The Best Places for Ring Design Inspiration

The Best Places for Ring Design Inspiration

The idea of designing a ring sounds romantic, but where do you even start? Let's find out!

If you’re planning to design a custom engagement ring, you might be feeling a mix of excitement and total panic. The idea of designing a ring from scratch sounds romantic, but where do you even start? It’s not like most of us are professional jewellers with a sketchbook full of designs up our sleeves!

The good news is, you don’t need to have it all figured out. Most custom ring designers are more than happy to do the heavy lifting for you. In fact, all jewellers will be happy for you to approach them and say "I have no idea what I want". They'll guide you through the process and help you create something you really love.

However if you are looking to approach them with some design ideas, where do you find that inspiration for designs?

1. Boutee

Now you might think this is a bit cheeky, but that doesn't mean it's not true! Boutee champions so many different independent designers, all in one place. And seen as you're reading this, you've found yourself in the right place! You can see loads of different designs if you browse engagement rings, take a look at the 'What Can I Afford' page, or take a look at our jewellers themselves.

Why it’s great: Loads of engagement rings designs all in one place, with the  necessary information. Plus, Boutee is the easiest way to get the custom ring process started.

The downside: As you probably guessed, there's none! 

Cornflower Blue Sapphire Kite Halo Ring by Sarah Hickey Jewellery

2. Pinterest

Pinterest is like a giant online scrapbook packed with gorgeous engagement ring ideas. You can search for anything—whether you’re thinking “vintage engagement ring” or “modern gemstone designs.” The best part? You can pin all the rings you love to a board to show your jeweller exactly what’s caught your eye.

Why it’s great: It’s easy to search, save, and organize your ideas all in one place. Plus, Pinterest’s algorithm is pretty clever and will suggest similar designs based on what you’ve pinned.

The downside: It can be a bit overwhelming. There’s so much to look at that you might find yourself falling into an endless scroll. Also, not every design you see may be practical (or within your budget).

3. Instagram

Instagram is a visual paradise for jewellery lovers. Tons of independent jewellers and designers showcase their creations on the platform, so following a few can give you a sneak peek into what’s possible. Look for hashtags like #CustomEngagementRing or #CustomJewellery to get ideas from the pros. Many designers also share behind-the-scenes looks at their process through Stories or Reels, which can be both inspiring and educational.

Why it’s great: You can see real-time updates and browse through a diverse range of styles.

The downside: Not all the designs you’ll see are within everyone’s budget. Plus, Instagram is known to stir up some serious design envy—you may find yourself drooling over rings that might be out of reach.

4. Wedding Shows and Expos

If you want to browse lots of rings at once, check out a wedding show or expo in your area. These events often feature booths from various jewellers, including custom designers, showcasing both ready-made and bespoke pieces. It’s also a great place to chat directly with designers about your ideas and learn more about the custom process.

Why it’s great: You get to interact with multiple jewellers in one place and ask any burning questions you have. Plus, some designers offer exclusive show discounts.

The downside: These events can be crowded and overwhelming. Also, many of the pieces on display will align with current trends, which might not suit everyone’s taste.

5. Friends and Family

Your friends and family’s jewellery collections can be a surprising source of inspiration. Maybe your mum’s vintage ring has a stunning diamond shape you’ve never considered, or your best friend’s modern engagement ring features a unique setting you absolutely adore. You might even find inspiration by incorporating a family heirloom gemstone into your custom design, giving your ring a deeper, personal meaning.

Why it’s great: It adds sentimental value and might even reduce costs if you plan to repurpose family jewellery.

The downside: Not every heirloom piece is easily adaptable to your dream design, and you may need to balance tradition with your personal taste.

6. Jewellery Magazines

Jewellery magazines, both online and in print, can be packed with inspiration. They often feature interviews with designers, showcase the latest trends, and present beautiful high-quality images of a wide variety of styles. It’s like browsing through a catalogue of possibilities, sparking new ideas you might not have considered.

Why it’s great: Offers professional insight into what’s trending and gives you a polished, curated look at various designs.

The downside: Some magazines might only feature high-end designs, which may not suit everyone’s style or budget.

The Bottom Line

Finding inspiration for your custom engagement ring doesn’t have to be stressful. You don’t need to know exactly what you want—if anything at all. Remember, jewellers will be happy to guide you through the process. They'll work their magic to bring your dream ring to life!

To start the process of getting a custom engagement ring for yourself or your partner, you can take our engagement ring quiz to let us recommend a jeweller to you, or you can browse designers yourself

 

FAQs

What style should an engagement ring be?

The style of an engagement ring should reflect the wearer's personal taste, lifestyle, and values. Choose a design that feels timeless and meaningful rather than just following trends.

What should the cost of an engagement ring be?

The cost of an engagement ring depends on your budget and priorities; there's no set amount you "should" spend. Focus on finding a ring that fits both your financial situation and your partner's style.

What is a decent budget for an engagement ring?

A decent budget for an engagement ring is typically around two to three months' salary, but this varies depending on individual circumstances. The key is to invest in quality and a design that feels special without causing financial strain.

What style of engagement ring is most popular?

The most popular engagement ring style is the classic solitaire with a round brilliant diamond. However, styles like halo settings and vintage-inspired designs are also increasingly sought after.

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