One of the things that holds people back from commissioning custom jewelry is not knowing what to expect. The process feels opaque — will it take forever? Will it be overwhelming? Will I have to know exactly what I want before I walk in?

The answer to all three is no. Here's exactly what working with me looks like.

Step 1: The first conversation (free, no commitment)

Everything starts with a consultation — in person at the Santa Monica studio or by video call. This is a real conversation, not a sales pitch. I want to understand what you're looking for, your lifestyle, your budget, and what the piece means to you. You don't need to come prepared with a specific design. Coming with a general feeling — "something delicate and modern" or "substantial and architectural" — is more than enough to start.

This first meeting is free and carries no obligation. If at the end of it we both feel like it's a good fit, we move forward. If not, that's genuinely fine — I only take on projects I'm excited about, and I want you to feel the same way.

Step 2: Design development

After our consultation, I'll sketch initial design concepts based on what we talked about. For more complex pieces, I'll create a CAD (computer-aided design) rendering so you can see the piece from multiple angles in 3D before anything is made. This is your chance to say "yes, exactly that" or "actually, can we change the profile of the band?" — and we'll refine until it's right.

Some clients want to be very involved in this stage; others trust me to run with it and come back with a full design. Either approach works.

Step 3: Stone selection

If your piece includes a significant stone — a diamond, a sapphire, an unusual colored gem — we'll select it together. I work with trusted dealers who I've sourced from for years, and I'll bring options that fit the design and your budget. For clients who want to see stones in person, I'll arrange for them to come to the studio so you can view them in natural light and in the setting context.

Step 4: A deposit and a timeline

Once the design is approved and the stone is selected, I'll give you a precise quote and a completion date. I ask for a deposit at this stage — typically 50% — and I'll stay in touch throughout the process so you never feel like your piece has disappeared into a void.

Step 5: Fabrication

This is where I go into the studio and build the thing. Depending on the complexity, this takes anywhere from 4 to 8 weeks. I work with a small team of trusted craftspeople for fabrication, and I personally oversee every stage. Quality checkpoints happen throughout — not just at the end.

Step 6: Final review and delivery

Before I hand anything over, I photograph the finished piece in detail and review it against the design. If anything isn't exactly right, it gets fixed. When it's ready, we'll arrange delivery or pickup, and I'll walk you through the piece — the stone, the finish, the proportions — so you understand exactly what you have.

What the whole thing feels like

My clients often tell me the process was easier and more enjoyable than they expected. That's the goal. Commissioning a custom piece of jewelry should feel like a collaboration with someone you trust, not a transaction with someone trying to sell you up. That's the kind of studio I've built.

If you're curious about starting, reach out here. The first conversation is free, and it's a good one.