the custom design process

A calm, collaborative approach to custom jewellery design.

At West of Fourth, custom jewellery is designed one-on-one, with clarity, intention, and thoughtful guidance at every stage. Whether you’re creating an engagement ring, redesigning an heirloom, or exploring unique gemstones, the process is designed to feel personal, unrushed, and transparent.

how it works

Page titled 'Consultation' with a brief description about meeting one-on-one to discuss ideas, timeline, budget, and overall direction in a relaxed, appointment-only setting.
A section heading that reads 'STONE & DESIGN DIRECTION' with a paragraph about reviewing stone options, proportions, and overall design direction. The paragraph mentions exploring concepts through hand-drawn sketches before moving forward.
A section of a document titled "QUOTE & APPROVAL" discussing project design, quote, and deposit requirements.
Section titled 'Renderings & Refinement' explaining that CAD renderings help visualize proportions and details, with options for adjustments and wax models.
Text header 'Crafting & Delivery' with a brief paragraph about how pieces are crafted by trusted goldsmiths and prepared for pickup or delivery.

what makes this process different

Custom jewellery doesn’t have to feel intimidating or transactional. West of Fourth was built to offer a more thoughtful, one-on-one approach — one that prioritizes clarity, education, and long-term wearability over sales pressure.

The goal is simple: a clear, collaborative process that results in jewellery you’ll want to wear for years to come.

A person sketches a bike part on a notepad with a pen, with tools and small bike components on the desk, including a caliper, a gear, and a ring.
Text on a light gray background that reads: "Calm, appointment only experience. You’ll work directly with the designer from start to finish. There are no sales floors, handoffs, or rushed decisions."
Text explaining the hand-sketch-first design process, highlighting that each piece starts with hand-drawn pencil sketches before moving to CAD renderings.
Text about education built in, clients guided through stones, settings, materials, design considerations, transparency, informed and intentional decision-making
Text titled 'Access to Uncommon Stones' describes non-traditional gemstones in jewelry stores on the West of Fourth, including colored gemstones, alternative diamonds, antique cuts, and unique gemstones not offered by many jewelry stores.

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 in-store selection, stones are sourced intentionally based on design, setting, budget, and personal preference, with clear guidance throughout.

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

Diamonds
Natural and lab-grown diamonds in a range of shapes, sizes, and qualities. Antique and old-cut diamonds are available, along with distinctive modern cuts such as movals, step-cut marquise, and other less common shapes.

Coloured Gemstones
Sapphires (including Montana), spinel, emerald, and other fine coloured gemstones. Sapphires are typically favoured in rings for their durability.

Alternative Stones
Salt-and-pepper diamonds, black diamonds, and non-traditional options for clients seeking something distinctive.

Existing or Heirloom Stones
Assessment and reuse of stones you already own, thoughtfully incorporated into a new design.

View our gallery of finished pieces →

ready to begin?

Whether you’re designing an engagement ring, exploring unique gemstones, or reimagining an heirloom, the process starts with a conversation.