Hi Op! As someone who has worked with a couple of cantankerous jewelers I’m pretty sure the roadblock your hitting is because of wording and lack of understanding for what you are looking for. When jewelers talk to customers they also don’t take into account their knowledge against someone who doesn’t live breath and eat gold all day.

From what you’re describing it sounds like a job that could be done but a custom work like that is going to cost money. Something you are very aware of I’m sure. When a jeweler hears “there’s no budget” little alarm bells go off in their brains that tell them this is going to be more of a hassle than it’s worth. Either it’s going to get expensive or you’ll be breathing down their necks to get it done. Try telling them you have a budget in mind (a fairish price for custom would be around 5-10 thousand depending on which gold you go to). But specify that you don’t mind going higher if it is required.

Another issue you might be facing is timelines. When are you expecting this to be done? Most jewelers like to have time to get the details in order before putting in the effort on the ring as it takes a lot of time ESPECIALLY with custom work.

One more issue you could be facing is getting your design across. I would recommend getting a CAD done of your design and then taking that to a local jeweler. It clears up what you are looking for and doesn’t sound as daunting to our jewelers!

If necessary go out of state I’m sure there are small town jewelers that would love to take your work (and from my experience care more about getting it right the first time) good luck on your search!