Platinum & diamond cluster ring using inherited jewels
When you inherit a selection of beautiful jewellery it can be a bit overwhelming, as you want to honour the memory of the original owner, but there may be too many pieces left to you and maybe they’re not to your taste.
Creating a bespoke cluster ring is a great way of blending the gems in a balanced way and creating something new to cherish.
One issue is that when you inherit jewellery, you’ll find you have a selection of diamonds (and like in this instance, a couple of moissanites masquerading as diamonds) they’ll have different colours, clarities and sizes, so designing them into one piece of jewellery needs careful consideration. Set the stones too closely together and you’ll really see the differences.
It was a fascinating project - this style of ring is a great way to cluster differing stones and diamonds - because the spacing between the gems means that slight colour differences are better camouflaged.
We took the stones out of the existing jewels tested them to see what they were and then chose which ones to incorporate into the new ring design. Once we had chosen, I designed the layout (a more assymmetrical design was favoured) and sent my designs for CAD rendering.
When the renders were signed off - the piece was ‘multi-part’ cast in platinum (the decision was made to cast in two parts for ease of setting and finishing). Then my fabulous jewellers in Hatton Garden set the stones and finished the piece. Finally it went for hallmarking and is now being proudly worn by my client.
Platinum cluster raindance ring
Customer's original jewellery
ring design sketches
platinum ring CAD
cast platinum ring
cast platinum ring in two pieces
Stone set platinum raindance ring
Happy customer wearing her new ring
Things to consider when you want to commission bespoke piece of jewellery:
Budget
What would you like to spend? Once you know what you would like to spend, we can discuss possible options. My designs are adaptable to fit a budget, but it is important to remember that many pieces of off-the-shelf jewellery are made in set designs and to make them quickly they are made from pre-cast metal components and uniform calibrated gems. Bear in mind that bespoke pieces are hand-made to suit the individual gemstones and diamonds, which takes considerable craftsmanship and time, and is priced accordingly.
For bespoke commissions I charge a design fee of £250+VAT up-front and when the design and quote of the piece is agreed, I ask for the balance before it goes into production.
Family jewellery
If sentimental gemstones or jewellery are languishing in your safe (or sock drawer!), perhaps it is time to think about redesigning them into something you’ll love to wear.
Timeline
Bespoke jewellery takes time and sometimes there are many steps involved in the creation process: Briefing, design, sourcing gemstones, making, setting, hallmarking and polishing the finished piece. Communication is key, and if decisions are made quickly, the process will be much faster. If you're not sure what you are looking for, we can discuss your ideas and help you on your way. Get in touch and we will start the process of making something beautiful that can be cherished and worn forever.
Design process
Once we have decided on a budget and an estimated delivery date, we can plan in the designs. The more information you can give me, the better. But we can discuss the recipient and their loves, interests and life, that was I can help design the perfect piece!
Vouchers
You can also purchase a gift voucher in my shop that can be used in full or part payment for a bespoke design.