What happens if I don't have a precise budget?

That's where we come in. Create an inquiry and select a rough budget on the 'Get Started' form. You can select to have an initial consultation at the end of the form, our experts will help you hone the design and therefore budget.

Is custom jewelry more expensive?

While our jewelry is all custom designed and crafted to exceptionally high standards, we are able to keep our costs much lower than traditional jewelers who do custom work – not by cutting corners or settling for lower quality, but by finding better ways to do things and also through our extensive list of suppliers.

Do you offer a warranty?

We stand behind our jewelry 100% and we offer a comprehensive set of warranties so that you can purchase with confidence. See the Warranties and Guarantees page under the How It Works Section.

When will I see a design?

Our jewelry designers will also create artistic sketches of our design concepts for your piece. We request a deposit prior to producing 3D models and renderings of your design and that deposit goes toward the final cost of producing your piece.

How long does a custom jewelry take to make?

Typically, your custom piece will be in your hands 2–4 weeks after we\'ve finalized your design. However, because each project is different, the time it takes to complete your project may vary.

Custom Diamond Jewelry | Choosing the Perfect Diamond or Gem...

Home / How It Works / Choosing Diamond and Gemstone

Find The Perfect Diamond
or Gemstone For Your
Custom Jewelry

At The Custom Jeweler, we understand that selecting the right diamond or gemstone is one of the most important steps in creating a truly personal and meaningful piece. That’s why we offer natural diamonds and lab-grown alternatives—sourced with precision and care.

Our expert gemologists have direct access to international diamond markets, ensuring you get the highest quality stone at the best possible value. Whether you’re looking for a dazzling engagement ring centerpiece, a unique birthstone, or a vibrant gemstone for a custom creation, we guide you through every step of the process.

How We Help You Choose the Perfect Diamond or Gemstone

1 Tell Us Your
Vision

Share your ideas, whether it’s for an engagement ring, necklace, or heirloom-quality piece. Let us know your budget and gemstone preferences.

2 We Source the Best Options

Using our global diamond network, we hand-select the top stones that meet your criteria, ensuring the best possible price without compromising quality.

3 You Review &
Select

We provide detailed information and high-resolution images of each recommended diamond or gemstone, so you can make an informed decision with confidence.

4 Your Custom Jewelry Comes to Life

Once you’ve chosen your perfect stone, we begin the custom design and crafting process, ensuring your jewelry is as breathtaking as the moment it represents.

The Custom Jeweler Experience

Unbiased diamond buying advice

Hand-curated options

Access to millions of diamonds on the market

No pushy sales tactics

100% Made In The USA

The Custom
Jeweler

Online Jewelry
Retailers

Jewelry
Stores

Diamond Cut Grades: How A Diamond Is Cut Affects It's Brilliance

The way a diamond is cut has the biggest impact on how it looks in real life—its sparkle, brightness, and overall personality. Here’s how each cut grade plays into your custom engagement ring, custom pendant, or custom earrings design.

Look

On the Hand

Best For

Excellent (EX)

Top Performance • Maximum Sparkle

Exceptional brilliance and fire with even, bright light return from every angle.

Clean, crisp sparkle that looks lively in all lighting—perfect for center stones.

Clients who want the most radiant look and prioritize cut quality.

Very Good (VG)

Bright & Beautiful • Near-Top Sparkle

Strong brilliance and fire with only minor differences from Excellent to the naked eye.

Beautiful, lively sparkle that performs very well in everyday lighting.

Custom pieces where you want a balance of high performance and budget flexibility.

Good (GD)

Pretty Sparkle • Thoughtful Value

Noticeable sparkle with some areas of darkness or reduced light return.

Still attractive, especially in smaller stones or designs with multiple diamonds.

Accent stones, pavé, or clients who prefer to prioritize size over top-tier cut.

Fair (F)

Subtle Sparkle • Compromised Light

Limited brilliance; the diamond can appear slightly dull or flat.

Less “wow” factor, especially in larger sizes or center stones.

Only specific design situations where cut is less visible and budget is primary.

Poor (P)

Low Sparkle • Noticeable Light Loss

Dull appearance with obvious dark areas and minimal fire.

Often looks smaller and less lively than its carat weight suggests.

Generally not recommended for custom fine jewelry at The Custom Jeweler.

Start Your Diamond or Gemstone
Search Today

Choosing the right diamond or gemstone doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With The Custom Jeweler, you get access to expert guidance, global sourcing, and the best deals on natural, lab-grown diamonds and gemstones.

Get Started