WHY A CUSTOM GEMSTONE
Custom cut gemstones usually appraise 40%-70% higher than similar factory cut stones. This is because when a stone is faceted by hand you can feel how the stone is cutting. You can see each facet and how they interact with each other and adjust accordingly to ensure a top quality cut is the outcome. The design of the stone is not a cookie cutter style, it is chosen specifically to show off the color and fire that particular gemstone deserves. There are many skills that go into creating a top of the line piece and this is how I treat each stone I work with.
WHAT IS A CUSTOM GEMSTONE?
Many gemstones in stores are faceted by machine to keep up with demand and keep cost down. The difference between machine cut and hand cut is the precision and care. A custom cut gemstone is one of a kind made specifically for you. I hand pick the rough mineral and work side by side with you to transform it into a precious gemstone ready for fine jewelry.
HOW MUCH WILL IT COST?
The cost of a commission can vary based on a few factors.
1. Type of material. Harder minerals tend to take longer to cut.
2. The design. There are many designs and some are more intricate than others. This requires more skill and time to ensure the cut is perfect.
3. Material cost. Not a single gemstone is the same as another. Sourcing rough that is perfect for you can take time.
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*Once we have decided on what is being created the first part of the invoice will be sent to you via paypal. This first part will be a non-refundable down payment to reserve time and material for your custom gemstone. The rest of the invoice will be payable upon completion.
HOW LONG DOES THE PROCESS TAKE?
If I have the stone in my inventory then 2 - 3 weeks. If material needs to be sourced then the turn around is a little more fluid.
Depending on work load, rush orders may be available.
HOW DO YOU DECIDE ON A DESIGN?
Each rough mineral forms in so many interesting ways that some designs just won't work with that particular piece. I'll work with you to find the perfect shape and design for the material we choose. If there is not a particular design that catches your eye I offer custom gemstone designs as well.
DO YOU SET THE STONE IN JEWELRY?
I do not have the tools to set your new gemstone, however I can direct you to some jewelers that I have worked with in the past.
WILL YOU CUT SOMETHING I OWN?
I will facet something you own, however I will have to see it in person. I can normally assess whether a stone can be faceted or not via an image, but I won't be able to give the final word until inspecting it in person. With this said, I do have a P.O. box that is secure and you are welcome to send them to me to assess.
CAN YOU IDENTIFY SOMETHING I HAVE FOUND OR OWN?
I can give you my educated guess on what I think the stone is. I do not have the tools that a gemological lab is equipped with, however I can tell most gemstones with some accuracy. Clear stones are a little more difficult however, but based on the characteristics that remain in/on the stone I can give you my best guess.
WILL YOU APPRAISE MY GEMSTONES?
I am not a certified appraiser. I can give you an educated guess but nothing that will hold up with an insurance company. I can suggest an appraiser that I trust.
WHY DO YOU CARRY OPAQUE STONES?
While gemstones that sparkle are stunning often times the stones that don't sparkle still make you stare in awe. I believe that the characteristics of a stone have just as much of an affect on its beauty as the design. I enjoy puzzling out how I'm going to cut a stone that doesn't reflect light just as much as one that does.
IF I DON'T LIVE IN THE U.S. CAN I STILL COMMISSION YOU?
Yes! I insure all my shipments and will provide a tracking number. However I am not responsible for customs pick up fees or any other events that may occur upon pick up.