Crafting Your Dream Jewellery: Custom-Made Jewellery Buying Checklist

Embarking on the journey of creating custom-made jewellery is an exhilarating experience, but it requires careful planning and consideration to ensure your vision becomes a reality. Here’s a comprehensive checklist to guide you through the process:

1. Seamless Communication:

Choose a company or jeweller that facilitates clear communication between the designer and artisan. Ideally, opt for a location where both are situated, minimizing the risk of miscommunication and errors.

2. Timeframe Management:

Allocate sufficient time from the initial design consultation to the completion of your dream piece of jewellery. Attend all consultations personally to provide input and ensure your vision is accurately translated.

3. Personal Gem Viewing:

Insist on personally viewing all diamonds and gems considered for your jewellery piece. This firsthand experience allows you to assess the quality, colour, and brilliance of each gem, ensuring it aligns with your expectations.

4. Accurate Ring Sizing:

Have your ring size accurately measured by a professional. Avoid the temptation to guess, as inaccurate sizing can lead to discomfort or the need for resizing. Remember, it’s better to err on the side of slightly larger sizing as making a ring larger entails two soldered joins.

5. Documenting Design Progress:

Keep a copy of initial sketches to compare with final sketches or CAD images. This ensures that any modifications or adjustments are in line with your original vision.

6. Inquisitive Approach:

Take the time to ask plenty of questions throughout the design process. The more clarity you have, the more likely the final result will align with your preferences and expectations.

7. Financial Considerations:

Understand that custom design often comes with a higher price tag than off-the-shelf options. Be prepared to invest in quality craftsmanship and personalized service. The exception to this may be if very expensive diamonds or gemstones are to be featured. Expensive off the shelf retailers inventory is usually priced with a higher markup to cover the hold costs.

8. Written Quotations:

Request a written quote detailing the cost and grades and carat weights of diamonds and gemstones for your custom designed piece. This provides transparency and clarity regarding the financial commitment involved.

9. Final Image Confirmation:

Ensure you have a copy of the design sketch or CAD image of your jewellery piece when collecting it. This serves as a reference point and allows you to compare the finished product with your expectations. Bring it out only if you have any concerns of misinterpretation.

10. Beware of Over-Engineering:

If dealing with a bench jeweller directly, exercise caution. Some may over-engineer rings, resulting in excessive weight and clunkiness. While durability is essential, striking the right balance ensures your jewellery remains timeless and elegant.

With this checklist in hand, you’re well-equipped to embark on your custom-made jewellery journey with confidence and clarity. At Holloway Diamonds, we’re committed to guiding you through every step of the process, ensuring your vision is brought to life with unparalleled craftsmanship and attention to detail.