Bespoke Design Process

There’s something extra special about being part of the process of creating your own piece of jewellery. To know that you’re the only person in the world to own one or to have your loved one’s story woven into the fine details.

My name is Susi and I’m known as The Rock Hound. My bespoke design service allows you to participate in creating a piece of jewellery inspired by your own personal story - a piece that is completely yours. Whether you’re shopping for yourself or planning a surprise proposal, become part of a unique collaboration. As a fully trained gemmologist I’ve travelled the world looking for responsibly sourced gemstones so I can source the perfect gemstone for you - they don’t call me The Rock Hound for nothing.

Let me translate your story into a unique piece of jewellery

Consultation

The first step is to arrange a one-to-one consultation held within The Goldsmtihs’ Centre where I am a resident craftsperson or via Zoom. This is our chance to talk through your ideas, inspiration and budget.

A bespoke design is a chance to express your individuality. You'll get a say on every detail, from the cut or shape of the stone and setting to the design of the band or adding unique details. Making those decisions may seem daunting, but don't worry we’ll be making them together.

Perhaps you already have a piece of jewellery and want to give it a special touch? Have you inherited some jewellery which is totally not your style - I’d be happy to rework your gold and gemstones into something you’d cherish. Why not personalise your piece with an engraving or be bold and investigate the possibilities of nano-ceramic plating?

Design

After your consultation then the fun starts. I’ll translate your ideas into various design sketches and source any gems you require. These sketches will help give a clear idea of your finished piece so you can tweak the design, if necessary.

Once you've made the final decision, you'll be presented with a to-scale hand-painted gouache of your chosen design. This beautiful piece of artwork will really help bring your design to life so you can get a feel for the finished piece. Only when you're totally happy with your design does the actual creation process begin.

Creation

The typical time frame is 6-8 weeks, although in special circumstances I may be able to accommodate a tighter work schedule. Factors such as sourcing rare gemstones and materials may prolong the process but I am more than happy to discuss and come to an agreement on this during your consultation.

Once your unique piece of jewellery has been created, I’ll organise a time for you to come and collect.

Re-model your Heirlooms

Why not rejuvenate an old ring with a sexy flash of colour or replace a worn-out stone with a shiny, ethically sourced one? Our cutting-edge techniques can help transform your jewellery and rekindle your love for a treasured piece that may have lost its original appeal. Re-designing jewellery into something modern and wearable and re-using the materials is all part of our ethical approach at The Rock Hound. The results are fun, exciting and highly individual!

Prices for re-design projects vary, depending on the complexity. Please contact us to discuss your ideas.

"The whole process from design to completion was incredibly professional and fun too, Susi effortlessly sketched any idea I suggested to her and was able to advise on design decisions and material choices that enabled us to create a gorgeous and unique ring . I can not recommend the Rock Hound highly enough and we are looking forward to working with them to have our wedding bands made next year."

Alexis Papaioannou