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Behind the Bench: How Custom Jewelry is Really Made at BG Jewelers

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A lot of people assume custom jewelry means picking out a design and having it sent in from somewhere else. At BG Jewelers, that’s not how it works. When you order a custom piece, I’m the one designing it, casting the gold, setting the stones, and finishing it in my shop. There’s a lot of hard work and patience that goes into it, and honestly, that’s the part I enjoy most.

It Starts with a Conversation

If you come in without a clear idea of what you want, that’s completely fine. I start by asking questions to get a feel for what you like and don’t like, and I keep a lot of jewelry in store so people have real examples to react to. That makes it a lot easier to build a vision together. Once we have a direction, the first big decision is usually the center stone. I pull a few options and let the customer pick for themselves. Then we build the design around it.

From Design to Finished Piece

Once the design is finalized, I print a 3D wax model the customer can try on and look at before we move forward. If they want changes, we make them then. After they approve it, I invest the wax, pour the gold, and cast the piece myself right here in the shop. From there it gets sanded, polished, the stones are set, and then it goes through a final polish and cleaning. About 95% of the process is done in house. Most pieces take anywhere from 4 to 8 weeks, with the average coming in around 6.

Your Old Jewelry Doesn’t Have to Sit in a Drawer

This is the part that surprises people the most. When someone brings in an old piece they want redesigned, I actually melt that gold down and use it in the new piece. So the new ring is made from the same material as the original. A lot of people don’t realize that’s even possible, and it means that sentimental value doesn’t get lost. It just gets turned into something they can wear every day.

Not Sure Where to Start?

Search a few keywords on Google Images or Etsy to get a feel for styles you like, then come in. You don’t need to have it all figured out. I’m happy to help brainstorm once you’re here. Custom is also more affordable than most people think, especially if you have old gold you’d like to put toward the project. Many customers walk in unsure and walk out with a plan. That’s what I’m here for. Stop in and let’s talk about what you have in mind.

BG Jewelers is located in Hutchinson, MN. Custom pieces, repairs, and consultations are available in store. 

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