Custom Design
To begin, simply fill out our Custom Request Form and share the project you’d like to bring to life. From there, we’ll start a conversation about your vision and how we can create something meaningful together.
Every project is a collaboration, crafted with care and intention to reflect your unique story.
Yes! After filling out the Custom Request Formwe invite you to book your Design Consultation with us.
If you don't have time to fill out your Custom Request Form, we can fill it out together during our call.
Yes! Please explore more in our Custom Gallery.
If you can imagine it, we can most likely create it. Our specialties include heirloom redesigns, engagement rings, wedding rings, personal talismans, memorial jewelry, gifts and milestone jewelry, vow renewal & anniversary rings, and extraordinary one-of-a-kind pieces.
From exclusive engagement rings to a custom cocktail ring for Cyndi Lauper, even a bespoke wedding tiara, every creation is crafted to capture your vision and tell your story.
Explore more here: Types of Custom Jewelry
Custom Jewelry starts at $3,000 (Design Deposit Included)
The Design deposit goes towards the final cost of your custom creation.
Yes! Please see here, Client Testimonials
No, you do not need to have a fully formed design idea to start your custom jewelry journey.
Many clients come to Kris Averi with only a starting point and that’s more than enough.
We can begin with something simple, such as:
- The type of jewelry you’d like to create (ring, necklace, bracelet, earrings)
- The occasion (engagement, wedding, heirloom redesign, anniversary, memorial piece, milestone gift, personal talisman)
- A feeling, concept, or inspiration
- A stone you already have
- Even just a general aesthetic you’re drawn to
You don’t need technical knowledge or have the “perfect idea.”
Through our one-on-one custom design process, we help you refine your vision, explore stone options, review sketches, and shape the piece step-by-step until it feels aligned and intentional.
Custom jewelry is a collaborative experience. Whether you arrive with a detailed Pinterest board or simply a meaningful reason for creating something, we meet you where you are and build from there.
Custom Jewelry Process
Kris Averi’s virtual custom jewelry process allows you to design a one-of-a-kind engagement ring, wedding band, heirloom redesign, or personal talisman from anywhere in the world. While we are based in New York City, our entire custom experience can be completed online with personalized guidance at every step.
See more on the process here.
Here’s how it works:
Step 1: Share Your Vision
Every custom piece begins with your story, a love story, a milestone, or an inspiration drawn from nature.
You’ll begin by completing our Custom Request Form, where you can share your ideas, style preferences, inspiration, budget range, and timeline. The more detail you provide, the more intentional and aligned the design journey becomes.
Step 2: Complimentary Design Consultation
After reviewing your form, you’ll be invited to book a complimentary one-on-one virtual consultation.
During this call, we explore:
- Your aesthetic and lifestyle
- Stone preferences (diamonds, sapphires, emeralds, alternative gemstones)
- Budget considerations
- Timeline goals
This conversation ensures we are creatively aligned and that your custom engagement ring or fine jewelry piece feels deeply personal.
Step 3: Sketching & Stone Sourcing
Once we confirm your project scope, budget, and timeline, the co-creation begins.
Within approximately 2–3 weeks, you’ll receive:
- 6–8 original design sketches inspired by your vision
- Curated diamond or gemstone options sourced specifically for you
We refine the design together until it feels exactly right — intentional, balanced, and uniquely yours.
Step 4: 3D Modeling & Handcrafting in NYC
After finalizing your design, your selected sketch is transformed into a detailed 3D model so you can view your piece from every angle.
For engagement rings and select projects, we can also:
- Print your design in wax
- Mail the wax model to you for physical review before final approval
Once approved, you’ll receive your custom quote and contract to begin production.
Your piece is then handcrafted in New York City’s Diamond District, where master artisans:
- Cast your design in your chosen precious metal
- Hand-set each stone
- Polish and finish every detail with precision and care
Every piece is made to order.
Step 5: Delivery of Your Forever Piece
When your jewelry is complete, it is professionally photographed and filmed so you can admire it before it ships.
After final approval:
- Your piece is securely packaged and shipped to you
- Hand delivery may be arranged depending on location
From first sketch to final polish, your custom jewelry journey is collaborative, transparent, and deeply personal, no matter where you are in the world.
All Kris Averi custom jewelry is handcrafted in New York City’s Diamond District.
Each piece is thoughtfully created through a collaboration between my private design studio and a network of trusted, family-owned and operated businesses, including casting companies, diamond and gemstone vendors, and master stone setters.
We intentionally work with small, independent artisans who uphold the highest standards of craftsmanship and ethical practice. These are skilled craftspeople who have dedicated their lives to fine jewelry making, many of whom have worked in the Diamond District for generations.
Every custom piece is:
- Made to order
- Cast in your chosen precious metal
- Hand-set by experienced stone setters
- Finished and polished to the highest quality standards
We draw from the natural alchemy of precious materials, gold, platinum, diamonds, sapphires, and emeralds, all while honoring the artistry and precision that define fine jewelry craftsmanship.
Nothing is mass-produced or outsourced overseas.
Your custom engagement ring or fine jewelry piece is made with intention, care, and collaboration in the heart of New York City.
Creating a custom engagement ring with Kris Averi typically takes 6–8 weeks from design approval to completion.
However, timelines can vary depending on:
- The complexity of the design
- The time needed to source the perfect diamond or gemstone
- Revisions during the design process
- Specific proposal or event deadlines
We always recommend starting as early as possible to allow space for thoughtful design and intentional sourcing. If you have a specific date in mind, such as a proposal, wedding, or anniversary, we work backwards from your deadline to ensure everything is completed on time.
In certain cases, we can accommodate expedited timelines or rush orders, depending on the design and stone availability. If you’re on a shorter timeline, we encourage you to reach out directly so we can discuss options.
At Kris Averi, every engagement ring is made to order and crafted with care as we believe the process should feel as meaningful as the moment itself.
Yes. Ethical sourcing and sustainability are core values at Kris Averi.
We take great pride in ensuring that every gemstone we source is responsibly mined and ethically obtained through trusted vendors. All diamonds, whether natural or lab-grown, are certified by respected laboratories such as GIA or equivalent accredited institutions to ensure quality, authenticity, and transparency.
In addition to responsible stone sourcing, we are deeply committed to sustainable practices. Every custom piece is crafted using 100% recycled precious metals, including recycled gold and platinum. This reduces environmental impact without compromising quality, durability, or beauty.
Our commitment means you can feel confident that your engagement ring, wedding band, or custom fine jewelry piece reflects not only your love story, but your values as well.
We believe luxury and responsibility can coexist.
Absolutely! Bring us your loose natural diamonds, gemstones, or a cherished piece of fine jewelry that no longer feels like you.
Together, we’ll transform it into something entirely new and one-of-a-kind, honoring the elements you wish to preserve. The precious metal from your original piece can also be reimagined, with its value put toward your new creation.
Yes, we specialize in heirloom jewelry redesign.
If you have inherited diamonds, gemstones, or precious metals from a family piece that no longer reflects your style, we can thoughtfully transform it together into a new custom creation while preserving its history and meaning.
Our heirloom redesign process allows you to:
- Reuse existing diamonds or gemstones
- Reset stones into a completely new design
- Recycle your gold or platinum for credit toward your new piece
- Preserve sentimental value while updating the aesthetic
This process is both sustainable and deeply personal as we believe jewelry is meant ot be worn, not sit in your jewelry box. We're happy to help you reimagine it into something you’ll cherish and wear every day.
Through our one-on-one custom design experience, we collaborate closely to honor the original story of your heirloom while creating a piece that feels aligned with your life now.
Every redesigned piece is handcrafted in New York City’s Diamond District and made with the same level of intention, artistry, and care as all Kris Averi custom jewelry.
Heirlooms are meant to be worn and evolve with you.
Yes. While Kris Averi is based in New York City and New Jersey, we proudly work with clients across the United States and around the world through our seamless virtual custom design process.
Our online custom engagement ring experience includes:
- Personalized one-on-one virtual consultations
- Curated diamond and gemstone sourcing
- Detailed design renderings and revisions
- Exact measurements and sizing guidance
- Clear approvals step-by-step, and before production begins
We ensure you feel confident at every step, from selecting the perfect stone to understanding the precise proportions and details of your final design.
Many of our clients complete the entire custom engagement ring process remotely and receive a one-of-a-kind piece crafted specifically for them.
No matter where you’re located, we make designing a luxury custom engagement ring online feel personal, collaborative, and effortless.
It is possible, and that’s exactly what the design and 3D modeling phase is for. During this stage, we can make edits or even take the design in a new direction if inspiration strikes.
Once you’ve approved the final 3D render and your piece moves into production, though, we’re fully committed. Since each creation is custom-made and cast in your chosen precious metal, changes can’t be made after that point. Every piece is truly one of a kind, made just for you.
Made to Order
All Kris Averi pieces are made by hand once you place your order. We don't hold any inventory, so your piece is entirely yours.
Once your order is placed, it can't be cancelled. This is because your piece goes straight into production to make sure it gets to you as soon as possible.
So, if you have any questions at all, please contact us prior to placing your order.
Absolutely!
All stones shown on our site are natural diamonds and gemstones varying in both color and size.
Because of this, we can't guarantee the color you see on the website will exactly match your piece. Your stones will hold inclusions indicative of natural stones. As each is beautiful and unique, it may vary from the photograph.
Please contact us before placing your order if you'd like to choose the exact stone for your piece. We can source each stone specifically for you and work with you throughout the process. It's another benefit to buying made-to-order from Kris Averi.
Because every piece in our collection is made-to-order, designs can be modified by request. We can customize just about anything for you, from preferred stone, to shape, size, cut and metal alloy.
If you're interested, please see our Introduction to Custom Jewelry (note: there's an additional lead time for custom designs).
Pricing Custom Jewelry
Our minimum for custom jewelry is $3000, including a Design Deposit.
Depending on the complexity of your design, gemstones or diamonds, and the desired precious metal, all of these factor into the cost of your custom jewelry.
If you have a budget, let us know when filling out your Custom Request Form.
Yes and no.
Custom jewelry is often more exclusive because it’s designed specifically for you rather than mass-produced. The price depends on design complexity, materials, and the creative process, including design labor and 3D modeling (CAD).
In some cases, custom pieces may cost more than ready-made jewelry, but they carry the added value of being entirely one-of-a-kind and deeply personal.
Yes, we've partnered with Affirm for Shopify, Shop Pay giving you the flexibility for 4 interest free payment (Pay in 4) or options for 3, 6, or a 12 month payment plans.
Requires US residency, age 18+, and is subject to an eligibility check by Affirm.
Yes, we require a $400 Design Deposit to start your custom project with us, which goes towards your custom jewelry.
Your $400 Design Deposit is nonrefundable, as well as the purchase of any diamonds or gemstones. If we need to pause or cancel, in the beginning, during the design phase, we may or may not be able to do so.
Once your jewelry is in production, it must be paid for in full upon completion and is non-refundable.
Return and Exchange
All Kris Averi orders are final sale. Because your piece is made just for you, it can't be returned.
We're happy to work closely with you over email (with photo and video clips of the piece and stones) to help make sure your piece is perfect for you at the time of purchase.
On rare occasion, we will process an exchange or work with you to repair any unexpected damage (see the Warranty and Insurance section below).
All Kris Averi custom creations are non-refundable at any point in the process.
We work closely with you over email as we co-create your custom jewelry together to help make sure your piece is perfect.
Once you purchase a gemstone or diamond with us, the stone is yours and is non-refundable should you pause or cancel.
Shipping
From the time of purchase, please allow up to 4-6 weeks for your order to be processed and shipped.
Expected lead times are provided on the product page (and some are expected to arrive sooner). However, to be safe, please plan for the full 4-6 weeks.
If you have any special requests, we will do our best to accommodate you. Rush services can be provided, though fees may apply.
All Domestic Shipping comes with insurance and must be signed for upon delivery. You will receive an email with confirmation and a tracking number once your package has been shipped.
Yes! All of our custom and made-to-order jewelry comes in discreet packaging.
If you are looking for more of a secret for delivery, we can ship to your local FedEx for pick up of your jewelry. You will need to bring a government ID at pick-up.
Warranty and Insurance
We do not offer insurance through Kris Averi. However insuring your jewelry is highly encouraged.
For all jewelry (Fashion Collections and bespoke Custom Design), appraisals can be offered with your finished piece upon request for an additional fee.
At Kris Averi, we're bonded and insured for all collection inventory, bespoke creations, repairs, and merchandise in stock and through shipment.
We highly recommend insuring your jewelry with Jewelers Mutual.
All jewelry is provided with a 1-year warranty from the date of delivery. If there is any reasonable damage within the first year, we'll repair your jewelry free of charge.
Regardless of whether your jewelry is in warranty, we're happy to repair damaged pieces. Fees for out-of-warranty repair vary according to the service provided.
When sending your repair, please provide insured shipping. We'll return it repaired - also through insured delivery.
Please note: we reserve the right to deny unreasonable repairs.
Contact & About
You can reach out to us to our email at jewelry@krisaveri.com or call or text us at +1 (646) 397-2128.
Kris Averi is a custom fine jewelry brand based in New York City and New Jersey.
While we do not operate a traditional retail storefront, we function as a modern, online design studio specializing in one-of-a-kind engagement rings, wedding bands, heirloom redesigns, and custom fine jewelry.
Our entire custom design process can be completed remotely. Through digital consultations, curated stone sourcing, sketches, 3D modeling, and guided approvals, we work with clients across the United States and internationally.
For clients local to NYC and NJ, in-person consultations may be available by appointment. However, the majority of our custom projects are completed through our refined virtual design experience.
Every piece is handcrafted in New York City’s Diamond District and made to order.
No matter where you are located, you can design a deeply personal, luxury custom ring with Kris Averi.
Yes, Kris does offer in-person consultations and deliveries in NYC when making Custom Jewelry.
Yes! We have been featured in the New York Times as a Queer & Inclusive Jeweler for Wedding & Engagement Rings. We've also been featured in British Vouge and created a custom cocktail ring for Cyndi Lauper.
You can find us in the directory of Vendors at Dancing with Her and as a Founding Supporter of the Mobile App, Everywhere is Queer.
For coverage, see here.
Kris Averi is not a traditional jewelry store which is intentional.
We are a women-owned, LGBTQIA+ inclusive custom fine jewelry brand based in New York City, specializing in one-of-a-kind engagement rings, wedding bands, heirloom redesigns, and meaningful personal talismans.
Here’s what makes us different:
1. Deeply Personal, One-on-One Design
At traditional jewelry stores, you choose from existing inventory or modify a preset design.
At Kris Averi, we co-create your piece together.
You work directly with the designer throughout the entire process, from first inspiration to final polish. We believe the meaning behind the piece comes first.
2. LGBTQIA+ Inclusive by Design
We proudly design engagement rings and wedding bands for couples of all gender identities and sexual orientations.
Inclusivity isn’t a marketing angle, it’s embedded in how we communicate, design, and celebrate commitment, and celebrate all love. Many of our clients seek us out specifically because they want a jeweler who understands non-traditional love stories and non-traditional design aesthetics.
3. Women-Owned & Intentionally Small
As an independent, women-owned small business, we prioritize craftsmanship, care, and connection over volume.
We take on a limited number of custom projects at a time so each client receives focused attention, transparency, and thoughtful collaboration. This allows us to maintain a level of personalization that traditional retail environments simply cannot offer.
4. Made to Order — Never Mass Produced
Every piece is custom-made to order and handcrafted in New York City’s Diamond District.
We do not carry mass inventory or wholesale collections. Your jewelry is created specifically for you, from stone sourcing to final setting, ensuring it is truly one of a kind.
5. A Seamless Worldwide Virtual Process
Although we are based in NYC and New Jersey, we have developed a refined virtual design process that allows us to work with clients anywhere in the world.
Through detailed consultations, curated gemstone sourcing, sketches, 3D modeling, and optional wax models, we ensure you feel confident and connected, even if you’re designing your engagement ring from across the country or internationally.
Luxury doesn’t have to be impersonal and custom doesn’t have to be local.
6. Intention-Led Design
Traditional jewelers often begin with the stone or the sale.
We begin with intention and believe jewelry should hold meaning, not just value.
Kris Averi offers a modern alternative to traditional jewelry stores, combining inclusivity, artistry, intention, and personalized collaboration to create truly one-of-a-kind custom engagement rings and fine jewelry.
Inclusivity & LGBTQIA+
Yes. Kris Averi believes in love for all, we proudly design for all expressions of love, identity, and devotion. Our pieces are crafted to honor who you are and who you love.
We believe love transcends gender, identity, race, and culture. We stand with the LGBTQ+ community and Human Rights for ALL.
Kris Averi is a queer woman-owned business based out of New York City & New Jersey.
Discover more here as Kris Averi is a Queer Owned Business.
Yes. Kris Averi is an LGBTQ-friendly custom fine jewelry brand. We celebrate love in all its forms and specialize in designing engagement rings and wedding bands that reflect each couple’s unique connection, regardless of gender identity, sexual orientation, or traditional expectations.
Many of our clients identify as LGBTQIA+, and we deeply honor that experience by creating jewelry that feels personal, modern, and meaningful. Whether you’re designing a ring for your partner, yourself, or your beloved, we work collaboratively to ensure the design is expressive, authentic, and aligned with your love story.
At Kris Averi, inclusivity isn’t just a statement, it’s fundamental to how we design, communicate, and celebrate commitment.
Discover more here as Kris Averi is a Queer Owned Business.
Yes. At Kris Averi, we do not believe jewelry is gendered.
We design gender-neutral wedding bands and custom rings for people of all identities, expressions, and aesthetics. Rather than labeling styles as “men’s” or “women’s,” we focus on what feels aligned with you.
Gender-neutral design can mean many things from bold and sculptural, minimal and refined, textured and organic, or completely unconventional. During our one-on-one design process, we collaborate with you to explore:
- Band width and proportions
- Metal choices (yellow gold, white gold, rose gold, platinum, mixed metals)
- Texture, matte vs. high polish finishes
- Stone accents or clean metal-only designs
- Symbolism and personal meaning
Together, we define what gender-neutral means to you and create a wedding band that reflects your authenticity, not industry categories.
Discover more here as Kris Averi is a Queer Owned Business.
Yes. At Kris Averi, we proudly work with clients who don’t want traditional diamonds.
While we absolutely design non-diamond engagement rings, as many of our clients are drawn to alternative gemstones and unconventional diamond cuts that feel more personal and expressive.
We design engagement rings and wedding bands using:
- Sapphires (including colored and parti sapphires)
- Spinel
- Ruby
- Emerald
- Unique natural gemstones
- Salt-and-pepper diamonds
- Rose-cut diamonds
- Antique-cut and unconventional diamonds
- & more!
If you’re looking for something that doesn’t feel like a standard engagement ring, we specialize in creating designs that break from tradition while maintaining timeless craftsmanship.
Our process includes curated stone sourcing tailored specifically to your vision. Whether you’re drawn to earthy inclusions, vibrant color, vintage-inspired cuts, or something completely unexpected, we present options aligned with your style and intention.
We believe your ring doesn’t have to follow tradition and it should reflect you.
Yes, you can absolutely design your own engagement ring.
At Kris Averi, we don’t believe there are rigid rules around proposals, commitment, or who “should” buy the ring. Many of our clients design engagement rings for themselves, whether they’re planning a surprise proposal, collaborating openly with their partner, or simply choosing to honor their own journey.
Some clients:
- Design their own ring independently
- Collaborate with their partner on one ring
- Design both engagement rings together
- Create a ring as a personal milestone or symbol of self-commitment
We believe engagement and wedding rings are deeply personal investment pieces you’ll wear every day. The design process should feel aligned, intentional, and empowering.
Tradition can be beautiful, yet we believe that creating something in your own way, on your own timeline, is equally meaningful.
Through our one-on-one custom process, we work side-by-side with you to co-create a ring that reflects your authenticity, your love story, and your individuality, not outdated expectations.
Every engagement ring is made to order and handcrafted in New York City, designed to feel yours unmistakably.