A personal guide by Laurence Ardies
Engagement rings, push presents & gifts
Some moments ask for a jewel that stays. These are the questions I hear most often, with my answers, and the pieces I would show you if you came to see me.
I · Engagement rings
A ring worth the question
Where do I begin?
An engagement ring is worn every day, for the rest of your life. So whether you love a classic diamond solitaire or something more colourful or elaborate, take the time to find out what you love. Choosing the ring is not easy, I see that every day, and it asks for patience and experience. That is why I guide you from the first step to the last: from the ring size to the colour of the gold, every detail should reflect your love for the one person you want to spend your life with. And however important the ring may be, in the end it is about two people sharing something special. The ring is its symbol.
What if I don't know their ring size?
Choose "Not sure, please contact me" when you order and I will help you. Where the design allows, the size can be adjusted after the proposal.
How much time do I need?
Come and see me at least a month before you plan to propose, and earlier if you can. Choosing an engagement ring is something I really want to take my time for, together with you. Rings made to order ship in 2–3 weeks; a ring designed from scratch takes longer, and December is always our busiest month.
II · Push presents
A jewel to welcome a new life
What makes a good push present?
Something symbolic, so it is cherished forever. A birthstone, a meaningful number of stones, such as two plus one for both parents and the new baby, or a name and a date engraved in gold. For my sister-in-law, we created a necklace with a beautiful aquamarine, the same stone as in her engagement ring, and a little gold plate engraved with her newborn son's name and birth date.
Can you add my child's birthstone?
Yes. I can make a piece with the birthstone of your child, set among diamonds. Not every birthstone is easy to find as a round stone, so I choose the shape that suits each stone best. Write to me for a price.
Birthstones by month
- January Garnet
- February Amethyst
- March Aquamarine
- April Diamond
- May Emerald
- June Pearl, moonstone, alexandrite
- July Ruby
- August Peridot, spinel
- September Sapphire
- October Opal, tourmaline
- November Topaz, citrine
- December Turquoise, tanzanite, zircon
Based on the birthstone list of the Gemological Institute of America (GIA).
III · Milestones & gifts
For the moments that matter
An anniversary, a birthday, a graduation, or simply a moment that deserves to be remembered.
Which piece should I choose?
A beautiful gift isn't only about the precious materials. It is about creating something symbolic: a reminder of a person, a moment, something truly special, so it is cherished forever. A birthstone, a meaningful number of gems, an engraving, or even a small hidden compartment for the ashes of a loved one. Everything is possible. Tell me about the moment and the person, and I will help you, in person or by video call.
I wear an infinity band set with my grandmother's diamonds, so I have her with me every day.
How does delivery work?
Every piece travels fully insured and is handed over only to the person you name. You can also collect it in person, by appointment.
Your moment
Let's find it together
Every appointment is private, in our office in the Kempen, half an hour from Antwerp, or by video call. Take all the time you need.