John Mason said: “You were born an original. Don’t die a copy”. In other words, be unique!
Over the last few years, consumers have been bypassing mass produced items and opting for unique custom made products. Why the increase? It all comes down to how the brain works.
According to studies, our love for customization comes from wanting to have full control. And when you’re buying jewelry, it makes sense that you want to have full control over your purchase.
But why should you buy custom-made jewelry? And how can you find a custom jewelry designer? Read on to find out all you need to make a crystal clear decision.
Why Buy Custom Made Jewelry?
Is buying custom jewelry worth the hype? Or is it better to buy from a store? Check out these 3 reasons why custom-made jewelry trumps all.
It’s One of a Kind
There are so many jewelry stores around, but sometimes you can’t find that dream piece you’re looking for.
Custom jewelry is designed from scratch. And the jewelry design is used only once. This makes it truly a one of a kind creation.
Get EXACTLY What You Want
How many times do you end up compromising when you’re shopping. “It’s not exactly what I was looking for, but it will do…”
But when you’re buying something special, such as an engagement ring, there really should be no room for compromise. Opting for custom made jewelry instead of generic designs will ensure you’ll get exactly what you want.
It’s Made For You
Adjustments can be made to custom-made jewelry to suit those with sensitive skin. Most stores offer hypoallergenic jewelry, but there are a limited amount of designs.
If you have your jewelry custom made, your options are limitless. The jeweler will take your design and use a hypoallergenic material instead. For instance, platinum or palladium.
How to Choose a Custom Jewelry Designer
Choosing a jewelry designer isn’t as easy as randomly picking the first option you see on Google. Check out this step by step guide so that you can find the best designer to create your unique jewelry design.
Step 1: Vision
Whether you’re buying something for yourself, or you want to design the perfect gift you need to have a vision of what you want.
Figure out what exactly you have in mind. Be specific and jot down the essential elements of design:
- Jewelry type (ring, necklace, bracelet or earrings)
- Jewelry shape (drop down earrings or button style, round or regular pendant shape)
- Metal type (platinum, gold, silver, titanium, tungsten)
- Gemstones (diamonds, colored stones)
- Overall Style (traditional, filigreed or contemporary)
You might not be an artist, but sketch it all out. Even if you don’t have a specific idea, write down the few thoughts you have. Whoever designs your jewelry needs to know they are on the right track in bringing your vision to life.
Step 2: Do Your Homework
Do your homework and research into jewelry designers. Reputable jewelers will have professional certifications to verify their trade.
Look at their web reviews. This will help you to see their reputation and whether their service was as good as promised.
Find out how long the company has been in business and what their specialty is. You need to make sure the designer’s strengths match the style you’re looking for.
Step 3: Step into Reality
Buying custom-made jewelry isn’t an online decision. Anyone can make a website look attractive, but not just anyone can craft a stunning piece of jewelry.
As it’s impossible to assess the quality of a piece on a computer screen, you should meet face to face with the designer. This not only gives you a chance to discuss your vision, but it will also help you to inspect their previous work.
Check their past designs. Look for mistakes. For instance, are the rings perfectly round, is the finish even, or does it look uncomfortable or tacky.
Show the designer your rudimentary sketch and go over each element of design. The jeweler will ask you questions and will refine your sketch.
Some may do this by hand, whereas others use 3D CAD technology. This sophisticated software will create a 3D image of your design. Then the jeweler will refine the design to make sure the proportions are exact and ensure that it will be comfortable to wear.
Step 4: Make Changes
Of course, your custom design won’t be ready after just one visit. Make several visits to check revisions.
Eventually, when you and the jeweler are both satisfied, you can give your final approval. Make sure you’re 100% sure before you give your final approval. Any adjustments after this point will be expensive.
Step 5: Don’t Forget the Paperwork
Before the jewelry is even made, make sure you get everything in writing. For instance, your responsibilities, the jeweler’s responsibilities, an itemized receipt, and the warranty. If you’re buying diamonds or gemstones, ask for a grading report from an independent laboratory for verification.
Paperwork is proof that the jewelers stand by their products. If they don’t offer reasonable return policies and warranties they likely don’t believe their jewelry piece is worth it.
Step 6: Art Takes Time
The time it takes to create a custom jewelry piece will obviously take longer than a generic store-bought piece. So be ready to pay that bit extra for the additional labor that’s required.
Be cautious if the jewelry store offers unbelievable discounts. If it seems to good to be true, it probably is. Trustworthy stores will have fair pricing all year round and simple sales with honest discounts.
If you’re worried about your budget, lay it all out before you even start designing. Then the designer can create something spectacular within your price range.
Allow at least 6-8 weeks for the piece to be complete. But there could be an extension on that timeline if you make several adjustments. You should keep this timeline in mind, especially if you have a specific date it needs to be complete by.
Custom Made Jewelry Near Me
Are you looking for a custom jewelry designer near you? If you’re in the San Antonio area, you’ve come to the right place.
Click here to find out how we can start the journey in bringing your vision to life.