The custom design process begins with a $250 non-refundable fee, which covers the initial consultation and design development. This fee will be credited toward your final purchase. During the complimentary consultation, you can share your inspirations, favorite designs, and preferences. Feel free to show pieces you admire, as they help guide the creative process. I can recreate designs in your preferred metal and with diamonds or gemstones in various sizes, shapes, and colors. Adjustments such as changing band width or chain length are also possible. To inquire about custom designs or to schedule a consultation, you can email me at enquiries@meitalove.com.

For entirely new concepts, I typically start with either a CAD (Computer-Aided Design) digital rendering or a hand-carved wax model to bring your vision to life. Once the initial design is complete, I will present multiple views sometimes a video and provide an accurate quote. The fee for this initial design development is included in the $250, and once you approve the design and pricing, a 50% deposit is required to proceed. Your jewelry is carefully handcrafted in New York City or New Jersey. 

The lead time for custom jewelry varies depending on the complexity of the piece. For customized versions of existing designs, the process typically takes between 2 to 6 weeks. Most other custom pieces require approximately 4 to 8 weeks. More complex designs or pieces with rare gemstones may take anywhere from 9 to 16 weeks.

Custom work is generally priced similarly to my ready-made pieces. However, highly intricate or one-of-a-kind designs may be more expensive due to additional material costs, time, and labor involved.

You are welcome to provide your own stones and metal for your custom piece. I accept diamonds and gemstones in good condition, whether loose or set in inherited or gifted jewelry. Please keep in mind that the true condition of stones can only be fully assessed after they are removed from their original settings. I also purchase gold and platinum as scrap, and the full value will be credited toward your new piece. In some cases, I can melt down your old metal to cast a new one, though this process may result in some metal loss due to melting or burning off.

If you choose to have me set your own gemstones, a waiver must be signed to acknowledge the potential risks involved. This includes the possibility of damage, loss, or other issues that could occur during the setting process. 

I work with several metals, including sterling silver, gold (10k, 14k, 18k in yellow, rose, or white), and platinum. 20k and 22k gold may be available upon request. To clarify, pure gold is 24k,which is too soft for jewelry. To increase durability, other metals like silver, copper, or zinc are added, resulting in different karat values: 10k gold contains approximately 41.7% pure gold, 14k about 58.3%, and 18k around 75%.

Blackened silver or gold finishes are achieved by applying a black rhodium layer to the surface. Over time, this layer wears away, revealing a darker patina that adds a vintage or edgy look, especially in textured areas and between stones. 

I do work with lab-grown diamonds, offering a selection of ready-made designs featuring “Cultured” lab-grown stones. I can also create custom bespoke pieces with lab-grown diamonds, which are conflict-free, more affordable, and environmentally friendly.

For custom pieces, I offer the option of certified diamonds or gemstones, with IGI certificates available for lab-grown stones. Additionally, I provide Retail Replacement Appraisals, which are useful for insurance purposes. It’s recommended to update appraisals every 5-10 years as gemstone prices tend to increase over time.

All custom orders are non-cancelable,non-exchangeable, and non-refundable once the design is approved and a deposit is paid. Please consider your decision carefully before proceeding.

While I take great care to ensure each piece is durable, wear and tear over time may require maintenance or repairs. Within the first year, I will repair any issues caused by manufacturing faults at no cost. This warranty does not cover damage resulting from excessive wear, negligence, or accidental damage. Repairs outside of this scope may incur a fee, and each case will be assessed individually.