gemstone and alternative engagement rings

Designed in Calgary through a private, transparent, and collaborative design process.

stone options & sourcing

Stone selection is a meaningful part of the custom process — and one of West of Fourth’s core specialties. Rather than limiting clients to a small in-store selection, stones are sourced intentionally based on design, setting, and personal preference, with clear guidance throughout.

Clients are supported through the differences between stones with clarity and education, so every choice feels informed and confident.

Sapphires

Available in a full spectrum of hues including blue, green, teal, yellow, pink, and bi-colour variations. Known for their durability and versatility, sapphires offer a wide range of colour profiles suited for daily wear and personal expression.

Montana Sapphires

Known for their muted, natural palette and subtle internal character. Often found in soft blues, smoky greens, and steel-toned shades.

Champagne and Warm-Toned Diamonds

Natural earthy hues ranging from light champagne to deep cognac. Each diamond offers a unique warmth and understated presence.

Salt and Pepper Diamonds

Defined by internal markings that create an organic, textured appearance. Each stone is visually distinct, with a spectrum from soft grey to deep, storm-like tones.

Rose Cut Diamonds

An antique cutting style with a soft, diffused glow. Available in clear, warm-toned, or salt and pepper varieties.

Antique Cut Diamonds

Hand-cut stones that feature soft facets, open culets, and a warm, candlelit glow. This category includes old mine and old European cuts, each offering vintage character, organic symmetry, and a romantic presence within custom settings.

Black Diamonds

Modern, minimal, and bold. Black diamonds offer strong visual contrast and a refined, architectural look within custom structures.

Additional Gemstone Options

Spinel, tourmaline, aquamarine, and other coloured stones thoughtfully selected and reviewed for hue, clarity, durability, and individual character.

Green Montana Sapphire Engagement Ring in Yellow Gold
Kite Shaped Salt and Pepper Diamond Engagement Ring in Yellow Gold
Blue Montana Sapphire Engagement Ring with Bezel set accents in yellow gold

a calm alternative to traditional jewellery stores

  • Designed from scratch for your partner and your budget

  • In-person in Calgary or virtual across Canada

  • Quotes provided before design work begins

  • Not mass produced; quality-first

  • Designed around your stone, story, budget, and timeline

  • Calm, private, guided process — no sales floor

Designing an engagement ring can feel overwhelming — especially when you’re navigating timelines, budgets, and decisions you’ve never had to make before.

West of Fourth offers a different experience. Each ring is designed one-on-one, with clear guidance at every stage and no pressure to rush decisions. The process is transparent, educational, and tailored to your priorities — whether you arrive with a clear vision or are starting from scratch.

You’ll work directly with the designer throughout the entire process, ensuring every choice feels intentional and informed.

Open notebook with sketches, handwritten notes, and three small mechanical parts, along with a pen and a few additional small metal components on a wooden surface.

how it works

Section titled "Consultation" with a brief description about meeting one-on-one to discuss the project, ideas, timeline, budget, and overall direction in a relaxed, appointment-only setting.
Section header titled "2 STONE & DESIGN DIRECTION" with paragraph about reviewing stone options, proportions, and overall design direction, mentioning hand-drawn sketches.
Section titled 'QUOTE & APPROVAL' explaining the process of establishing design direction, stone selection, providing a detailed quote, and confirming a 50% deposit for project approval.
Section titled "Renderings & Refinement" with a paragraph explaining CAD renderings are used for visualizing proportions and details, and adjustments are made before production, including options like wax models.
Page section titled 'Crafting & Delivery' with a description about custom jewelry pieces crafted by trusted goldsmiths, finished, sized, and prepared for pickup or delivery.

Want a deeper look at how the custom process works?
Explore the full design process

West of Fourth is led by Melissa Mitchell, a Calgary-based custom jewellery designer with over a decade of experience in bespoke design and gemstone sourcing. Melissa holds Graduate Diamonds, Coloured Stones, and Applied Jewellery Professional (AJP) diplomas from the Gemological Institute of America.

Each project is guided personally from consultation through completion, ensuring a consistent, thoughtful experience from start to finish.

About West of Fourth →

Designed With Experience and intention

begin your engagement ring design

Complimentary consultations available in Calgary or virtually across Canada.