So you’ve found the person of your dreams. Next up: the proposal. But there’s just one little problem… you’ve searched high and low, yet you still haven’t found The Ring.
Maybe you’re having some trouble finding one that really speaks to you — after all, you and your partner deserve a ring that you absolutely adore. Or maybe you want to make just a few tweaks to a piece you’ve already seen.
In cases like this, creating a custom piece is ideal.
Custom designs aren’t just reserved for engagement rings, either. Many people will work with a jeweler to create something new out of a pair of earrings or a ring they already own, for example.
Chances are, if you’re here, you’re at least a little bit interested in a custom designed piece of jewelry. Keep reading to learn more about custom design work and if it’s the right choice for you!
Why Should I Choose Custom Designed Jewelry?
The first question to ask yourself is “Is a custom piece right for me?” Commissioning custom work has its pros and cons, so these are important points to think on before you make your decision.
A finished custom design will be a reflection of your style and taste, and will hold all of the important qualities you want your jewelry to have. You get to work directly with a jewelry designer to make sure that your piece is to your liking, so your opinion is taken into account every step of the way. If it is truly a unique design, you can rest assured that no one else will have something like yours either.
On the other hand, choosing a custom design can cost much more than an off-the-shelf counterpart — even up to three or four more times more. This cost can differ from commission to commission, based on the jeweler you work with, the intricacy of the design, the materials you choose, and other factors.
The process is also much longer; if you thought engagement ring shopping was an extensive process, imagine how much more time you’d have to spend creating one from scratch.
Another thing to keep in mind is the uncertainty of a commissioned piece. You’ll never really know how your custom necklace or bracelet will turn out until it’s finished. Modern technology like 3D printing and wax modeling help to mitigate this issue, but there’s a difference between seeing a wax model on your finger and the real deal.
With all of this information in mind, let’s discuss some tips to keep in mind before you commission your first piece of jewelry.
Tips to Know Before You Go
- Start early — like, really early. You’ll want to get a headstart of at least a couple months to make sure everything is perfect. After all, you don’t want to rush something you’ll keep for the rest of your life.
- Do your research. You’ll want to choose a reputable designer you trust, so check reviews online or ask friends and family for their recommendations. Your best bet is to go with a jeweler whose style you already like; otherwise, you run the risk of them pushing a style you don’t like at all.
- Bring some inspiration. During your initial design consultation, you’ll have a conversation with your designer about every aspect of your piece. Lower the chances of miscommunication by bringing in some examples of what you’re looking for — even if it’s the scrollwork on this piece, the side stone placement on that piece, and the prong arrangement of a third image.
- It’s totally okay to say no. Be honest about how you feel about your design’s look during the process.
- Once your finished piece is in hand, make sure that you’re protected. Keep the details of any warranties you may have, as well as the appraisal and insurance paperwork for your new jewelry item in a safe place.
Get in Touch with Premiere Jewelry Designs
Commissioning a custom piece can be a long, but rewarding, process. But by following the right tips, the end result is a completely unique accessory you’ll love and cherish in the years to come.
Would you commission a custom jewelry piece? What would your design look like? Let us know in the comments below!