Step One: Meet with Our Designer

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Schedule your free, no-pressure design consultation today!

Every design begins with inspiration, and a discussion of your dreams, desires, and vision for your project. We also determine your budget and a preliminary timeframe. You can meet with one of our designers, in person or via an online chat.

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Gather Inspiration

This is a great time to begin gathering images of things that inspire you. Pinterest boards, sketches, photos of interesting patterns or textures, images from our collections, and even pressed flowers or leaves can be great starting points.

Whether you know exactly what you want or you need a little guidance to get going, our experienced artisans can help you take the first step in your design journey.

By controlling every step of the design and fabrication process, we ensure our signature craftsmanship and we also promise that your finished piece will be a unique reflection of your story.

There is no cost for your initial design consultation and brainstorming session. If further sessions are required, a small fee will be charged that will apply to the cost of your final design.

Learn about Pricing, Estimates, and Payments
custom designed ring with smoky and blue topaz

What to expect during your design consultation:

Whether you meet with us online or in person, you can expect the same great, personalized experience. We’ll take the time to get to know you and determine the scope of your project, and get some of the important details–the who, what, when, and why!

First, who is this design for? Is it a gift to yourself to celebrate a big win? Something you’ve always dreamed about and finally decided to treat yourself? Or is this a meaningful surprise for someone else, and you can’t wait to see the look on their face when you show it to them for the first time?

What are we creating for you? You might want something sweet and sentimental, or maybe you want a design that will show everyone your unique style and taste! Whether it’s a ring, pendant, earrings, bracelet, or necklace, we’ve got you covered.

When do you need your piece to be completed? Most custom designs take 8-12 weeks to go from concept to finished item, but if there are lots of details or if you need an item that is difficult to source, it can take longer. We recommend starting early if you have a specific date in mind. Need something beautiful on a deadline? Personalize one of our existing designs!

Why have you decided to tell your story through a custom piece? Is it a special occasion? An engagement? Just because? Whatever your reason, we’re here to help you make your vision a reality.

During your consultation, you’ll get:

  • One-on-one guidance and recommendations from a professional jewelry designer, not just a few minutes with a salesperson.
  • Easy, responsive communication via the method of your choice– in person, on the phone, through text, email, or video chat.
  • Education from an expert about metals, settings, and stones.
  • Assistance selecting materials to suit your desires and your budget.
  • A timely estimate of the cost of your project– delivered in writing. Note: Quoted rates are good for 30 days and may be subject to change based on market fluctuation of stones or metals.
  • Frequent updates about the status of your project so you can follow along as we progress through each step.
  • A great experience from start to finish– when you see your finished design we want you to love it!

Not ready to start a design from scratch?

Personalize an Existing Design
Colorful gems on a blue background

Bring your own gem or choose one from the Gem Vault

We are very lucky to have fourth-generation gemcutter Jim Stradley as our resident gemstone expert. He is able to create some of the most spectacular gem cuts we’ve ever seen.

The Gem Vault is where you'll find hand-selected pieces of outstanding quality. Hand-faceted to take specific advantage of the individual mystery of each stone, every stone is of known origin, ethically sourced, and possesses a rare beauty. These incredible gems are rich in color and character, and each is completely unique.

The gems in the Stradley & Daughter Gem Vault are captivating, powerful, and magical. They have been curated over our long and storied history as stonecutters, and were chosen because of their unique nature. They are one-of-a-kind and cannot be found anywhere else. Each one deserves to be highlighted by a truly original design.

Looking for something specific? Ask about our Private Collection

START WITH YOUR STONE, OR SELECT A STONE FROM THE VAULT

Reserving a stone from the Stradley & Daughter Gem Vault will grant you exclusive rights to the stone. Our designers will work with you to accentuate the unique features of your stone to create a one-of-a-kind wearable artwork that is truly meaningful to you.

With over 8,000 gems in stock, you’re sure to find the one you’re looking for. If your taste runs to the unique, we can source and custom cut a stone to fit your design.

We offer both natural and lab-created stones, and we are dedicated to finding the stone that makes your design really shine. Whether you prefer diamonds, rubies, and sapphires, or something more unconventional like moissanite or lace agate, our artisans won’t rest until we’ve found the perfect stone for you.

Shortly after reserving your stone, a member of the Stradley & Daughter design team will contact you to arrange a time to discuss your custom piece. Please note that due to the intensive nature of custom designs, there is always a possibility that your piece may take longer than our standard 8-week lead time. If you need something sooner, please contact us to learn about your options.  

Explore the Gem Vault

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Would you like to continue reading more about the design process?

Book Your Consultation Now

We can't wait to help you create the perfect piece of jewelry to tell your story!

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