The Custom Engagement Ring Process, Step by Step

In this guide

    By Clint Casmiro, Co-Founder, Smiro Studio, Toronto · Updated September 27, 2026

    Short answer: Six steps: a free estimate, a 30 minute video consult, round 1 design (the CAD file), round 2 design (the 360 render you approve), diamond selection on video, then about 6 weeks at our Toronto bench and free insured delivery. The whole thing takes about 11 weeks.

    Nothing gets made until you have seen it and said yes. Here is how it works with us, in order.

    Step 1: What happens when I ask for an estimate?

    Tell us the shape, stone and style you have in mind, or send a photo. We come back with a price range so you know where you stand before anyone books a call. Most estimates go out within the hour during studio hours.

    Step 2: What is the consult like?

    A free 30 minute video call with Clint or Karina. We talk through proportions, setting height, band width and metal from a jeweller's point of view, and we show you rings we have already built. We have a database of over 1,000 designs, so you are rarely starting from zero.

    Step 3: What is the CAD file?

    Round 1 is the CAD file: a technical drawing of your ring with the measurements on it. This is where changes happen. Band a little thinner, prongs a little smaller, the basket a touch lower. Most people make one or two rounds of changes here.

    Step 4: What is the 360 render?

    Round 2 is a photoreal 360 render. You can spin it and see the ring from every side, including the details underneath the stone. You approve it before we cast anything. Once you approve the design, the sale is final, which is why we take this step seriously.

    Step 5: How is the diamond chosen?

    We narrow hundreds of stones down to the best two or three for your design and budget, then send certificates and real video of each stone. Every diamond 1 carat and up comes with an IGI certificate. We sell both lab grown and natural.

    Step 6: How is the ring made and delivered?

    About 6 weeks at our Toronto bench: casting, setting, any hand engraving, then polish. We send a close-up video before it ships. Delivery is free, fully insured and door to door by FedEx across Canada and the US, with an adult signature required.

    Want us to look at your idea?

    A free 30 minute video call with Clint or Karina. Bring a photo, a budget, or nothing at all.

    Book a free callSee our process

    Questions we get about this

    What are the steps to design a custom engagement ring?

    Estimate, video consult, CAD file, 360 render approval, diamond selection on video, then about 6 weeks at the bench and free insured delivery.

    How many design revisions do I get?

    Design usually takes 2 to 3 rounds. Changes happen on the CAD file, then you approve the 360 render.

    Do I need to visit a showroom?

    No. We are virtual only. The consult, design approval and delivery all happen online, anywhere in Canada or the US.

    Can I use my own diamond?

    Generally we do not accept client provided stones, but we make exceptions in some cases. Send us the stone's details and we will tell you honestly.

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    Real couples, real rings.

    Megan W with their custom Smiro ring “They took the vibe in my head and turned it into the exact ring. She said yes.” Megan W · Past project Emily D with their custom Smiro ring “Stress-free start to finish. They sent renders until it was exactly right.” Emily D · Past project Julian with their custom Smiro ring “Found them on TikTok and talked to the actual makers. The stone is unreal.” Julian · Past project Nagrup S with their custom Smiro ring “The detail is even better in person. Worth every minute of the wait.” Nagrup S · Past project Kishori O with their custom Smiro ring “Absolutely amazing studio. They delivered above and beyond what we expected.” Kishori O · Past project
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    Rings we have made for couples

    Moval-Cut Diamond Ring with Tulip Petals

    Moval-Cut Diamond Ring with Tulip Petals

    A 2.05ct moval in a 6 petal east west tulip setting, platinum, with a hand engraved north star beneath the bridge. From Sam's sketch to the finished ring.
    Old Mine Cushion Diamond Ring

    Old Mine Cushion Diamond Ring

    A 2.5ct old mine cushion, newly cut in the antique style, set in 14k yellow gold with a hidden halo and low profile basket. Why Simon asked for an old mine by name, and how we built it.

    Approve your ring Before Production

    Get accurate 3D renderings before saying 'Yes'.

    +40 years of experience

    Expert Canadian craftsmanship you can trust.

    Family Owned Business

    Second generation and family-run for over 40 years.

    Insured Door to Door Shipping Included

    Fully insured, secure door to door delivery.