Bespoke process
Conversation
Stage one
Every bespoke piece begins with a conversation.
We discuss what you would like to create, who the piece is for, your ideas, style and budget. You may already know exactly what you want, or you may simply have a starting point — either is absolutely fine.
We can explore gemstones, precious metals, proportions and different design possibilities together. If you have existing jewellery or stones you would like to incorporate, these can also be considered.
Design
Stage two
Once the initial ideas and direction have been discussed, the design process can begin.
A design fee is payable before any design work is undertaken. Design fees start from £250 + VAT, with more complex commissions priced individually depending on the level of design development required.
The design stage may include sketches, CAD drawings, design variations and, where appropriate, a wax model to help you visualise the finished piece.
Design development
Third Stage
This is where your idea begins to take shape.
Karina develops the design, exploring proportions, details, gemstones and how the piece will work technically as well as aesthetically. Depending on the commission, this may include hand sketches, CAD designs, 3D visualisations or a wax model.
The design can be refined until the proportions, materials and overall look are ready for your approval.
Nothing moves into production until the design has been agreed.
Design approval
Stage four
Once the design has been developed, it is presented to you for final approval.
At this stage, we review the proportions, gemstones, precious metals and all the important details together. Any final adjustments are made before you approve the design.
Only once the design is approved can the final quotation be prepared, based on the agreed design, materials and making requirements.
Final quatation &70% deposit
Stage five
Once the final design has been approved, a detailed quotation is prepared based on the agreed design, gemstones, precious metals and craftsmanship required.
A 70% deposit is payable before materials are ordered and making begins. The remaining 30% balance is due once the piece is completed, before collection or delivery.
Making your Jewellery
Stage six
Once the deposit has been received and the materials are ready, the making process begins.
Each piece is individually made, bringing together traditional goldsmithing skills with specialist techniques where required. The jewellery is formed, assembled and prepared for stone setting, with careful attention paid to every detail of the approved design.
This is where the design becomes a piece of jewellery.
Diamond guide
Engagement Ring guide
Helpful guidance in our blog
Ethical Diamonds
Conflict Diamonds first came to our attention in the '90s. The world became aware of rebel armies in certain parts of Africa that were illegally using the trade of rough diamonds to fund their wars against democratically recognised governments. These so-called Blood Diamonds were once the scourge of the continent and it is only through refusing to buy them that we can make them obsolete.
Karina only buys diamonds from an ethical source; therefore she will never use conflict diamonds to make your jewellery.