A Labor Of Love: Custom Made Engagement Rings in Pittsburgh

Somewhere in the brightly lit, secure back room of a Pittsburgh jewelry store, a master jeweler hangs up the phone after speaking to an excited bride to be, setting an appointment to view their custom engagement ring. The sketches and computer-aided plans have been drawn up; painstakingly checked by the jeweler and proofed by the customer. A 3D wireframe representation of the client's perfect engagement ring lights up the computer monitor, and the jeweler begins the process of bringing a couple’s dream to life in just a few short days.

First Steps

The first step for the jeweler was for the design to be rendered into a wax mold. This helped the jeweler and the customer view all possible measurements and angles, that were designed in 3D on the computer. An elementary part of the custom ring process, this enabled the customer to check the shape of the rin and the width as it sits on her finger. Perfection is expected at this point, and the jeweler takes notes and makes changes according to the customer’s wishes, advising about ring types where appropriate. Once the bride to be is happy, the jeweler can begin the casting phase.

The computer screen shows a 3.50ct round brilliant cut center diamond, flanked on both sides by two pears cut diamonds, which will all be set on a platinum ring. A plaster cast is made of the ring, and platinum is heated and poured into the cavity through a small hole, using a special technique to ensure no bubbles or pores exist. Once the platinum has cooled, the plaster can be broken away carefully, and the ring form is all that is left. Durability tests follow, to make sure the final piece will last a lifetime. The next step is polishing and finite checks on the metal’s surface, where any tiny imperfection will be found and remedied.

The Final Touches

Diamonds are selected, checked, and rechecked. Once they are set on the expertly placed mounts, a final check takes place for alignment and stability. The cleaning process continues once more, with steam & ultrasonic cleaning until the jeweler is satisfied with the finish.

All that is left is to place the ring in a James Douglas Jewelers presentation box, ready for the happy couple to arrive. This process of creating custom engagement rings is still taught and highly sought after around the world, and many couples are now looking for something extra special that can be passed on from generation to generation, with an amazing backstory of its creation. Located in Monroeville, just east of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, James Douglas Jewelers pride themselves on the experience and dedication of their master jeweler, who has brought so many dreams to life. From a sketch on a page, right through to the final moment of approval, the creation of a bespoke engagement ring is a labor of love and one that is cherished by custom jewelry

Contact Jamie now to discuss your dream custom engagement ring, or wedding ring - Click Here

James Douglas Jewelers LLC
Monroeville Store
1768 E Golden Mile Hwy
Monroeville, PA 15146-2012

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