Custom jewellery: from brief to acceptance
A ring, a pendant and several different pieces require different decisions. A useful comparison states whether you want a new item, a redesign of existing jewellery or an initial design study. Describe its intended use and known quantities. The workshop assesses how it can be made before you approve the final specification.
Distinguish making from related work
A new commission defines the shape and construction for your order. A redesign starts from existing pieces whose condition may limit the options. Reproduction requires a clear reference and the necessary rights.
A broken clasp or loose setting is initially a repair job. Do not request an entire new design when the intended work is simply correcting a fault. Design advice can start before a quantity is settled.
| Brief | Clarify when comparing |
|---|---|
| New piece | Type, use and intended specification |
| Redesign | Which existing components should be considered |
| Different designs | Count and details for each design |
| Design advice | Aim and decisions that remain open |
A short, concrete jewellery brief
State the type, style, occasion or everyday use and any known dimensions. Each different design needs its own count and main details. A matching pair of earrings is a different quote basis from two distinct single items.
A professional drawing is not needed for the first enquiry. A short description is enough to start; references can be arranged later. Have an unknown ring size or material detail assessed rather than making it up.
Desired material, composition and marking
Gold colour, finish and combinations of materials form part of the specification. Ask about a composition suited to use, manufacture and care. Existing gold weight is not a completed quote: assessment, losses, extra material and any credit need agreement.
Precious jewellery marketed in Switzerland requires attention to fineness and responsibility markings. Official hallmarking is not generally compulsory for ordinary jewellery. Ask the professional to explain the applicable marking.
Plan new and existing stones separately
Agree selection and supply for new stones. A stone you provide first needs assessment for the intended setting. An appealing design alone does not confirm its condition or suitability for safe reuse.
Record what was accepted and which assessment is commissioned at handover. Clarify damage risks, transport and return of unused components. Sensitive valuation documents do not belong in an open first enquiry.
Agree design and approval clearly
A sketch, digital view and physical model answer different questions. Agree which will establish shape, proportions and fit. A screen colour does not replace an agreed material and finish specification.
Approval should cover quantity, specification, price and timing. Clarify included design revisions and extra charges once production starts. A later change may affect procurement and the collection date as well.
Compare the complete quote scope
Compare the same specification and quantity basis. A workshop labour price alone leaves material, stones or design unresolved. Check VAT, packaging and any insured delivery; unlisted services are not automatically free.
One universal unit price is not meaningful for every unique piece. Ask for uncertain items, approval stages and payment terms to be identified. Credit for supplied material should remain separate and clear alongside the making charges.
| Cost item | Check the same basis |
|---|---|
| Design and models | Included alternatives and revisions |
| Material and stones | Specification, sourcing and supplied material |
| Making and setting | Item or pair, construction and finishing |
| Later changes | Approval before additional charges |
| Handover and aftercare | Transport, adjustments and care service |
A commission with clear decision points
Start with need and quantities, assess feasibility and materials, then agree the design and quote. The agreed approval starts the making commission. Keep a clear record of decisions and subsequent changes.
An occasion date is different from a completion deadline. Allow agreed time for fitting, possible adjustment and transport. A requested date is not a commitment; establish which decisions are needed by when.
Acceptance, care and later adjustment
At acceptance, check the agreed specification, fit, fastening and visible workmanship. Ask for material details and care for the particular piece to be documented. A precious-metal mark is not a gemstone report or an individual condition assessment.
Ask which later adjustments or inspections are agreed and which require a separate commission. Assess the piece for its intended use. A decorative item and jewellery worn every day may need different construction and care.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a drawing already?
No. Describe type, style, use and known dimensions. Agree an appropriate design format and its cost with the workshop.
Can existing jewellery be used?
Possibly. Condition, material and stones must suit the intended design. Agree assessment, any credit and the return of unused components.
How do I state the quantity of earrings?
State the number of matching pairs. Describe single earrings or different designs with their respective quantities in the short brief.
Must the ring size already be settled?
No. Have the appropriate size established before making. Only state reliably known details in the enquiry.
Are later design changes included?
That depends on the quote. Clarify included revisions and approve extra charges and timing changes before the work changes.
Can an occasion date be guaranteed?
An initial enquiry does not confirm a production date. Agree sourcing, approval, fitting and delivery and have the committed date recorded in writing.
