So we're "pre-engaged". We've discussed getting engaged and have started wedding planning. We went ring shopping and I told him general things I liked and don't care for when it comes to rings.
He's having a custom ring made. It is almost finished. He wanted to keep it a surprise, but something I said prompted him to share the rendering photo with me to gauge my reaction. And... well... I'm really torn.
He disregarded everything I said I liked and instead went with his own design. It has three features I specifically said I did not want, but this was done to accommodate the overall design. The design is based on an image from one of our favorite TV shows.
It's very clever, well designed, and generally pretty, but it is definitely NOT something I can picture myself wearing every single day for the rest of our lives. It is quirky and (in my opinion) cannot be worn with all outfits or for all occasions. I almost feel like I will be more embarrassed to show it to anyone than I would be excited to show it off.
Since it is completely custom and practically finished, it cannot be changed or returned. But the stones could be reworked into something completely new, which is more traditional, but I'd imagine will be a significant cost on top of the original ring. He's said we can do this before he proposes, but he's definitely hurt by my less than enthusiastic reaction. I think if I said I did want a different ring, he'd be crushed.
On one hand, I love that he put the thought and energy into creating this custom design just for me. And if it were an ordinary gift, it was be an amazingly awesome ring. But I'm really unsure about it being our engagement ring.
Do I forget about my dream ring and wear his ring that could possibly grow on me, but isn't really something I want to wear? Or do I cause waves and ask for a different ring that I would want and like to wear?