
• Durability: Where your budget allows, opt for materials and gemstones that can handle daily wear, such as platinum, 18ct gold, diamonds, moissanites, sapphires and rubies.
• Comfort: Explore design features like rounded edges and comfort-fit bands for additional wearability.

Ready to start designing? Book a custom jewellery consult to explore the possibilities.

How to create a sustainable engagement ring

Designing a sustainable engagement ring is a beautiful way to align your values with your love story.

From ethical sourcing to eco-conscious materials, here’s how you can create a ring that reflects your commitment to both your partner and the planet:

• Choose ethically sourced gems: Ethically sourced gemstones are a powerful way to align your engagement ring with your values. It’s important to note that "ethical" isn’t a strictly defined term when it comes to gemstones. What’s considered ethical to one person may differ for another. To help you navigate these claims, we’ve created a resource that explores what an ethical gemstone really is.
• Learn about the difference between lab created and mined diamonds: A lot of people approach the lab vs. mined diamond debate assuming that lab grown diamonds are inherently more sustainable. But this isn’t the case. Lab grown diamonds require a lot of energy to produce and can have a high carbon footprint. At Fairina Cheng, we offset the carbon emissions of the lab grown diamonds we supply through our partnership with Clear Neutral. 
• Use recycled or sustainable metals: Incorporating recycled or sustainable metals is a thoughtful way to reduce the environmental impact of your engagement ring. Opt for Australian and/or ethically mined precious metals, from merchants certified by the Responsible Jewellery Council. Alternatively, heirloom gold can be repurposed for a sentimental touch, without needing new metals to be mined. Book a custom jewellery consult or find out how to choose the perfect engagement ring designer for you.
• Avoid overconsumption: Create a timeless design that prioritises quality over quantity. Instead of following fleeting trends, choose a high quality, thoughtfully-crafted engagement ring that will stand up to long-term wear and remain meaningful for a lifetime.

Things to consider when designing your engagement ring

By now, you should be well on your way to creating a storytelling engagement ring that will stand the test of time.

But don’t forget these very practical considerations, which can affect how your engagement ring fits into your life in the near and distant future.

• Fitted vs. non-fitted wedding bands: Even if you’re not considering wedding bands now, the shape of your engagement ring will impact how it pairs with one in the future. A fitted wedding band is custom-made to curve around your engagement ring, allowing for a lower-profile setting. In contrast, a non-fitted or straight wedding band pairs well with settings that are slightly lifted to accommodate a flush fit. When paired with lower settings, straight bands can leave a small gap between the two rings. Check out the Design Gallery for unique wedding band inspiration.
• Future resizing: Accounting for potential resizes helps to keep your ring wearable for years to come. Avoid placing gemstones or engravings all the way around the band. Instead, leave a plain section where alterations can be made. Materials like gold and platinum are more resize-friendly, while materials like titanium and zirconium may not be adjustable.
• Durable materials and designs: We’ve mentioned durability before, but this is one factor that's worth repeating. High purity metals like 18ct gold and platinum (compared to lower carat options like 9ct gold) are particularly suited to engagement rings that need to stand the test of time. Low-profile and bezel settings provide added security by shielding stones from potential damage.

Planning an engagement ring in secret

Designing your own engagement ring can be an exciting and deeply personal journey. In many ways, it’s also more straightforward because you know exactly what you want.

But planning a surprise engagement ring for someone else? That’s a whole different challenge.

How do you choose a ring that captures your partner's personality, aligns with their style and becomes something they’ll cherish forever (without blowing the big surprise)?

With a little research and a lot of love, you can create a moment - and a ring - they’ll cherish forever. Here’s how to get started:

• Do some sneaky research: Raid their jewellery box for inspiration (or check if they have a Pinterest board or Instagram saves that might tell you their preference). Is their jewellery made in yellow, rose or white metals? Is it minimalist, bold or modern? Does it feature colourful gemstones or classic diamonds? Take note and save for later. 
• Find their ring size: This is an important detail you'll need before you make a purchase. Check out these creative ways to find your partner's ring size without spoiling the big surprise. If in doubt, go slightly larger. As long as the ring is resizable, it'll be easier to resize down than up.
• Match the design to their lifestyle: Think about your partner’s daily routine and how their engagement ring will fit into it. If they work with their hands or lead an active lifestyle, a low-profile bezel setting might be the perfect choice for durability and comfort.
• Tailor to their personality: An engagement ring should feel like a natural extension of your partner’s individuality. If they gravitate towards classic elegance, consider timeless designs like solitaires or three-stone rings in yellow gold or platinum. For someone who loves bold, statement pieces, opt for unique gemstones, vibrant colours or unconventional settings.

Need design inspiration? Try Storysmith, our AI-powered idea generator for personalised engagement rings.

Once you’ve gathered these insights, share them with your jeweller to create a design that reflects your partner’s style and personality. The best place to ask questions is in a custom jewellery consult.

If you’re still unsure, propose with a placeholder, like a proposal ring or a gemstone. This way you can still keep the proposal a surprise and involve your partner in the design journey. This means no tricky decisions for you and most partners love the process of creating their own custom engagement ring!

How to find your engagement ring designer

Choosing the right designer and maker of your engagement ring begins with understanding your priorities.

Do you want:

• Something budget-friendly and off-the-shelf?
• A bespoke ring that reflects your story?
• A focus on sustainable sourcing and recycled metals?
• A specific design style or speciality?
• To work in-person with a local jeweller?
• To open your choices to jewellers all over the world?

Once you’ve identified your priorities, research designers that align with them.

Start by searching Instagram, Pinterest and Google, using keywords like "unique sapphire engagement rings" or “custom jewellers in Sydney” to narrow your results. Ask friends and colleagues, and enquire in local or wedding-specific Facebook groups for personal recommendations.

Check reviews and testimonials to learn about the experiences of previous customers. If you have specific questions that aren't answered online, don't be afraid to contact the brands and ask! 

Once you’ve shortlisted your top three jewellers, book in-person or online jewellery consults to understand their approach and ensure they’re the right fit.

The process should feel collaborative, transparent and exciting. A good designer will listen to your ideas, ask thoughtful questions and make you feel confident that your vision is in the right hands.

When you know, you know.

Success stories: Real couples, real rings

Nothing inspires like real-life examples. Here are stories from couples who broke the mould with their unconventional engagement rings:

• Kelly and Chrissie: This is how their love for strong women, Sailor Moon and We’re Not Really Strangers became a proposal that symbolised all they love about each other.
• Kristy and Karthi: They seemed an unlikely pair. But a chance meeting marked the beginning of an engagement story 14 years in the making. This is why their wait was worth every moment.
• Georgie and Maddi: It looked like it wasn't meant to be. But against all odds, this is the story of how Maddi, Georgie and baby Bowie became a family.
• Mitch and Romina: This is how a simple penny was transformed into the centrepiece of their engagement and wedding rings.

Read more love stories.

FAQs: Answers to the most common engagement ring questions

Do you have tips on how I can find the right engagement ring for me?

If you love mindless scrolling, this is your time to shine. Give yourself permission to immerse yourself in inspiration, explore designs and head down those rabbit holes. Use Instagram or Pinterest to create boards or saved collections filled with your ideas. You might even stumble across the perfect piece along the way.

If you prefer to Google but want something smarter, try Perplexity or SearchGPT, AI-powered tools that helps you search the web and find tailored recommendations. Start by deciding whether you want to explore custom designers in your city, browse ready-made collections in Australia or collaborate with an iconic overseas label. Then, craft queries around topics like style, location and materials:

• Style: “Untraditional lab grown diamond engagement ring inspiration”
• Location: “Where to buy unique sapphire engagement rings in Sydney”
• Materials: “Best custom gold engagement ring designs”

It’ll do the rest for you!

How much should I expect to spend on a unique engagement ring in Australia?

There’s no hard rule about how much you should spend on an engagement ring, but it’s worth noting that unique, custom designs often cost more than ready-made options. As a guide, we work with customers across Australia and the world and our pieces typically fall in these ranges:

• Engagement rings without diamond centre stones: From $3,500 and commonly between $5,000 and $10,000
• Larger pieces without diamond centre stones: Between $10,000 and $20,000
• Engagement rings with diamond centre stones: From $20,000 (although it’s possible to create a beautiful design under this mark as well)

These figures can vary depending on design, materials and whether additional gemstones are included. The most important thing is to balance your budget with the elements that matter most to you.

Do you make engagement rings for women and men?

We make engagement rings for people in love. We’ve created jewellery for women proposing to men, men proposing to women, women proposing to women, men proposing to men, non-binary couples proposing to each other and more. Rather than using categories like "engagement rings for her" and "his and her wedding rings," we focus on crafting designs that reflect your unique style and story. Inclusivity matters to us because love - in all its forms - deserves to be celebrated.

Where can I find alternative engagement ring ideas?

Our Design Gallery and Instagram are great places to start. Explore a range rare and unique engagement ring ideas (each with a meaningful story). From gold engagement rings with distinctive bands to floral and nature-inspired designs, you'll find a range of creative gemstone cuts, styles and stories to inspire your perfect piece.

Key takeaways: Crafting your perfect engagement ring

Designing a unique engagement ring is a journey that combines personal storytelling, creative design and practical considerations. TLDR? Here is a step-by-step summary of how to create a distinctly different, infinitely unique engagement ring.

• Reflect your story: Your engagement ring should celebrate your individuality and the special moments that define your relationship. Incorporate meaningful gemstones, settings or design elements that tell your story. Try a tool like Storysmith for personalised engagement ring ideas.
• Set a realistic budget: Work within a comfortable budget while focusing on what matters most to you, whether that’s a specific gemstone, metal, design or story. Your budget may change as you learn about the options available. Be honest with yourself and your jeweller about where your limits are.
• Prioritise durability: Choose high-quality materials like 18ct gold and platinum, durable gemstones like diamonds, sapphires, moissanites and rubies, and thoughtful designs that can withstand daily wear.
• Find the right jeweller: Look for a jeweller whose style, expertise and values align with your vision. Don’t be afraid to ask questions. The right jeweller will feel like a creative partner, making the process feel easy, fun and stress-free.

Designing a bespoke engagement ring is a journey - one that transforms your story, style and values into a wearable symbol of love.

A skilled designer doesn’t just create a ring. They craft an experience, involving you in every step to ensure the final piece feels truly personal.

If this sounds like the kind of ring you want to create, book a consult. Let's bring your dream engagement ring to life.