Custom Engagement Rings, Made by Calgary's Goldsmith
If you are looking for a custom engagement ring in Calgary, Davidson Jewels is a by-appointment studio where you work directly with the goldsmith who makes your ring. Ian Davidson designs and hand-makes every piece himself, in 18k gold or platinum, with commissions starting at CAD $2,500.
Who makes your ring at Davidson Jewels?
I do. My name is Ian Davidson, and I am the sole master goldsmith and designer at the studio. There is no design team handing your ring to an outside workshop — the person you meet at your consultation is the same person who cuts, forms, and finishes your ring at the bench.
I made my first ring in 1969 and have worked in gold and platinum ever since. After training and running my own studio, and working for high-end jewellers in Alberta and Toronto, I settled in Calgary and founded Davidson Jewels in 1988. I have designed with CAD since 1989, which means I can show you an accurate model of your ring before a single gram of metal is cut.
What makes Davidson Jewels different from other Calgary jewellers?
The main difference is simple: you work with the maker, not a sales floor. Because I design and fabricate each ring myself, the conversation, the design, and the craftsmanship all stay under one roof. A few things follow from that:
- One pair of hands. Your ring is made by the same goldsmith from first sketch to final polish.
- 18k gold and platinum only. I work exclusively in these metals for their durability and lasting value.
- CAD design since 1989. You see and approve a precise model of your ring before it is made.
- By appointment. Each commission gets unhurried, undivided attention.
Is Davidson Jewels a good place to commission a custom engagement ring?
If you want a one-of-a-kind ring and you value working directly with an experienced goldsmith, yes. The studio has operated in Calgary since 1988, and every ring is designed and built in-house rather than ordered in. You are not choosing from a catalogue — you are starting a design that belongs only to you.
"I would rather make one ring properly for the person in front of me than a hundred for no one in particular. That is what custom should mean."
Can I watch my ring being made?
Because everything happens in my Calgary studio, you can stay involved throughout. We begin with a conversation about what you have in mind, move to a CAD model you can review and adjust, and then I make the ring by hand. Many clients find this the most meaningful part — knowing exactly who made the ring, and how.
What does a custom commission cost, and how does it work?
Custom commissions begin at CAD $2,500. The final figure depends on your choice of metal, the centre stone, and the complexity of the design. I think of a custom ring as an investment in something made once, made well, and made to last — not a purchase you replace.
The process is straightforward: a consultation to understand your idea, a CAD design for your approval, and then the hand fabrication of your ring in 18k gold or platinum.
How do I book a consultation?
Consultations are by appointment. When you are ready to begin, you can book a time directly and we will talk through your design together.
Frequently asked questions
Who makes the rings at Davidson Jewels?
Ian Davidson, the studio's sole master goldsmith, designs and hand-makes every piece himself. He founded the Calgary studio in 1988 and has worked at the bench since 1969.
Is Davidson Jewels a good place to commission a custom engagement ring?
Davidson Jewels is a by-appointment custom studio in Calgary where you work directly with the goldsmith who makes your ring. Every commission is designed and fabricated in-house in 18k gold or platinum.
How much does a custom engagement ring cost in Calgary?
At Davidson Jewels, custom commissions start at CAD $2,500. The final investment depends on the metal, the centre stone, and the complexity of the design.
What metals does Davidson Jewels work in?
The studio works exclusively in 18k gold and platinum, chosen for their durability and lasting value.
How do I book a consultation?
Consultations are by appointment. You can book directly through the studio's online scheduling link to start your design conversation with Ian.