Quick Tips on Having Your Jewellery Custom Made

If you don’t find the type of fine jewelry or pearl jewelry you’re looking for, you may wish to have it custom made. Many Asian countries are noted for their fast service- often 1 to 2 days. They can be this quick because they have more jewelers per capita than countries such as the United States. A jeweler is Asia may have only one or two pieces to work on at a time, whereas one in the United States may be handling 30 or 40 jobs at once. When having jewelry custom made, follow the guidelines below:

1.) Try on jewelry pieces that resemble what you want. What looks good in a picture may not look or feel good on you.

2.) If possible, have good drawings, photos or models of the jewelry piece you want made. Never assume that the jeweler understands your verbal description of what you want. Be as specific as possible about how you want the jewelry to look.

3.) Don’t assume a piece of jewelry will look exactly as it does in a photo. It should, however, have a close resemblance. The best way to get exactly what you want is to have a model or sample.

4.) If you have a ring that fits well and has about the same band width as a custom ring you are ordering, show it to the salesperson or jeweler so they can choose the best ring size for you. The sample metal rings they have you try on can sometimes suggest the wrong size.

5.) Always tell a jeweler you need the ring earlier than you actually do, especially if it’s a complicated job. In Asia, you should allow 3 or 4 hours extra; and in countries such as the United States, at least 3 to 4 days. Either the jewelers may not finish on time, or alterations may be needed.

Work out an acceptable delivery date and have it put in writing. But still be prepared for delays. It’s best not to rush custom-made jewelry.

6.) If possible, avoid having jewelry custom made in December in countries that celebrate Christmas. Since jewelers are rushed and overworked at that time of the year, they might not do their best work then.

7.) Get a written estimate of the cost of the jewelry. If more stones are needed than estimated, the jeweler is not expected to give them to you free of charged. He should, however, get your permission before doing anything that would increase the estimated cost of the jewelry.

8.) If you supply the gemstones for custom-made jewelry, find out in advance who will be responsible if your stones are lost or damaged during setting or recutting. The jeweler is not always liable if something unfortunate happens to them. Reliable jewelers, however, will either feel morally obligated to replace damaged or lost stones or else will clearly warn you that your stones are at risk.

9.) Make sure that gold and platinum pieces are stamped with the fineness. A manufacturer’s trademark is also desirable.

10.) Know the refund policy of the jeweler. It is normal for jewelers to retain at least a portion of your deposit if you decide not to buy the ring you ordered, particularly if it’s a style that would be difficult to sell. Pay deposits with credit cards. If the stone does not deliver the job as promised, it will be easier to get your money back.

When you have a piece custom made, it often means more to you than the ready-made jewelry. The piece is unique, and you played a role in creating it. The experience of having jewelry made should be a positive one. Prevent it from turning into a negative one by taking the necessary precautions.