How do I start the custom design process?
What are the steps of the design process?
I have an old piece of jewelry I don’t wear. Can I make it into something new?
I have a picture of a piece of jewelry I’d like. Can you copy it?
How long does it take to make a piece of custom jewelry?
How much does a piece of custom jewelry cost?
Is there a less expensive alternative to custom designed jewelry?
Can I bring in old and/or broken jewelry to trade in and lower the price?
I like white metal. What are my options?
Will my jewelry be safe with you while you’re working on it?
What about conflict diamonds?
How do I start the custom design process?
It's helpful to get an idea of what you like! Some folks like to browse in person, and others like to check out jewelry ideas online. Either way, we're happy to help. Already have an idea of what you want? Submit your project for a free quote.
If you'd like to work with us in person, come in to our storefront in downtown Ventura, CA anytime. You don’t need an appointment, as we always have someone on staff with custom design expertise. We’ll discuss your ideas, and with our experience, make suggestions and help guide you as we clarify a design you love.
Browse Past Custom Projects
What are the steps of the design process?
The steps are:
- The design consultation, which can be in-person, or for our out-of-state clients, online.
- We make a 3D model of your new jewelry, and send you renders (computer images of your new custom jewelry). This process typically takes about two to four weeks.
- You review the render, and we'll make any changes needed to make it perfect for your approval.
- Fox Fine Jewelry 3-D prints a resin model of your new custom jewelry.
- We create a mold using the resin model, and cast metal into the mold.
- We assemble any parts of your jewelry, set any diamonds or gemstones, polish and finish your jewelry!
Custom Design Overview
I have an old piece of jewelry I don’t wear. Can I make it into something new?
Yes, redesigning jewelry is our specialty! We’ll give you credit for the metal and use your stones if they fit with the design you want.
Redesigning Antique Jewelry
I have a picture of a piece of jewelry I’d like. Can you copy it?
No, but we can make something similar. For ethical and legal reasons, we never copy another’s design. We use them for inspiration.
How long does it take to make a piece of custom jewelry?
It typically takes us six to eight weeks. If you need it sooner than that, please let us know. We do our best to work with tight deadlines, like birthdays and anniversaries.
How much does a piece of custom jewelry cost?
Custom jewelry costs a little more because of creating a unique design especially for you. The additional cost is about $250 to $1,000 for almost all custom pieces. Some simple pieces will be less. More complicated pieces, especially with intricate designs and many gems will be more. Many designs do not need a custom design (model, render, mold and casting), and we can save you money by finding a mounting for you (see the next FAQ).
Is there a less expensive alternative to custom designed jewelry?
Yes! We have extensive catalogs of mountings (jewelry without the stones) for you to select from. Because these mountings are already created, this option approximately reduces the price by the design fee.
See Our Mountings
Can I bring in old and/or broken jewelry to trade in and lower the price?
Yes, we will give you credit for the metal, including a special
30% bonus. Because best results occur with refined metal, we will not reuse your metal in your custom project, unless you want us to for sentimental reasons.
We Buy Gold
I like white metal. What are my options?
We can make your custom piece in white gold, platinum, or silver, though we don't recommend silver. Silver wears at a far faster rate than other metals. Since a significant portion of the cost is in the design fee and labor, you’ll get generations of enjoyment from a stronger metal. An exception to this might be heavier pieces, for example large cuff bracelets, where the metal price would be very significant to the overall cost.
White Gold vs Platinum
Will my jewelry be safe with you while you’re working on it?
Your jewelry will be photographed and described when you drop it off. It is insured while in our possession. Apart from stone cutting and polishing, we do not send out our work, eliminating transit and third-party risk.
What about conflict diamonds?
Conflict free diamonds are responsibly sourced. They are mined, cut, polished and distributed in ethical ways. The profits do not fund war, terrorism, the drug trade or other criminal activity. The Kimberley Process was set up to guide and monitor diamond mining. All of the important diamond producing, cutting and distribution companies of the world adhere to the Kimberley Process. In Ventura, Fox Fine Jewelry only works with diamond cutters and dealers who guarantee their diamonds are responsibly sourced and traded under Kimberley Process.
