Going custom with an inexpensive stone?

[pietonne]

I have a dream ring in mind that doesn't seem to exist, so I think I need to go the custom route. The stone I want to use is aqua chalcedony, which is not very expensive/valuable. I have never had custom work done before. Do jewelers do custom work with inexpensive stones? Will they source a chalcedony for me? I would want it set in 14k gold with some side stones (potentially moissanite). Any recommendations for jewelers who might be good resources for a project like this? I always think of custom work being for high-value diamonds and sapphires - I'm clueless! Thank you all for your wisdom

 

[Bron357]

Hi, most jewellers don’t have a problem working with inexpensive gems however not all jewellers have the sources to provide your required gemstones.
There is no harm in asking.
As will all things ”time is money” so it might be more economical for you to source the required gemstones yourself. All, what metal are you wanting used. Not all jewellers work with sterling silver (for eg) and a custom ring, even with inexpensive gems, might cost a many hundreds of dollars in gold.
Have you had a look on Etsy? Many sellers on Etsy make jewellery as well and their prices can be pocket friendly.

 

[CHRISTY-DANIELLE]

Depending on the complexity of your design you are looking at ~ 1200 just for the setting by someone like David Klass (highly recommend). Or 700 ish for Etsy jeweler Daniel M.
Just a reality check price wise.
I don't know about sourcing stones. Have you looked on your own? ( Stone hunting is part of the fun for me though. )

 

[Cinders]

JanishJewels on Etsy has very affordable rings & she will do custom work for you. She could source chrysoberyl since I'm pretty sure she already uses it in her rings. However, she may only do bezel settings. I suggest looking at her things to see if you like the style & contacting her to see if she can create what you've envisioned.

Good luck & have fun on the journey!

 

[alh56]

I do custom work with inexpensive stones all the time! I like collecting a range of relatively inexpensive gems and the creation of a specific end vision. It helps that I appreciate the beauty of imperfection. Sourcing the stones has also been, in my case, cheaper...it lets you compromise on things you care less about and get a stone that meets your definition of beautiful.

I have found the price gap between Daniel M and David Klass to be a bit bigger than listed above, with DM pieces in 14k being in the 450-600 range and DK at 1300+. I haven't done custom with JanishJewels, but I have been admiring it on etsy. Based on their finished piece prices I bet they would fall in the middle.