Discover the Stradley & Daughter Difference

Most people who contact us are not jewelry experts.
They simply have a piece they care about, an idea they’re exploring, or a small collection of jewelry they’re not quite sure what to do with yet.

If that sounds familiar, you’re in the right place.

This page answers common questions about custom jewelry design, heirloom jewelry redesign, repairs, shipping, and working with our studio.

Read our FAQs

Start Here: It’s Okay Not to Know Yet

What if I don’t have a design in mind yet?

You do NOT need to arrive with a finished design. Many people contact us with only a rough idea, a gemstone they love, or a piece of jewelry they inherited but aren’t sure how to wear. Some clients just know they want something meaningful but haven’t figured out what it should look like yet.

Custom jewelry design is a collaborative process. During a consultation we’ll talk about your ideas, look at any pieces you already own, and explore possibilities together. As we sketch, refine, and discuss options, the design naturally begins to take shape.

Even if your idea doesn't quite make sense yet, if you’re curious about what might be possible, that curiosity is more than enough to get started.

I inherited jewelry but I’m not sure what to do with it. Can you help?

Absolutely. Many people come to us with inherited jewelry that feels important but doesn’t quite suit their style. Heirloom jewelry often carries history, memories, and emotional weight — but that doesn’t mean it has to stay in its original form.

We specialize in heirloom jewelry redesign, which means evaluating your gemstones and metals and exploring ways they can become something new. Sometimes that means restoring a vintage piece. Other times it means resetting a diamond into a new ring or incorporating several heirloom stones into a modern design.

The goal is always the same: honoring the story of the piece while creating something you’ll genuinely enjoy wearing.

I have a box of old jewelry. Is it worth anything?

It might be — and it may also be more useful than it appears at first glance.

Older jewelry often contains valuable gemstones or precious metals that can be reused in a new design. Even pieces that feel broken, outdated, or mismatched may contain diamonds, sapphires, or gold that can be repurposed into something entirely new.

When clients send in a collection of jewelry, we examine each piece carefully to identify what materials can be reused and what options are available. Sometimes a single stone becomes the centerpiece of a new ring. Other times several small gems can be combined into a fresh design.

Even if a piece isn’t valuable in the traditional sense, it may still hold sentimental meaning — and that can be just as important when creating something new.

I’m worried my idea might be silly or unrealistic. Is that okay?

Of course. Jewelry design begins with imagination, and many of the most interesting pieces start with ideas that feel uncertain at first. In fact, we expect to have an "ugly sketches" phase in every brainstorming session!

Part of our role is helping translate inspiration into something that works structurally, aesthetically, and comfortably for everyday wear. Sometimes that means refining the idea slightly. Sometimes it means discovering a completely new direction that captures the spirit of what you had in mind.

You never need to worry about asking a “silly” question here. Exploring possibilities is simply part of the design process.

I don’t know how much this costs. Can I ask before committing?

Yes, and you should.

Custom jewelry can vary widely in cost depending on the design, the gemstones involved, and the type of metal used. Some projects are relatively simple, such as resetting an existing diamond into a new setting, while others involve sourcing rare gemstones or creating more complex designs.

During an initial conversation we can usually give you a rough sense of what different approaches might cost. That way you can decide whether the project feels comfortable before moving forward with the design process.

There’s no pressure to commit until you’re ready.

Do I need to know anything about jewelry before contacting you?

Not at all. Most of our clients are not jewelry experts — they simply have a piece they care about or an idea they want to explore.

Part of our job is helping you understand your options. We’ll explain what stones you have, what materials can be reused, and what design directions might work well. You never need to know technical terms or arrive with a fully developed plan.

What if my budget is small?

Custom jewelry projects come in many different forms, and there are often ways to work within a range that feels comfortable.

For example, using heirloom gemstones or gold you already own can significantly reduce the cost of a project. Simpler designs can also keep things more affordable while still creating a beautiful and meaningful piece.

If you have a budget in mind, you’re welcome to share it. We can usually suggest design directions that make the most of what you’d like to spend.

What if I start the process and change my mind?

Design is a process of exploration. That’s why we review and approve the design together before any piece is made.

During the design stage we can adjust details, explore different options, or refine the direction until it feels right. Nothing moves into production until you’ve approved the final design.

Our goal is to make sure you feel confident and excited about the piece before it’s created.

What if my jewelry isn't very valuable, but it means a lot to me?

Sentimental value is often the most important reason people redesign jewelry.

Some heirloom pieces may not contain large gemstones or rare materials, but they still carry memories and family history. In those cases the design process focuses on preserving the spirit of the original piece while transforming it into something that fits your life today.

Meaningful jewelry doesn’t have to be expensive to deserve thoughtful craftsmanship.

What if I'm not sure what style I like yet?

That’s completely normal.

During a consultation we can look at examples together, talk about how you typically wear jewelry, and explore different design directions. Sometimes people discover they prefer something classic and understated. Others realize they love more sculptural or distinctive pieces.

Design preferences often become clearer once you start seeing possibilities. Our role is to help guide that discovery process.

Custom jewelry design is at the heart of what we do. Some clients come to us with a detailed vision. Others arrive with a few heirlooms, a story, or simply a feeling they want a piece to hold.

Custom Design & Heirloom Redesign

What is heirloom jewelry redesign?

Heirloom jewelry redesign is the process of transforming existing jewelry—such as inherited rings, gemstones, or gold—into a new piece that better suits the current wearer while preserving the sentimental history of the original materials.

Can you redesign jewelry I already own?

Yes. Redesigning existing jewelry is one of the most common reasons people come to us.

Many clients have inherited rings, loose gemstones, or older pieces that no longer match their personal style. Through heirloom jewelry redesign, we can evaluate the stones and metals in your piece and explore ways to transform them into something new while preserving the history behind them.

Sometimes that means resetting a diamond into a new ring. Other times we combine several pieces into an entirely new design. The goal is always the same: creating jewelry you’ll love wearing while honoring the story of the original piece.

Is it ok to redesign inherited jewelry?

Yes! Many families choose to redesign inherited jewelry so it can continue to be worn and enjoyed.

Heirloom pieces often carry sentimental value but may not match modern styles or everyday lifestyles. Through heirloom jewelry redesign, gemstones and precious metals from older pieces can be incorporated into a new design while preserving the story behind the original jewelry.

Sometimes the best choice is restoration, and other times it’s transformation. Our role is to help you understand the options so you can decide what feels most meaningful for you and your family.

Can you use my old gold or gemstones?

In many cases, yes.

Existing gemstones can often be reused in a new custom design, and gold from older jewelry can sometimes be credited toward the metal used in a new piece. During the consultation we examine the materials carefully and talk through what can safely be reused and what options are available.

Sometimes stones become the centerpiece of a new design. Other times they’re incorporated as accent stones or combined with newly sourced gems. Every project is slightly different, and we’ll help you understand the possibilities before moving forward.

Do you buy old jewelry or gold?

We generally do not purchase estate jewelry or gold outright.

However, when we are designing a new piece for you, we may be able to credit the value of usable gold from your existing jewelry toward the metal used in your new design.

In rare cases, if we know a potential buyer for a particular piece, we may also be able to offer consignment options.

Will my original stones be safe during the process?

Protecting your gemstones is always a priority.

Before beginning any redesign work we carefully examine each stone to understand its condition, durability, and any existing wear. This allows us to recommend settings and design approaches that keep the stone secure and suitable for everyday wear.

Older stones sometimes have small chips or natural inclusions, and in those cases we may suggest specific design choices that protect them. Our goal is always to preserve your original gemstones while creating a design that will last for generations.

Can you create a design from a rough idea or inspiration photo?

Absolutely.

Many clients begin with inspiration images, sketches, or simply a general feeling about what they would like the piece to express. These references help us understand the style, proportions, and details you’re drawn to.

From there we translate those ideas into a custom design tailored specifically to your gemstones, budget, and lifestyle. The final piece is never a direct copy of an inspiration photo, it’s a design created uniquely for you.

How long does custom jewelry take?

Most custom jewelry projects take approximately 4–8 weeks from design approval to completion, though timelines can vary depending on the complexity of the piece and whether new gemstones need to be sourced.

The design phase usually happens first, where we discuss ideas, review sketches or renderings, and refine the details together. Once the final design is approved, the piece moves into production where it is cast, set, and finished by skilled jewelers.

If you have a special date or event in mind, let us know during your consultation and we’ll do our best to accommodate the timeline.

What does the design process look like?

Custom jewelry design begins with a conversation.

During a virtual consultation we talk about your ideas, examine any jewelry or gemstones you already own, and discuss possible design directions. From there we develop sketches or digital renderings that allow you to visualize the piece before it is made.

Once the design is finalized and approved, the piece moves into production where it is crafted, stone-set, and finished by our workshop. Throughout the process we focus on clear communication so you always know what stage your piece is in.

If you’d like to begin exploring an idea, you can always book a virtual consultation to start the conversation.

Do I get to approve the design before it’s made?

Yes, absolutely.

Nothing moves into production until you have reviewed and approved the final design. This ensures the piece reflects exactly what you had in mind before any materials are committed to the project.

During the design phase we can adjust details such as stone size, proportions, or metal type until everything feels right. Time-permitting, we can even send you a wax model of your design to try on.

Once you approve the design, the piece moves into the crafting stage.

What if I want to change something after seeing the design?

Changes during the design phase are completely normal.

Reviewing sketches or renderings often helps people refine their ideas, and we’re happy to make adjustments while the design is still being developed. This is one of the advantages of custom jewelry—you can shape the piece as the concept becomes clearer.

Once the final design is approved and production begins, changes become much more limited because materials and labor have already been committed to the piece.

Can you work with stones that are old or slightly damaged?

Often, yes.

Many heirloom gemstones show small signs of wear from years of use. In many cases these stones can still be safely reset into a new piece, especially if the design is created with the stone’s condition in mind. We may recommend that a damaged stone be recut or polished before setting, to maximize stability and beauty.

During the evaluation we’ll examine the gemstone carefully and explain whether it can be reused safely or whether a protective design approach would be best. If a stone cannot be reset as-is, we may be able to suggest alternative ways to preserve it within the design.

Do I need an appointment to begin a custom project?

No. While many clients enjoy beginning with a short consultation, it isn’t required.

Some people prefer to talk through ideas during a virtual appointment, while others are perfectly happy communicating by email or text. In fact, many custom projects develop gradually through messages as inspiration, photos, and ideas are shared over time.

We sometimes describe this as a quiet journey—a design process that unfolds at a comfortable pace rather than all at once.

If you already have inspiration images, inherited jewelry, or gemstones you’d like to work with, you’re always welcome to send them along and we can begin the conversation from there.

What information should I have ready for a consultation?

You don’t need to prepare anything complicated.

If you already have jewelry you’d like to redesign, it’s helpful to have the pieces nearby so we can discuss them during the conversation. Inspiration images, sketches, or photos of designs you like can also help us understand your style.

Beyond that, the most useful information is simply how you imagine wearing the piece and whether you have a general budget or timeline in mind. The consultation is meant to be a relaxed conversation where we explore possibilities together.

Stradley & Daughter is a multi-generation family jewelry studio focused on heirloom-quality craftsmanship and thoughtful design.

About Stradley & Daughter

Where is your jewelry made?

Stradley & Daughter jewelry is designed and hand-finished in our workshops and created by talented American jewelers.

We operate workshops in New Britain, Connecticut and Palm Coast, Florida, where many of our pieces are created from start to finish—including design development, fabrication, and final finishing.

For certain projects, we may also collaborate with local artisans who specialize in highly technical work such as stone setting, engraving, or casting.

This approach allows us to combine traditional jewelry craftsmanship with specialized expertise while keeping the work within a trusted network of American artisans who share our standards for quality and care.

How long have you been in business?

Stradley & Daughter is a fifth-generation family jewelry business with roots going back more than a century.

Our studio has worked with fine jewelry and gemstones for more than 140 years across five generations of jewelers. Over the decades our family has worked in many areas of the jewelry trade—from gemstone cutting and sourcing to custom design and heirloom restoration. That long history shapes the way we approach our work today. We believe jewelry should be made with care, integrity, and craftsmanship strong enough to last for generations.

While the tools and technologies we use have evolved, the core philosophy has remained the same: create beautiful pieces that carry meaning and can be passed down through families.

If you're curious about the story behind the studio, you can read more on our Our History page.

What do customers say about working with Stradley & Daughter?

Many of our clients come to us through referrals or after reading about other people’s experiences working with our studio. Because custom jewelry and heirloom redesign are such personal projects, we’re honored when customers share the stories behind the pieces we create together.

If you’d like to see what others have said about their experience—from custom engagement rings to heirloom redesigns—you can read a selection of client testimonials here.

Are your gemstones ethically sourced?

Yes. We work with trusted gemstone suppliers who follow responsible sourcing practices and uphold high ethical standards within the jewelry industry.

For diamonds, this includes compliance with the Kimberley Process, which is designed to prevent conflict diamonds from entering the supply chain. For colored gemstones, we partner with vendors who prioritize transparency, responsible mining practices, and long-term relationships with the communities where the stones originate.

Whenever possible, we’re also happy to incorporate heirloom gemstones that clients already own, giving meaningful stones a new life in a custom design.

Are your metals recycled or responsibly sourced?

Whenever possible, we use Fairmined recycled precious metals and work with refiners who prioritize responsible sourcing practices.

Recycling gold and other precious metals allows beautiful jewelry to be created without the environmental impact of newly mined materials. Many custom projects also incorporate gold from heirloom pieces that clients already own, which can sometimes be credited toward the metal used in a new design.

The jewelry industry continues to evolve toward greater traceability, and we actively work with our suppliers to support more transparent and environmentally responsible sourcing.

What makes your jewelry different from mass-produced jewelry?

Mass-produced jewelry is typically manufactured in large quantities using standardized designs.

At Stradley & Daughter, our focus is on heirloom-quality craftsmanship and custom design. Many of our pieces are made individually or in very small batches, and our custom work is created from scratch for each client.

This approach allows us to work directly with your gemstones, adapt designs to suit your lifestyle, and create pieces that are meant to be worn and enjoyed for decades. The result is jewelry that feels personal, intentional, and made to last.

Who actually makes the jewelry?

Your jewelry is created by skilled American designers, goldsmiths, silversmiths, gem cutters, and stone setters.

Many pieces are made start to finish in our studio workshops, where we design, fabricate, and hand-finish each piece. Depending on the project, we may also collaborate with trusted local artisans who specialize in highly technical work such as engraving, casting, or specialized stone setting.

As a fifth-generation family jewelry studio, we oversee every stage of the process—from design development through finishing—to ensure the final piece reflects the quality, craftsmanship, and attention to detail our clients expect.

Can I order a ring in a size that isn't offered on the site?

Yes. We’re happy to create rings in a wide range of sizes.

Many designs can be produced in sizes beyond the standard options shown on the website. In some cases there may be a small adjustment to the price depending on the amount of metal required or the structure of the design.

If you need help determining the correct size, we can also assist with ring sizing tools and guidance so your piece fits comfortably from the beginning.

Are you on social media? Where can I find you?

You can find us on InstagramFacebookTiktok, and Pinterest, where we post behind-the-scenes looks at custom jewelry projects, gemstone finds, design inspiration, and the occasional glimpse of what life in the workshop actually looks like.

Many clients enjoy browsing our social media before reaching out. It’s a good way to get a sense of our style, see recent projects, and learn a little more about the people behind the studio. 

You can also join the Sparkle Squad, our email list where we share new designs, special announcements, and occasional perks for subscribers.

Jewelry repairs and shipping logistics are sometimes the most intimidating part of working with a jeweler remotely. We’ve designed our process to make it straightforward and secure.

Repairs, Shipping & Practical Things

How do I safely send jewelry to you for repair or redesign?

The safest way to send jewelry to us is by using our Precious Cargo Shipping Kit, which is designed specifically for mailing valuable jewelry securely.

The kit includes protective packaging materials, measuring tools, and clear instructions so you can safely prepare your jewelry for shipment. Once your piece arrives, we inspect it, confirm receipt, and begin evaluating the repair or redesign options.

If you prefer to arrange your own shipping, we’re happy to provide guidance on the safest way to package and insure your jewelry before sending it.

You can learn more about the process or request a kit on our Repairs page.

Is my package insured?

Shipping insurance depends on the shipping method used.

When we ship finished jewelry to you, packages are typically sent with tracking and a required signature for higher-value shipments. Additional insurance coverage can also be added when appropriate.

If you are sending jewelry to us, we can recommend shipping methods that allow you to insure the package for the full value of the piece.

Do I need to insure the jewelry before shipping it?

We strongly recommend insuring any jewelry shipment for its estimated value.

Most major carriers allow you to add insurance when creating the shipment. If you're unsure how to do this, we can suggest the safest shipping options and explain the process.

Our Precious Cargo Kit also includes instructions to help ensure your jewelry is packaged securely before shipping.

How long do repairs usually take?

Repair timelines depend on the type of work required.

Simple services such as cleaning, polishing, or minor adjustments may take only a short time, while more involved repairs—such as rebuilding settings, replacing gemstones, or restoring heirloom pieces—may require additional time.

Once we’ve examined your jewelry, we’ll provide a clear estimate for both the cost and the expected timeline before any work begins.

What if my repaired jewelry doesn’t fit?

If sizing adjustments are needed after a repair or resize, we’ll work with you to make sure the piece fits comfortably.

Many rings can be resized, although some designs have structural limitations. If a piece cannot be safely resized, we’ll explain the options before beginning any work so there are no surprises.

Our goal is always to return jewelry that is both beautiful and comfortable to wear.

Do you sell gift cards or gift certificates? 

Yes. Stradley & Daughter offers both digital gift certificates and physical gift cards.

Electronic certificates can be delivered instantly by email, making them a convenient option for last-minute gifts. Physical gift cards can be mailed if you prefer something tangible to present.

Gift certificates are a wonderful option when you’d like someone to choose their own piece or collaborate on a custom design.

I have an occasion coming up soon, can I get my jewelry faster?

If you have an important date approaching, let us know as early as possible.

In some cases we may be able to accommodate expedited production or shipping, depending on the complexity of the piece and the availability of materials.

While custom jewelry often requires several weeks to complete, we’ll always do our best to work within meaningful timelines whenever possible.

Do you ship to countries other than the United States?

At this time we ship primarily within the United States.

If you live internationally, it may still be possible to ship your order to a U.S.-based forwarding service that can handle international delivery on your behalf.

If you have questions about shipping options, feel free to contact us and we’ll be happy to help.

Do you ship to PO Boxes?

Yes. We can ship to PO Boxes using U.S. Mail.

Some carriers such as FedEx cannot deliver to PO Boxes, so shipping method may vary depending on the destination.

Can I check the status of my order?

Yes. Once your order is placed, you’ll receive shipping and tracking updates by email or text so you can follow the progress of your shipment.

If you ever have questions about an order or repair in progress, you’re always welcome to contact us and we’ll be happy to provide an update.

Jewelry is meant to be worn and enjoyed. If something ever needs adjustment, maintenance, or repair, we’re here to help.

After You Purchase

Do you offer a warranty?

Yes. Stradley & Daughter jewelry includes a one-year warranty on workmanship.

If there is ever a problem related to the craftsmanship of your piece, we will repair or replace it at no charge during the warranty period. This covers issues related to construction, such as stone settings or structural components.

Normal wear, accidental damage, or work performed by another jeweler are not covered under the warranty, but we’re always happy to help with repairs when needed.

Our goal is simple: jewelry that is made to be worn and enjoyed for years to come.

What if my jewelry gets damaged?

Jewelry is meant to be worn, and occasionally pieces do need maintenance or repair.

If your jewelry becomes damaged—whether it’s a bent ring, a loose stone, or general wear—we’re happy to evaluate the piece and recommend the best repair options. Many issues can be resolved with routine jewelry repair or stone resetting.

Once we examine the piece, we’ll explain the repair process and provide an estimate before any work begins.

Can another jeweler resize my ring?

You may choose to have another jeweler resize your ring, but doing so may affect your warranty.

Because we know the construction of our pieces and the materials used, resizing performed in our workshop is usually the safest option. When a piece is altered by another jeweler, we cannot guarantee the structural integrity of the setting and the original warranty may no longer apply.

If you need help with resizing, we’re always happy to assist.

Do you provide appraisals for insurance?

Yes. We can provide a retail replacement evaluation for insurance purposes.

These documents describe the materials, gemstones, and craftsmanship of your jewelry so your insurance provider can determine the appropriate coverage amount.

If you need an appraisal for an item purchased from us, simply contact our customer care team and we’ll guide you through the process.

Can I return a made-to-order or custom item? 

Because custom and made-to-order jewelry is created specifically for each client, these pieces are generally non-returnable.

Before production begins, we carefully review and approve the design together to ensure the final piece reflects exactly what you expect. This process allows us to confirm details such as stone size, metal type, and proportions before the jewelry is made.

If you have questions or concerns during the design phase, we encourage you to discuss them so we can make any necessary adjustments before production begins.

How should I care for my new jewelry?

Fine jewelry is designed to be worn and enjoyed, but a little care will help it stay beautiful for many years.

We recommend removing jewelry during activities that may expose it to impact, harsh chemicals, or abrasive surfaces—such as gardening, heavy lifting, or cleaning. Storing pieces separately in a jewelry box or soft pouch can also help prevent scratches and tangling.

Over time, even well-made jewelry may benefit from occasional cleaning, inspection, or minor maintenance to ensure stones remain secure and settings stay in good condition.

If you ever have questions about caring for a specific piece, you're always welcome to contact us, we’re happy to help.

What is the best way to get started?

The easiest way to begin is to schedule a short consultation or send us a message describing your project.

Some clients arrive with detailed ideas, while others simply have a stone, a piece of inherited jewelry, or a feeling they want to capture.

Either way, we’re happy to help you explore the possibilities.

Still have questions?

We have answers! Feel free to call or text Customer Care at 386.767.3473 or email us at customercare@stradleyjewelers.com!

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