How Custom Jewelry Manufacturing Works: CAD, Sample, Production and Delivery
"I only have an idea. How do I turn it into a real piece of jewelry?" Custom jewelry manufacturing is exactly the answer to that question. Instead of choosing from ready-made molds, your design is produced from scratch. In our workshop in Istanbul's Grand Bazaar the process goes through defined stages; in this article we describe each stage plainly.
What does made-to-order production mean?
In our workshop, only Panther and Melis are in ready stock. All other products are made from scratch to order. That means a model you see on the site and your own drawing are both produced with the karat, stone and finish you choose. For brands this means a collection of their own; for individual customers, a one-of-a-kind piece. Details are on our custom design jewelry manufacturing and bespoke jewelry order pages.
1. Brief: gathering the idea
The process starts with telling us what you want. A sketch, photo, reference images or a short description is enough. As details such as product type (ring, necklace, earrings, bracelet), metal and karat, stone preference and quantity become clear, the quote becomes clear too. You can send this through the quote form.
2. CAD design
The idea is turned into a three-dimensional model on the computer. At the CAD stage, dimensions, stone seats, setting structure and connection points are made suitable for production. Changes are easiest at this stage, so we recommend reviewing the model carefully before production begins. See our CAD design and prototyping page for the process.
3. Sample
A sample is prepared from the CAD model. When you hold it, you can check details such as size, weight feel, stone position, finish and clasp. Samples are paid; if the sample turns into an order, the amount paid is deducted from the order total. Corrections you want on the sample are discussed before series production.
4. Production
Once the sample is approved, production begins. Gold mounting, stone setting, welding, polishing and surface treatments (rhodium, gold plating, rose plating, black plating, oxidized, satin) are carried out in the workshop. We work with gold, diamonds and lab-grown diamonds; production in 925 sterling silver is also available. Production time varies with model, quantity and stone density, so it is confirmed at the quotation stage; we do not give a figure here.
5. Hallmark and certificate
Every product carries a karat hallmark; diamonds and lab-grown diamonds are delivered with certificates such as GIA or IGI. We can also work with your own stones. If you are undecided about stones, our guide on lab-grown vs natural diamonds can help.
6. Payment and delivery
The payment structure is simple: a deposit when the order is confirmed and the balance on delivery. Insured shipping is used for customers abroad. You can also place an individual (single-piece) order.
Your design belongs to you: confidentiality
Customer-specific designs are never produced for others. If you want extra assurance for your brand's collection, a non-disclosure agreement (NDA) is signed. This is critical especially for designers building their own brand; for the steps of building your brand, see our private label guide.
Tips to speed up the process
- Send reference images from several angles if possible.
- State your karat, stone and finish preferences from the start.
- Share your target quantity and sales channel; the quote becomes clearer.
- Send sample feedback in one go, as a list.
To get started
You can find our general way of working on the how we work page and our contract manufacturing model on the contract jewelry manufacturing page. Our frequently asked questions page is ready for your questions; if you prefer to write directly, you can reach us at info@oskasilver.com. Send us your idea and let us turn it into a real piece of jewelry together.