Custom Designed Jewelry

What is Custom Jewelry?

Creating a piece of jewelry for you is about as much fun as a jewelry lover can have.  The general selection of jewelry available can be very repetitive and unexciting.  This is after all the age of mass production, to keep up with a society of  mass consumption.  But take heart, there are wonderful custom jewelers out there just waiting to join you in a wonderful experience, to create a true, one-of-a-kind piece of art. 

 The process seems somewhat mystifying to the majority of people.  The reality is that with proper education on types and qualities of stones and metals, to have a custom made piece of fine Jewelry can become a reality for most people.  It is most important to find a designer who listens to your ideas.  When deciding on a designer ask them questions;  where did they get their training, how long have they been in their career, do they have examples of their work readily available for you to see (not a picture, pictures can be manipulated these days via computers)  have they won any awards.   Facts are facts, award winning designers, or those who have gained recognition in their field by their peers, their designs will appreciate in value. 

Another tip.  If the first thing a designer pulls out isn't a sketch pad, watch out.  If they pull out a calculator and quickly calculate the massive bargain you are about to get, run like the wind.  Custom designed jewelry is an investment in time, emotion, money, judgment and creativity.  If getting a "bargain" is your goal, don't buy custom made jewelry.  If you have an idea or a picture, present it to your custom jeweler.   It will help her or him get an idea of what you want, but also try to stay open to their interesting suggestions.   A true artist will sketch your ideas, guide you in choosing appropriate gems or no gems, decide how much time the artist will invest in creating your piece, and then come to an agreed upon price.      This is not a time to become shy however.  If the price is too high, tell them then.  They can adjust either the type of stone,  metal  or detail of the piece to meet your budget. 

First you will have to decide on exactly what type of jewelry you would like created.  Do you want a ring, necklace, ear-rings, bracelet, tuxedo buttons, cufflinks or pendant?     Next you must decide how many in "Your Line".  Would you like a whole set consisting of ring, bracelet, pendant and ear rings?  Or would you like one piece, however in years to come add on to your collection from that first design.  If you are a couple, matching his & her  jewelry can make quite a statement.  Many designs that look stunning on even the most petite woman, can  also be designed in a most masculine flavor.  The options are only limited by your imagination.

 Your second step is the most exciting part.  Sitting down with your designer and selecting the stones that will augment your jewelry.  Here is where a designers knowledge of fine gems becomes very important.  Different gems have different qualities in their appearance and how well they wear.  Your designer will discuss with you under what circumstances the jewelry will be worn.  Is this only for formal occasions?  Then a more delicate stone would be appropriate.  If this will be worn everyday, the selection should be of a more durable and "forgiving" stone.  One that can take a knock or two and still look nice.  The colors are fabulous: pinks, purples, greens, blues, oranges, and yellows.  Some that change colors when taken from candle light to sunshine.  There are also wonderful cuts from Cabochon to faceted to fancy cuts to briolette.

 You will also have to decide what metal to use, 14k or 18k in white or yellow, 22k or platinum, or a combination of any of the above.  Combined with his skill in goldsmithing and with your needs as a client will endeavor to create for you a one of a kind piece that will be exclusively yours, forever!

Once the design is approved by you, that is when the true artistry comes into play.  A wax model of the piece will be carved.  This takes time to get it just right.  The client can check the wax mold to be sure everything is as they want.  Sometimes seeing the piece in actual 3-D as a model is shocking.  This is the time to make any changes.  Remember when I said communication was very important, this is where it comes into play.

One word of caution, make sure the custom jewelry you choose is an excellent goldsmith.  Ask friends who have maybe done business with the store if they have been happy with the quality of their work.  Visit the store to see if you like the owners and respect the quality of the work they do.

Jewelry is a very personal item for anyone.  It becomes a part of your life, it commemorates those milestones which you personally achieved.  It makes a definite statement on your lifestyle.  To many the ultimate expression of reaching a certain point in your life is to have a custom crafted piece of artwork, created just for you, or someone you love.    A reflection of your personality which can be handed down to your children and your children's children.

Exquisite professionally designed jewelry created with genuine gemstones, pearls, sparkling Diamonds, platinum, silver and gold.  Original fine custom jewelry of the highest quality meticulously and lovingly hand wrought with a bit of romance and a personal touch.

How to Contact a Designer

When choosing a designer we suggest you first establish a contact with them.  Either by written letter, e-mail or phone.   Ask them how long they have been in business.   If they have been in the same location for more than 5 years that is a good sign, it means he has kept  his or her customers happy.  If less, be cautious.

 Ask where they are located, this is where you will meet with them to view their previous work and discuss your item.  Be cautious of a designer without a studio or shop.  Many fly-by-night "Jewelry Designers" pop up every few months, say they are custom designers and give you inferior products.  If they can't physically show you pieces they have already done, how can you judge their skills.  Pictures do not speak a thousand words.  They can be manipulated with a computer very easily.  An item you wish to invest time, money and emotion in deserves an artist who will show you examples of his work in a proper environment.

When you walk into the artists studio keep your eyes open.  Does he/she remember your appointment?   Is the studio clean, well lit and tidy?  Is the artist even present or is this a salesperson.   What appears in the artists hands first, a sketch pad, a calculator or a beer?

A designer with Integrity will set and keep an appointment to discuss your project.   He will have a well established studio or shop which is clean

Once all of the decisions have been made, make sure the plan and all the specifics are written down.  Have it list the type of jewelry.  If it is a ring, the size it must be.  What type of metal, what type of stone/stones, the time estimate till completion and the agreed upon price.  Once it is to your liking, ask what terms for payment.  Many will ask for a percentage down with balance due on completion of the piece.

Carigem Recommended Jewelry Design Consultants: 

The following jewelers have demonstrated exemplary skill and craftsmanship in Custom Jewelry design.  Over the years they have won many awards in the Jewelry industry for their outstanding designs.   For this we highly recommend:

At Pierre's, we specialize in exotic gemstones and custom jewelry. If there is any sort of jewelry you've been dreaming about. contact us and we'll make that dream come true. We work with all types of gold, silver, and platinum and with all sorts of gemstones. We work with large or small orders, personal, or corporate, and ship all over the world duty free.

 If you wish to contact us please do so in any of the following manners.  Please mention you found us on the Carigem website.

Pierre's
24 Palm Passage
Charlotte Amalie
St. Thomas, USVI, 00804
340-776-5130