Frequently Asked Questions
Making something meaningful should feel simple from the start, whether you’re new to diamonds or simply want to understand the journey better, here are some answers.
General
Why Codeville?
At Codeville, we believe everyone deserves an honest, transparent, and personal experience when buying a diamond or gemstone. We take the time to educate you about the characteristics of diamonds and semi-precious stones, so you fully understand what you’re buying and what to look for. Thanks to our background and direct industry connections, we’re able to cut out the middlemen and source our diamonds straight from the mines. We focus on efficiency and avoid unnecessary expenses, no flashy marketing campaigns, no luxurious retail spaces, and no oversized inventory. Because we keep our overhead low, we’re able to offer high-quality stones at highly competitive prices without compromising on service or expertise.
Appointments
Where are you located?
Our atelier is located at Desguinlei 90, 2018 Antwerp, in the heart of Europe’s diamond capital.
Do I have to make an appointment?
At Codeville, our mission is to create personalised jewellery with exceptional care and attention. If you wish to purchase from our ready-made collection, you may place your order directly through our webshop, and no appointment is required. For a custom engagement ring or a bespoke design, the journey begins with a personal appointment. This meeting allows us to understand your story, guide you through the design process, and create a piece that reflects your vision. We also take this time to explain the 4Cs of diamonds, ensuring you feel informed and confident in your choice.
Can appointments be held elsewhere?
For bespoke designs and upon mutual agreement, we can arrange a private consultation in the comfort of your home, both in Belgium and internationally. We are also available for appointments in London at select prestigious venues.
Do you offer appointments abroad?
In case of a bespoke design process and on mutual agreement only, the appointment can be arranged in the comfort of your own home (in Belgium or abroad). We able to also meet you in London in designated Locations.
Do I need to bring anything to the appointment?
There is no need to bring anything with you. If you are unsure of your partner’s ring size, bringing one of their rings may be helpful, but it is by no means essential.
Bespoke
What does the bespoke process involve?
Your journey begins with a private consultation of approximately 45 minutes. During this time, we introduce you to the world of diamonds, listen to your story, and explore your vision. Together, we shape the first ideas for a design that is both personal and timeless.
How long does it take to create a bespoke piece?
A bespoke jewel usually takes three to four weeks to complete. If you have a specific deadline, please let us know and we will do our best to meet it.
What level of budget is required for a bespoke commission?
Bespoke commissions begin at a minimum of €2,000. This ensures that each creation reflects the level of craftsmanship and quality materials that define our house.
Do you offer engraving or personalisation?
Yes. We are pleased to offer complimentary engraving with the purchase of wedding rings. For engagement rings, engraving is available for a fee of €50.
How will I be updated during the creation process?
You will receive personal updates throughout the journey, either by email or WhatsApp, depending on your preference.
Production
What materials do you use and how are they sourced?
We work exclusively with 18k yellow or white gold, platinum, and palladium. All of our materials are ethically sourced to ensure both beauty and integrity in every creation.
What certifications accompany to the gemstones and diamonds?
We offer GIA, HRD, and IGI certification starting from 0.30 carat.
What is a diamond certificate?
A diamond certificate is like a passport for your diamond. It provides detailed information about the 4Cs (carat, colour, clarity, and cut), along with other important characteristics of your stone. Each certificate includes a unique number that is laser-engraved on the side of the diamond. Certificates for smaller gemstones are also available upon request, with an additional charge of €150.
Which laboratories does Codeville work with?
At Codeville, we believe our clients deserve the best and most accurate grading reports. For our natural diamonds, we exclusively work with GIA, the most trusted and respected gemological laboratory in the world. For our lab-grown diamonds, we use certificates from HRD or IGI. These laboratories provide grading reports for lab-grown diamonds based on the 4C’s. GIA does not offer full 4C’s grading reports for lab-grown diamonds, which is why HRD and IGI provide the most reliable certifications available.
Diamonds
What are lab-grown diamonds and what are the differences between HPHT and CVD?
Lab-grown diamonds are real diamonds created in a laboratory rather than mined from the earth. They share the same physical, chemical, and optical properties as natural diamonds.
There are two primary methods of production:
– HPHT (High Pressure High Temperature)
– CVD (Chemical Vapour Deposition)
Neither process produces a superior diamond; they simply represent different technologies used to achieve the same result.
Are lab grown diamonds more ethical?
Lab-grown diamonds are generally considered more ethical than mined diamonds, particularly with regard to environmental and social impact. They require less land and water and cause less disruption to ecosystems.
That said, the overall carbon footprint depends on the energy source used during production. For instance, a diamond grown with renewable energy will have a far lower footprint than one produced with coal-powered electricity.
Can you see a difference between natural and lab-grown diamonds?
No. Lab-grown and natural diamonds are identical in composition and structure. They cannot be distinguished by the naked eye, a jeweler’s loupe, or even a microscope. Only specialised laboratory equipment can determine their origin. The most noticeable difference is price. Lab-grown diamonds are typically more affordable.
Are the 4c’s that important?
Yes. The 4Cs—Carat, Color, Clarity, and Cut are the globally recognized standards for assessing diamond quality and value:
Carat: The diamond’s weight (1 carat = 0.2 grams). Depending on shape and proportions, a diamond may appear larger than its carat weight suggests.
Color: White diamonds are graded from D (colorless) to Z (light yellow or brown). Rare fancy colors, such as pink or blue, are graded separately.
Clarity: Assesses the presence of internal inclusions or external blemishes. Higher clarity allows for greater brilliance.
Cut: Describes how well a diamond has been shaped, proportioned and polished, which affects how it reflects light and sparkles.
Where are the diamonds you source coming from?
We source our natural diamonds from trusted suppliers in countries such as Canada, Namibia, South Africa, and Angola. All our diamonds are guaranteed conflict-free and adhere to ethical sourcing standards. Transparency is central to our values, and we always disclose the origin of your diamond.
Why are your lab-grown diamond jewellery pieces more affordable than others?
We work directly with trusted manufacturers, eliminating middlemen and their markups. This allows us to pass significant savings directly to you. Unlike some competitors who add large price increases, we believe in fair pricing that reflects the true value of each piece. We believe every woman deserves to wear a beautiful engagement ring or jewellery, and our pricing reflects our commitment to making that possible.
Ring Size
How do I measure my ring size
For the most accurate result, we recommend having your ring size measured professionally during your appointment. If this is not possible, you may use our Ring Size Guide, which provides simple methods to measure at home. If you are still unsure, we will be happy to assist you and ensure your ring is crafted for a perfect fit.
What if I have the wrong ring size
Most rings can be resized within a certain range. For engagement and bespoke rings, we offer one complimentary resizing. Any additional resizing, or resizing for other jewelry pieces, is available for a fixed fee of €75.
Invoice & Payment
When is a payment required?
Full payment is required to confirm your order. Once payment is received, we begin sourcing your diamond and crafting your custom piece of jewelry.
Orders and shipping
Where do you ship to?
We offer complimentary shipping within the European Union. For destinations outside the EU, shipping will be charged at cost. For details, please contact us at contact@codeville.com.
How long will it take to receive my order?
Orders are shipped and delivered Monday through Friday, excluding public holidays. Delivery times are as follows:
- Belgium: up to 5 business days
- Neighboring countries (The Netherlands, France, Germany, Luxembourg): up to 10 business days
- Other destinations: up to 14 business days
Is my order insured during transit?
Yes. All orders are shipped via insured courier. If your order arrives damaged, incomplete, or faulty, please notify us at contact@codeville.com within 3 days of delivery (including public holidays).
Will I receive a tracking number?
Yes. Once your order has shipped, you will receive a tracking number to monitor its delivery status online.
Return, Repair & Warranty
Can I return my item?
Because each piece is custom-made to order, all sales are final. We do not accept returns or exchanges for change of mind. This ensures that every item is crafted specifically for you and maintains the integrity of our bespoke process. For this reason, we strongly encourage you to confirm your ring size and specifications using our guidelines before placing your order. If you have any doubts, please reach out to us at contact@codeville.com. We will gladly guide you to ensure the perfect fit.
How do I return my order for repair or service?
If your piece requires resizing, service, or repair, please contact us at contact@codeville.com before sending it back. Once confirmed, return the item to:
Codeville BV
Desguinlei 90 bus 5G
2018 Antwerp, Belgium
Please include your order number, your return address, and, if applicable, the new size measured accurately. For lost earrings, we kindly ask that you send the remaining earring so we can create the closest possible match.
We recommend using a fully insured courier service that requires a signature on delivery, with secure and discreet packaging. We cannot accept liability for damage caused by poor packaging. Once we receive your piece, we will provide an estimate of the cost involved and the expected timeframe.
Do you offer repairs?
We cover the cost of reasonable repairs due to normal wear for the first six months after purchase. After this period, or in cases of improper care, repairs will be charged at cost. Bespoke pieces are assessed individually. Customers are responsible for return shipping and any loss, damage, or theft during transport.
Please note: if another jeweler performs work (including resizing or repairs) on one of our pieces, our warranty will no longer apply. For this reason, we strongly recommend returning your jewellery to us for any resizing or repairs.
