FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

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What is the process?

We typically start with a short consultation, either in-person in Lexington, KY or via Zoom, to discuss the jewelry you'd like us to create. During this session, we’ll review your style preferences and any materials you’d like to incorporate. After our consultation, we'll prepare a detailed design proposal with suggestions and pricing. Once you select a design, our production timeline is approximately 3 months. If you're not in Lexington, we’ll send you an insured FedEx label for securely shipping your materials to us, and production will begin once they arrive.

What types of jewelry can you custom make?

We specialize in crafting a wide variety of custom jewelry, including rings, necklaces, bracelets, earrings, and more. Whether you’re seeking a one-of-a-kind engagement ring, a personalized pendant, or a bespoke bracelet, our talented team can transform your ideas into reality. Reach out to us to begin the design process and bring your vision to life.

Can you replicate an antique piece of jewelry?

While we often draw inspiration from antique and vintage designs for our custom creations, we do not replicate exact copies of any jewelry. This approach allows us to preserve the uniqueness and character of your new piece, while respecting the original artist. We can collaborate with you to design a custom piece that captures the essence and style of the original, while adding your own personal touch.

Can I use my own stones or metal in my custom piece?

Yes, we are happy to offer stone setting and heirloom redesign services for clients who wish to use their own materials. You can provide your own stones, and we will incorporate them into your custom design. While we do purchase your metal and will credit its value towards your final piece, the gold we acquire from you will not always be used directly in the creation of your new jewelry. Exceptions apply based on metal type and quality.

Can you help me source antique gems, lab-grown diamonds, or other stones?

Yes, we can help you source a wide range of stones, including conflict-free diamonds, precious gemstones, antique gems, and lab-grown diamonds.

How long will it take for me to receive my custom piece?

The timeline for receiving your custom jewelry depends on the complexity of the project. Simple settings are generally completed within 14 business days, while more intricate redesigns and custom projects typically take 12-14 weeks. During your complimentary consultation, we will provide you with an estimated timeline tailored to your project.

Can the ring be resized if I don't know the recipient's size?

Yes, your ring can be resized after purchase. We know that finding the perfect fit can be tricky, especially for a surprise. You will receive one free sizing if the recipient was not available to be sized at time of purchase. After your purchase, contact us, and we will resize it to ensure it fits perfectly.

Is it worth it to renovate my jewelry?

If it’s worth it to you, it’s worth it to us!Most of the projects we work on are "worth it" either because the materials being used are sentimental, our client would like to re-use what they have, or the materials being used are of value. If the materials are not sentimental, of value, or something you particularly like, jewelry renovation may not be for you!

What kind of projects do you do?

Some of the types of projects we undertake include:

  • Creating a classic diamond solitaire ring or necklace
  • Re-setting heirloom diamonds into engagement rings
  • Melting family gold into wedding bands
  • Resetting jewelry from past relationships
  • Reworking dated or unwearable jewelry into new, modern pieces
  • Converting antiques into updated formats (e.g., transforming a brooch into a necklace)
  • Combining gemstones and jewelry elements from different chapters of your life into one unique piece

Do you offer appraisals?

For all purchases made at Meg C Fine Jewelry, we provide a point-of-sale report that can be submitted to your insurance provider. Additionally, upon request, we offer formal written appraisals conducted by our GIA-certified gemologists for any items purchased from us.

Do you buy jewelry, gold, or silver?

We don't buy, but we can help repurpose your jewelry, gold, or platinum. If you have leftover gold or platinum from a custom order, you can recycle towards the cost of your project, we're happy to take care of refining it for you and will credit your final invoice.

Do you repair jewelry?

We currently are only taking in repairs on jewelry purchased from Meg C. Contact us with any issues you have with any pieces purchased from us.

How much will my custom jewelry cost? How much is the deposit?

All custom pieces begin at $2,000, and a detailed quote will be provided along with your design presentation. To start creating your custom jewelry, we typically require a 50% deposit of the total cost, though this may vary based on specific design elements and additional needs like stone sourcing.

What type of payments do you accept?

We accept a variety of payment methods, including all major credit cards, cash, check, PayPal, and Apple Pay. Layaway is available.

What materials can you use for a redesigned piece?

Most of our projects focus is on recycling and re-using fine jewelry materials like gold, platinum, diamonds, and gemstones. We also have experience working with alternative materials such as raw gems, bone, and petrified wood.

How do you price projects?

We carefully assess each project based on the complexity of the design, the craftsmanship involved, and materials used. Your proposal will outline detailed pricing for each suggested design. We are always conscious of your budget and strive to not exceed it. While we’ve completed projects from $500 to $50,000+, most of our custom work falls within the $2500-$8000 range, with the majority of ring projects landing between $3000-$5000.

What is gold credit?

We are more than happy to re-use and recycle your precious metals during your redesign project. If you have excess gold or platinum, we can refine and recycle them, applying the value as a credit towards your final invoice. Many of our clients choose to recycle their gold with us to help offset their project costs. Learn more about how gold credit works here.

Can I pay a "Rush Fee" for quick design and manufacture?

Yes, the majority of our pieces can be produced in a shorter anount of time. The rush fee is based on the specific project. Contact us with your request.

What does "custom" really mean?

We specialize in crafting custom jewelry from scratch as well as using your unique heirloom, inherited, and sentimental materials. This approach allows us to design jewelry that complements your personal style anduniqueness rather than adjusting your materials to a pre-made setting. While we offer designs across a range of price points, custom jewelry is typically more expensive than mass-produced pieces due to the personalized craftsmanship involved.

What is fine jewelry?

We use only the finest materials and traditional jewelry techniques to create pieces that stand the test of time. Whether we're working with gold, platinum, or even unique materials like baby teeth, we apply the same level of respect and expert craftsmanship to every project. From the most precious diamonds to the most personal keepsakes, each piece receives the utmost care and attention to detail.

How long does it take to complete a project?

Our production timeline for each project is typically around 3 months. We take great care with each piece and do not like to rush the process. To ensure the highest quality, we only take on a limited number of projects each month.

Do you Powdercoat?

Yes, we are able to design and manufacture using a colorful powercoating process.