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What to Expect When Requesting A Quote for Custom Work?

imspecializd

Rough_Rock
Joined
Dec 26, 2012
Messages
53
Hi Everyone,

I think I'm almost ready to reach out to vendors to request quotes for a custom designed diamond band.

However, I'm hoping for some info on what to expect from vendors and what exactly is the best way to convey my design idea.

When searching the forums, I came across the thread called "PPT Slides For a Custom Wedding Band" by kcoursolle. Is sending ppt slides with this much detail common practice when requesting a quote for a custom ring, or, will the vendors think I'm crazy? Do I send all the minute details of my design and my expectations in the inital quote request? Or, will these details come up later in the process?

Are there any other links you can refer me too on this topic?

I'm just a little nervous about requesting quotes and don't want to mess up, lol. I am planning on reaching out to VC, SK and LM. I am a short train ride away from NYC, so I am also able to visit NYC jewelers like LM and SK. My preferece is for an all hand-forged ring (no casted pieces).

Also, is there a minumum budget venders are willing to work within? My budget is not huge, but my design does not include fine micro-pave work or large diamonds. My design consists of small marquise, pears and round brilliant diamonds. I will probably need to have the diamonds sourced by the chosen vendor who will be making my ring.

Thanks in advance for your help!

Laura
 
It all depends on your personality. If you are an uber detailed person who needs to have control of every detail, then by all means, give the vendor as much detail as possible to ensure that you are on the same page. If you are the type to want to specify certain details and leave some to the eye of the artist, then do so. You have to be prepared that some vendors will accept a ton of input from you and some will not. This is OK. You need to find out who you are most compatible with; this is a big purchase with the significant importance.

I have done custom work and while I wasn't into giving angles, controlling ever detail, I did know the overall feel I was going for. I found that photos spoke volumes for me. Once I felt confident that Ari knew what I was looking for, I had to let go of the reins and trust him. I was not disappointed. I will point out to you that there have been a couple of cases on PS where someone has insisted on something being done their way and coming to find out that the design wasn't stable enough or didn't look quite right. There is a reason these artists have such a following. Their eye for detail is often more refined than our own and they have been working at their craft for quite some time. Some level of trust has to be established between you.

Good luck and please let us know who you select and what the final product looks like!
 
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