Here is the first look at the 2016 NRL premiership ring, a stunning piece of jewellery that is only awarded to those who have completed a lap on grand final day. Littered with 1.5 carats of white and rose gold diamonds, it is the ultimate legacy item for the victorious.

The ring is just one of 21 created by Affinity Diamonds for the NRL. The first 17 are individually numbered and presented to the team to reflect their jersey number. Another is made for the coach, two spares are provided to the winning club for officials to distribute as they see fit and then a final ring is made and donated to the NRL museum.

The mementoes are a money-can't-buy item, but their insurance valuation would come to about $10,000.

"We're honoured to have the chance to make the rings," said Sam Rahme of Affinity Diamonds.

"It's great for our brand. If you look at the photos of the Cowboys players on stage last year when they are opening up the box and you see their faces, it's very rewarding."

Affinity made their first batch of grand final rings last year and have made some subtle changes to this year's version. After input from at least 30 players, rose gold bordering has replaced the black diamonds used last season, while the diamonds themselves are up from one carat to 1.5 carats. The rings now have a look and feel that matches the famous pieces of bling that NBA and NFL players are handed when they win their championships.

Frank Puletua, the NRL's manager of history, recognition and rewards, also gave his input before the finished product was made.

"We've surveyed lots of players. In particular, I enjoyed getting the input of Cowboys players who got the rings last year," Rahme said.

"In particular, players such as Gavin Cooper and Luke Lewis are always sending me photos of NFL and NBA championship rings when I ask for ideas.

"Many of the players give input, but they don't want to see the final product. Some players are superstitious and don't want to put in any thought or input. Most are excited about it and do, but none of them want to see the rings."

In Lewis' case, he could be one of the first Cronulla players to put a championship ring on his finger. After beating North Queensland on Friday night, the Sharks have the chance to win their maiden title in their 50th year.

"There's a big game on next week, which is great, but I want to get to that and I want to win it now," Cronulla coach Shane Flanagan said.

"We did an outstanding job, the boys, but it's a big game next week."

Sharks skipper Paul Gallen is in a grand final for the first time in his 15-year career.

"I'm composed," Gallen said. "We're where we want to be, we're where we deserve to be.

"We've done something, we're in a grand final, but we want to win it."