THE BESPOKE PROCESS
Jewellery serves as poignant talismans of aesthetic identity, holding value both in materials and the meanings we assign. They are sacred objects filled with intention, sentiment, and connection from the maker, the commissioner, and the wearer.
Each moment appreciated.
Reflected in something precious, tangible and wholly yours.
Elements to consider when dreaming of your Custom or Bespoke piece include:
METAL
- Sterling Silver
- 9ct Yellow, White or Rose Gold
- 14ct Yellow Gold
- 18ct Yellow, White or Rose Gold
GEMSTONE
Select from my curated Gemstones Gallery or let me source your dream stone for a $75 fee, redeemable against your project.
RING SIZE
If you are having a ring crafted, you'll need to provide the recipient’s ring size. Having them professionally sized is preferred. If the fit isn't perfect, your first resize is free, but due to the intricate textures, seamless resizing may not always be possible.
DESIGN
My Custom and Bespoke pieces reflect my design aesthetic. Explore my existing works and the Past Works Gallery for inspiration.
BUDGET
Bespoke pieces start at AUD$750 for a simple piece without any gemstones in Sterling Silver, and AUD$1,250 for a simple piece without any gemstones in 9ct Yellow Gold.
Once you have a clear idea of the project requirements, you can submit a Customisation Request or Bespoke Booking Enquiry.
PLANNING YOUR PROJECT DEADLINE
The studio has recently received a high volume of short-deadline booking requests.
Custom projects require at least 6 weeks production time.
Bespoke projects require at least 12 weeks production time.
If you need a piece faster, consider ordering from the Ready To Wear collection, which can often be completed in around 4 weeks.
CONSULT
Once you submit your booking request, you may be asked to complete a short questionnaire detailing your Bespoke project.
You can provide design references and preferences for Alicia to evaluate. The studio will reach out within 3 business days.
Most consultations are via email, but a 45-minute consultation can also be arranged via Zoom or in person by request.
CONCEPT
As your jeweller, it’s my pleasure to educate and facilitate to achieve your ideal outcome. During the concept phase, we’ll discuss your options for metal, gemstones, and design possibilities.
Once we confirm the details, I’ll provide sketches or photos of a wax model for your approval.
A minimum 12-week lead time is preferred, especially if a unique gemstone needs to be sourced.
CREATION
A 50% non-refundable deposit is required to begin your project. Once this deposit is received, your wax model will be hand-carved based on our agreed design.
You’ll get photos or a video of the wax model for approval, with only minor changes allowed.
After casting, the piece is hand-finished in my Melbourne studio.
The balance is due upon project completion, and the piece will be ready to ship or for collection.
COMMONLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What's the difference between a Custom and Bespoke piece?
A Custom piece is a design based off an existing piece in my Ready To Wear collection, but with alterations such as but not limited to:
· Stone size or shape
· Setting style
· Metal alloy
· Additional gemtones
· Engraving
A Bespoke piece is the creation of a completely new design.
How much does a Bespoke piece cost?
Bespoke pieces start at AUD$750 for a simple piece without any gemstones in Sterling Silver, and AUD$1,250 for a simple piece without any gemstones in 9ct Yellow Gold.
Pricing covers more than just the materials needed for the project. I want you to have the very best outcome for the project—a future heirloom beyond your expectations.
Pricing includes discussing the project in detail, sourcing gemstones if required, time needed liaising with suppliers, and the labour involved in hand-carving your model, casting, gemstone setting and finishing it to perfection.
What if those prices aren't in my budget?
Custom designs have no minimum spend. Customising works with the addition of gemstones or engraving to my existing designs is also a nice way to add a unique touch to a piece and can be a more affordable alternative to a completely Bespoke project.
I also have an extensive catalogue of pieces in my Ready To Wear collection that you can choose from at a lower price point.
I have a short deadline for my custom or bespoke piece, do you do rush jobs?
Unfortunately not. While some custom projects may take less than six weeks, and some bespoke projects fewer than twelve, rushing a piece places significant stress on my studio.
As part of the complete production process, I depend on external suppliers, such as international gemstone dealers, casting houses, and gemstone setters, who each have their own schedules and production and delivery timeframes.
Your patience and understanding help me ensure every piece receives the quality, care, and attention it deserves.
I'm based in Melbourne, can I come visit your studio to discuss my project?
I run a closed studio and do not take consultations or client visits on-site.
However if you are based in Melbourne and would prefer to meet in person to discuss your project, face-to-face consultations can be arranged. An initial in person consultation may be beneficial if you are supplying your own heirloom jewellery or gemstones for remodelling.
What is the best metal to choose for my project?
For information on the differences between metal alloys visit the Meet Your Metals page.
Can you incorporate my own gold into the project?
This is not currently a service that I can offer in my studio, however I can offer a refining (recycling) credit from the existing gold towards your new piece.
Can I supply my own gemstone/s for the project?
I love working with client’s stones. They are always full of history and sentiment that ultimately enriches the finished piece of jewellery.
However—because I did not personally source the stone—I cannot guarantee it for defects during manufacturing. If you wish to bring your own gemstone/s to a Custom or Bespoke project you must agree to the provision that I accept no liability for the stone whilst in my care.
An AUD$25 assessment fee per client-supplied gemstone applies; assessments are performed by an independent gemologist to confirm suitability for use.
It is my pleasure and my privilege to craft for you, and I put my entire heart and soul into every project. There are no shortcuts or rush jobs or cut corners.
To realise your vision, every care and caution and full extension of the resources available to me are taken. It is deeply appreciated when clients are able to give theirs in return.
