Blog — custom jewelry

My client loves her bezel-set opal, but wants a new shank on her ring. So, I'm working on some fun vintage-inspired designs today.

Interested in customizing one of my existing designs? No problem! I can always cast pieces in a different metal, add gemstones, or make other alterations. Here's an example: I adjusted my Protea Amulet to showcase a bezel set diamond in the center. If you know what you to customize, fill out my Custom Design Form and let's make your dream a reality! xo,Christine

My client Kim had a pair of beloved earrings that her mother purchased for her in 1977 from Zuni Indians at a trading post in New Mexico. About ten years later, somehow one of the earrings went missing. She said it always made her sad to see the lone earring in her jewelry box, because she believed that it couldn't be replaced. After reviewing the earring, I took careful measurements, then milled and cast a test in silver to double check the fit. After sourcing and setting matching turquoise cabochons, a dark oxidized finish was all that was needed to...

Livy mentioned to me that her mother had an old yellow gold and amethyst gemstone ring that was gathering dust in her jewelry box. Her mother didn't wear it anymore because it seemed a little outdated; she wears white gold jewelry these days. Livy wanted to breathe new life into the family heirloom, and as a fine custom jeweler, I helped her do exactly that! We decided to create a new one-of-a-kind ring in 14kt white gold that Livy and her siblings could give to their mother as a birthday gift.   The Jewelry Design Process I've designed a number of...

The Perfect Gift: Anniversary Jewelry Thomas wanted to create a custom piece of jewelry to commemorate his 40th wedding anniversary. He asked around for recommendations for the best Philadelphia fine custom jeweler. Not to brag, but he told me he heard "Here's the latest word on the street re: custom jewelry design. This from a friend who knows the scene. Christine Alaniz." How exciting is that?     We chatted about what type of jewelry his wife prefers, if she wears white or yellow gold jewelry, and when, where, and how often she'd wear a special piece of jewelry. After...