Custom Design: An In-Depth Look
Ready to learn about all the steps that go into creating your special piece?
Discover the artistry and attention to detail that goes into creating your one-of-a-kind piece. From initial concept to final delivery, we guide you through every step, ensuring your vision becomes a reality. With our expert designers, state-of-the-art technology, and exquisite materials, we are committed to crafting jewelry that surpasses your expectations. Embark on a journey of personal expression and create a treasure that tells your unique story.
Artisans at Work
Step One: Refining Your Vision
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Meet Virtually with Our Designer
Learn about Pricing, Estimates, and Payments- Schedule your free, no-pressure design consultation
- Discuss your dreams, desires, and vision for your project
- Determine budget and preliminary timeframe
- Meet with designer in person or via online chat
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Gather Inspiration
Personalize an Existing Design- Collect and share images of your inspiration
- Get guidance from experienced artisans
- Select materials to match your preferences and budget
- Ensure a unique reflection of your story
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What to Expect During Your Consultation:
Speak to a Jewelry Expert- Personalized guidance and recommendations from a professional jewelry designer
- Responsive communication through various channels (phone, text, email, or video chat)
- Expert education on metals, settings, and stones
Bring your own gem, or choose one from the Gem Vault
The Gem Vault is where you'll find hand-selected pieces of outstanding quality. Hand-faceted to take specific advantage of the individual mystery of each stone, every stone is of known origin, ethically sourced, and possesses a rare beauty. These incredible gems are rich in color and character, and each is completely unique.
Looking for something specific? Ask about our Private Collection.Â
Step Two: Design & Micro-Engineering
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Making Your Vision a Reality
Explore Heirloom Redesign- Rough sketches for initial design creation to ensure we're on the right track
- Opportunity to review and make changes to the design before moving forward
- Detailed measurement, incorporation of important features, and inspiration review during the design process
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Digital Composite Images
- Designer starts working on the chosen concept using advanced imaging software
- Creation of a composite image incorporating elements from inspiration photos
- Visual elements gathered in a 2-dimensional space, addressing balance and cohesion
- Further opportunity for modifications and changes during this stage
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CAD Modeling & Rendering
- State-of-the-art software used to create a 3D visual model of your design from all angles
- Cost-effective way to view a lifelike rendering without creating a new piece in metal for each change
- Designer ensures the piece is beautiful, true to your vision, and durable for generations
Step Three: Casting and Creation
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Wax Carving and Model Making
- Complex casting process involving 3D printing of wax or resin master model
- Master model can be further modified and sculpted to refine the design
- In-house 3D printers, growers, and wax carvers ensure detailed perfection
- Realistic renderings and physical models bring your ideas to life, resulting in a unique and perfectly fitting piece
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Wax Model Viewing and Fitting
- Master model printed for you to view and try on after digital adjustments
- Further adjustments will be made until the design is perfect
- We will ship the wax to you to try on, but please handle with care, as waxes are delicate
- Some features may be present on the waxes that will be removed during stone setting process, These will be pointed out to you
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Bringing Your Design to Life
- Wax model approved, casting process begins
- Experienced goldsmiths blend old-world methods with modern technology for casting
- Attention to detail ensures high-quality final piece
- Wax models sprued and placed in investment cylinder
- Wax and resin models burned away, and replaced with metal versions of original models
Step Four: Hand Forging & Fabrication
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Detailing and Pre-Polishing
- Cooled castings require polishing for a traditional jewelry appearance
- Time and attention to detail are crucial in this step
- Every surface is polished and tumble finished
- Hand detailing is done on each piece, including the smallest nooks and crannies
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The Final Touches
- Forging strengthens the metal and allows for intricate detailing in your design
- Fabrication involves using sheet, bar stock, and wire to create unique designs
- Fabrication is a time-consuming and expensive method, but results in high-quality jewelry
- Some designs combine casting with hand-fabricated elements for a more customized look
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Gemstone Setting
- Gemstones are carefully selected and set by hand, taking into account their unique qualities
- Choose from our wide selection of gems or bring your own for us to set
- Stones are never cast-in-place, ensuring superior quality and durability
- Each setting is thoughtfully planned, fitted, and set with meticulous craftsmanship for long-lasting security
Step Five: Texture, Finishes, and Detailing
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Time for Your Design to Shine
- Final stage includes adding special textures and finishes to the metal
- Various surface finishes applied using specialized tools and techniques
- Antiquing and enameling used for specific effects
- Designs are quality checked, marked, and ensured for metal fineness
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Shipping and Delivery
Review Shipping Guidelines- Item packaged and delivered via FedEx or USPS 2-Day Priority Insured
- Tracking number provided upon request for shipment
- Delivery requires signature for guarantee of safe arrival
- Local customers can request delivery by trusted courier
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Timeline and Delivery
- Custom order projects take about 6-12 weeks from design approval, depending on the complexity of your item
- Design time varies, so it's recommended to give yourself enough time to enjoy the process
- Time frame may vary based on the season, with longer times during the summer wedding season or winter holidays
Schedule your free, no-pressure design consultation today!
Every design begins with inspiration, and a discussion of your dreams, desires, and vision for your project. We also determine your budget and a preliminary timeframe. You can meet with one of our designers, in person or via an online chat.
Kind Words
Book Your Consultation Now
We can't wait to help you create the perfect piece of jewelry to tell your story!
Click below to fill out a short questionnaire and we'll get started!