Custom Jewelry Design - V3
Custom Jewelry Design
Since 1944, Jackson Jewelers has been creating one-of-a-kind pieces for clients who want something truly their own. Custom design isn't a side service for us, it's a cornerstone of who we are and what we do. Over 80 years and three generations, we've helped countless clients turn an idea into something they'll treasure for a lifetime.
Quick Guide
- What it is: a one-of-a-kind piece built for you from the ground up, not a modification of an existing design.
- The process: consultation, then a CAD rendering within about 10 days, then revisions until you love it, then production.
- Center stones: we source them and bring them in for a private viewing, so you can compare in person and pick your favorite.
- Deposit: 50% nonrefundable, due at design approval when you're ready to move into production.
- Timeline: 2 to 6 weeks from design approval, with 4 weeks being typical.
- Final sale. Custom pieces are made specifically for you and aren't eligible for return or exchange.
- To get started: text us at 503-363-5640.
What kinds of pieces do you design?
We create custom engagement rings, fashion rings, pendants, necklaces, bracelets, and more. Engagement rings are our specialty, but we love designing any piece that means something to you.
We work with every budget and every vision, and no project is too simple or too grand. We're a non-commission store, so our only goal is making sure you get exactly what you want.
What metals and stones can I choose from?
We work in 14k and 18k yellow gold, white gold, and rose gold, as well as platinum. For center stones we offer natural diamonds, lab grown diamonds, and colored gemstones in all shapes and sizes.
No two clients are alike and no two designs are the same. We don't judge your taste, we celebrate it. Whether you want something classic and timeless or bold and unconventional, we're here for it.
Do you source center stones, or do I need to bring my own?
We source them, and this is one of the things we do best. You don't need to arrive with a stone in hand.
Once we know what you're looking for, we'll bring in stones that fit your criteria for a private viewing, so you can see them in person, side by side, and pick your favorite. Seeing stones next to each other in the same light is the only real way to choose, photos and certificates only tell you so much.
We can do this before the design process starts, if you want to build the piece around a specific stone, or during the process once the direction is set. Either works, and we'll advise on which makes more sense for what you have in mind.
Of course, if you already have a stone you want to use, whether it's one you own or an heirloom, we're glad to design around it instead.
Can I bring in inspiration photos?
Please do. Photos from Instagram, screenshots from Pinterest, sketches on a napkin, all of it is welcome. The more you share with us, the better we can translate your vision into something you'll love wearing every day.
How does the custom design process work?
Consultation. Every custom design begins with a one-on-one conversation where we get to know you, your style, and exactly what you're looking for. We'll document all the specifications together, metal type, stone preferences, finger size, and any other details that matter. Getting this right up front is what makes the finished piece work.
Design rendering. Our design team produces a CAD, a detailed digital rendering of your piece, which we typically deliver within 10 days.
Review and revisions. Once you see your design, we'll go through it together. We want it perfect from the start, and if revisions are needed we're happy to work through them until you're completely satisfied. We don't move into production until you love what you see.
Production. Once you give final approval and your deposit is paid, your piece goes into production.
Who actually builds my piece?
Jackson Jewelers works with an experienced CAD design and manufacturing team to bring your custom piece to life. We also partner with select designers, including A.Jaffe and Simon G, who allow us to modify their existing pieces to create something uniquely yours. Not all designers offer custom modification, and we'll always let you know what's possible.
Can you use my existing stones or reset an heirloom?
Yes, and we love this work. If you have a diamond, gemstone, or piece of jewelry that deserves a second life, we'll reimagine and reset your existing stones into something new. Whether it's a family heirloom, an inherited piece, or a stone from a ring that no longer suits your style, we treat it with the same care and craftsmanship as any stone we source ourselves.
Can I use my old gold toward a custom piece?
Yes, as scrap credit. We accept old gold and precious metal and apply its scrap value as a credit toward the cost of your new design.
One thing worth explaining: we're not able to melt down and recast your existing gold directly into your new piece, because that doesn't always produce reliable results in the casting process. Applying the scrap value as credit is a great way to honor what came before while making sure the new piece is built right.
What deposit is required?
A nonrefundable deposit of 50% of the total order value is required at design approval, before production begins. Your approval of the design and payment of the deposit confirms your order and authorizes us to begin production.
The remaining 50% is due at fulfillment, either in store or online prior to shipping.
How long does a custom piece take?
Plan on 2 to 6 weeks from design approval, with about 4 weeks being typical. We've completed pieces in as little as two weeks, and some run closer to six.
A lot of that range is in your hands. If you want to review a wax model before casting, or if there's back-and-forth on revisions, that adds time. Timelines can also shift for reasons outside our control, and we'll keep you informed if that happens.
Before production, expect about 10 days for your CAD rendering, plus however long the revision process takes.
Can I cancel a custom order?
Once production has begun, cancellations aren't possible and the deposit is nonrefundable. In rare circumstances where production hasn't yet begun, a cancellation and refund may be considered at the sole discretion of Jackson Jewelers management. All cancellation requests must be made in writing and are not guaranteed.
What happens when my piece is finished?
Every custom piece is carefully inspected by our team before we contact you. The remaining balance of 50% is due at the time of fulfillment, either in store or online prior to shipping. Shipping is available and follows our standard shipping policy.
Can I return a custom piece?
No. Custom design orders are made specifically for you and are final sale. They aren't eligible for return or exchange under any circumstances. By proceeding with a custom design order, you acknowledge and agree to the terms outlined on this page.
I'm not sure where to start
That's completely okay, most clients aren't. Text us at 503-363-5640 or stop in during business hours, tell us what you're thinking, and we'll take it from there. The first conversation is always easy. We've been doing this for 80 years and we're not going anywhere.
Is custom design right for me, or made to order?
We offer two paths for clients looking for something beyond what's ready to leave the case today.
Custom Design. You have a vision for something that doesn't exist yet. Maybe you have a stone you want to build around, a sketch on your phone, or an idea that's been in your head for years. Custom design is collaborative, we bring your concept to life from the ground up, your vision and our craftsmanship, built entirely from scratch.
Made to Order. You've found something you love in our collection but need it in a different metal color, size, center stone, or configuration. We work with our designers and brand partners to have it built to your specifications. This is still the designer's piece, just made for you.
If you're starting with an idea rather than an existing piece, it's probably custom design. If you saw something specific in our collection, it's probably made to order. Either way, reach out and we'll point you in the right direction.
