Timing your engagement ring purchase
One of the most common questions we get at Seven Swans Fine Jewellery is: "How far in advance should I start shopping for an engagement ring?" The answer depends on whether you want a ready-made ring or a custom design — and it's worth thinking about Brisbane's wedding season too.
Brisbane's wedding season
Brisbane's subtropical climate means weddings happen year-round, but the most popular seasons are autumn (March–May) and spring (September–November) — when the weather is warm but not oppressively hot or humid.
This means proposals tend to cluster around Christmas and New Year (for spring/summer weddings) and mid-year (for autumn weddings). If you're planning a proposal around these peak times, it's worth starting your ring search earlier than you might think.
How long does it take to get an engagement ring?
Ready-to-ship rings
If you choose a ring from our ready-to-ship collection, you can have it on it's way within a week, allowing time for any resizing (which takes 4–5 business days and is complimentary).
Signature Collection
Our signature collection features our in house designs, featuring your choice of materials. We make every ring to order, just for you. There is a 4-6 week turnaround on our signature collection.
Custom rings
A custom lab diamond engagement ring typically takes 6–8 weeks from consultation to delivery. This includes:
- 1–2 weeks for stone sourcing
- 1–2 weeks for design and approval
- 3–4 weeks for creation and finishing
We recommend starting your custom ring journey at least 8–10 weeks before your planned proposal date to allow for any adjustments and to avoid rushing the process.
Peak periods to be aware of
- Christmas/New Year — Our busiest period. Start shopping by October if you're planning a Christmas or New Year proposal.
- Valentine's Day — Start by early December to be safe.
- Mid-year proposals — Start by April or May.
Our advice: start earlier than you think
The ring buying process is one of the most enjoyable parts of getting engaged — don't rush it. Starting early gives you time to explore different styles, ask questions, and make a decision you feel completely confident about.
We offer free consultations with no pressure and no obligation. Book yours today and let's start the conversation.
