FAQs

GETTING STARTED

+ How do I get started?

Set up an initial consultation using my online booking found here. I am happy to entertain initial design ideas via email as well in order to determine if a design consultation is needed. For general inquiries or design-related inquiries feel free to email me directly at hello@caitlinhicksdesign.com

+ How do I schedule a design consultation?

Appointments can be scheduled online here. If there are no time slots shown online that work for you, please feel free to call me directly at 217-898-4198 or email at hello@caitlinhicksdesign.com and I’ll do my best to accommodate your schedule.

+ Can I schedule an appointment if I live outside of Monticello area?

Absolutely! I work with many clients remotely and conduct meetings via phone, Zoom, email, and text.

+ How far in advance should I book to get jewelry for a certain date?

Most custom jewelry typically takes 3-4 weeks from initial design consultation to final product, so clients should book at least 4 weeks before they need a finished piece. I do my very best to meet client’s deadlines.

JEWELRY DESIGN PROCESS

+ How is your jewelry made?

All of my jewelry is handcrafted with the utmost concern for craftsmanship and quality. From CAD renderings to a wax model, all the way to the final product, my jewelry is handcrafted with quality to last a lifetime.

+ How long does it take to make a custom piece?

Typically, custom jewelry takes about 3-4 weeks from start to finish. Depending on your design, the process can potentially be expedited if you need your custom jewelry sooner.

+ What materials do you work with?

I work with the following precious and semi-precious metals: 14k/18k white gold, 14k/18k yellow gold, 14k/18k rose gold, platinum, and Sterling silver. Diamonds, precious, and semi precious gemstones.

+ Can you work with my existing heirloom jewelry or loose diamond?

This is my specialty! I love making “new” jewelry from old jewelry or family heirlooms by using the diamonds and gemstones from an heirloom piece and repurposing them into a new design. We recycle the metal from your old jewelry however, we do not use it in ‘new’ piece. Instead, I offer you a credit towards your new piece for the value of the old metal, and use guaranteed high quality metal on your new piece.

+ What services do you provide?

In addition to custom engagement rings, wedding rings, and other jewelry I also offer jewelry repurposing services, Appraisal service for new and old pieces for Insurance or Estate purposes. I also offer Jewelry repair done off site by jewelers I trust, FREE ring cleaning and polishing, Diamond and Gemstone Education, Gold and Diamond Buying and sorting.

+ Do you provide a warranty on your jewelry?

Quality is my highest priority and I stand behind the craftsmanship and integrity of my jewelry. I want you to be completely happy with your one-of-a-kind pieces, so I will do what it takes to achieve this goal. If you are not completely satisfied with your purchase, I want to know! I provide a lifetime warranty against defects in craftsmanship. The first sizing for a custom piece is complimentary. Free cleaning and refinishing for the lifetime of the custom piece.

COST FOR CUSTOM

+ How much does custom jewelry cost?

My custom engagement rings typically start around $1500. Many factors impact the price of custom jewelry such as gemstone preferences like type of stone, carat weight, cut and clarity. Additional price influences include metal type, overall dimensions of a piece, design complexity and detail, rarity of gemstones to be sourced, quantity of gemstones to be set, and more. The possiblites are endless to custom jewelry, as I am proud to have access to some of the world’s finest gemstone and diamond specimens.

+ Can you work with my budget?

I typically have two approaches to designing. I can design around what the client loves or around a budget. I pride myself on guiding people with designs and corresponding metals, gemstones & diamonds that best suit their financial needs but that still provide a great value, both visually and in quality. Designing around what you love means that there isn’t a fixed budget, but rather a determined budget range for the general look and materials. Either way, design parameters are part of a conversation that we have at the initial design consultation.

+ When do I pay for my custom jewelry?

Payments for custom jewelry are divided into three installments. There is an inital deposit of $500 to create a design board with 3-7 hand drawn designs for your consideration. Once a design has been chosen and priced I require 50% to begin production. The balance will be paid upon delivery.