Should You Go Custom? Custom Jewellery Consultations Explained
Custom jewellery sounds dreamy — one-of-a-kind, deeply personal, and made just for you or your partner. But if you’ve never gone through the custom process before, it can feel overwhelming.
That’s where a jewellery concierge (like me!) comes in. I work alongside my clients to guide, simplify, and elevate the custom design process — without being the one behind the workbench.
So if you’re wondering “Should I go custom?” — this guide is for you.
💍 When to Consider Custom Jewellery
Custom designing jewellery can be magical, but it’s not always the right fit. Here’s when it is:
You have a clear vision but need help bringing it to life
You want to incorporate heirloom stones or redesign an existing piece
You’re celebrating a milestone and want a unique or meaningful keepsake
You’ve shopped around but nothing feels quite right
Custom design is about intention. You’re creating something that reflects you or your love story in a way no off-the-shelf piece can.
| Curious if your idea is a fit for custom? Book a free Discovery Call.
✨ What Happens in a Custom Jewellery Consultation?
As your jewellery concierge, my role is to guide the process, not to design or build the piece myself. Think of me as your expert translator, advocate, and stylist all in one.
Here’s how it typically works:
We meet (virtually or in person) to discuss your needs, inspiration, style, and budget
I help refine your ideas into something realistic, beautiful, and meaningful
I recommend trusted Calgary-based jewellers (or national partners for specific techniques)
I walk you through the process step-by-step, helping manage expectations, communication, and timelines
If needed, I attend showroom visits or help interpret sketches or wax models
| Learn more about Custom Jewellery Design
| I also offer Personal Jewellery Shopping Services for non-custom pieces
🧠 The Benefits of Going Custom
✔️ Meaningful – Includes personal elements like birthstones or engravings
✔️ Unique – No one else has it, period
✔️ Intentional – Designed with your story, lifestyle, and preferences in mind
✔️ Collaborative – You’re part of the process from the start
And with the right support, it can actually be… fun.
| Hear about real client experiences: Read our Testimonials
🕰️ What to Know Before You Start
Custom jewellery takes time and trust. Here are a few key things to consider:
Timeline: Most custom projects take 4-8 weeks depending on the time of year and complexity.
Budget: Custom doesn’t always mean more expensive, but it does mean more variables. I’ll help you align your vision with what’s realistic.
Communication: There can be a lot of back-and-forth throughout. It helps to have someone who knows the language (that’s me!).
You don’t need to know everything — just bring your idea, and I’ll help with the rest.
🛠️ Redesign vs. Full Custom: What’s the Difference?
Many clients come to me with a family piece they love… kind of. Maybe it doesn’t quite fit their style or is damaged. In these cases, redesigning or reworking heirlooms is a beautiful way to preserve meaning without starting from scratch.
Redesigns often involve:
Using heirloom stones in a pre-made setting
Updating a design to match your current style
Turning one piece into two (like a ring and pendant)
| Want inspiration? Read: 5 Thoughtful Anniversary Gifts
💬 Final Thoughts: Is Custom Right for You?
Custom jewellery is a beautiful investment – in meaning, memory, and design. But you don’t have to navigate it alone.
I offer custom jewellery consultations in Calgary and across Western Canada, tailored to your goals and your pace.
Whether you’re starting with a sketch, a story, or just an idea, I’m here to help you bring it to life with calm, clarity, and confidence.
| Book a free Discovery Call to start exploring custom options
| Or schedule your Custom Design Consultation here when you’re ready to dive in
✨ Ready to find jewellery that actually feels like you?
👉 Follow along on Instagram @refined.by.robyn