Custom Engagement Ring FAQ — All Your Questions Answered

Whether you’re just starting your search or ready to build, these are the questions we hear most often. If you don’t see yours here, contact Joseph directly — he’s always happy to talk through your specific situation.

Ordering Online

How do I order a custom engagement ring online?

Start by browsing our ring styles and diamond inventory using the online ring builder on our homepage. Select your preferred style, choose your stone, and submit your design. Every online order is personally reviewed by our master jeweler, Joseph, before anything is produced. You’ll receive a confirmation with design details, and Joseph will reach out if anything needs clarification before production begins. It’s a simple, transparent process — no pressure, no surprises.

What is the timeline from order to delivery?

Once your design is confirmed, most rings are completed and delivered within 2–4 weeks. That timeframe includes jeweler review and design confirmation (1–3 business days), production and quality check (10–18 business days), and insured shipping (2–5 business days depending on your location). If you’re working toward a specific date — a birthday, a trip, a planned proposal — tell us upfront and we’ll do everything we can to accommodate.

Can I make changes after I submit my order?

Yes — within limits. Changes to style, metal, or diamond selection can typically be accommodated before production begins, which is why Joseph’s review period exists. Once production has started, significant design changes may not be possible without additional cost and extended timeline. We encourage you to reach out immediately if you have second thoughts — the earlier, the easier.

Do you offer payment plans or financing?

Yes. We work with financing partners to offer flexible payment options on qualifying orders. You can discuss specific terms directly with Joseph during your consultation or at checkout. We want the ring to be achievable — not stressful.

Is my payment information secure?

Yes. Our checkout process uses industry-standard SSL encryption, and we work with PCI-compliant payment processors. We never store your full card number on our servers. If you have concerns about security, you’re also welcome to contact us to arrange alternative payment methods.

What is your return or satisfaction policy?

Because every ring is made to order specifically for you, we do not accept returns for change of mind. If your ring arrives with a defect or does not match your confirmed design specification, we will remake or repair it at no charge. Joseph’s personal review of every order is specifically designed to catch potential issues before they happen — and to make sure what gets made is exactly what you wanted.

Can I get the ring sized after I receive it?

Yes. Resizing is available and is one of the most common post-delivery services we provide. Contact us directly with your size adjustment request. Note that some ring designs (full pavé bands, eternity rings) are more complex to resize than others — Joseph can advise on what’s feasible for your specific ring.

Is there a way to see the ring before it ships?

We can provide detailed design confirmation images and, in some cases, a 3D rendering of your ring before production is finalized. Some customers choose to visit our Carrollton studio in person before committing. Contact us if you’d like to discuss options — we’re flexible.

In-Person Workshop

What is included in the ring-making workshop?

The workshop is a fully inclusive experience: Joseph’s one-on-one instruction for the entire session, all tools and materials, your chosen stone (from our workshop catalog starting at $1,990), the completed ring, and a story you’ll be telling for the rest of your life. There are no hidden add-ons. The price you see is the price you pay.

How long does the workshop take?

Plan for a full day — typically 4–6 hours depending on the design you choose and the pace you prefer. More intricate designs take longer. Joseph tailors the session to you, so there’s no rushing. Workshops are private — just you (and anyone you bring) and Joseph.

Do I need any jewelry-making experience?

Absolutely none. The workshop is specifically designed for people who have never touched a jeweler’s tool in their lives. Joseph guides every step of the process, explains what you’re doing and why, and ensures the ring you produce is polished, finished, and ready to wear. Most participants are genuinely surprised by what they’re capable of with the right guidance.

Can I bring someone with me?

Yes. You’re welcome to bring a partner, a friend, or a family member to observe and support. If you’re making a surprise engagement ring, you’ll obviously want to come solo — or with someone you trust completely. The workshop space is intimate, so please let us know in advance who’s coming so we can plan accordingly.

What if I make a mistake during the forging process?

Joseph has guided hundreds of first-timers through this process, and he’s seen every kind of mistake. In most cases, mistakes are part of the process and easily corrected. Joseph’s job is to make sure your ring comes out beautifully — and he won’t let you leave with something you’re not proud of.

Can I design my ring online and then forge it in person?

Yes — this is one of our most popular paths. Browse the workshop catalog at laprong.com, select your design and stone, and book a studio session to hand-forge it yourself. Joseph will have everything prepped and ready for your arrival.

How do I book a workshop session?

Contact us directly via the booking form on laprong.com or call 469-557-1194. Workshop slots are limited (Joseph takes one client at a time), so booking well in advance — especially for weekends — is highly recommended. A deposit is required to hold your date.

How much does the workshop cost?

Workshop packages start at $1,990 for moissanite designs and $2,590 for natural diamond solitaire designs, with options up to $3,990 for premium stones like blue sapphire. All prices are all-inclusive: materials, stone, instruction, and the completed ring. No hidden fees. Browse our workshop design catalog to see all available packages.

Diamonds & Stones

Why are all your diamonds GIA-certified?

GIA (Gemological Institute of America) is the world’s most respected independent diamond grading lab. Their reports verify your diamond’s exact carat weight, color, clarity, and cut — removing any ambiguity about what you’re buying. We require GIA certification on all natural diamonds because we believe you deserve to know exactly what’s in the ring, not just take our word for it. Read our complete diamond buying guide for more on what GIA certification means for your purchase.

What’s the difference between GIA and AGS certification?

Both GIA and AGS (American Gem Society) are highly respected, rigorous grading laboratories. GIA is the more widely known and the industry standard. AGS is particularly renowned for its cut grading system, which uses a numerical scale (0 = Ideal) rather than descriptive terms. Either certification is reliable. Most of our inventory is GIA-certified; if you’re interested in AGS-certified stones, ask Joseph.

Do you offer lab-grown diamonds?

Yes. Lab-grown diamonds are chemically and optically identical to natural diamonds — they are real diamonds, just formed in a laboratory rather than underground. They are certified by GIA using the same grading criteria as natural stones. They typically cost 50–70% less than comparable natural diamonds. We offer both and will give you complete, honest information about each to help you choose what’s right for you. Learn more in our diamond guide.

How do I choose the right diamond for my budget?

Prioritize cut quality first — a beautifully cut diamond outperforms a larger, poorly-cut one in real-world appearance. From there, consider going slightly below whole-carat thresholds (0.90ct instead of 1.0ct), choosing a G–H color grade rather than D–F (visually identical when set), and evaluating VS2 or SI1 clarity for eye-clean options at better value. Joseph can walk you through specific stone options at your budget during a free consultation. Understand the 4 Cs before you choose.

Can I use my own diamond in a LaProng ring?

In some cases, yes — particularly for online custom orders. If you have an heirloom diamond or a stone you’ve acquired separately, contact us to discuss compatibility with your chosen setting and the workshop process. We’ll evaluate the stone and provide honest guidance on whether it’s a good fit.

What is a GIA diamond grading report and what does it tell me?

A GIA report is a document from the Gemological Institute of America that independently verifies your diamond’s characteristics. It includes the exact carat weight, color grade (D–Z), clarity grade with an inclusion diagram, cut grade (for round brilliants), and fluorescence assessment. Each report has a unique number laser-inscribed on the stone’s girdle, which can be verified at gia.edu. It’s essentially a passport for your diamond. Learn about GIA certification in our diamond guide.

Ring Design

What styles do you offer?

We offer solitaire, halo, hidden halo, three-stone, accented/pavé, vintage-inspired, art deco, two-stone, nature-inspired, and classic designs — with new styles added regularly. Our online builder allows you to browse and filter by style, and our workshop catalog features 22+ curated designs available for in-person forging. Visit our Ring Style Guide for a full breakdown of each style with photos and guidance on who each suits best.

What is a hidden halo ring?

A hidden halo features a ring of small accent diamonds set underneath the center stone — visible from the side profile but not from the top. From above, it reads as a clean solitaire. From the side, it has an additional sparkle that surprises and delights. It’s a popular choice for women who want the versatility of a simple look with a hidden detail.

Can I add an engraving?

Yes. Engravings are available on both online orders and workshop-forged rings. Common options include dates, initials, coordinates, or short phrases. Character limits depend on the inside diameter of your band — contact us for specifics based on your ring size and style.

Shipping & Insurance

How is my ring shipped and is it insured?

All online orders ship via fully insured, signature-required carrier with tracking provided from our studio to your door. Your ring is packaged securely in protective materials. We do not ship without full insurance coverage — if anything happens in transit, you’re covered. For in-person workshop participants, you leave with your ring the day of your session.

How long does shipping take?

Standard shipping is 2–5 business days after production is complete. Expedited options may be available for time-sensitive situations — contact us before ordering to discuss. International shipping is available to select destinations; contact us for rates and timelines.

Pricing

Why does a custom ring cost what it does?

Several factors make up the price of a custom engagement ring: the diamond (typically the largest component), the metal (gold and platinum market prices fluctuate), setting labor and craftsmanship, Joseph’s personal review, and quality assurance. Unlike mass-produced rings, each piece is made specifically for you — which means you’re paying for a ring made to your specifications, not one pulled from inventory.

Are there any hidden fees?

No. The price you see in our ring builder or workshop catalog includes the ring, stone, and standard production. Engraving, expedited production, and resizing are charged separately if applicable, and we’ll always communicate those costs clearly before proceeding.

What price range can I expect?

Online custom rings vary based on your diamond selection and style. Workshop packages range from $1,990 (moissanite) to $3,990+ (premium natural diamonds) and are all-inclusive. A rough guide for online orders: expect $2,000–$5,000 for a 0.5–1.0ct natural diamond ring in a standard style; $5,000–$10,000+ for 1.0–2.0ct or more complex designs. Lab-grown diamond options can significantly reduce these figures.