ABOUT CUSTOM RINGS Let's examine each of these claims, and see what's in your best interest as the buyer. The quality will be the same as the original. This is an easy claim to make, but it is extremely difficult to back up. To understand quality, you must understand the casting process. When a ring is cast using a low-cost (about $300) centrifugal casting machine, little tiny holes (called "porosity") are left in the ring. These holes threaten the strength of the rings as well as permanently dull the finish. Virtually all locally made rings we've examined have noticeable porosity, and all goldsmiths in this area (and Salt Lake) use inexpensive centrifugal casting machines. All of Wilson Diamond's rings are sent to a business, in business solely to cast rings; therefore, they have high-vacuum casting machines (about $100,000 cost). This high-quality machinery ensures a porous-free ring. Porosity is just one example of several quality issues that will compromise the outcome of a custom copy.

The ring will look the same as the original. This claim is standard fare among copy artists. The fact is no copy ever looks just like the original. Trying to make the exact style from your description, or from their memory, is impossible. Coupled with the fact that very slight nuances make big differences in style, you have a recipe for disappointment. In addition, consider the risk of getting a style just "close" to the one she likes. Remember, she's going to look at the ring every day. Also, once the ring is custom made, it will not be refundable even if it turns out wrong.

It will not violate the law to copy the ring. This is simply not true. Designers, like artists, make their living creating an original piece. To copy a ring style without their permission is clearly illegal and unethical. You may not be prosecuted, but there is no amount of rationalization that will erase the fact that it is wrong to take someone else's design and copy it without their permission. Some jewelers claim that if a style is changed "5 percent" it is not illegal. The law actually states that any design "deceptively similar" is a copyright violation. Any ring made to look like another will definitely be "deceptively similar". Ultimately, it's up to you to choose whether to be partner in cheating or not. But remember--any jeweler encouraging this violation is not a person of integrity.

It will only take 2 to 3 weeks to make. This is a wait you do not have to tolerate if you buy the original ring. Paradoxically, many times we have helped couples buy the original ring after waiting 3 weeks only to discover that the copy did not look like the original. They could have saved themselves the time, hassles, and ironically, money as well.

The guarantees will be the same. All or our rings carry manufacturers' lifetime warranties. This means that we do not lose money to replace the rare defect. The manufacturer covers it. On the other hand, custom goldsmiths have to incur the full expense to replace a defective ring. Undoubtedly, they will be more reluctant to do so. Furthermore, custom goldsmiths are typically less stable. If they're out of business, so is your warranty.

The price will be lower. You might think you will pay less from a small jeweler, but at what cost? There are many quality compromises that will lower cost. Small accent diamonds in the ring are usually inferior. Mediocre casting practices (as discussed above) lower quality and cost as well. One of the most common ways to "lower" price is by falsely raising the grade on the center diamond to make it appear that it is a better value (see Diamond Grading section for more on this). In short, the old adage holds truer than ever: "You will get what you pay for."

So, what should I do to stay within my price range? If you do need to save money, or the ring she wants is too expensive, then here are some suggestions: Tell us where you need to be on price. We will work hard to get you what you want in your price range. Tell us what prices you've been offered. We will not get defensive, but you will be shown how to tell if they're truly good prices or not. We are committed to having the lowest price. Another option is to perhaps substitute a smaller center-stone diamond and get the ring she wants. She'll be happier. Finance part of the purchase. We have 90-day financing option with no interest.

Last Words Perhaps the most important consideration in deciding to copy our ring is what this communicates to your sweetheart. First, there's the integrity issue. Is she going to be proud to wear a ring obtained deceptively? Would she even agree to it if she knew the whole truth? Secondly, consider the romantic implications. An engagement ring carries deep meaning. It's a gift to show singular affection and commitment. The whole experience may be forever cheapened when she discovers you tried to spend as little as possible, sacrificing quality in the process. The sweetness of the proposal will be reduced to the lowest common denominator. Lastly, remember that peace of mind is priceless. Wilson Diamonds has always been committed to high values and guaranteed lowest prices. Trust us with open, honest communication, and you'll get the right ring, at the right price, and with the right quality.