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  • Journey of a ring

From start to finish, here is how we will make your special engagement ring...

Find the perfect ring

Step 1: The Idea

During our consultation you will be presented with a selection of diamonds that fit in and around your budget. You will have the opportunity to look at each one up close with a 10x magnification loupe (eye glass). I will encourage you to find the inclusions and view the beautiful colours that sparkle off each facet. This will help you make an educated decision when it comes to selecting your diamond. Once that’s done we will go through the design process and create a truly beautiful engagement ring.

Step 2: Materials

More often than not, the material used the most for an engagement ring is platinum. This is because it’s the most durable and the brightest of all alloys. There is no such thing as natural white gold. As a result of the mixture to make white gold, it’s “natural” colour is off white. As for silver, well silver is just too soft to use on precious stones and diamonds on a ring that will be worn daily. If, however you would like a ring in 18ct white or yellow gold, then that won’t be a problem.

Step 3: Assembly

Once we’ve agreed on a diamond, chosen the material and I’ve received the go ahead, your ring will be made by me in my own workshop here in Hatton Garden. I like to quote approximate turnaround time for an engagement ring of 2-3 weeks. Of course, some are done quicker and depending on the design, some can take a bit longer. Best to make sure we have enough of a lead time.

Step 4: Adding the diamond

Setting a diamond into a ring might seem like it should only take a minute or two, but it’s slightly more complicated than that. Each stone is meticulously measured out within the setting to make sure it’s central, not crooked and at the right height. As the ring has been created to fit the diamond, it’s a bit easier than a diamond that’s been found to fit a ring. This is where a bespoke ring comes into its own and shines (no pun intended).

Step 5: Polishing

Looking at the image you’d be forgiven for thinking that the mop used is from a shoe polisher in a posh hotel. In fact, they do use a similar machine, but the process is very different. It’s extremely important that all the file and buff marks are taken out the metal in order to give the ring that mirror finish. A few different levels of buffing are involved and I gradually go down using a smoother and smoother felt. Finally it’s put in the ultrasonic to remove every particle of dust and rouge.

Step 6: Quality control

This is the fun bit for me. Checking over the work. Making sure that the diamond is central. Making sure that if the diamond is a certified one and the certificate number is laser inscribed on the girdle, that it can be seen. Making sure there are no sharp edges or raised claws. I wouldn’t want anything catching on clothing or in hair for example. And making sure that the ring is as sparkly as possible.

Step 7: Presentation

As you can see from the image, all my rings are received by you in a beautiful presentation box revealing the ring to its maximum. The ring box comes in a lovely gift bag too. If you’ve chosen a certified diamond then you will be presented with the original certificate for your records and safe keeping. I will also go through the insurance procedure and provide, free of charge, a valuation for your insurance company. If you don’t have insurance, I’m happy to refer one of my trusted partners to you.

Step 8: The proposal

Well that's it from me. I've done my bit, now it's time for you to do yours. Women tend to think that proposing is simple and the hardest part is getting the ring design right. I can tell you that they are wrong. I've seen hundreds and hundreds of grooms over the years and can tell you the hardest part is the actual proposal. But don't be too alarmed. If you've seen a copy of my book then you will know I have a whole chapter on proposals. If that's not enough, I'm happy to put you in touch with a company who can actually help you plan out and help organise your proposal.

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Lewis Malka

Specialist Engagement rings made in Hatton Garden, London

Lewis Malka
London Diamond Bourse
100 Hatton Garden
London EC1N 8NX

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