Bespoke Jewellery
Everyone deserves to have a unique piece of jewellery
Do you have a new (or old) piece of jewellery in mind and you don't know where to start? I love bespoke projects, no matter how big or small!
Inside Knowledge - What You Need to Know About Ordering Customised Jewellery
The Bespoke Jewellery Journey
Step One
Get the Right Size
Figure out:
- the ring size
- the size or carat weight of a gemstone
- thickness of the band (wedding or otherwise)
Do you already know your ring size? Bear in mind that there are different sizing scales in use in different parts of the world.
If you need help with this, I can meet you to measure your finger, send you a printable sizing chart, and even send you sample rings for you to try on in the comfort of your own home.
Step Two
Budget
I adore each and every customer who has chosen to employ me, who has commissioned me to create something special and unique.
Once I know the key points on my customer’s requirements, I:
- go through a detailed process of checking metal prices, estimating metal usage on the proposed design
- reach out to my extended network of gem dealers to pull together a range of options.
Step Three
Gemstones and Metal Choices
I offer a full service, whether the client is looking for a unique gemstone or has a family heirloom that they would like to be repurposed.
My services include:
- arranging gemmological testing,
- gemstone repolishing or recutting,
- advice on repurposing old gold or platinum, either selling old items or reusing metal in new pieces.
It's important to be realistic about the choice of stone as well as size and other characteristics. I always give considered advice to ensure the stone will withstand long term - often heavy - usage.
- Alternative gemstones (with similar characteristics)
- Type and carat of gold, or platinum
Step Four
The Design
Creating a bespoke piece is a collaborative process.
It can begin with an heirloom gemstone, or a wish list of gems the client would like. I often set up a Pinterest board for a design project and invite you to pin images of things, or design details you love. We build from there, narrowing down options, developing ideas, until we come up with a design that ticks all your boxes.
Frequently asked questions
What is the timeline for bespoke jewellery?
A bespoke project takes a minimum of six weeks to design and make, but the initial stages are open-ended, dependent on the client's timeline
Initial contact
Conversations regarding design, budget and timing
Early Design Stages
Gemstone search, design development, digital and physical wax modelling
Detailed Design & Costing
Incorporating actual stone in the design
Product costing with options based on metal and gemstone choice
Production Phase, approx. 6 weeks
Production begins once the order is placed and payment made by customer
- Metal Casting
- Production
- Stone Setting
- Hallmarking
- Polish & Plating
- Delivery
What's involved with commissioning a bespoke jewellery piece?
Creating a bespoke piece of jewellery can take a while, from the first stages of developing and agreeing a design to the process of making. Before you embark upon this process, it is important that you know for sure that this is what you really want. If it is, then you need to make sure that you have the right designer.