Custom Designs

When you have decided to design your own jewelry it is important to look at many other styles and designs so you can make choices based on the aspects of the jewelry you want.

Shape, size, stone setting, texture and function are the most important features one must consider.

Shape is the feeling or style of the piece. Will it be geometric, asymmetric, free form, simple or complex? Will it have an antique or vintage look or will it be a modern, smooth design? Do you want it to match or compliment other pieces of jewelry that you already own? Sometimes people want something very new and different that will not be like the other styles of jewelry they own. If a new stone is to be used, how might that affect the look you want?

Size is affected by the stones you chose and by your own personal measurements. Most of the time, very large jewelry doesn't work well on smaller people and conversely the same applies to larger individuals. The size of the stone or stones also affects the dimensions of the piece. Will the piece be worn with other jewelry—on the neck, hands or arms?

Stone setting is also important because how and where the stones are positioned affects the shape and size. On a ring, stones set up high with prongs can catch on clothing and other items and may not be functional for a busy woman with small children. A piece of jewelry may be designed only for evening or party wear and the look may be as big and sumptuous as one can imagine.

Texture refers to the brightness, or shimmer in light of a ring or pendant. The texture of a surface may make a simple piece look "busy." We buy gold and wear jewelry for the brightness and its reflection in the light. The stones that are set in a piece can also affect its texture. Look at jewelry made before electricity—the pieces are rich in texture and dotted on most surfaces with stones and designs. Today with the use of electricity we can now achieve high polish across broad surfaces with almost perfect reflection.

Function has its own demands. If a ring is to be designed then it should have the necessary prerequisites to be a ring. It should be sturdy enough to take the abuse your hands take in your everyday life. If we're talking about earrings, then they should hang on the ear to enhance the face and hairstyle. Function can also be the design in and of itself, too. The clasp of a pendant can, in and of itself, be the center of design with some creativity.

In choosing a design for your ring or brooch, look at many other styles and designs even though it may not be "the one you want." The purpose here is to see other ideas that you can pick and choose from to assemble your design. You may like the stone setting seen on a pair of earrings, the look of the surface texture of a brooch, or the shape of a ring and all of this may become part of a ring you may be thinking of. You may choose to use a shape, form or design that has special meanings to you. Some people have used their initials with some artistic license—the name of a pet—the logo of their initials when they sign their name—any idea can be used.

Above all, have fun. Enjoy the process, it will evoke wonderful memories when you wear that piece of jewelry. And it's a great story to pass along to family and friends!