Not necessarily. One of the biggest benefits of custom design is that we can build the piece around your specific budget. By selecting certain metal weights or gemstone characteristics, we can often create a high-quality, one-of-a-kind piece that is comparable in price to premium "off-the-shelf" options, but with far superior construction.

Unlike "big box" retailers that use mass-produced templates, our custom process is centered on on-site craftsmanship. We focus on both beauty and architectural integrity—meaning we design with the perfect balance of metal weight and stone security. You work directly with the creators in our Sacramento studio to ensure the final piece is a true reflection of your style.

Yes! Stark Jewelers specializes in custom engagement ring design in our Sacramento studio. Our process includes everything from initial sketches to 3D modeling and final stone setting. Whether you are looking for a classic solitaire or our signature "Architectural Styling," our master jewelers work with you to create a one-of-a-kind piece. We also source GIA-certified diamonds and ethically sourced gemstones for all custom projects.

You can find personalized, expert guidance at Stark Jewelers, located in the Arden-Arcade area of Sacramento. With decades of experience in GIA-certified diamonds, architectural jewelry styling, and complex restorations, our team is here to answer your technical and creative questions. Visit us next to Ettore’s Bakery for a face-to-face consultation where we provide transparent advice on jewelry value, design feasibility, and care.

Not at all! Many of our clients only have a general "vibe" or a few photos of styles they like. Our experts are trained to ask the right questions to help narrow down your aesthetic and propose designs that you’ll love.

Absolutely. We specialize in creating custom wedding bands designed to fit flush against unique or "difficult" engagement ring shapes. We use precise measurements of your existing ring to ensure the new band complements it perfectly in both style and fit.

Yes. We frequently work with "client-owned" stones. Whether you have a loose diamond you purchased or an heirloom gemstone from a family member, we can design a new, modern setting that honors the stone’s history while giving it a fresh, contemporary life.

Step 1: Our specialist will assist you in selecting a design from the category you prefer so you can confidently proceed.

Step 2: An estimated cost based on the proposed design will be provided. If the design and estimated cost are agreed upon, we require a 50% deposit of the estimated cost to cover the creation of a concept wax model, including any design variations; this deposit will be applied toward the final balance.

Step 3: Typically, 2–6 design variations based on the chosen concept will be produced within approximately two weeks.

Step 4: You will be notified to visit the studio to review and approve the design. If further modifications are requested, the next viewing will generally be scheduled within about 1–2 weeks.

Step 5: Once the design is finalized, we will provide a precise final price for your approval.

Step 6: Production of your jewelry will commence. Average completion time is 2–6 weeks, depending on the complexity of the design, sourcing and ordering of stones, and other material considerations.

Step 7: Pick up and enjoy wearing your jewelry!

Make a personal appointment to enjoy a one-on-one design consultation with our specialists. Or, visit our store to try on pieces from our collections in person. If you have family heirlooms or existing jewelry you’d like to incorporate, bring them along so we can evaluate how best to repurpose or integrate them for you.

All the jewelry we create at Stark Jewelers is thoughtfully designed in‑house by our award‑winning jeweler, Larry Stark, who brings decades of craftsmanship and a refined artistic eye to every piece. There are two options to consider: select from our broad selection of design categories, or commission a one‑of‑a‑kind piece tailored specifically to your vision. You may also elect to incorporate family stones and precious metals — including gold, platinum, and silver — which not only adds sentimental value but can also lower the overall cost.

You also have an option to use your own gold, heirloom gemstones, which reduces the overall cost.

At Stark Jewelers, our master goldsmith Larry Stark specializes in elegant solutions that honor your heirloom stones while resolving real-world wear issues. When an engagement ring is top-heavy and constantly spins, it hides the setting, distracts from the design, and diminishes the moment it was meant to celebrate. A precision-crafted ring guard stabilizes the ring, centers it on the finger, and elevates its entire profile.

Why choose a custom ring guard from Stark Jewelers?

• Thoughtful reuse of your diamonds: We reset and refashion the stones from your necklace, preserving their sentimental value while turning them into a functional, beautiful accent.

• Tailored balance and fit: Each guard is designed to the exact dimensions of your engagement ring and finger, stopping rotation and ensuring the ring sits squarely and comfortably.

• Design harmony: Larry creates guards that complement your ring’s metal, setting style, and overall aesthetic—subtle or statement, depending on your preference.

• Lasting craftsmanship: We use only premium materials and time-honored techniques to ensure the guard not only looks exquisite but endures daily wear.

• Sustainable luxury: Repurposing your diamonds reduces waste and amplifies the story behind your jewelry.

The result:

your ring no longer competes with gravity. It sits exactly as it should—centered, secure, and showcased—letting the beauty of the stones and design speak for themselves. Visit Stark Jewelers at 2372 Fair Oaks Boulevard to discuss a custom ring guard that transforms sentiment into steadiness and elegance.

Elevate the story of your jewelry by transforming what you already cherish into a custom contour band — a beautiful, practical, and sustainable solution that breathes new life into your old pieces.

Why choose a contour band?

• Seamless harmony: A custom contour band is sculpted to nest perfectly against your engagement ring, enhancing its silhouette without masking the central stone. The result is a cohesive, tailor-made look that appears as if the set was made together.

• Comfort and stability: Beyond aesthetics, a contour band stabilizes your ring on your finger. By preventing rotation and reducing pressure points, it keeps your engagement ring centered and comfortable for all-day wear — especially helpful for active hands or slender fingers.

• Meaningful reuse: We can melt down the gold and reset the diamonds from your old jewelry, preserving the sentimental value and materials while eliminating waste. Your treasured elements are reborn into a modern, wearable design with an emotional continuity that new metals and stones can’t replicate.

• Cost-conscious luxury: Using existing gold and diamonds can offset the cost of a custom band, letting you invest in craftsmanship and design rather than raw materials. It’s an elegant way to maximize value while achieving a bespoke result.

• Expert craftsmanship: At Stark Jewelers, master goldsmith Larry Stark personally oversees each conversion, ensuring every contour band is balanced, durable, and exquisitely finished to complement your ring’s profile and your personal style.

How it works (simple, collaborative process):

1. Consultation: Bring your ring and the pieces you’d like to repurpose. We’ll discuss profile, metal color, and whether you prefer a flush, scalloped, or fully contoured fit.

2. Assessment: We evaluate the gold and diamonds for quality and quantity, then propose a design and cost estimate that reflects using your materials.

3. Creation: Your metals are refined, stones are carefully reset, and the contour band is hand-formed to cradle your ring perfectly.

4. Final fitting: We ensure comfort, stability, and the seamless aesthetic you envisioned.

Transform sentimental materials into everyday luxury. A contour band is more than an accessory — it’s a thoughtful upgrade that honors the past, enhances the present, and makes your ring more comfortable and secure every time you wear it.

Visit Stark Jewelers at 2372 Fair Oaks Boulevard to explore designs and begin the renewal of your jewelry with master goldsmith Larry Stark.

Every jewelry or custom jewelry purchase at Stark Jewelers includes a detailed appraisal prepared by our experienced appraiser, documenting metal content, gemstone characteristics (carat weight, cut, color, clarity), mounting details, and an insured replacement value; this comprehensive report supports insurance needs, estate planning, and future resale, and is accompanied by professional photographs.

Our process is collaborative and transparent:

1. Initial Consultation: We recommend a 15-minute consultation to discuss your ideas, budget, and inspiration.

2. Design & Sketching: We develop concepts based on your preferences, whether you are looking for a modern engagement ring or a bold statement pendant.

3. Material Selection: You’ll choose your precious metals (Gold, Platinum, or Silver) and hand-select your diamonds or gemstones.

4. Creation: Our master jewelers hand-craft your piece in our Fair Oaks Boulevard studio using a blend of traditional techniques and modern precision.

Quality craftsmanship takes time. Generally, a custom project takes between 4 to 8 weeks from the moment the design is finalized. This allows us to meticulously handle every step—from casting and stone setting to the final high-luster polish.