How to Commission an Original piece of Jewellery

Author: Ian Tubby

Commissioning an original piece of fine jewellery is the perfect solution when:

• you want a really special gift for a special occasion



• you know exactly what you want but can't find it anywhere



• you want to be certain of owning – or giving – a unique piece of jewellery

Asking a skilled jeweller to make a one-off design enables you to obtain a piece that's pleasing in every detail. It's usually a straightforward process, but if you've never commissioned a piece of jewellery it helps to know what to expect at each stage.

Find the right jeweller

You'll need to contact a professional jeweller who hand crafts jewellery to his or her own designs and is willing to accept commissions. If you don't know of any in your area try looking in local directories or doing an Internet search.

When you've found a few promising jewellers see if you like their work. Some jewellers specialise in using certain materials, or in making particular types of jewellery, that might not be what you are looking for. Anyone who works to commission will also be happy to show you their portfolio of past work to give you an idea of their expertise.

Discuss the commission

When you have decided which jeweller you want to commission, make an appointment to discuss your ideas. The jeweller will need to know what type of piece you want, the materials to be used, the size of the finished piece and the overall design you have in mind. If you want something made to your own design, most jewellers will be able to work from your drawing or perhaps a photograph of a motif you want to be included.

If you only know that you want an unusual necklace for a birthday present, or a ring incorporating a favourite gemstone, the jeweller will suggest design options and explain what materials might be suitable. If you want jewellery that will be worn with a wedding dress, or some other special outfit, it will help if you can supply pictures of the garment and perhaps a fabric sample if colour matching will be important.

The jeweller will also need to know your budget and if the jewellery is required by a certain date. The time your piece will take to make will depend on its complexity, whether any materials have to be ordered in, and if precious metals need to be sent to an assay office for hallmarking. If you have a fixed deadline the more notice you can give the jeweller the better.

Approve the design

When the jeweller has completed the design you will be asked to approve it – or request alterations if necessary. It's much easier and cheaper to change a design than the finished piece. At this time the jeweller should be able to give you a firm price for the piece and might ask for a deposit, especially if expensive materials have to be bought.

The making stage

When you have agreed all the details, the jeweller will begin making your commissioned piece of jewellery. He or she will want to keep in touch with you just in case there are any unforeseen delays or they need to confirm any aspect of the design.

Take delivery of your jewellery

The jeweller will let you know when your piece is finished. If you have used a local jeweller it's best to collect your jewellery in person so you can examine it, try it on if you are going to be the wearer, and make sure it's perfect. If this is inconvenient, you can ask for the jewellery to be sent to you by registered post.

Commissioning an original piece of jewellery isn't complicated, or as expensive as some people imagine. If you want to know more have a chat with a local qualified jeweller who makes jewellery as well as selling it.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/jewelry-articles/how-to-commission-an-original-piece-of-jewellery-4633967.html

About the Author

EK Jewellers is a friendly, local Essex jewellers serving customers throughout Hainault, Ilford, Redbridge, Havering, Woodford and surrounding areas as well as London. As a family run business established for over 36 years, we have developed a strong reputation for quality of workmanship. For more information visit http://www.ekjewellers.co.uk/ or call us on 020 8500 3191.