Commissioning 101: A Realistic Timeline for Creating a Custom Piece (No, It's Not Like Ordering a Pizza)

So you’ve decided to create a custom piece of jewelry. First off, congratulations! This is like giving birth to a sparkly, metallic baby that never cries (unless you drop it down the drain, but we’ll get to that). At Robinson’s Jewelers, we’ve helped thousands of clients bring their dream pieces to life, from heirloom-worthy engagement rings to “I-deserve-this” cocktail rings. The number one question we get? “How long will this actually take?” Let’s be real: creating custom jewelry isn’t like ordering a pizza (though we wish it came with garlic knots). Here’s the honest, no-B.S. timeline you can expect.

The Consultation: Where Dreams Meet Reality (1-2 Weeks)

This is the “first date” phase. You’ll sit down with our design experts (we bring the coffee, you bring the inspiration) and talk about your vision. Maybe you’ve been pinning emerald cut diamond rings for months, or perhaps you want to incorporate your grandmother’s sapphire into a modern pendant. This phase involves lots of sketching, coffee drinking, and asking important questions like “Do you prefer white gold or rose gold?” and “How do you feel about lab-grown diamonds?”

Pro tip: Come prepared with photos, ideas, and your budget. The more specific you are, the faster this goes. We’re mind readers, but we’re not THAT good.

The Design Phase: When Scribbles Become Masterpieces (2-3 Weeks)

After our chat, our designers disappear into their creative caves (which smell vaguely of coffee and ambition) to create formal sketches or 3D renderings. This isn’t just drawing pretty pictures—it’s engineering how your piece will actually work. Will that delicate tennis bracelet withstand daily wear? Can we make that toi et moi ring sit comfortably on your finger?

You’ll review the designs, make tweaks, and eventually approve the final version. This back-and-forth is crucial—it’s your chance to say “Can we make the prongs thinner?” or “Actually, I want more rainbows in my moissanite piece.”

Stone Selection: The Treasure Hunt (1-4 Weeks)

Unless you’re working with stones you already own (like resetting an heirloom diamond), this is where we go gem shopping. The timeline here varies wildly depending on what you’re looking for. Common stones like diamonds in standard sizes might take a week, while rare finds like a specific shade of Paraiba tourmaline or a perfect alexandrite could take a month or more.

We’ll present you with options, educate you on the 4 C’s if needed, and help you find the perfect rock within your budget. This is where having relationships with top suppliers like Charles Krypell and Oscar Heyman really pays off.

Fabrication: Where Magic Happens (3-6 Weeks)

Now the real work begins! Your approved design goes to our master jewelers who will:

• Create a wax model or 3D print of your design
• Cast the piece in your chosen metal
• Set each stone with the precision of a heart surgeon
• Polish until it sparkles brighter than your future

This is the longest phase because good craftsmanship can’t be rushed. That intricate Byzantine chain or detailed serpent ring requires hours of meticulous handwork. We’re not assembling IKEA furniture here—we’re creating art you’ll wear forever.

Final Fitting & Adjustments (1 Week)

Once your piece is complete, you’ll come in for the big reveal! This is the moment where you either cry happy tears or do a little dance (both are acceptable). We’ll ensure everything fits perfectly—resizing rings, adjusting clasp lengths, and making sure your new lariat necklace hangs just right.

If any tweaks are needed, our jewelers will make them promptly. We want your piece to be as comfortable as it is beautiful.

The Realistic Total Timeline: 8-16 Weeks

So let’s do the math: consultation (1-2 weeks) + design (2-3 weeks) + stone sourcing (1-4 weeks) + fabrication (3-6 weeks) + fitting (1 week) = approximately 2-4 months.

Yes, we know that seems like forever when you’re excited. But remember: you’re not just “buying jewelry”—you’re creating a future heirloom. The extra time ensures your initial ring won’t lose stones, your tennis necklace will lay perfectly, and your custom men’s wedding band will withstand whatever life throws at it.

Planning for Special Occasions

If you’re commissioning an engagement ring or anniversary gift, start the process 4-5 months before you need it. This builds in buffer time for unexpected delays (like shipping from Italy taking longer or finding the perfect ruby requiring extra time).

Pro tip: If you’re on a tight deadline, consider working with existing designs from our incredible brands like Roberto Coin or Gumuchian that can be customized rather than starting from scratch.

Why It’s Worth the Wait

In our instant-gratification world, waiting months for something might seem crazy. But when you slip on that perfect custom ring or clasp that one-of-a-kind bracelet, you’ll understand. This isn’t fast fashion—it’s a piece that tells your story, fits your body perfectly, and will be cherished for generations.

Ready to start your custom jewelry journey? Visit us at Robinson’s Jewelers and let’s create something extraordinary together. Just remember to be patient—the best things in life (and jewelry) are worth waiting for!