Bespoke jewellery: the timeline and the stages
A bespoke commission takes three to six weeks from approved design to delivery, with a deposit of thirty to fifty per cent and a point of no return at the moment casting begins.
gelisted editorial team · Updated 15 August 2026
The short version
- The usual timeline is 3 to 6 weeks, longer in high season.
- The deposit runs 30 to 50 per cent of the quoted price.
- Design changes are free until the model is approved.
- A resin model to check size and volume costs 20 € to 60 €.
Commissioning a unique piece costs less than most people expect and takes longer. The calendar decides whether it arrives for the occasion that prompted it.
The five stages
First the briefing, where budget, materials, measurements and visual references are agreed. Then design, as a sketch or a three dimensional model. Then approval, with the option of printing a resin model to check volume and size. Then manufacture, with casting, setting and finishing. And finally inspection and delivery, with a descriptive invoice and gemstone certificates where applicable.
| Stage | Duration | What is decided |
|---|---|---|
| Initial briefing | 1 to 2 days | budget and materials |
| Design and sketches | 3 to 7 days | form and proportions |
| Resin model | 2 to 4 days | volume and size |
| Approval | 1 day | point of no return |
| Casting and assembly | 7 to 14 days | execution |
| Setting and finishing | 4 to 8 days | polish and inspection |
| Total | 3 to 6 weeks | |
| High season | 6 to 9 weeks |
What is paid and when
A deposit of 30 to 50 per cent is paid on approving the design, because that is when metal and stones are bought. The balance falls due on delivery. Where the commission includes gemstones of significant value, some workshops invoice the stone separately and in advance. All of this should be recorded in writing, with materials, fineness, weights and the committed delivery date.
The point of no return
Changes are free until the design is approved. After that each modification means redoing work: a size change before casting costs nothing, afterwards 30 € to 90 €; a change of form after casting means starting again, losing the labour already invested. The metal is recovered almost in full, but the bench hours are not, and they represent 40 to 60 per cent of the price on a worked piece.
That is why the resin model, at 20 € to 60 €, is the best value item in the entire process.
Seasonal timing
In November and December, and in the weeks before the wedding season in May and June, workshops carry a backlog and the timeline stretches to 6 to 9 weeks. For a fixed date, start the commission 10 weeks ahead. In January and February a simple piece can be ready in 15 days. Where the date cannot move, it should be written into the accepted quotation rather than agreed verbally.
Frequently asked
+How long does a bespoke piece take?
Three to six weeks from approved design, and 6 to 9 weeks in high season.
+How much is paid up front?
A deposit of 30 to 50 per cent on approving the design, when metal and stones are bought.
+Until when can I change my mind?
Free of charge until the design is approved. After that each change means redoing work.
+Can I see the piece before it is made?
Yes, with a printed resin model costing 20 € to 60 € to check volume and size.
+How far ahead should I order for a date?
Ten weeks if the date cannot move, and record it in the accepted quotation.
Sources
- 1Gemological Institute of America, GIA (August 2026)
- 2Boletín Oficial del Estado, BOE (August 2026)