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Goldsmiths - The Good, the Bad and the Ugly!
09/06/10
Sapphire and Diamond Trellis Ring [This is the fourth article in a four-part
series on custom-designed jewelry. The other articles are listed at the bottom
of this page.]
The creation of a beautiful jewel must include an imaginative design, quality
gemstones and metals, and superior craftsmanship. In my last two articles, I
discussed the importance of creating an imaginative, personalized design and
selecting complementary gems and metals. In this article we will take a look
at how to choose the right craftsperson to execute your design.
When selecting a goldsmith or "bench" jeweler to fabricate your jewel,
there are four factors to consider: Beautiful Byzantine Necklace
* Craftsmanship: Not all goldsmiths are created equal. And, more importantly,
not all goldsmiths will be equally adept at creating the type of jewel you have
designed. The goldsmith you choose should be experienced in creating designs
like yours and working with the gemstones and metals you have selected. Different
metals and manufacturing techniques require different levels of skill. It is
important to review the goldsmith's prior work and references.
* Artistry: A custom-designed jewel is best described as a miniature work
of art. Your goldsmith should appreciate and enhance the artistry of your design.
He/she should have an instinctive understanding of the jewel's form, colors
and textures. In short, you want a goldsmith who will create a masterpiece for
you, and not just paint by the numbers. Your goldsmith should also understand
whether or not a particular design is technically feasible, and better yet,
wearable and functional!
* Timeliness: A custom-designed jewel often celebrates a special occasion
or person. If you need to have the jewel completed by a certain date, make sure
that the goldsmith will be able to meet your deadline. Remember......if you
wish to create a jewel for Christmas, you should begin the design process by
early November.
* Cost: High cost is not always indicative of value and quality workmanship.
Many high-priced jewellers produce second rate, low- quality work. By the same
token, you must not shop for the lowest price either: a low price may result
in poor quality gems, under-karated metals and mediocre craftsmanship. In choosing
a goldsmith you should seek to maximize the quality of the workmanship, while
remaining within your budget. Some goldsmiths in other parts of the country
may offer equal or better workmanship at a lower cost - it may be worthwhile
to use craftsmen outside your local area.
Yellow Gold Dome Ring with Diamonds A truly great piece of jewelry is created
when the best design, materials and craftsmanship are brought together. At Bijoux
Extraordinaire we work with you to assure that these three elements come together.
First, our designers help you create a design that reflects your taste, style
and pocketbook. Second, our gemologists work with you to find gems and precious
metals of the highest quality and value. Finally, our experience with the finest
gold and platinum smiths throughout the country will assure that the best craftsmen
are enlisted to execute your design. The result will be a jewel of lasting beauty
and value.
Tanzanite ring with diamonds handcrafted in platinum and gold. Bijoux Extraordinaire
is a practice of independent gemologists providing custom design, appraisal
and gemstone brokerage services to the jewelry consumer. If you wish to remember
a special occasion or loved one with a truly beautiful and personal jewel, please
consider working with one of our gemologist/designers.
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