Custom Design Process

Thank you for considering working on a custom designed piece with me! Here are the steps we’ll follow:

design fee

A $150 non-refundable design fee is payable before I begin your project. This fee includes:

  • Up to 2 hours of design time. 

  • 2-3 design options within your budget

  • 1-2 revisions

  • If we haven’t agreed on a design and it needs further work, additional design time will be charged at $75/hr.

design conversations

After you pay the design fee, we’ll build on our initial discussion so I fully understand your vision. I’ll email DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS & QUESTIONS—please answer them with as much detail as possible. Photos showing the look you want (even other jewelers’ work but I won’t copy others’ designs), can be useful as well as your own drawings. This is a great time for you to ask me any questions before we begin. We’ll keep talking until I have a clear idea of what you want.

design

I’ll make 2–3 pencil sketches based on your budget to check the direction. After your feedback, I’ll do 1–2 revisions. Usually that’s enough; if you want major changes or a new direction, additional time is $75/hr. We’ll keep revising until we both love the design.

price quote & completion date

After we agree on a design, I'll give a firm quote based on your budget, with budget options (for example, 14k vs 18k gold), and a completion date.

50% deposit

A 50% non-refundable deposit is required to start work on your piece. This allows me to purchase the materials needed for your project.

crafting your piece

I’ll start your piece now and aim to meet the deadline. You can check in anytime; I’ll let you know if I’ll be late. Be assured that your piece won’t be forgotten.

completion, final payment & delivery

Your new piece is completed! I will contact you and arrange final payment and pick-up or delivery. Shipping & insurance is charged at actual cost plus $10.00, and may require a signature on receipt. 

Custom pieces are non-refundable and non-returnable, although if you’re unhappy for any reason I’ll work with you to make it right!