Designing Forever:
A Custom Engagement Ring Story at David Gardner’s
Here at David Gardner’s Jewelers in College Station, TX, every engagement ring begins with a story. Some start with a clear vision, others with a feeling, a hint, or a family detail that matters deeply. What unites them all is the desire for something personal — an engagement ring that reflects who you are and where you’re headed together.
For one DG couple, Ana and Sebastian, the journey to their custom engagement ring was shaped by creativity, trust, and a few unforgettable surprises. Below, Ana shares her experience in a short question-and-answer session with us. (It’s a great behind-the-scenes glimpse of what it’s like to design a custom engagement ring at David Gardner’s!)
Q:
Did you have a vision for your engagement ring, or were you hoping to be surprised?
A:
Before working at David Gardner’s, I didn’t realize how much variety and creativity existed within engagement ring design. I assumed most rings followed the same basic formula. But after a few years surrounded by custom jewelry and constant inspiration, my perspective completely changed.
I knew I loved pear-shaped diamonds and bezel settings, but I wasn’t locked into one specific design. I’d casually point out details I liked, never expecting all of them to come together. I mostly hoped to give Sebastian a sense of what spoke to me. More than anything, I wanted him to collaborate with the sales and design team at David Gardner’s Jewelers to create something that truly felt like us.
Q:
How did working at David Gardner’s influence your expectations for the design process?
A:
Spending time behind the scenes at David Gardner’s in College Station, TX showed me how intentional and personal fine jewelry design can be. Seeing the creativity, craftsmanship, and care that go into each engagement ring made me excited to imagine something that didn’t feel traditional or expected.
I found myself drawn to designs that felt bold, personal, and meaningful — rings that told a story rather than followed a trend. Being around that level of artistry made the entire process feel more special, even before it officially began.
Q:
Did you give your fiancé guidance, or stay hands-off?
A:
I definitely shared some guidance — Sebastian had notes in his phone of my likes and dislikes. But we both wanted the final ring to be a surprise. I trusted him completely, especially knowing he was working with a team who understood both my style and the DG approach to custom engagement rings.
Because the sales and design team knew me so well, they were able to guide him professionally while also helping him capture my personality through the design. That trust made all the difference.
Q:
What was it like seeing your engagement ring for the first time?
A:
The moment was surreal. It truly felt like a “pinch me” experience. The ring exceeded anything I could have imagined. It was bold, thoughtful, and perfectly balanced. Every detail felt intentional. Knowing how much care went into the design, and how closely the team worked with Sebastian, made it even more meaningful.
Q:
Are there specific details that make the ring especially personal?
A:
One of my favorite details is the ruby beside the center stone. I had mentioned loving two-stone rings, but choosing a ruby was something I never expected — and it couldn’t have been more perfect.
The ruby is a tribute to my Grandma Ruby. Every time I look at it, I’m reminded of her and of how deeply personal this ring truly is. That’s the beauty of custom jewelry. It allows you to carry pieces of your story with you every day.
Q:
Has your appreciation for the ring changed over time?
A:
Absolutely. While the ruby will always be incredibly special to me, I’ve grown to love so many other details I didn’t initially anticipate.
The asymmetry of the design feels bold, yet thoughtful touches, like the diamonds placed on opposite sides of the split shank, create a sense of balance and cohesion. What I cherish most is knowing that every element was considered with intention, resulting in an engagement ring that feels unmistakably “DG.”
Q:
Any funny or memorable moments from the process?
A:
There were plenty. Because I handle diamond inventory and reporting at David Gardner’s Jewelers, keeping the ring a secret was no small task.
Sebastian later told me about viewing diamonds in a Sonic parking lot — and even losing one under the car seat at one point. Not exactly traditional, but incredibly memorable! Looking back, it makes me appreciate the effort and care that went into keeping the surprise intact.
Q:
What advice would you give someone hoping for a ring they’ll love?
A:
Trust the process. And trust your partner.
Whether you want to be deeply involved or completely surprised, communication is key. Share what you love, what you don’t, and then let your partner work with a trusted jeweler who understands how to translate those preferences into a meaningful design. The DG team knows how to listen, guide, and create engagement rings that feel authentic and lasting.
Considering a Custom Engagement Ring at DG?
Ana and Sebastian’s engagement ring story is just one example of how David Gardner’s Jewelers approaches engagement rings: with creativity, care, and an unwavering commitment to personal design. Whether you’re starting with a clear vision or just a feeling, our team in College Station, TX is here to guide you through every step.
