Working with Carl
What to Expect
Designing an engagement ring is one of the most meaningful experiences a couple can share together. For people searching for custom engagement rings in Hillcrest and throughout San Diego, working directly with designer Carl Blackburn makes the process far more personal and rewarding.
About Carl
Carl's been designing fine jewelry since 1995, when he launched his first collection in Bali, Indonesia. With GIA training and decades of experience, he is deeply knowledgeable in antique, vintage, and modern jewelry design, and works closely with each client to create a ring that reflects their vision.
Meeting Options
Carl’s jewelry studio is located nearby in La Jolla, where many clients come from Hillcrest and other San Diego neighborhoods to design their rings in a relaxed, one-on-one setting. You can also begin the process remotely through a video consultation using Zoom, WhatsApp, or Facebook Messenger.
The Custom Ring Design Process
Step 1
A Personal Consultation
The process begins with a relaxed conversation about your ideas, inspiration, and budget. During this meeting you may discuss:
• design styles and inspiration
• diamond or gemstone options
• lifestyle considerations
• budget comfort and priorities
This consultation is free and without obligation. Its purpose is simply to explore ideas and help you understand what’s possible.
Step 2
Select the Center Stone
Carl works with a trusted network of diamond and gemstone suppliers, allowing clients to explore a wide range of options including:
• natural diamonds of all types
• lab-grown diamonds of all types
• sapphires and other colored gemstones
You’ll be able to compare stones side by side while discussing the qualities that influence beauty, sparkle, and value.
Step 3
Review CAD Design
Once the concept begins to take shape, the ring is modeled digitally using 3D CAD design technology. This stage often includes:
• photorealistic illustrations
• rotating 360° videos
• different metal options
This allows you to view your engagement ring from every angle before anything is produced. It also allows you to see your ring in white gold versus yellow or rose gold.
Step 4
Modifications
You’ll review the CAD design and discuss them with Carl. If needed, you can request adjustments or refinements. Small design tweaks are common, and the goal is simply to ensure that the ring feels exactly right before moving forward. Nothing is produced until the design is fully approved.
Step 5
Wear Resin Model
In many cases, a resin model of the ring can be created so you can see how it looks and feels on the hand before the final piece is made. This step removes one of the most common fears about custom jewelry — wondering whether the finished ring will match your expectations.
Step 6
Make the Ring
Once approved, your ring is cast using the traditional lost-wax casting method, and hand detailing added as needed. Diamonds and gemstones are set with precision, and every detail is inspected. Most custom engagement rings are finished within two to three weeks after design approval.
Hillcrest, San Diego
"Designing our custom engagement ring with Carl was a dream experience! Carl was able to seamlessly combine our desired design elements into the perfect ring at a fraction of the price of other options. He guided us through all of the steps of the process and made sure to check in with us throughout the development. We can’t wait to come back for our wedding bands!" - Kyler G.
Budget & Pricing
Many couples are surprised to learn that custom engagement rings are often comparable in price to rings found in traditional jewelry stores, and sometimes even less. Because you are working directly with the Carl rather than through multiple layers of retail markup, more of your budget goes toward the materials and craftsmanship that actually matter. Custom lab-grown diamond rings can start as low as $2,000.
Hand-Craftsmanship
Your custom ring will be handcrafted by a select group of California jewelry artisans whom Carl has personally collaborated with for many years on custom engagement rings and fine jewelry. These craftsmen have mastered old-world techniques such as hand milgraining, hand-engraving, and hand-filigree, while also employing modern jewelry-making methods to achieve exceptional precision and lasting quality.
Getting Started
Getting started is simple. Carl will listen to your ideas, discuss design possibilities, and help you explore options that fit both your style and your budget. Whether you already have a clear vision or are just beginning to explore engagement ring ideas, the process begins with a relaxed conversation about what you’d like to create together. From there, Carl can guide you step by step through the engagement ring design process.
Let's Start
Tell Us Your Ring Idea
Whether you already have a clear vision or are just beginning to explore ideas, share a few details about the ring you have in mind. Carl will personally follow up to continue the conversation.