How to commission a piece of jewellery
Being able to commission a piece directly from a bespoke jeweller is an incredibly special aspect of being an independent maker
You might be looking for a bespoke engagement or wedding ring, or something really special for yourself. You might have heirloom gold you'd like melting down, or a gemstone thats been passed on to you?
It can be a really daunting task when you've never worked with an independent before, but don't worry - it should be the best consumer experience you ever have! Here are my top tips for commissioning jewellery:
Research your jeweller - bespoke jewellers all have their own personal style, so take a look at websites, instagram pages and find examples of their work that you like to use as reference
Don't be afraid to start the conversation - You might have no idea what you're doing or what style you want to go for, but if you've found or been recommended a jeweller, drop them an email! It's the best place to start and they will be able to help you on your design journey
Know your metal - If you have a selection of gold for example, that has been handed down to you for rework its ideal for the jeweller to know what they are working with. Check out any hallmarks the metal has (you can read more about hallmarks here to understand what you're looking at, hallmarks are the small stamps) Your jeweller will also be able to help with this if you include any images or descriptions of hallmarks in your enquiry
Time Scale - Be prepared for your bespoke piece to take months. Bespoke jewellers are not Amazon, there is a lot of care and detail that goes into commissioning jewellery. Most jewellers will start with a discussion over email or an in person consultation, that will lead to sketches and the design process before the metalwork starts. Depending on what you are commissioning, there may be different elements of the work that need to be outsourced including hallmarking which can take 2 weeks alone. So be prepared and enquire early if you have a time scale!
Everyone deserves a to commission a bespoke piece of jewellery at least once in their lifetime, and it really can be anything - I have created pieces from simple silver bands to mark a special memory, necklaces with sea glass collected from significant beaches to heirloom gold reworks and incredibly bespoke wedding and engagement rings.
Most jewellers love a challenge, so don't be afraid to put forward your boldest ideas forward, you might end up with your next family heirloom!
Have I inspired you to commission a piece? Start the process with me by emailing design@amystringer.co.uk
10 custom silver rings created using a grandmothers Amber bracelet, and given to each grand and great grand child
Sand cast, cast in place ring with three diamonds
Organically placed sea glass pendant
9ct yellow gold, Emerald and cement engagement ring