custom design faq

Timelines are estimates. We're always juggling many projects, so they can shift a little earlier or later.

• Firm deadlines: If you have a date in mind, like a wedding, tell us well in advance so we can plan for it.
• Quick decisions keep things moving: Our timelines assume you respond to designs within a day or two. Taking a week or more at each step pushes the timeline out.
• We're artists too: Much of our team works part time and balances Balefire with their own studios, so it may take us a few days to reply. Every project matters to us, and we'll get back to you as soon as we can.

Custom jewelry costs vary with materials, skill and time. Custom projects start at $600 for silver and $2,000 for gold. We'll talk through your budget at your consultation to make sure we're aligned before you go on the waitlist, then design a piece you'll love within it. Financing is available through Affirm and Afterpay.

The usual payment steps:

1. Consultation: free, with waitlist placement
2. Project approval: a $150–$350 deposit, depending on your project. It's non-refundable and applies to your final payment.
3. Stone purchase (if needed): usually from around $500
4. 50% at final design approval to start production
5. 50%, minus your deposit, at completion

If we're sourcing stones for you, custom work often starts with finding the right center stone. We'll talk through the ideal material, color, cut, size and budget, then work with our stone suppliers to find options. We'll email photos and videos, and you'll pick a few to see in person.

Once the stones arrive, there's usually a limited window to review them, so we'll book an appointment quickly. When you've chosen, you'll purchase the stone and we'll start on your designs.

We strongly recommend insuring your jewelry, and we can provide receipts and appraisals for your insurer.

• We offer a one-year guarantee against manufacturing defects in materials or craftsmanship. It doesn't cover neglect, abuse, loss, theft or normal wear and tear.
• We'll replace a small stone (melee under 0.05ct) within the first year, but not a stone lost because of bent or damaged prongs.
• Good care and maintenance make all the difference. If you have questions about caring for your piece, just ask.

A few things that make the process better, during the project and after your piece is done.

Everyday pieces need everyday materials

Any style of ring can be an engagement or wedding ring, but not every material holds up to daily wear. Diamonds, sapphires, gold, platinum and some alternative metals like steel are the most durable. Opals, emeralds, inlay and many other materials are beautiful accents but aren't meant for everyday wear, and some designs are more delicate than others. If you love a softer stone or a delicate design, we'll help you build it in more durably, or suggest a second ring for everyday.

Trust our recommendations

We're skilled craftspeople with decades of experience making jewelry that lasts. When we suggest a minimum ring width or a certain setting style, it's because we've seen what holds up and what doesn't.

We're jewelry artists, not manufacturers

We love creating something new from your inspiration photos and ideas. If you bring another artist's design to reproduce exactly, we'll suggest buying from that artist. Custom work here is a collaboration, and we share our expertise and aesthetic along the way. If you want a technician to build your vision without input, we may not be the best fit.

Be curious

You don't need to know it all. Ask us why or how we do something. Learning about metals, stones and making is one of the best parts of the process.

Be kind

Rude or inappropriate treatment of our team isn't acceptable. If we end a project because of it, the design deposit is forfeited.

Jewelry needs care

Take jewelry off before bathing, swimming, gardening, working out or doing dishes, and have rings with prongs checked regularly.