We receive a lot of requests for custom design jewelry work. The reason and the purpose behind the requests are as varied as the designs themselves. Here are a few custom requests we receive, a sample of how we designed a custom engagement ring for a customer, our process in designing custom jewelry, as well as some frequently asked questions and answers.
One of the most common requests for custom designs comes when someone has inherited items from a family member. They love the sentimental attachment associated with that item. There is just one problem; they don't love the piece.
Usually, it is just not their style. It's too big, too small, it's not white gold, it's not yellow gold, it is entirely out of style, or maybe it is just worn out or broken. In this situation, some do nothing. The item sits for years without being loved and enjoyed. Is that what your loved one would have wanted? Or would she be happier knowing that you get to wear the item and enjoy it with a bit of adjustment? This design work requires using as many of the original parts as possible.
Would you like a ring that is unique to you? Do you have several design elements that you wish to combine into one perfect unique piece and don't know where to begin? At Harby Jewelers of Jacksonville, we love helping clients design one-of-a-kind custom jewelry.
The design can be an idea you have had or something you may have recently seen someone wearing. We can even use a photograph as the basis for a design. All custom work is done on approval, and if you do not like it, we will happily change it.
Custom engagement rings are another popular request. We frequently have the couple or just the man come in shopping for that dream engagement ring. Usually, it does not take long before the phone comes out, and we are shown pictures of what she likes.
The images vary, but we begin to see a pattern for her preferences. While we usually have multiple in-stock options of engagement rings that fit her style, sometimes there is a need to make it completely unique. We can merge the design of two or more rings into one perfect ring, or completely design the engagement ring from scratch.
The custom design process typically follows these steps:
While a majority of our custom jewelry design is for customers in and around the Jacksonville area, here's an example of a custom engagement ring we helped an out-of-state customer design. She had a specific vision for a three-stone ring with a tapered shank featuring an intricately detailed engraving.
The process started with a hand-drawn image provided by the customer. She had a clear idea and took the time to draw out her dream ring.
Please note, drawing a ring is not mandatory! We can use photos from rings you like to customize the look you're desiring.
After reviewing her initial picture, a few changes were made and submitted for CAD (Computer Aided Design). The CAD drawings took two days to make. After some revisions with our client, the ring was made.
The custom ring took about ten days to complete, and we were all thrilled with with how the custom engagement ring turned out!
The custom process can be in person or long distance. Most of our customers enjoy sitting down in our beautiful Jacksonville showroom and discussing their idea. We are also comfortable communicating with you via phone, text, and email. We have made hundreds of long distances appointments and are confident that we can make the perfect custom design if you are not in Jacksonville. If you are ready to start a custom design, please reach out to us to begin the process!
