June marks the beginning of engagement season—a time when many couples choose to take that next meaningful step. With warmer weather, summer travel, and celebratory energy in the air, it’s a popular month for proposals. But for those considering a custom engagement ring, the process begins long before the question is asked.

At Liza Shtromberg Jewelry, we believe an engagement ring should be as unique as the story behind it. A ring isn’t just a piece of jewelry—it’s a symbol of commitment, intention, and shared vision. Here’s what to know before starting the journey toward a custom-designed engagement ring.

Start with a Conversation, Not a Catalog

Choosing a custom ring is an intimate process. It begins not with a design, but with a conversation—about values, aesthetics, and meaning. During a consultation, we talk through everything from lifestyle to preferred metals, stone types, and design inspirations.
Some clients come in with family heirlooms, others with sketches, and many with simply a feeling they want the piece to express. No matter where you begin, the goal is the same: to create something that reflects you and the love it represents.

Understand the Custom Timeline

Custom engagement rings are handcrafted from the ground up, which means the process takes time. From consultation and stone sourcing to final engraving and setting, it’s not uncommon for the full journey to take 4–8 weeks, depending on complexity and material availability.
Starting early allows space for thoughtful decision-making, design adjustments, and meaningful touches—like incorporating a birthstone or engraving a personal message inside the band.

Choose a Stone That Reflects Meaning, Not Just Tradition

While diamonds remain a classic choice, many couples are exploring alternative stones that reflect personality, heritage, or symbolism. Sapphires, emeralds, and even antique stones passed down through generations all hold their own kind of magic.
We help clients explore the emotional and aesthetic value of different options, sourcing stones with intention and transparency.

Design with Daily Life in Mind

A beautiful ring should also be wearable. During the design process, we consider how the ring will feel day to day. Is your partner active or hands-on in their work? Do they gravitate toward minimalism or vintage detail? These elements guide choices around stone setting, band width, and durability.
The result is a ring that’s not only beautiful—but made to be lived in.

The Final Setting: Where It All Comes Together

After design approval and stone selection, the ring is brought to life in Liza’s studio—carefully hand-sculpted, engraved, and finished with the level of craftsmanship that ensures it will last for generations.
For many couples, picking up the final ring is its own kind of milestone. It marks not just a promise, but a process shared—one that reflects the uniqueness of their bond.

A custom engagement ring is more than a proposal—it’s a personal expression of love, collaboration, and intention. If you’re ready to begin, we’d be honored to help you create something truly one-of-a-kind.

Ready to design your ring? Schedule a custom consultation at lizashtromberg.com or visit our studio at 1953 Hillhurst Ave, Los Angeles.