The Bespoke Process
Looking to have something extra special and personal made but unsure of how to go about doing so?
Here's my step by step guide of how the whole process works from start to finish where we show you exactly
how we create a uniquely designed one off piece of hand crafted jewellery just for you.
Step 1: Getting in Touch
The first step is getting in touch to let me know that you're interested in having a bespoke piece made. You can contact me via the contact page or send me an email to info@antonialawes.com.
This first email is a great opportunity to let me know any information on the styles of piece you like, feel free to include descriptions or images, a ring size (if you know it) or if you have a specific design or gemstone type or metal you have in mind. Please feel free to check out my instagram to see lots more styles for inspiration.
From here we can discuss the budget you'd like to set for the piece before I start to draw up sketches and source gemstones. We can also set up a video chat if you'd like to ask any questions in person or discuss any ideas further.
Step 2: Sketches and Stones
These next two steps are my favourite, and really go hand in hand. Once i've gathered all of the information from you with regards to design, I'll usually go on a hunt for a selection of beautiful stones to present to you through photos and videos along with their details and prices. If you are able to travel to London, there's also the option to come in and see the stones in person at my Hatton Garden workshop.
When I have a good idea of stones you like, I'll draw up
a series of digital sketches based on the styles we have discussed. At this point feel free to tweak any design aspects.
I don't charge for sketches so don't feel any pressure to
choose the first design. This process can take as long or short as you like. The main aim here is to come up with a design that you absolutely love and are 100% happy with.
If you're after something more classic but with a unique centre stone, I'm able to send over a list of my standard engagement ring settings along with their prices per mounts. As I usually price the stone and mount seperately, it can give you a good idea for engagement ring budgets and how much to alicate for both mount and centre stone.
Step 3: The Creation
Once you have chosen your favourite sketch and stone, and you are happy with the final design and price, an invoice will be sent to you via email, and the creation of your piece will start once the invoice is paid in full.
My lead time for bespoke items is usually around 2 months, however it can be finished any time within that period.
I'll be able to notify you of an exact completion date closer to the time.
If you are in need of the item by a certain date, please let me know and I will do my best to get it ready for then.
Whilst im hand making your jewellery, i'll be able to send you updates and photos of the behind the scenes. I do not post any finished pieces on my social media before contacting customers. So any surprise proposal secrets will be safe with me.
Step 4: The Hand Over
By step 4, your jewellery has been lovingly hand crafted, hallmarked at the London Assay Office, polished, and packaged in one of my beautiful blush velvet and ribbon boxes.
I will contact you once it is ready and i'll be able to hand it over either in person or via post, for you to cherish for generations.
Pick up:
If you are able to travel to london you are very welcome to pick up your bespoke piece in person from my Hatton Garden workshop. Please contact me before hand to arrange a date and time to visit.
Postal:
I offer a free next day postal option for all of my bespoke pieces in the UK via royal mail special delivery. This is insured up to £2,500 and will require a signature upon arrival.
For overseas customers, I will arrange shipping via Fedex and a secure insured shipment company. The cost of shipping and customs will be covered by the customer so please keep that in mind when budgeting.