In fact, straying from the path of more well-known jewellery brands can often mean better value product and a design that feels much more personal. If you’ve been longing to invest in something extraspecial, it’s most certainly an avenue to explore.
For the passionate connoisseur, the attraction is obvious. I mean, what sparkle-obsessed, jewellery loving shopper doesn’tdream of owning something that’s not only utterly gorgeous, but has also been created uniquely for them?
Arabel lebrusan Bespoke Engagement Ring. Ethical Gold & Canadian Diamond
For me, it’s the whole holistic experience of buying bespoke that’s what makes the end result so priceless. Accompanying a piece of jewellery from concept to creation can be a very special experience and creates a bond that lasts forever. If you choose the right designer, they will always make sure the finished piece is hallmarked with your own personality too.
Understanding the process of creating jewellery and seeing your investment at every stage of its evolution becomes a major part of the pleasure for all my private clients. Working collaboratively can be lots of fun too. I often find myself whisked off along the journey with them and feel as ecstatic as they do when we see the finished result! So many tell me how much they love how their stunning necklace, or to-die-for ring, became an ‘experience’,not just a beautiful object.
Let’s not forget that choosing your materials is another area you’ll have input on when you commission a piece of jewellery. If ethical production and fair trade are as important to you as they are to me, you’ll appreciate how the bespoke route can give you more control on where and how your precious metals and gemstones are sourced.
While all my collections - ready-to-wear and most bespoke designs - have 100% ethical origins, that won’t be the case for every design house out there. If it’s something you feel strongly about, be sure to do your research.
It’s really important that you research your designer. Shopping around and listening out for recommendations will reveal an almost limitless supply of talented jewellers and most will be happy to consider a personalised project. For many of them - more often than not, the ultra-cool, young and talented ones - providing a bespoke service gives them an opportunity to take on creative commissions and make their mark.
Any kind of personalised design will almost certainly require an initial deposit, which also allows smaller scale designers, like myself, to cover our costs up front. Unlike in most ready-to-buy situations, there may also be an opportunity for both sides to negotiate on price because there can be more flexibility on gem stone size and metalwork detail.
Below are some of my own favourite bespoke designers:
I love Hattie for her bold and colourful jewellery. She creates fearless, power rings for powerful women and her designs are a perfect combination of traditional British style and clean modern shapes that make a statement.
Rachel mixes her own distinctive quirky aesthetic with classic Art Deco style. She uses an array of diamonds, from pure and colourless to dark grey, combining different colours to perfection in her standout designs.
She is not only a fantastic designer but also a good friend. Anna works closely with clients to unveil their deepest desires and really can help you make the ring of your dreams. She’s an excellent designer-maker with a great sense of style.
The shapes from our natural world inspire Brooke’s very seductive style, Her designs are full of textured surfaces and she works with enamel beautifully to create jewellery that’s full of personality.