Commissioning a Ring - a step by step guide

Step 1

Begin by browsing through our portfolio of past commissioned engagement, wedding and dress rings, pendants, earrings and other jewellery which we hope you will find inspirational. If something catches your eye, we can give you an idea of what something similar may cost. You may know exactly what you want, or have no idea at all! So let us know your thoughts and we will give you a ballpark quote for your commission. Let us know your budget and timescale and as much detail as you can.

 

Step 2

Your commission starts with a consultation at our Havelock North Gallery. Although it is great to meet you face to face, and many of our customers make the journey from around New Zealand, this is not essential and we have taken commissions from as far a field as the UK by phone and email.
During the consultation we will discuss your style, what you like to wear, what colours you prefer- this is our chance to discover the perfect design for you. If you come in with your own ideas, we will use our experience to make it a reality for you.

 

Step 3

If appropriate we will do some hand drawn sketches to clarify ideas and pin down the design. We ask for a $25.00 sketch deposit at this stage to cover our time - this will be deducted from your final bill. At this stage, together we will have arrived at a unique design that is exactly what you want and within your budget. Our designs remain the property of Unio, Goldsmith & Gallery.

 

Step 4

The handmaking of your jewellery now begins. We will then ask for a 50% deposit to cover the cost of materials. If your commission now involves gemstones, we will source them from our network of suppliers. We may offer you a choice of stones at this stage, your jewellery then will be handmade in our workshop by an experienced goldsmith. As each commission is unique, often it is necessary to handmake the jewellery from sheet and wire rather than using bought in components like most other jewellers.Your jewellery will then be set with stones by a qualified setter and finally polished.

 

Step 5

When your jewellery is ready you can come in and collect it or we will happily courier it to you. We hope we can add you to our list of delighted customers who have discovered the joy of designing and commissioning jewellery that has been made just for you.