There was a time when romance came pre-packaged: a ring from a high-street jeweller, a round diamond that looked much like the next. But love stories have evolved – and so too has the jewellery that defines them.

In a world that increasingly celebrates self-expression, more couples are choosing bespoke designs as personal declarations of identity, artistry and intent.

Forget one-size-fits-all proposals: today’s engagements are as unique as the people behind them. The modern couple doesn’t want tradition for tradition’s sake – they want meaning, storytelling, and craftsmanship that reflects who they are. A bespoke ring isn’t just about carats and clarity; it’s about character. It’s the understated sophistication of something made entirely for you.

That’s something deeply understood by the experts at 77 Diamonds. Founded in Mayfair, 77 Diamonds is Europe’s largest online diamond jeweller, specialising in bespoke engagement rings and fine jewellery crafted to order. Blending traditional craftsmanship with modern design and digital convenience, the brand empowers clients to create one-of-a-kind pieces that tell their own story.

As Anna Byers, Head of Bespoke at 77 Diamonds, explains further: “To me, jewellery is a form of wearable art; it’s an expression of one’s own creativity and unique personality. Creating fine jewellery that will be cherished for years to come is what we are truly passionate about. Hearing the stories of our clients is what drives the team here at Bespoke.”

77 Diamonds

The Power of Bespoke

Behind every bespoke commission lies a collaboration – an idea translated through the hands of a skilled artisan into a piece of timeless design. At 77 Diamonds, clients are invited into the creative process from the first spark of inspiration to the final polish. The result? Pieces that hold more than aesthetic beauty: they embody memories, milestones and, above all, meaning.

One of the benefits of choosing 77 Diamonds is the breadth of its collections – designs that can provide inspiration for its clients’ own unique creations. In one case, a client wanted a contemporary twist on the Medici halo engagement ring – by pairing it with the elegant split band of the Oxford design. The result? A flawless 1.5-carat emerald-cut diamond encircled by a radiant halo and diamond-set band – a modern heirloom that captures the brilliance of enduring love.

A flawless 1.5-carat emerald-cut diamond encircled by a radiant halo and diamond-set band – a modern heirloom that captures the brilliance of enduring love.

In a different commission, a passionate jewellery collector came to 77 Diamonds with a collection of green and champagne-hued diamonds. Each stone was hand-selected and supplied by the client, underscoring the genuinely collaborative nature of the piece. Her plan was to have these set in a one-of-a-kind cocktail ring – and the Bespoke team turned this into reality. The autumnal gems were framed in warm rose gold, with white-gold collets adding a subtle touch of contrast and refinement.

A one-of-a-kind cocktail ring – autumnal gems were framed in warm rose gold, with white-gold collets adding a subtle touch of contrast and refinement.

Of course, the bespoke approach isn’t restricted to just rings. Another client had a brace of matching emeralds, totalling two carats – and wanted to mount them in a set of earrings that did the stones justice. To enhance these central stones, the Bespoke team suggested two smaller pear-shaped diamonds hang above them, as well as a rectangular halo of round brilliant diamonds to border them. The whole piece was wreathed in 18k yellow gold, helping emphasise the vibrancy of emerald green.

Emerald earrings

The Art of Detail

Shape, colour, and setting all serve as expressions of personality. Some favour the architectural precision of emerald cuts or the romantic curves of cushions and ovals.

Others turn to colour – sapphires for sincerity, emeralds for renewal, champagne and green diamonds for individuality – to help impart meaning. While halo settings, split bands, micro pavé detailing and mixed metals can all add nuance.

Together, these choices elevate the final piece, turning craftsmanship into poetry.

Diamond ring

Love in the City

For Square Mile’s readers – those building careers and legacies in the City – a bespoke ring is more than jewellery. It’s a statement of values: originality, precision, permanence.

Like a well-tailored suit or a signature watch, it says something about who you are and what you stand for.

In a world of mass production, a bespoke piece from 77 Diamonds is a mark of discernment – and a lasting testament to the idea that love, like style, should always be personal.

See more at 77diamonds.com