How does commissioning bespoke jewellery work?

• Initial consultation chat - A free no-obligation chat to talk about what you like and what you’re looking for. We'll also cover other overarching details, like budget, timescale, metals and landscapes! This can be done by email, phone or video call.

• Sketching designs and quotes - Once I’ve got some initial information from you I can sketch your design and email you quotes so you can make an informed decision.

• Revisions - If we need to make any revisions to the design or details we do it now before we go any further. I want your jewellery to be perfect for you, so let’s get it right the first time.

• Deposit - Once you're happy with the design I'll request a 40% deposit.

• Making - After the deposit is paid I'll order the precious metal and start making your jewellery. I’ll keep you updated and send you photos along the way!

• Balance Invoice - I'll send your final invoice along with a couple of photos of your jewellery once it's finished and hallmarked.

• Delivery - I'll carefully wrap up your jewellery and send it by Royal Mail - Special Delivery.

Can you use my landscape?

Yes, any landscape! I love transforming your favourite place into unique jewellery. Please send me a clear photo or two of your favourite landscape, city, or view.

Which metal should I choose?

I work with Sterling silver and all colours of Gold in both 9ct and 18ct. I can also make some pieces in Platinum and Palladium but designs are limited due to the tools and different skill set required.

What do the numbers in precious metals mean?

Most precious metals are alloyed with other metals to make them harder and more long-lasting. For example 18ct gold has been the most popular choice for wedding rings because it’s both durable and has a high content of gold.

• Sterling silver is 925. There are 925 parts of pure silver for every 1000 parts (92.5% pure silver). The other 75 parts (or 7.5%) are made up of metals like copper.

• Fine silver is 999 or 99.9% pure silver.

• 9ct Gold is 375 parts pure gold per thousand, or 37.5% pure gold.

• 18ct Gold is 750 parts per thousand, or 75% pure gold.

• Platinum and Palladium. When talking about these metals it’s usually the standard of 950 being referred to, so 95% pure Platinum or Palladium, though lower grades are available.

Do you use ethical metals?

I use recycled or Eco silver and recycled and Fairtrade gold so if you’re keen to wear jewellery with a more ethical choice please ask me about these when making your enquiry.

Can I recycle my old jewellery?

Yes, in most cases it’s possible to use your old jewellery to make something new. I’ll assess each request individually - please take a look at my Bespoke Recycled Jewellery page for more information.

How do I measure my partner's size for a ring without giving away the surprise?

This is when friends and family can be very useful - ask them! You can also take a ring they frequently wear to a local jeweller and ask them to size it for you. If you think they’ll notice the ring missing for a day put it on one of your fingers and draw a line where it fits, then have that measured by a local jeweller. I also offer reusable ring sizers in my shop too.

How long does it take?

I recommend 4-6 weeks for making time after you’ve signed off the design and the deposit has been paid. I'd advise the consultation and design process takes about 2-3 weeks. It's always good to have some extra time allowing for delays with supply of precious metal or illness as well as any required outwork like engraving or hallmarking. I’ve managed to make wedding rings on a 2 week deadline previously so if you’re in a hurry get in touch!

Should I use the same metal for my wedding ring as my engagement ring?

I recommend you choose the same metal for your wedding and engagement ring. Different metal carats and colours have different levels of hardness so if they're worn together they'll wear each other away over many years.

What are platings and do you do them?

Platings are a coating that covers the precious metal to change its colour. A lot of high street jewellers use platings to make all their white jewellery look the same colour in their shop window. 9ct white gold is naturally a creamy, off-white colour whereas 18ct white gold is a more grey/steely colour.

I recommend not having your jewellery plated to avoid the upkeep! Plated jewellery needs maintenance and replating to keep it looking its best. I can and have had jewellery plated in the past so do ask if it’s something you’re considering.

Can you make a simple wedding ring to fit round my engagement ring?

Yes! I offer both simple shaped-to-fit wedding rings or I can also make a landscape wedding ring that will fit around your engagement ring take a look at my bespoke wedding ring service.

Can I have my jewellery engraved?

I offer laser engraving which I outsource to a company I’ve been using for 13 years I can send you a list of fonts to choose from.

What is hallmarking and why do you do it?

Hallmarking is a form of protection for you as my clients. It makes sure my jewellery is the precious metal I say it is. All jewellery (over a certain weight limit) legally has to be hallmarked to be called “sterling silver” “9ct gold” etc. If you want more detailed information take a look at my blog post on the subject.

What courier do you use; is it safe to send jewellery in the post?

I use Royal Mail - Special Delivery, it's a guaranteed next-day service which is, tracked and insured up to the value of £2500. It's very secure and I make sure to wrap my jewellery well for the journey to you.

If your question hasn't been answered please contact me, I'd be happy to help.