FAQs

What’s the starting price for custom pieces?

Custom projects begin at $5,000, which allows us to work with high-quality materials, responsibly sourced stones, and the time and care required to design something truly one-of-a-kind.

Do you reset heirloom stones?

Yes, we love working with heirloom diamonds and colored gemstones! If you’re using your own stone(s), we’ll ask for photos and any documentation you have. We do require a recent appraisal or gemological report (dated within the last 5 years) before getting started. This helps confirm the identity and condition of the stones so we can move forward safely and accurately.

What if I don’t have a stone yet?

No problem—we work with trusted suppliers to source antique and modern diamonds, as well as fine colored gemstones.

When is the deposit due, and how much is it?

A non-refundable $1,000 deposit is required to reserve your place in our custom queue and begin any design or sourcing work. If your project includes a sourced stone that makes up a significant portion of the overall cost, we may request a second deposit (typically 50% of the estimated total) before securing the stone. This ensures we can proceed responsibly without advancing funds on your behalf.

Why do you ask about budget—and what if I’m not sure how much things cost?

We ask about budget so we can guide the design and sourcing process in a way that aligns with your goals. But we completely understand that many clients aren’t sure what things should cost—especially when it comes to custom or fine jewelry. That’s totally normal, and we’re here to help you understand what’s possible at different investment levels.

When we ask about your budget, what we really mean is:
Is there a number you wouldn’t want to exceed for this project?
That helps us understand your comfort zone so we can design responsibly and avoid presenting ideas that fall outside what you're willing to spend.

We can only design based on the information we have—so even a ballpark range is helpful in guiding the process from the very beginning.

If you’re not sure how much things typically cost, you’re not alone. Many clients feel uncertain about where to start—that's completely normal. We’re here to help you understand what’s possible at different investment levels and to guide you through the process with clarity and transparency.

There’s no pressure to get the number “right”—just a ballpark and a sense of your priorities is enough to begin.

How do you prioritize a client’s budget once it’s shared?

Knowing your budget is helpful—but knowing how you'd like us to approach it is even more valuable. Some clients want to stay well under their maximum and focus on getting the best value, while others want to be closer to their budget so the piece feels substantial and reflects the level of investment they want to make—especially for something as meaningful as an engagement ring.

There’s no right or wrong approach. Being honest about how you’d like us to prioritize your budget helps us tailor sourcing and design decisions in a way that aligns with your vision and values—whether that’s finding the best possible stone for the price, or creating a showstopping piece that uses every bit of your investment.

How does sourcing antique or one-of-a-kind stones work?

Antique diamonds and unique colored gemstones aren’t always readily available on the market in specific sizes, shapes, or qualities. Sourcing these stones often requires patience as we wait for the right one to appear—but when it does, it can also require decisiveness, as many of these stones are one-of-a-kind and tend to move quickly.

We’ll guide you through the process and only present options that feel aligned with your vision and budget. Sometimes we’ll have multiple stones to choose from; other times, one exceptional option may surface that’s just the right fit. Either way, we’ll make sure you feel informed and confident about the timing and selection.

What’s the timeline for a custom piece?

Most projects are completed within 8–12 weeks from the time of deposit, depending on sourcing, design complexity, and seasonality. We'll provide a more specific estimate once we’ve aligned on design and materials.

Why don’t you take on every custom project?

Because each piece is a reflection of both your story and our studio’s design philosophy, we’re selective about the custom projects we take on. To give each one the focus and care it deserves, we only accept a limited number of bespoke commissions—and we prioritize designs that align with the aesthetic and creative direction of our current collection.

If a request falls outside that scope, it’s never a judgment of your vision—it’s simply about making sure we’re the right fit. The best work happens when there’s mutual alignment, and our goal is always to create pieces that feel authentic to both you and Elvie.

Can I return or exchange a custom piece?

Because each piece is custom made to order, all bespoke sales are final. We do not offer returns or exchanges on custom jewelry.

What if I change my mind during the process?

We understand that creative direction can evolve. You’re welcome to share feedback and request refinements during the sketch or CAD phase. Once a design is approved and production has begun, changes can no longer be made. If you choose not to move forward after work has started, the $1,000 deposit is non-refundable, as it covers time, labor, and sourcing already completed on your behalf.

What if I need to resize my ring?

If the design allows for resizing, we offer one complimentary adjustment for custom pieces priced over $5,000. Clients outside of NYC are responsible for insured shipping both ways. We’ll always let you know in advance if your piece will be resizable or not.

Can we meet in person?

We’ll be able to meet clients local to NYC in our new studio come August 2025! For everyone else, the process can be handled seamlessly via email and video—we work with clients across the country and internationally.

Can you work with silver or alternative metals?

We work exclusively in solid gold and platinum to ensure the longevity, integrity, and quality of every piece.

Can you recreate a piece I saw online?

We’re happy to review inspiration images to get a sense of your style, but we don’t replicate other designers’ work. Instead, we use reference points to help guide the creation of a design that’s original and aligned with the Elvie aesthetic.

Do you offer appraisals?

Yes! A complimentary appraisal is included with all custom pieces priced over $5,000. For pieces under that amount—such as purchases from our semi-custom collection—appraisals are available upon request for a fee of $110.