Custom Jewelry
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BESPOKE JEWELRY
My specialty is creating elegant, bespoke jewelry for engagements, weddings, partnerships, and just about any special occasion. Heirloom redesign or reproduction is a great way to take that ring you inherited from your grandmother and transform it into something wearable. I love turning something old into something new!
I am best known for my ability to capture the personality of my clients and design a piece of jewelry that matches their style seamlessly. Combining uncommon elements into timeless, collectible pieces is a unique talent of mine. My jewelry for women can be described as a fusion of old and new, sometimes with a little edge, and always resulting in a personal, lovely piece. My focus for men’s jewelry is traditionally, untraditional – an oxymoron, yes. My men’s pieces are often rustic, yet refined, perfect for any guy who wants to be distinctive without over doing it.
The environment and living ethically is important to me. I seek to source conflict-free diamonds and gemstones whenever I can. I also use recycled fine metals instead of newly mined material. The chemicals used and the waste produced from mining are tremendously detrimental to the environment.
My design team and I are based in NYC. I work very well over email if you live somewhere else (many of my clients do – see below). I can’t wait to talk to you more about creating the perfect piece of jewelry you always dreamed of. If you are ready to get the conversation started, fill out this questionnaire.
Check out what people are saying:
“What I liked about designing a band with (Tracy) was her holistic approach. She wanted to know more about us as people before she recommended finishes and styles. It can be tricky to have a ring designed from ‘scratch’ as you won’t necessarily know if you’ll like it until you see it. I trusted her instincts, especially towards the end when she recommended a different finish than we were going with. Our rings have a raw, urban vibe about them and we’re happy with the results.” -Jen L and Mike F
“I enjoyed the creative freedom that Tracy afforded us during the design process. She really wanted the final concept to be exactly what we wanted and it was incredible to see a couple of inspirational items turn into a totally custom piece of jewelry. The entire process was incredibly easy and it wasn’t long before we were waiting for the ring in the mail. The best part of the whole thing was how the ring turned out. Considering that it wasn’t exactly a low price transaction, it was a little scary turning over the payment for an idea and a couple sketches on paper only. But I would do it all over again once we received the ring. It is incredible. In fact, we are doing it again with our wedding rings.” –Evan P
And from his fiancé Brenna K- “I loved being able to do things through email”
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PREVIOUSLY OWNED DIAMONDS
Pre-owned diamonds can circulate throughout the secondary market for a variety of reasons – most commonly family heirlooms, inheritances, estates, gifts, and yes, even from previous marriages and engagements. If you’ve ever wondered how to buy or sell a pre-owned diamond in a safe, personal environment, let me help you. I source diamonds from individuals and connect them to buyers.
There are many benefits to buying and selling a previously owned diamond.
Purchasing a Previously Owned Diamond
You can feel great knowing you are helping to lessen the destructive environmental effects of new mining by finding a diamond that is already in the world-wide inventory of diamonds. Also, as a buyer, you can usually benefit on a better quality diamond for a special price.
Selling a Previously Owned Diamond
Much like a new car, a diamond’s resale value automatically drops when purchased from a dealer. Going through traditional methods of selling a diamond back will generally leave the seller disappointed with their return. With my help, sellers will find that they will receive a higher return than going through traditional means.
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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Q: How does the custom ring process start?
A: It usually starts by filling out the custom questionnaire form or with an email discussing what you would like. You can email pictures, images, sketches and a minimal to detailed description of what you are looking for. Even if you don’t have a clear idea, a description of you or the person you are purchasing the piece for is a great start. I go from there.
Q: How much does a custom piece cost?
A: There are many factors that determine the pricing of a custom piece of jewelry. Some factors to consider include: the market value of silver, gold and platinum, the type of processes required in making the piece, the amount of design time and the number revisions for the individual piece. Each piece that I make is hand-made and one-of-a-kind. I don’t use a jewelry mold or blanks to create my jewelry (unlike mass-market jewelry that is often made by machine). However, I am excellent at working in my client’s budget.
Q: What additional information will you need to prepare a quote?
A: In addition to a description and/ or pictures of pieces that you like, we will need the following:
1. Ring, neck, wrist size
2. Preferred metal and karat gold (if applicable)
3. Budget- it is easiest to create a piece with a budget in mind, even if it is a range of budget. If you are uncertain, you can also provide your maximum budget.
4. Type of stone, size, etc. Would you like me to source a stone for you or will you provide a stone?
5. Any other measurement details that might apply, e.g., ring width, etc.
I may ask additional specific questions based on your personal piece.
Please fill out this Questionnaire.
Q: How long does the process take? What happens once we start?
A: The process can take anywhere from 2 to 8 weeks depending on your timeline, the time of year and the time it takes to finalize the design.
The order of events is as follows:
1. Initial inquiry. A dialogue is started via email/phone regarding the piece you desire to have designed.
2. If we agree we are a good fit, a budget is agreed upon and sketches are prepared and emailed to you based on your desires.
3. Revisions are created and the design is finalized. The final design is approved.
4. A final quote is prepared and payment is received for the piece. Payment can be made via credit card, paypal, certified check or cash. NY State and city tax is applied when applicable.
5. Once payment is received, your project goes into production. The turnaround time is generally 2-3 weeks and may take as long as 6 weeks. This will be determined when the project gets started. If you need something rushed, rush fees may apply.
6. Once your project is complete, any final payments will be due. Due to the high value of most of the work I design, your piece will be shipped overnight or 2 day air. (The client is responsible for the shipping charges. Shipping can be charged directly to the client or items can be shipped on a client’s shipper number. Note that for international shipping, customs charges may be levied.)
Q: What happens if I need something in a rush or in less than 2 weeks?
A: We will do our best to accommodate your request. This is generally available for items that are more standard or basic in design. There is a 20% premium added for rush items.
Q: What if I want to see a CAD or wax before I move forward with payment?
A: A model can definitely be prepared in advance. Generally, there is an additional fee of $100-400. This will be discussed if requested.
Q: What is recycled silver, gold, palladium and platinum?
A: We source our metal from refiners who process metals that are already in the world’s existing supply of metals, instead of buying metals from mining companies. You can feel confidant that you are helping our Earth’s sustainability without destroying our precious resources.
Q: How can I pay?
Payment is received via paypal, credit card, cash or cashier’s check in advance.
Q: Let’s get started! What next?
Send an email to custom@tracymatthewsnyc.com or fill out our online custom jewelry questionnaire.
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