Our Custom Design Process
We understand creating or investing in a piece of jewelry can be intimidating or confusing. We’re experts so you don’t have to be, and we’ll help guide you through the entire process. Contrary to popular belief, custom jewelry can be comparable in price to mass-produced jewelry, but with the benefit of being one-of-a-kind.
As designers, jewelers and gemologists, our in-house team has expertise in every area of jewelry. We’ll work as a team to make the perfect design for you with durability, design preferences and budget in mind. We’re here to answer any questions — feel free to contact us or make an appointment anytime.
If you would prefer to purchase a G.V. ring that is already made, visit our shop or in-person at our store in Andersonville/Bowmanville, Chicago.
Consultation
During our first meeting, we’ll discuss your inspiration, style and preferences for your custom jewelry. We’ll also talk about any heirloom materials you might like to incorporate, timelines, and budget.
Don’t worry about being a jewelry expert — we’re here to explain all the terminology and options for gems, materials, and finishes, as well as answer any questions you may have. By the end of our meeting, you’ll be pleasantly surprised by how low-stress the experience can be, and excited for the next step! View examples of our custom work in our gallery.
Design
We will take all of your preferences into consideration to start designing your unique jewelry into a 3D CAD rendering. After 1-2 weeks, we’ll send you your rendering to review, give us any feedback and approve your design.
We will then select your materials (gems and/or metals), handpicking a few options of gems with your preferences and budget in mind. Come by the store to choose your favorite and make final selections. Learn more about diamond and gem terms if you would like in our jewelry basics.
Once both the rendering and materials are approved, we will create a 3D wax model of your design to see how all the elements will come together into your beautiful new custom jewelry.
Production
Our team of expert jewelers use the 3D wax model and cast in your choice of gold, silver or platinum. Then we hand-set any gems, ensuring each one is secure. We take a meticulous approach to polishing and inspecting your final piece of jewelry for quality to last a lifetime. This process usually takes 1-2 weeks.
We have a comprehensive service guarantee for the first year — including cleaning. initial resizing, and resetting gems. Learn more about our services and policies in our FAQ.
Delivery
As soon as your jewelry is ready, we’ll present you with your final piece and instruct you on care and cleaning. Hooray!
Our personal approach guarantees the recipient will love their new jewelry, but if there are any dissatisfactions we are happy to talk over options with you.
Complimentary Services
Engraving inside rings, insurance appraisal, polishing cloth, cleaning and initial resizing.
See what our wonderful customers had to say about their experience in our reviews, or on Yelp.