Custom Jewellery Design
Creating a custom piece with me is a collaborative and exciting journey. Here’s what to expect:
1. Initial Consultation
We start by learning about your vision and preferences. This first meeting is by appointment, either in my Gastown studio or over Zoom/phone, providing a dedicated space to explore your ideas together. Here are some questions we’ll discuss to guide the design:
- Gemstone Type: Would you prefer a diamond (lab-created or natural) or alternative gemstones like sapphires?
- Gemstone Shape: Do you have specific shapes in mind?
- Inspiration: Share any visuals or photos that inspire your ideal piece. What is you favourite Erica Leal Jewellery piece?
- Stone Setting Style: Which type of setting appeals to you—prong, bezel, or another style? I can provide more information on each option during our meeting.
- Budget: Understanding your budget allows me to tailor the design to your specific needs and desires. Much like building a house, where the budget dictates the size and materials, knowing your parameters helps ensure that the final piece reflects both your vision and your financial considerations. Custom-made jewellery typically starts around $1800 CAD unless the piece is quite small.
2. Get Started Deposit
To embark on this creative journey, a $250 deposit is required. Once this deposit is received, we will commence the design and stone sourcing process, laying the foundation for your bespoke piece. Please note that all deposits involved in the custom design process are non-refundable due to the personalized nature of the work.
3. Design Development
Once the deposit is in place, we start sourcing stones and creating 2-3 initial design renderings based on your preferences. You’ll have the chance to review and request up to 2 rounds of revisions to ensure the design aligns with your vision. (If additional revisions are desired, they can be accommodated for a small fee.)
4. 50% Deposit
After finalizing the design (or earlier if a gemstone needs securing), a 50% deposit is required to proceed.
5. Production
With materials sourced, production begins. The typical timeline for crafting your piece is approximately 4-5 weeks. This may extend slightly if your piece requires custom stones or intricate engraving.
6. Final Payment & Delivery
Once your piece is complete, the final payment is due. I’m always happy to arrange an in-person collection, but delivery is also available—your jewellery ships via FedEx with third-party insurance for secure and reliable delivery.
Heirloom Jewellery Recycling
For those looking to honour cherished pieces sustainably, I offer a recycling service to my Canadian clients that reimagines heirlooms into fresh, personal designs. This process preserves the sentiment of the original while minimizing the need for new materials, aligning with my commitment to responsible craftsmanship.
• Customized Process
Each heirloom project is unique, and this service is offered on a case-by-case basis. The process may vary depending on the pieces you'd like to reuse.
• Dismantling and Refining
There are costs associated with dismantling the jewellery and refining the gold. After refining, I’ll provide a monetary credit for the gold from your heirloom pieces, which can be applied to the cost of your new piece.
• Gold Reuse Considerations
In most cases, the original gold is not directly reused, as metals from different eras and regions often vary in alloys and may contain solder or impurities. Instead, the refined gold value is credited toward your custom piece.
• Considerations and Risks
Dismantling old jewellery can involve some risks, as older stones may be more delicate and vulnerable to damage. I take great care with each heirloom piece, but please note there is a small chance that stones may be affected during the process, for which I cannot assume responsibility. This is an important consideration before deciding to use your heirloom jewellery.
• Send Photos
To begin, simply send photos of the jewellery you’d like to recycle. This helps us discuss options and ensure that the materials can be repurposed effectively.
• Canadian Clients Only
This service is available exclusively to Canadian clients, as shipping jewellery internationally may incur unexpected tax and duty charges.
If you’re ready to transform your heirloom jewellery into something special, contact me to discuss your vision.