Handmade wedding rings are not created at the push of a button, nor are they simply selected from a catalogue. Their creation begins with a conversation, continues with the choice of material and design, and ends with precise surface finishing, diamond setting and a final inspection.
At Zlatarski Atelje Mengeš, every pair of wedding rings is created individually. The rings are adapted to the couple’s wishes, finger sizes and shapes, lifestyle and everyday wearing habits.
The result is a pair of unique wedding rings that are not only a symbol of marriage, but also carefully crafted pieces of precious metal designed for many years of wear.
What Does It Mean When Wedding Rings Are Handmade?
Handmade wedding rings are designed and produced in a goldsmith’s workshop using both traditional and modern goldsmithing techniques.
During the process, the goldsmith controls all the key stages:
- preparation of the material,
- dimensions of the rings,
- shaping of the profile,
- joining of individual parts,
- surface finishing,
- setting of diamonds,
- final size adjustment.
Handcrafting allows the ring to be adapted more precisely to the individual wearer. It is possible to choose the width, thickness, inner profile, colour of the gold, type of texture, position of the stones and many other details.
The two rings therefore do not need to be completely identical. They can be connected by the same design concept, while each ring is adapted to the hand of the person who will wear it.
How Are Wedding Rings Made?
The production of custom wedding rings usually takes place in seven main stages:
- consultation with the couple,
- preparation of the design and selection of materials,
- preparation of the gold,
- shaping and soldering,
- grinding and surface finishing,
- diamond setting,
- final inspection.
Each stage affects the appearance, comfort and durability of the finished rings.
1. Consultation with the Couple
The process begins with a personal consultation.
At the first meeting, we discuss what kind of wedding rings the couple would like, what jewellery they usually wear and what their lifestyle is like.
Important questions include:
- Do they prefer classic or modern wedding rings?
- Should the rings be identical or simply connected by the same design idea?
- What width do they prefer?
- Would they like yellow, white or rose gold?
- Should the surface be polished, matte or hand-textured?
- Should one or both rings include a diamond?
- What budget have they planned for the rings?
Appearance is not the only consideration. The type of work they do, sporting activities, frequent use of the hands and the feeling of wearing a wider or narrower ring must also be taken into account.
Accurate Ring Size Measurement
The size of a wedding ring must be determined precisely enough to prevent the ring from slipping, while still allowing it to be put on and removed comfortably.
When determining the correct size, we consider:
- the width of the ring,
- the shape of the knuckles,
- changes in finger size,
- the inner profile,
- differences between the left and right hand.
A wider ring may feel tighter than a narrow ring with the same inner diameter. For this reason, the size should not be determined only from an old ring or a measurement taken at home.
2. Sketch and Material Selection
Once the basic wishes have been established, we define the shape of the rings and select the material.
For simpler designs, a clear agreement on the profile, width, colour and surface finish may be sufficient. For more complex unique wedding rings, we prepare a sketch or define the proportions of individual design elements in greater detail.
Choosing the Colour of Gold
Wedding rings can be made from:
- yellow gold,
- white gold,
- rose or red gold,
- a combination of two or three colours of gold,
- platinum,
- palladium.
Yellow gold has a classic and warm appearance. White gold looks bright and modern, while rose gold has a more distinctive pinkish-red tone.
With combined wedding rings, different colours, surfaces and textures can be joined together. This type of production requires precise preparation and technically accurate joining of the individual parts.
585 or 750 Gold
Wedding rings are often made from 585 or 750 gold.
585 gold contains 58.5% pure gold. It is durable, suitable for everyday wear and generally more affordable.
750 gold contains 75% pure gold. It has a higher material value and usually a richer colour.
The choice depends on the desired appearance, budget, ring design and the way the ring will be worn.
3. Preparing the Gold
Once the design has been approved, the material is prepared.
The gold must have the correct purity, composition and quantity. Depending on the shape of the ring, it is prepared in a form suitable for further work.
The material may be prepared as:
- sheet,
- wire,
- a shaped profile,
- individual components in different colours of gold.
During hand production, the material is gradually rolled, drawn, forged or otherwise shaped until it reaches the required width and thickness.
It is important to determine the correct dimensions at this stage. Insufficient thickness can reduce the stability of the ring, while unnecessary extra weight affects both comfort and price.
Why Is Material Preparation Important?
Proper preparation of the gold affects:
- the strength of the ring,
- the evenness of the profile,
- the accuracy of the final size,
- the quality of the surface,
- the security of the set stones.
Gold becomes harder during the working process. It therefore needs to be heated and annealed between certain stages so that it becomes suitable for further shaping.
4. Shaping and Soldering
The prepared piece of gold is gradually shaped into a ring.
It is first curved into a circular form, after which both ends are prepared to meet as precisely as possible. A clean, accurate joint allows for strong soldering and an almost invisible transition.
Soldering the Wedding Ring
A suitable gold solder is used, with a melting point lower than that of the main material.
The ring is heated to the required temperature, allowing the solder to flow into the prepared joint. After cooling, the ring is cleaned and further processed.
A properly made joint must be:
- strong,
- precise,
- clean,
- practically invisible after final finishing.
The process is even more demanding with combined wedding rings, where different components or colours of gold must be joined accurately.
Shaping the Profile
After soldering, the ring is formed into a perfect circle and its final profile is created.
The profile may be:
- flat,
- slightly rounded,
- strongly rounded,
- flat with rounded edges,
- comfort-shaped on the inside.
A rounded inner profile is often more comfortable for everyday wear, especially with wider wedding rings.
5. Grinding, Polishing and Surface Finishing
Once the basic shape has been created, the precise surface-finishing process begins.
Marks from soldering and shaping are removed first. The surface is then gradually refined using progressively finer tools and abrasives.
The aim is to achieve:
- the correct shape,
- an even width,
- smooth edges,
- an even surface,
- precise transitions between different sections.
Polished Surface
A highly polished surface reflects a great deal of light and creates a smooth, glossy appearance.
This type of finish is classic and elegant, although fine scratches caused by everyday wear may become more visible over time.
Matte Surface
A matte surface has a calmer and more contemporary appearance. It can be created using different techniques, which means that not all matte wedding rings look the same.
Possible finishes include:
- soft matting,
- lengthwise or crosswise brushing,
- ice-matte finish,
- sandblasted surface,
- coarser handmade texture.
Handmade Textures
A handmade texture gives the ring a distinctive character. Because it is created directly on the surface, every ring can be slightly different.
Textures can create:
- a hammered appearance,
- an irregular structure,
- small reflections of light,
- contrast between matte and polished areas.
On combined wedding rings, different surface finishes can also highlight the individual colours of gold.
6. Diamond Setting
If the wedding ring includes diamonds, the next stage is the preparation of the seats and the setting of the stones.
Diamond setting requires great precision. Each seat must be prepared so that the stone is correctly positioned, visually aligned and securely held in place.
Different setting techniques can be used in wedding rings:
- a single flush-set diamond,
- star setting,
- channel setting,
- row setting,
- micro pavé,
- bead setting.
The choice of technique depends on the shape of the ring, the size of the stones and the desired appearance.
Natural Diamonds in Wedding Rings
At Zlatarski Atelje Mengeš, we use natural gemstones from verified sources in our jewellery.
When selecting diamonds, we consider:
- size,
- colour,
- clarity,
- quality of cut,
- total carat weight,
- proportion between the stones and the width of the ring.
For a simpler design, a single discreet diamond may be sufficient. For a more expressive ring, several stones or a continuous row of diamonds can be used.
7. Final Inspection
Once the ring has been shaped, surface-finished and set with stones, it undergoes a final inspection.
We check:
- the ring size,
- width and thickness,
- accuracy of the shape,
- quality of the joints,
- evenness of the surface,
- edges and wearing comfort,
- stability of the diamonds,
- quality of the polishing or matte finish.
The ring is then thoroughly cleaned. Any final minor adjustments are carried out, and we check that the two rings complement each other visually.
Only after the final inspection are the wedding rings ready for collection.
Handmade Production vs Mass Production
Mass-produced wedding rings are usually made in standard designs and dimensions. The customer selects the shape, material and size from a pre-defined collection.
Handmade wedding rings offer a much greater level of personalisation.
| Feature | Handmade wedding rings | Mass-produced wedding rings |
|---|---|---|
| Design | Adapted to the individual couple | Predefined model |
| Width and thickness | Selected according to the hand and personal wishes | Standard dimensions |
| Surface finish | Possibility of individual textures | Limited selection |
| Diamonds | Individual arrangement and setting | Usually a predefined pattern |
| Customisation | High level of personalisation | Limited |
| Character | Each pair can be different | Multiple identical products |
Handmade production does not mean that modern tools are not used. It means that the goldsmith directly manages and controls the process and adapts each stage to the specific piece.
Do Both Wedding Rings Have to Be Identical?
No. Many couples prefer rings that are connected by a shared design idea without being completely identical.
The men’s ring may be wider and without diamonds, while the women’s ring may be narrower and set with diamonds. One ring may have a more matte surface, while the other includes polished details.
The rings can be connected through:
- the same gold colour,
- the same texture,
- a similar profile,
- a shared line,
- the same decorative detail,
- engraving on the inside.
This allows each ring to suit its wearer while still forming a harmonious pair.
How Long Does It Take to Make Handmade Wedding Rings?
The production of custom wedding rings usually takes approximately four to eight weeks.
The time required depends on:
- the complexity of the design,
- the chosen material,
- the number of gold colours,
- special surface finishes,
- the number of diamonds and setting technique,
- the number of fittings required,
- the current workload of the workshop.
For more complex unique wedding rings, we recommend contacting us at least two to three months before the wedding.
During the main wedding season, it is advisable to reserve an appointment even earlier.
What Affects the Price of Handmade Wedding Rings?
The price depends mainly on the material, weight and complexity of production.
The final price is influenced by:
- 585 or 750 gold,
- yellow, white or rose gold,
- platinum or palladium,
- the sizes of both rings,
- width and thickness,
- combinations of different materials,
- complexity of the texture,
- number and quality of diamonds,
- setting technique,
- engraving.
An accurate quotation can be prepared once the model and sizes have been determined.
Can a Personal Story Be Included?
Yes. One of the main advantages of custom wedding rings is the possibility of including personal details.
These may include:
- a special engraving,
- the wedding date,
- a partner’s handwriting,
- a fingerprint,
- a symbol,
- a particular surface texture,
- a diamond or another natural gemstone,
- a detail that continues from one ring into the other.
The personal element does not need to be immediately visible. It can be hidden on the inside and have meaning only for the two people wearing the rings.
Maintenance of Handmade Wedding Rings
Wedding rings are worn every day, so signs of wear naturally appear over time.
This is a normal process. The surface may develop a patina, while small scratches become part of the story of the ring.
When required, we can provide:
- professional cleaning,
- polishing,
- renewal of matte finishes,
- restoration of handmade textures,
- rhodium plating of white gold,
- inspection of diamonds,
- size adjustment.
For wedding rings with diamonds, we recommend occasional inspections so that any wear around the stones can be identified in time.
Handmade Wedding Rings in Slovenia
Zlatarski Atelje Mengeš is located in Mengeš, near Ljubljana.
We create unique wedding rings in yellow, white and rose gold, as well as platinum and palladium. We produce classic designs, combined wedding rings, hand-textured surfaces and rings set with natural diamonds.
During a personal consultation, you can view:
- different colours of gold,
- samples of surface finishes,
- different widths and profiles,
- examples of combined wedding rings,
- diamond-setting options.
Every pair of rings is designed according to the couple’s wishes, finger sizes and lifestyle.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are Handmade Wedding Rings?
These are wedding rings in which the goldsmith personally carries out and controls the individual stages of production in the workshop. The shape, dimensions, material, surface and stones can all be adapted to the specific couple.
How Long Does Production Take?
Usually between four and eight weeks. More complex designs, multi-coloured rings or rings with several diamonds may require more time.
Can We Choose Different Wedding Rings?
Yes. The rings can have different widths, colours or surface finishes. They should simply be connected by a shared design concept.
Do You Make Rings in White, Yellow and Rose Gold?
Yes. We can create single-colour or combined wedding rings in different colours of gold, as well as rings in platinum or palladium.
Can Diamonds Be Set in the Rings?
Yes. We can set one or several natural diamonds. The setting technique is adapted to the shape of the ring, the size of the stones and the desired appearance.
Can We Use Our Own Old Gold?
The possibility of using old gold must be assessed individually. Its purity, composition, quantity and suitability for the selected design all need to be checked.
When Should We Order Our Wedding Rings?
We recommend contacting us at least two to three months before the wedding. This allows enough time for selection, production and any final adjustments.
Wedding Rings Made Especially for You
Handmade wedding rings combine a personal story, quality materials and precise goldsmithing.
Their value lies not only in the gold or diamonds, but also in the journey from the first consultation to the moment when the rings are placed on your hands on your wedding day.
At Zlatarski Atelje Mengeš, we present different materials, designs and surface finishes and work with you to create a solution that suits your style, lifestyle and planned budget.
Arrange a personal consultation and together we will create wedding rings made especially for you.
