Can I use my own diamond or a family heirloom in a custom piece?

Yes. Many of our custom projects start with a stone or piece a client already owns. We will evaluate the stone, recommend how to best feature it, and walk you through what is possible.

Does a custom piece come with a warranty?

Custom pieces built entirely from new components qualify for a Jewelers Mutual Care Plan. Because heirloom materials cannot be certified as new, pieces that incorporate a family stone or existing jewelry do not qualify. Ask us for details at your consultation.

Do I need an appointment to start a custom project?

An appointment gives you dedicated one on one time with a design specialist, but you are always welcome to stop in with questions or start browsing our custom gallery for inspiration.

How much does a custom piece cost?

Every custom piece is different, so we start by talking through your budget with you. From there, your design specialist will present a range of options for metals, stones, and design details that fit what you want to spend, so you always know what to expect before any work begins.

Can I make changes once the process has started?

Yes. The CAD design and wax stages exist specifically so you can review your piece and make adjustments before it is cast in metal.

Custom Jewelry Design | Kirk & Co. Jewelers

Q: How long does a custom piece take to complete?

Most custom pieces are ready in 8 to 10 weeks. Full custom work involving an heirloom stone or restoration can take up to 12 weeks, given the additional care those pieces require.

At Kirk & Company, custom is not an add-on. It is our specialty. Every custom piece is designed and made in-house, from the first conversation with our design team through the final polish. Whether you are starting with a loose stone, a family heirloom, or nothing but an idea, we will help you turn it into a piece you will wear for a lifetime.

1. Consultation

Everything starts with you. Our designers will take inspiration from pieces you already own, items you like in the store, designs from our gallery, or pictures of styles you love. If you are starting from scratch, we can help with that too. From there, we put together a sketch and a quote to bring your idea to life.

2. CAD Design

During the design phase, we bring together every idea and detail you have chosen into a single concept. We finalize a sketch, then use 3D design software to build a computer model that renders into a realistic image of your final piece, so you can see your idea take shape before any metal is touched.

3. Wax & Casting

A wax model turns your design from a sketch into something you can hold and try on, at its actual size and shape, with room to make adjustments. Once the design is finalized, it is cast into metal. The raw casting still needs work to become the polished piece you picture.

4. Clean-up & Setting

Our bench jewelers take the cast piece from a rough texture to a smooth, finished surface, and complete any assembly. Diamond and gemstone setting is precise work that takes years of training. Our bench jewelers and setters focus on every detail so your stones are set securely and beautifully.

5. Finishing

Finishing is the culmination of every small detail. We clean every surface, add any hand engraving, and buff the piece to a high polish. Before any custom piece goes into a Kirk & Company box, it passes a full inspection by Joe Kirk to confirm every detail meets our standard.

Expected Turnaround

Most custom pieces are ready in 8 to 12 weeks. Full custom work involving an heirloom stone or restoration can take up to 12 weeks, given the additional care those pieces require.