Bespoke Fine Jewellery

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

bespoke jewellery sketch with tools on a white surface

Thinking about something made just for you?

If you’re here, you might be considering bespoke jewellery but feeling unsure where to begin.

That’s completely normal.

For many people, commissioning a bespoke engagement ring or fine jewellery piece is something they’ve never done before. You might have an idea in your head. Or you might just know that you want something different from what you’re seeing in shops.

You don’t need all the answers before you get in touch.

My role is to guide you through the process calmly and clearly, helping you shape your ideas into something beautiful, thoughtful and entirely yours.

Do I need to know exactly what I want?

Not at all.

Some clients come with detailed Pinterest boards and very specific ideas. Others simply know they want something unique and well made.

Both approaches are equally welcome.

Part of bespoke design is refining and shaping your ideas together. You don’t need technical knowledge about diamonds, settings or metal types. That’s what I’m here for.

How does the bespoke process work?

The process is designed to feel personal, structured and enjoyable. It usually follows these stages:

1. Initial Conversation

We begin with a consultation, either in person or via Zoom. We'll talk about what you're looking for, your budget, your timeline and any inspiration you may have.
This is relaxed and informal, with no pressure.

2. Sourcing Stones

If your piece includes diamonds or gemstones, I will source carefully selected options for you. I'll explain the differences clearly so you feel confident in your choice.

3. Design Development

Once we've agreed on direction, I create detailed design visuals or CAD renders so you can see proportions, setting style and overall balance before anything is made.

4. Crafting the Piece

Your jewellery is then handcrafted in Birmingham's historic Jewellery Quarter by trusted specialist workshops. I oversee this process closely to ensure quality and detail are exactly as intended.

5. Final Presentation

Your finished piece is carefully packaged and either collected or shipped via fully insured delivery.

Have a Question About Going Bespoke?

If you’re curious about bespoke jewellery but not quite sure where to begin, just ask.

You don’t need all the answers. You don’t need to know the terminology. And no question is too small or too silly.

There’s no obligation and absolutely no pressure, just a straightforward conversation to see what might be possible.

If you’d like something quick and informal, message me on WhatsApp.
It’s often the easiest way to chat and ask those initial questions.

Chat on WhatsApp

Some frequently asked questions:

All of the diamonds and gemstones I source are from accredited suppliers who follow the Kimberly Process & guarantee their diamonds are conflict-free. Additionally, as a member of the National Association of Goldsmiths I have to uphold the highest standards.
If you would like to ensure the ethical nature of your jewellery outside of the normal processes I follow there are other options which include Canadian Diamonds and Fairtrade gold which allows you to know that your special piece of bespoke jewellery has given back to the communities that work so hard to mine the gold.

So, whether you're dreaming of a stunning custom engagement ring, a heartfelt gift, or a piece that celebrates your milestones, I'm excited to get started. Let's have a chat, let your creativity flow, and let's make something extraordinary – together.

Reach out to me today, and let's begin crafting your bespoke masterpiece.

If you would like to start the process we can start with an email, a phone call or video call, whichever you feel most comfortable with.

What information do I need to know before our bespoke consulation?
There are a few things that would be useful for you to decide beforehand, such as the general style you're after, rough finger size if it's a ring, and its always good to have an idea of budget. We'd hate to suggest something which isn't attainable.

If you are able to provide images as inspiration it's always helpful to provide us with an insight into your desired style, or sometimes it works well especially when you're planning a surprise engagement to show a photo of your other half. There are lots of style hints I can gauge by looking at a photo, plus I love to see who is going to be the lucky recipient of the custom engagement ring!

My design service is provided free of charge. The cost of the item is dependent upon the gemstones, metal and intricacy involved in crafting the piece. If you would like a guide of price for a bespoke project, I'd be happy to help. I can also make suggestions on ways to make your bespoke project more cost efficient.

Timeframes vary depending on complexity, but most bespoke pieces take 4-5 weeks from initial design approval to completion.

If you’re working to a proposal date or special occasion, it’s always helpful to mention this early so we can plan accordingly.

Choosing a diamond can seem a bit of a daunting task with so many variants to take into account. Once you break it down into sections, it's not so scary. The first thing to decide on is the shape. Would you like one of the most popular diamond shapes such as a Round, Oval or Emerald Cut diamond with a halo for your bespoke engagement ring? Or maybe you'd like to create an unusual solitaire ring with a more unusual shape such as a kite or shield-shaped diamond.
Once you've decided on the shape, it's time to think about what you want from your budget. Is it a diamond as big as you can get, or is it a diamond that is a clear and white as possible? We'd usually suggest a balance of size & quality to achieve the most from your money.
Take a look at my Guide on choosing the perfect diamond

There are a wide range of metal types to choose when it comes to fine jewellery. The main ones are Yellow, White or Rose Gold and Platinum.
Gold can be broken down into different carats, with the most popular ones in the UK being 9ct, 18ct and 22ct gold. All colours of gold can come in any of the carats.The carat of your gold tells you hoe much pure gold makes up the mixture that your jewellery is made from. 9ct gold is at least 37.5% pure, 18ct gold is at least 75% pure, and 22ct is at least 91.67% pure.
Unless you are looking for the rich yellow colour of 22ct gold, we would usually suggest 18ct gold for use in fine jewellery.

If you are looking for a piece of fine jewellery in white metal, rings in particular, Platinum is the best choice. This is because of it's natural white colour which won't need maintaining with rhodium plating like white gold will. Platinum is also hypoallergenic, which if you have sensitive ears means it's great for earrings that won't irritate your skin.

If you're not 100% sure on exactly the type of jewellery you would like to be designed don't worry. We can use ideas of things you like and don't like to guide us to the perfect custom jewellery piece. Maybe you've seen a halo ring that you like but you'd like to change it to have a more unusual diamond shape? You might already have your own ring but want to give it a revamp to be more modern. With our bespoke service we can have a consultation over video call to go through your likes, loves & ideas for your perfect engagement ring.

I offer a range of bespoke design services that let you express yourself on any occasion, taking advantages of the vast network of jewellery experts that I have built up over the past 15 years.
Got a cherished family piece? Let's give it new life through skilled remodelling, making it even more special. I'm here to assure you that your dreams are in capable hands. Our creations aren't just jewellery; they're intricate works of art that tell your unique journey.