With no signs of marriage ever slowing down, choosing a ring is going to be one of the biggest and most important parts of the tradition. Almost every wedding is going to feature a ring being put on a finger. The thing is, an engagement ring is often seen as something that should be more glamorous.
When going for a ring, most people agree that there are two options: bespoke engagement rings and ready-made.
This is an important decision to make, as it is ultimately going to make a huge difference.
Here, we will look over some of the key differences as well as reasons people choose either a bespoke ring, or a ready-made ring. This should inform you and help you make a decision.
What is a Ready-Made Ring?
A ready-made ring, (also called a pre-made ring, ready for retail ring, and so on) is a ring that has already been created and is ready to be sold. If you were to walk into a jewellery store and see rings on display that can be purchased on the spot, this means that they are ready-made rings.
Compared to bespoke rings, ready-made rings are usually considered more common. This is because they are often cheaper, quicker and easier to get.
What is a Bespoke Ring?
On the other hand, a bespoke ring (also referred to as custom rings, custom made rings, etc.) are rings that have been made for a customer. These rings cannot be found in a store, because you need to talk with an engagement ring designer to make your own personalised ring.
Bespoke rings are more often than not going to be something on the pricier side, and can take a while to be created. Customers will have consultations with ring designers in order to discuss ideas. Sketches are made, further ideas are discussed and then computer software will likely get involved to help visualise the ring. Afterwards, “wax models” may be created, and shortly after, the finished product is complete.
Why Choose a Ready-Made Ring?
As mentioned before, ready-made rings are often considered to be more common than bespoke rings. There are a few reasons for this.
Firstly, ready-made rings are usually going to be cheaper than custom-made rings. This is simply due to the fact that bespoke rings require a lot more time and effort to create since they are more individualised. Since consultations are required, this means that more time and people have to be involved when discussing the ring design. Later, an expert is required to actually create the ring based on the distinct design.
Ready-made rings follow designs that are already widely popular and are thus mass-produced. Although pre-made rings are not individualised, they are created due to popular styles that most people seem to enjoy. This means that a pre-made ring is more likely to look more “acceptable” in comparison to a ring that has been made suited to an individual.
Another thing to remember with ready-made rings is that they are obviously easier to get compared to bespoke rings. The whole process is much shorter. Simply walking into a store and choosing a ring on display is pretty much all that is required, whereas a bespoke process takes a lot of development and collaboration.
You can also customise ready-made rings, but clearly not as much as a bespoke ring. Basic things like the gemstone, setting, metal and engraving can be changed in some cases with a ready-made ring.
For some cons, ready-made rings are not unique. This is simply due to them being produced on a mass scale, as opposed to being individually designed.
Also, although ready-made rings are faster to obtain, it can also take a lot of time trying to figure out what the best ring is based on the selection that you have. You will also need some time to fill yourself in on some ring terminology and stay up to date with what is worth the price and what isn’t.
Why Choose a Bespoke Ring?
The first and most obvious reason why people go for a bespoke ring is the fact that you have the ability to create something you exactly want. Since each relationship and marriage is unique, many view getting a bespoke ring as something to be cherished, as it is a physical representation of their one of a kind relationship.
Getting involved with the whole creation process is something that can be extremely rewarding, and many couples find it very exciting. Being able to decide the exact shape of a ring, the gemstone, and the setting is all that makes going for a bespoke ring such a magical moment.
A bespoke ring is also great in the long run because it means you are able to create something entirely personal to you, rather than having to “settle” for a ring that is close enough to something you desire.
On the other hand, people avoid bespoke rings because they can require a bit of knowledge before you dive into the creation process. You will have to learn about the different types of settings, materials, what works with what, etc.
The price of a bespoke ring can be significantly higher than a ready-made ring too. The thing is, you may need to question how unique your ring is going to be. For example, you may create a custom ring that looks very similar to a ring that is already pre-made.
It also takes quite a lot of time in order for a bespoke ring to be created from start to finish. It may take multiple consultation sessions with a designer, and the actual craftsmanship can take a while. If you are wanting to do a traditional proposal on one knee and have created a ring for your partner without their input, there is a chance that they may not like it either. Tough.
Conclusion
In summary, there are many different pros and cons when going for a bespoke ring or a pre-made ring. As a recap, here are some dot points to help refresh your memory:
The Pros of Ready-Made Rings:
- Saves time
- You can still somewhat personalise the ring
- Easier process from start to finish
Some of the cons of Ready-Made rings:
- They are not unique
- It still requires a bit of knowledge to make a decision
- It can take a lot of time trying to find the best ring
And, the Pros of Bespoke Rings:
- You’ll be able to create a truly unique and personalised ring
- You will have a say and can get involved during the process
The Cons of Bespoke Rings:
- You will need to be informed and aware about a lot of things
- It will most likely be more expensive
- The ring may not be so individual after all
- Longer time to create
Hopefully, this article has given you some clarity in order for you to make the right decision. At the end of the day, we need to remember that a ring should be something that should be taken seriously. A lot of thought should be put into choosing the best ring for you and your partner, because after all marriages are supposed to symbolise an everlasting love.
Australian Diamond Brokers pride themselves in being Sydney’s best place to buy a ring. Check out our website to see our collection of high-end rings.
by Australian Diamond Brokers : August 22nd 2022 Come visit our store or browse our website to find out more.