From first idea to final reveal
Six steps, with you in control of every decision.
Your consultation
Start in store at Darby Street or Westfield Kotara, or by virtual appointment from anywhere in Australia. Bring photos, sketches or just a feeling. We'll talk through diamond shapes, settings, metals and budget, let you try rings on, and prepare a detailed quote.
You can begin with one of our designs or create something entirely new.
Design
We turn your ideas into design options, including hand-drawn sketches, so you can see the direction before anything is finalised. Change as much as you like. There's no charge for customising.
Choosing your diamond
Adam Matthews personally selects diamonds for your ring, natural or Lab Grown, and talks you through each one: why it was chosen, how it performs and how it compares on price.
We look for the diamond that's most beautiful for your budget, not simply the most expensive.
3D CAD design
With your diamond chosen, we create a detailed 3D CAD render built around its exact dimensions, so you can see your ring from every angle before it's made.
Already thinking about a wedding band? We can design the two together so they sit beautifully side by side.
Crafting your ring
Once you approve the design, our jewellers handcraft your ring, setting and finishing each detail by hand. Most custom engagement rings are completed within 6–8 weeks of design approval.
Have a date in mind? Ask us about priority service.
The reveal
We'll invite you back to see your finished ring, show you how to care for it and talk through insurance.
If you live away, we'll send you a video of your ring before it leaves us, with complimentary insured delivery anywhere in Australia.
What you can count on
Family jewellers since 1957
Three generations of the Matthews family, two Newcastle boutiques, and decades of experience behind every recommendation.
Natural or Lab Grown
We specialise in both, so our advice is about what's right for you, not what we happen to sell.
No customisation fees
Consultations are complimentary and customising your design costs nothing extra. Your quote is clear before you commit.
Lifetime Care
Complimentary cleaning, six-monthly checks, rhodium plating and resizing for eligible pieces of $1,999 or more.
What our couples say
Custom engagement ring questions
How much should I spend on an engagement ring?
There's no set rule. The right budget is whatever you're comfortable with, and we'll help you create something beautiful at any price point.
What's the difference between Lab Grown and natural diamonds?
Lab Grown Diamonds are real diamonds: chemically, physically and optically the same as natural diamonds, but grown in a controlled environment rather than formed in the earth. The main differences are origin and price. We offer both and are happy to show you them side by side.
How long does a custom engagement ring take?
Most custom engagement rings are completed within 6–8 weeks of design approval. Priority service is available if you have a date in mind, so let us know when you book.
Can I use my own diamond or gemstone?
Yes. We're happy to work with a family stone or a diamond you already have, provided it's suitable for your chosen design. Our jewellers will check it before we begin.
What's included in the price of a custom ring?
Your quote covers design, your diamond or gemstone, your chosen metal and the making of your ring. There are no extra charges for customisation, and eligible pieces of $1,999 or more are covered by our Lifetime Care Commitment.
What does Lifetime Care include?
Complimentary cleaning and six-monthly inspections, rhodium plating for white gold, and resizing within standard limits. See our Lifetime Guarantee for full details.
Can I see the design before it's made?
Absolutely. You'll see hand sketches and a 3D CAD render of your ring from every angle, and nothing is made until you approve it.
Will my engagement ring and wedding band sit together?
We can design your engagement ring with a wedding band in mind. If you already have a band style you love, we'll design the two together in CAD so they sit beautifully side by side.
Can I design my ring online?
Yes. Virtual appointments work just like visiting us: we share designs, diamonds and CAD renders on screen, and deliver your finished ring insured anywhere in Australia.
Which metals can I choose?
We make engagement rings in 18ct yellow, white or rose gold, or platinum. 18ct gold balances rich colour with durability; platinum is naturally white and doesn't need rhodium plating. We don't make engagement rings in silver, which is too soft to hold a diamond securely for a lifetime.
What's the difference between white gold and platinum?
White gold is gold alloyed with white metals and rhodium plated for a bright white finish. The plating needs renewing over time, typically every 18–24 months, which is complimentary under our Lifetime Care Commitment. Platinum is naturally white and doesn't need re-plating.
Ready to start?
Book a time at Darby Street or Westfield Kotara, or meet us by video from anywhere in Australia.