The Custom Design Process

Your jewelry should tell your story, not someone else's.

Whether you're dreaming of an engagement ring that feels like you, reimagining an heirloom you'd never actually wear, or celebrating a milestone with something one-of-a-kind, I'm here to listen, sketch, and create a piece so personal that you'll recognize it as yours the moment you see it. After a decade of designing fine jewelry for clients who value artistry and individuality, I've learned that the best pieces don't come from catalogs or templates. They come from conversation, collaboration, and craftsmanship. Here's how we'll bring your vision to life.

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Initial Consultation

This is where the magic starts. We'll talk about what you're drawn to (styles, metals, gemstones), how you want to feel when you wear it (confident, romantic, powerful, playful), your budget (I'll be transparent about what's possible) as well as the timeline. Already have a gemstone in mind? Browse my Gem Vault—a curated collection of unique, hand-selected stones available to begin a custom commission. Or, I can source the perfect stone specifically for your design. We can meet over the phone, Zoom, or in person at my Alpharetta studio. Whatever feels most comfortable for you. I'm not just listening for what you want. I'm listening for why. Because that's where the real design lives. The process to create your custom piece takes 4-6 weeks from design approval to delivery, so if you're working toward a specific date, plan to book at least 8-10 weeks in advance.

Hand Sketches & Renderings

Here's where JILLERY is different. If you're unclear on your specific vision, I don't jump straight to CAD and give you one rendering to approve or reject. Instead, I sketch multiple concepts by hand so you can see different directions and choose the one that resonates. You select your favorite and I translate it into a 3D CAD model with photorealistic renderings. You'll see exact proportions and dimensions, precise gram weight (for accurate pricing), stone sizes and placement, and how light plays across the metal and stones.  There is a $200 non-refundable deposit required at this stage for the CAD design which will go towards your finished piece. Once you approve the CAD rendering and final quote, we move forward with a 50% non-refundable deposit to begin fabrication. The remaining 50% is due upon completion. (For full payment terms and policies, see our FAQ page). 

Wax Model Viewing

Before we cast anything in gold, I'll 3D print a wax model in actual scale so you can hold it, try it on, and make sure it feels right. You can view it in person at my studio, have me ship it to you or review detailed photos and videos. If you want tweaks, we make them now so there are no surprises later.

Stone Setting & Polishing

Once you approve the wax, your piece moves into the hands of my bench jeweler partner, who has over 25 years of meticulous stone-setting mastery. This is the stage where your design comes to life! Together, we cast your piece in 14k or 18k gold (yellow, white, or rose), hand-set every stone with precision, and polish to a flawless finish. (Or, if you've chosen a stone from my Gem Vault, this is when it gets set into your design!).

Delivery!

This is my favorite part. You open the box, and the piece you imagined, sketched, refined, and approved is finally real. It's not just jewelry. It's enchanting and a perfect reflection of who you are, who you are becoming, and the story you want to wear every single day.