WHEN IS CUSTOM JEWELRY DESIGN NECESSARY?Custom Design is here … Where are you?
Typically when you are not seeing the design you’ve envisioned. It can be an exhausting journey, wandering through jewelry stores with the hope of finding it sitting in a case. Have you encountered salespeople who can’t interpret your idea (beyond the scope of their inventory)? Still, don’t settle for commercially made jewelry until you have investigated the alternatives available in custom design!
Do you wonder if there is anyone out there who is capable of creating what you have in mind? If so, where are they and how can you be assured that this “designer” will fulfill your expectations?
Is there a protocol to follow? What are the questions you should be asking to build confidence that this is the “designer” of choice. Is this designer answering your questions? Are you dancing?
Custom design can be a reasonably priced process that offers you everything you think you want with the additional special attention you won’t have in an “over the counter” experience.
Celebrate Being Unique
Just as each love is unique! From Lover to Wife, Husband, Mother, Child, Sister, Brother, Friend a custom design enables you to express those feelings through a design created just for them.
I am sentimental. I consider myself a “dimensional translator” who works in precious metals and gems. Through a casual and personal interview, you can begin your journey of design and aesthetic that you’ve not found. Because I am an accomplished artist and goldsmith, you are getting the best of both worlds! Over the years, I’ve become known for a “rare” ability of looking outside of my own design aesthetic to envision yours. Through hand sketching and technology, I will begin to write your story in design. Whether you visit my Atelier where we can meet personally, or use the conveniences of the Internet, the doors are opened to forming a client – designer relationship. We will begin communicating ideas and concepts. For decades, I have been connecting with people throughout the U.S. and abroad offering my design aesthetic and consulting. One on One, I am available to help fulfill your quest to produce the most precious gift of all. A fine jewelry design that is archived and trademark protected, and will never be reproduced. This design belongs to YOU.
Making it Real!Step One - Meet the “Maker”
Drop in to my Colorado Springs Atelier, meet me in Scottsdale or simply call or send me an email. Let’s begin a (no obligation) dialogue and confirm that your vision requires the “custom” approach! Working from a distance over email, text, photos, and phone calls is also not a issue. Many of my clients live throughout the United States and abroad. I will ask you all the right questions to achieve that answer.
Step Two –Talk Is Cheap!
The world is small and there are many ways we can have a casual, no obligation meeting to discuss what you are looking for. I will ask some questions to open a dialogue about the person who will receive this piece of art. Is it you? Tell me about YOU… Is it someone you adore?? Tell me about that special person! I will begin by asking about lifestyle, aesthetic impressions, age, and daily routine. By this time, I am already thinking about your design and how it will fit into the lifestyle and impressions that you want to give.
I will offer the necessary information both you and I need to discuss before we take the next steps….
Time Frame
Your budget allowance + -
Estimated Cost + -
Deposits and Payment Requirements
Understanding Metals & Alloys- An informative discussion will take place resulting in a decision that best achieves your vision and aesthetic for this custom order… 14Kt, 18Kt, or Platinum. Wear ability, durability, are all considered at this point of the design.
Diamond and/or Gemstone Preferences - Do you have your own gems you’d like to use, or are you looking for a special stone to purchase? I began my career in lapidary arts in Los Angeles. I’ve been collecting gems for years and can offer you gems from my private Gem Collection. I also work with amazing gem cutters throughout the world. If I can’t find what you are looking for, I will have it cut for you! If we are going to use your diamond or gemstone, perhaps a family heirloom …. I will give it a close inspection and advise you of it’s condition. If deemed necessary, any re-cutting or re-polishing services are available through my long time connections in the industry! I am an advocate for transparency! I welcome your questions and I will offer answers through industry information and education.
Step Five - Interpretation
Whether it is hand sketched or a CAD Design…. You will begin receiving renderings of your design. Once you believe the concept has been achieved, a prototype will be created. Prototypes are either hand carved by me or created through CAD renderings that I manage. You can view this prototype through 3 D images on your computer or if you are local… visit the Gallery to actually see & feel.
Achieving your trust and offering you exclusivity in design remain my highest intentions. From someone who thrives on using art as a vehicle of communication and interpretation, I am given the privilege of touching hearts through my mind, heart and hands.
Susan Helmich
Once you have approved the prototype …your design is cast into precious metal. Under my direction, a master goldsmith will use their skilled expertise to complete your design. From casting, engineering hinges, texturing and finishing, gem and diamond setting - they are performing their magic in expertise! When completed, your design is archived and trademark protected.
You are holding your exclusive work of art… more than you imagined…it is simply breathtaking and will forever convey your story.