Custom Engagement Rings
Specializing in low-set and bezel settings, we design distinctive rings to sit close to the hand—with stacking and everyday wear considered from the start. Begin from scratch, or bring us a stone or ring you already own.
Each ring is crafted in New York's Diamond District.
18K Gold & Platinum · Lab-Grown & Natural Diamonds
A low-set pear bezel, framed in sculptural gold with signet presence.
Recent Custom Work
An Art Deco brief, set east–west
An emerald-cut center and tapered side stones, reworked into a cleaner horizontal composition.
An existing diamond, redesigned
A client-owned round diamond paired with a pear in an asymmetrical two-stone setting.
Develop the direction together.
The custom process is collaborative. As the design takes shape, we create early visual studies so you can see and compare key choices rather than relying on description alone.
For this oval bezel, we explored a high-polish all-gold frame alongside a black-rhodium accent. Seeing them side by side made the effect of the darker border immediately clear, helping the client choose a direction before we translated the design into technical CAD.
Concept visualizations are used to explore design direction. Final proportions and construction are developed and approved through technical CAD.
How the Custom Process Works
Private consultation
A private consultation — virtual or in Manhattan — covering your ideas, budget, timing and how the ring should look and wear. In Manhattan, Jenn brings selected finished pieces; virtually, she can show relevant examples closely over video. Come with a brief, a stone you own, or simply a starting point.
Proposal and commitment
You'll receive a recommended direction, timeline and quote. Once approved and the deposit is received, design development begins.
Stone and design development
We source a lab-grown or natural diamond, or design around a stone you own, refining the setting, proportions and how the ring will sit and stack—with concept studies where useful.
Technical approval
Your selected direction is translated into technical CAD, finalizing dimensions and construction. You review and approve before production.
Made in New York
Your ring is cast, set, finished and quality-checked in New York's Diamond District, then prepared for insured delivery or a private handoff.
What's Different About Working With Montkai
Designed for the whole ring
We consider setting height, proportions, comfort, and how your engagement ring will sit beside a wedding band—not just how it looks from the top.
Not limited to our inventory
We can source a natural or lab-grown diamond specifically for your project, or design a new setting around a stone you already own.
Designed one-on-one with our founder.
Montkai is an independent New York fine-jewelry studio. Jenn personally guides each project from the first conversation through final design approval, with every ring crafted by trusted partners in New York's Diamond District.
"It's sinking in that this is actually my ring, and I could cry. I love it so much."
— J.J."Jenn was the consummate professional from start to finish, making sure I had fully considered what I wanted."
— E.K.What to Expect
Each project is quoted individually based on the stone, materials, and design complexity. You'll receive a clear estimate before work begins.
Once your design and center stone are approved, production typically takes 2–4 weeks. Stone sourcing or more involved design development may extend the overall timeline.
Choose from 18k gold or platinum, lab-grown or natural diamonds, or bring a stone you already own. Diamonds sourced through Montkai include an independent IGI or GIA grading report.
Tell Us About Your Ring
Your first conversation is complimentary and can be as brief as 10 minutes. There is no obligation to proceed, and consultations are available virtually or in Manhattan.
Name, email and project type are enough to begin. Feel free to send a photograph of a stone or existing ring:
Connect on WhatsAppA Few Other Questions
Can we work together if I'm outside New York?
Yes. Montkai is based in New York, but consultations, design development and approvals can also be completed remotely.
Is there any obligation after I inquire?
No. Submitting an inquiry simply starts a conversation — you'll receive an estimated scope, timeline and price before deciding whether to proceed.
What if my budget is below the custom starting point?
Custom settings typically begin at $1,590, but we're always happy to hear what you have in mind. If a fully custom project isn't the right fit, we may still be able to suggest another direction or point you toward a helpful resource.
How do I know I'll be happy with the finished ring?
Before production, you'll review concept studies and detailed CAD renderings that closely represent the finished design, so you know what you're approving before your ring is made. If the finished setting still doesn't feel right once you have it in person, we'll remake it once at no additional charge, with terms and timing outlined in your custom proposal.