General FAQ
How much does a custom engagement ring cost in New Zealand?
Most custom engagement rings at Jewellery By Design NZ begin from around $3,500 NZD. Final pricing depends on gemstone choice, metal selection such as 9ct gold, 18ct gold or platinum, and overall design complexity. Each ring is individually crafted in New Zealand.
Why does custom jewellery cost more than chain store rings?
Chain retailers manufacture thousands of identical rings offshore. Custom jewellery from Jewellery By Design NZ is individually designed and crafted locally with proper proportions and structural integrity, built for long-term wear rather than mass production.
How long does it take to make a bespoke ring?
Most commissions take 4–10 weeks from design approval. Rare gemstone sourcing or highly detailed builds may extend this slightly. We provide realistic timelines upfront.
Do you work with sapphires for engagement rings?
Yes. Sapphire engagement rings are one of our specialties. We regularly work with cornflower blue, teal and parti-colour, padparadscha and unheated sapphires. Sapphires rank 9 on the Mohs hardness scale, making them suitable for daily wear.
Do you offer lab-grown diamonds in New Zealand?
Yes. We work with both natural and lab-grown diamonds and explain the differences in cost per carat, value retention, sourcing and long-term considerations so you can choose confidently.
Is platinum better than gold for engagement rings?
Platinum is denser, heavier and naturally white. 18ct gold offers warmth and richness. 9ct gold is practical and strong. The right metal depends on lifestyle, design and budget — not trends.
Can you redesign an heirloom ring?
Yes. Jewellery redesign is a significant part of our work in Christchurch. We can reuse existing gemstones, reuse gold where suitable, reinforce structural integrity, and modernise design.
Do you work with clients outside Christchurch?
Yes. We create custom jewellery for clients across New Zealand and Australasia . Consultations can happen via video call, and finished pieces are securely shipped.
What metals do you work with?
We regularly craft in 9ct gold, 18ct gold and platinum. Metal choice affects durability, colour, weight and overall price.
Do I get to see the design before it’s made?
Yes. Most commissions include CAD renders so you can approve proportions before casting. What you approve digitally becomes a refined, hand-finished piece in reality.
What if I don’t know what design I want?
That’s normal. We guide you through stone shapes, proportions, structure, metal choice and lifestyle suitability until it clicks.
Can you match my partner’s style if it’s a surprise?
Yes. Bring photos of jewellery they wear, screenshots, and even clothing style references. Design isn’t guessing — it’s reading patterns.
Do you require a deposit?
Yes. We require a 50% deposit to begin, with the balance due on completion. For higher-value commissions, staged payments can be discussed in advance.
Can I upgrade my stone later?
In many cases, yes. Settings can often be redesigned or stones replaced depending on structure. We build with longevity in mind.
Do you provide valuations?
Yes. We can organise independent valuation documentation for insurance purposes once your piece is complete.
How durable are sapphires for everyday wear?
Sapphires rank 9 on the Mohs hardness scale, making them highly suitable for daily wear engagement rings.
Why are sapphires becoming more popular than diamonds?
Sapphires offer colour, individuality and often better value per carat compared to diamonds. Many clients choose cornflower blue, teal, parti-colour or padparadscha for something distinct.
What makes Jewellery By Design NZ different?
We don’t replicate catalogue designs. We create one-of-a-kind, private commission-level pieces — built properly, proportioned correctly, and crafted for legacy. No replicas. No repeats.
What’s the highest value piece you’ve created so far?
To date, $25,000 NZD — and we’re increasingly working at higher levels as clients commission rarer gemstones and more architectural designs.
Do you source rare or unheated stones?
Yes. We source unheated sapphires, unique cuts and strong colour stones through trusted suppliers. If you want exceptional, we can find it.
What happens if the ring size is wrong?
Resizing is usually possible within structural limits. We guide you on sizing properly beforehand, but adjustments can be made where the design allows.
Is custom jewellery refundable?
Because custom pieces are made specifically for you, they are generally non-refundable once production has begun.
Do you repair jewellery?
Yes- particularly pieces we’ve made. We also repair other items on request.
How do I start the process?
Book a consultation or send an enquiry through the website. We start with a conversation — not pressure.
Why invest in custom instead of buying ready-made?
Because jewellery marks life milestones. A commissioned piece carries intention, proportion and story. It isn’t one of hundreds sitting in a display case. It’s yours.