How to Start Your Story - Commissions

For many, buying jewellery can be a daunting experience where you are running a gauntlet between knowledge, time and budget. Working with a private jeweller, like Sophie Flanagan Fine Jewellery, can help you navigate through the process. But, what does the process look like?

It’s Good to Talk

After initial contact, whether that be through the website, Instagram, LinkedIn, email or word of mouth, Sophie will chat with you to find out when the most convenient time is to have the first briefing meeting. This meeting could be face to face at the London Diamond Bourse or it can be virtually via FaceTime/Teams/Zoom. 

In this first brief, it’s an open conversation about the type of jewellery you want (new, a remodel, ready-to-wear), what your inspiration is, preferences on gemstones and metal type, timelines and rough budget guidelines. Sophie will ask you lots of questions! At this stage it’s crucial to understand as much as possible about who the jewellery is for, as there are factors that will influence Sophie’s recommendations. For example, if the jewellery is a ring for a woman who is very active and does lots with her hands, then certain gems and settings would be ill advised. After this first conversation, Sophie will write up the briefing notes and send you a copy before you move on to the next phase.

A Picture Says a Thousand Words

Sketches and CAD files (digital work ups) are produced and your ideas start to come to life. This is the exciting stage, as suddenly the concept of your jewellery becomes a bit more real! As we finalise designs, Sophie will begin to source the diamonds and gems. You will have the opportunity to view a selection of the most appropriate stones and Sophie will guide you through each one and present all the technical aspects in layman’s terms so you can make the right decision for you.

Once you have signed off on the stones and the design, the concept is off to become a reality at the workshop! 

Craftsmanship

Our highly skilled, expert goldsmiths will start work on your bespoke piece of art and Sophie will oversee the creation. Upon completion, Sophie will arrange to handover your finalised personal commission. She likes to do this in person, as the reaction on people’s faces as they see their jewellery is what makes the whole process worth it. A few weeks after you’ve received your jewellery, Sophie will be in touch to make sure you’re still ecstatic with your new jewellery.

Let’s Start Your Story

If you’re planning a proposal, wanting to celebrate a milestone birthday or commemorate a moment in life like a promotion or new baby, Sophie would love to hear from you. Let’s start your story.