Custom Orders
Custom Orders:
How are the rings made?
Flux And Flame is specialised in two different types of jewellery making; Sand Casting and Lost Wax Technique. Both of these techniques imply the process of carving out a design in wax. This wax then acts as the impression for the solid metal to be poured into, leaving behind a sold metal replica of this wax model. The main difference between these two techniques are;
-Sand Casting can only be used for simple designs such as signet rings and bands that have minimal detail and no undercuts
-Sand Casting is hand poured in my own studio, allowing me to re-use your old or sentimental silver or gold
-Lost Wax technique is perfect for detailed work, work with undercuts or jobs that require a higher level of finesse.
-Because I outsource my Lost Wax casting to a specialised casting house, there is no option to re-use your own specific metals. However, the metal that is used by the casting house is always 100% recycled.
So how do we choose what technique to use? Don’t worry, I’ll always help guide you though this process. Often though, It will depend on if you are wanting to use your own metals, or how detailed your desired design may be.
How much does it cost?
This question is not always as easy to answer as it may seem, as there are many elements which determine the final price of a bespoke ring. A key variable is the amount of metal is required to make it. While I can give rough estimates initially, the final quote can only be given when your ring is carved out of wax and the exact weight is known. In order to facilitate correct ring sizing and quoting, I offer to send a sizer in the mail once the deposit has been secured.
To be as fair and as transparent as possible, I try to customise my prices as much as I can. No two rings that I make are the same, and I believe that you should only pay for exactly what you need. Pricing takes into account:
- The time needed for sketching and designing your bespoke ring
- The time needed to carve your design, which may be relatively simple or intricate and complex
- The size of your ring
- The type (gold or silver), weight, carat (for gold) of your preferred metal
- The number, carat, and type of ethically sourced, hand-picked stones
- The time needed to cast, set, and finish your ring
Special order rings: For all one-off designs and signet rings (small round, square, oblong). Any existing base ring can be fully customisable by texture, stones and metal. Prices will start at $500 for sterling silver and $2400 for gold, if you would like to include stones in your ring, this may be at an additional cost, which will be discussed with you during the design phase.
Remodelled rings: Pricing depends entirely on the proportion of metal and stones provided by you. If you are providing all of the metal and stones required for your remodelled piece, the cost will only include labour. My Labour fees start from $350 for silver and $1000 for gold, and does depends on the intricacy of the design (how much time it takes to carve the ring).
If additional metal is required, or if you would like additional stones set, we can discuss during the design phase, as the cost will depend on the factors listed above.
How long will it take?
Creating high-quality, bespoke jewellery takes a lot of time and attention. Each ring is carved with care, poured with intention, and finished to an exceedingly high standard. I like to give each piece the time and respect that it deserves. Generally, lead times are between 6-8 weeks. However, if you have an urgent deadline, like your wedding day or other special occasion, please let me know I will always try my best to accomodate you.
How do I place an order?
Fill in the Custom Order form (say where it is/provide link) with as much detail as possible. Sometimes, describing your vision or style can be tricky, so please feel free to send some sketches or inspiration pictures. I will then provide you with an estimate in X days, put down a deposit to secure your place, wax carving, stone or metals sourcing, final quote and 50% payment, Casting/ finishing and final payment.
Cancellation policy
Due to the bespoke nature of my rings, I do not offer refunds or returns. This is because they are crafted entirely to your specifications and at your direction. If a re-work is required, there may be additional fees incurred to account for the additional time and/or resources required. For sand cast rings, please ensure that you have your finger sized correctly, as these type of rings can not always be resized, and may require a complete re-work.
I can send a sizer in the mail to assist this process once the deposit has been secured.
Once I have commenced work on your ring and should you choose to cancel your order then the deposit will not be refunded. This deposit will be used to cover a small part of my time and effort that has already been used invested in your order.
Please email us if you would like to organise a custom piece, and we will discuss your options, budget, deposit fee and production turn around time in more detail. Our email can be found in the 'Contact' section.