21 Oct Start Your Custom Engagement Ring Journey in San Diego
Designing your engagement ring should be one of the most exciting, and stress-free, parts of your love story. At C. Blackburn Jewelers in La Jolla, jewelry designer Carl Blackburn makes the process personal, transparent, and beautifully simple.
Below, we share how Carl typically guides new clients through the journey of creating a one-of-a-kind engagement ring, using a couple of recent client scenarios as real-world examples.
Step 1: The Initial Consultation
Every project begins with a personal consultation at our La Jolla jewelry store (or virtually, if you’re out of town). This is where you’ll share your ideas, inspiration photos, and budget. Carl listens carefully, answers questions, and helps refine your vision into a clear direction. The meeting is usually arranged during the week or on Saturady between 12pm and 6pm.
Some couples come in together from the start; others may begin the conversation individually, then bring in their partner later. Either way, you’ll leave with a clear understanding of the creative steps ahead and a general price range — typically between $3,000 and $6,000 for most custom engagement rings, depending on the materials and design complexity.
Step 2: The Design Deposit
Once you’re ready to begin, a deposit of around $500 typically secures your project. This deposit covers the time and expertise required for the initial design work, CAD renderings, and prototype modeling.
As Carl explained in one message to a San Diego couple:
“At this stage I require a $500 deposit to dive into the project for you. The first thing I’ll do is prepare some diamond options and prices for you. Once we get through this diamond selection process and you have chosen your diamonds, I’ll start building the ring design around them and present you with your first CAD video.”
This small deposit ensures that you’re prioritized in Carl’s design queue and begins the exciting process of bringing your dream ring to life.
Step 3: Selecting the Diamond or Gemstone
After the deposit, Carl sources diamond or gemstone options tailored to your style and budget. He hand-selects stones from his national and international wholesale network, ensuring the highest quality and value.
You’ll have the chance to see and compare several stones in person, so you can confidently choose the perfect one.
“I will then have the diamonds shipped in so you can see them in person, compare several options, and make your final choice,” Carl explains.
Once you select your diamond (or diamonds), you pay only for the stones you’ve chosen — Carl immediately pays the supplier on your behalf.
Step 4: CAD Design & Video Presentation
Next, Carl creates a CAD (Computer-Aided Design) model of your ring. You’ll receive a video rendering showing every angle, allowing you to visualize exactly how your ring will look in different precious metals, such as white, yellow, or pink gold, or two-tone gold.
“Once you settle on a diamond, I then create the CAD design of her ring. Attached is a video showing what that looks like,” Carl wrote to another client.
You can request adjustments until the design feels perfect. Carl personally oversees every detail to ensure your ring reflects your unique story and style.
Step 5: Resin Prototype & Final Approval
After you approve the CAD design, Carl can create a resin prototype — a lightweight model of your custom engagement ring that you can hold, try on, and review before production begins. This step gives you extra peace of mind before your final piece is cast in metal.
Resin Model for 23+ Carat Natural Colored Diamond Cocktail Ring by Carl Blackburn
Step 6: Ring Production & Delivery
Once the design is approved, your engagement ring enters production. Using the traditional lost-wax casting method, Carl’s team crafts your ring in your chosen metal — platinum, yellow, white, or rose gold — and sets your diamonds or gemstones with expert precision.
Most rings are completed within two weeks of design approval. The final balance is due upon delivery of your finished ring.
Why Clients Love This Approach
Clients consistently praise Carl’s straightforward process and open communication. Every step is clearly explained, every cost transparent, and every design treated as a collaboration.
Whether you’re creating an engagement ring together as a couple or planning a surprise proposal, Carl ensures the experience is personal, creative, and joyful — from the first consultation to the moment you open that little box.
Start Your Design Journey
If you’re ready to explore what’s possible, schedule your free consultation with Carl Blackburn at our La Jolla jewelry store.
📞 Schedule a free design consultation.
Call 858-251-3006 or text 619-723-8589.
