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Insights, inspiration and expert guidance on engagement rings, diamonds and handcrafted jewellery.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
I’m not sure what I want. Should I still make an appointment?
Absolutely. You don’t need to arrive with a finished design in mind — that’s what we’re here for. We’ll take the time to understand what you like, how you’ll wear your jewellery and what feels right for you. You’re welcome to try on pieces in our showroom, look through different stones and styles, and explore ideas with us.
Do I need an appointment?
We recommend making an appointment so we can set aside plenty of time to sit down with you, talk through your ideas and show you different designs, diamonds and gemstones.
Appointments are available at both our Melbourne CBD and Armadale showrooms. If you’re not sure which location is right for you, please get in touch and we’ll be happy to help.
What is the process for creating a custom piece?
Every custom piece begins with a conversation. We’ll talk through your ideas, budget and preferences before helping you refine the design and select your diamond or gemstone.
Once you’re ready to proceed, we’ll create a detailed design drawing for your approval before your piece is handcrafted by our jewellers.
You can learn more about our custom jewellery process here.
How much do your engagement rings start from?
Our handcrafted engagement rings start from $3,300 for a classic solitaire setting, plus the cost of your chosen diamond or gemstone.
We work with a wide range of natural diamonds, laboratory-grown diamonds and coloured gemstones, and can help you explore options to suit your priorities and budget.
Can you work within my budget?
Yes. If you have a budget in mind, we encourage you to share it with us. It helps us recommend the most suitable design, diamond or gemstone options while maintaining the quality and craftsmanship we’re known for.
There are often different ways to approach a design, and we’ll help you understand where your budget is best spent to create a piece you’ll love for years to come.
How do I choose a diamond or gemstone?
You don’t need to be an expert before you come to see us. Part of our role is helping you understand your options and making the process feel straightforward.
We can source a selection of diamonds or gemstones based on your design, preferences and budget, then talk you through the differences between them so you can choose the stone that feels right for you.
How long does custom-made jewellery take?
Our average turnaround time is approximately 8 weeks for an engagement ring and 6–8 weeks for wedding rings and other custom jewellery.
If you’re working towards a proposal, wedding or special occasion, please let us know when you enquire. We’ll always do our best to work with your timeframe where possible.
Do you have rings and jewellery I can see and try on?
Yes. Our showrooms have a selection of engagement rings, wedding bands and other jewellery available to view and try on.
These pieces are a great starting point for exploring different proportions, profiles, finishes and design details before creating something of your own. We recommend making an appointment so we can give you plenty of time and personal attention.
I already have a diamond or gemstone. Can you use it in a new piece?
In many cases, yes. We’ll first inspect your diamond or gemstone to make sure it is suitable for the new design and can be safely reset.
If you have an existing piece of jewellery you’d like to remodel, bring it along to your appointment and we can talk through the possibilities with you.
Can you remodel or redesign my existing jewellery?
Yes. We love giving meaningful jewellery a new life. Whether you have an inherited piece, an older design you no longer wear or gemstones you’d like to reimagine, we can work with you to create something that feels more like you while retaining the sentiment of the original piece.
We’ll assess your existing jewellery and gemstones before discussing what can be reused and the design possibilities available.
What is the difference between 18ct white gold and platinum?
While they have a similar appearance, 18ct white gold and platinum are quite different
metals.
Platinum is naturally white, dense and extremely durable, while 18ct white gold is an alloy of gold and other metals that is typically rhodium plated to give it a bright white finish. Over time, this plating may need to be refreshed.
Both are beautiful choices for fine jewellery. We can talk you through the differences in appearance, wear, maintenance and price to help you decide which is right for your piece.
Do you work with natural and laboratory-grown diamonds?
Yes. We work with both natural and laboratory-grown diamonds and are happy to talk you through the differences between them.
Our focus is on helping you choose a beautiful stone that suits your design, priorities and budget, without pressure towards one option or the other.
Where is your jewellery made?
Our custom jewellery is handcrafted in our Melbourne CBD workshop by our team of skilled jewellers.
Keeping our workshop close allows us to remain closely involved throughout the making process and maintain the level of craftsmanship and attention to detail we expect from every Simon West piece.
Do you offer a guarantee on your jewellery?
Yes. We offer a lifetime guarantee against manufacturing faults in our workmanship
Fine jewellery does require ongoing care, so we also recommend regular professional cleaning and inspections to keep your piece looking its best and to identify any maintenance that may be needed over time.
You can read the full details of our guarantee in our Terms of Service.
Do you offer jewellery cleaning and maintenance?
Yes. Fine jewellery is designed to be worn, and regular care helps keep it looking beautiful for years to come.
We recommend having your Simon West jewellery professionally cleaned and inspected every two years so we can check settings, claws and general wear and advise you of any maintenance that may be required.
Still have questions?
Contact our Experts
JEWELLERY IS AT ITS MOST SPECIAL WHEN IT TELLS YOUR STORY.
Whether you're marking a milestone, celebrating a new chapter or giving new life to a family heirloom, we'll work with you to create something truly personal. Every custom piece is thoughtfully designed, expertly handcrafted and made to be treasured for generations.”