What to Expect from a Custom Design
A custom piece is the most personal jewelry you can own. Here's how our design process works — from first conversation to finished creation.
There's nothing quite like wearing a piece of jewelry that was made specifically for you. At Grillo Jewelry, our custom design process is collaborative, transparent, and — we hope — genuinely enjoyable.
The First Conversation
Every custom piece begins with a conversation. You don't need to arrive with a fully formed idea — in fact, some of our most beautiful work has started with nothing more than a feeling or a reference image. We'll ask about your lifestyle, your aesthetic, your budget, and the story behind the piece.
Design and Rendering
Once we understand your vision, our jeweler creates detailed sketches and, for more complex pieces, a digital rendering. This gives you a clear picture of the finished piece before any metal is cast or stones are set. We refine the design together until it's exactly right.
Materials and Sourcing
We source ethically mined and certified gemstones, and we're happy to incorporate heirloom stones from existing jewelry. Using a stone with personal history adds meaning that no new stone can replicate.
Fabrication
Once the design is approved, fabrication typically takes three to five weeks depending on complexity. We'll keep you updated throughout the process and invite you in for a fitting before final finishing.
The Reveal
We present every custom piece in a Grillo jewelry box, ready to gift or simply to treasure. Most clients tell us the reveal is one of their favorite moments — and it's one of ours too.