Frequently Asked Questions

Whether you're considering a custom piece, wondering what to do with inherited jewelry, need a repair or simply have questions about working with us, we're happy to help.

CUSTOM JEWELRY

How does the custom jewelry process work?

It usually begins with a conversation. Bring us your ideas, inspiration images, sketches, gemstones or existing jewelry—or simply tell us what you're hoping to create.

We'll discuss the design, materials and possibilities with you. Depending on the project, we may create a CAD design and 3D rendering so you can visualize and approve your piece before it is made.

Once the design is approved, we move into production, which may include 3D printing, casting, fabrication, stone setting and hand finishing.

How much does custom jewelry cost?

Every custom project is different. Pricing depends on the complexity of the design, materials, gemstones and amount of work involved.

Because designing and producing a one-of-a-kind piece requires many of the same steps regardless of its size, our custom projects generally begin around $1,000.

We'll discuss the anticipated cost with you before beginning your project.

Can I bring my own design or AI rendering?

Absolutely. Inspiration can come from anywhere.

Bring us your sketches, photographs, Pinterest images, AI renderings or other ideas. We'll evaluate the design from a jewelry-making perspective and determine what needs to be modified to make it structurally sound, comfortable and manufacturable.

Can you use my existing diamonds or gemstones?

Yes. We frequently create new jewelry using clients' existing diamonds and gemstones.

We'll first examine the stones to determine their condition and whether they're appropriate for the proposed design.

Can you use my existing gold?

Sometimes.

Existing precious metal can potentially be incorporated into a new project, but reusing the actual metal is not always the best manufacturing option. Contamination, unknown alloys, solder and previous repairs can affect how the metal behaves during casting or fabrication.

Bring it with you and we'll discuss the best approach for your particular project.

How long does custom jewelry take?

Timing depends on the complexity of the project and our current production schedule. We'll provide an estimated time frame when we discuss your design.

If you're creating something for a proposal, anniversary, birthday or another important date, please let us know at the beginning of the project.

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JEWELRY REDESIGN & HEIRLOOMS

Can you redesign jewelry I inherited?

Yes. This is one of our specialties.

We can use existing diamonds and gemstones to create something completely new while preserving the sentimental connection to the original jewelry.

I inherited jewelry but don't know what I have. Can you help?

Yes. Bring it in.

We can examine the pieces with you and help you better understand what you have and what your options may be.

There's no need to know exactly what you want before coming to see us.

Can you combine stones from several pieces into one new piece?

Absolutely.

This can be a wonderful way to combine jewelry from different family members or pieces from different periods of your life into one meaningful design.

Do I have to redesign the entire piece?

No.

Sometimes a small change can completely transform a piece. We may be able to change the setting, modify part of the design, reset a stone or make another alteration without starting over.

We'll discuss the possibilities with you.

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JEWELRY REPAIR & RESTORATION

What types of jewelry repairs do you do?

We handle everything from routine jewelry repairs to complex restoration work.

Services include ring sizing, chain and bracelet repair, clasp replacement, prong rebuilding, stone tightening and replacement, stone setting, soldering, laser welding, refinishing, polishing, rhodium plating and restoration of worn or damaged jewelry.

Another jeweler told me my jewelry can't be repaired. Can you look at it?

Yes.

We regularly evaluate unusual or difficult repairs. We can't promise every piece can or should be repaired, but we're happy to examine it and explain what options may be available.

Do you do repairs in-house?

Many of our jewelry services are performed through our Houston studio using traditional bench techniques alongside modern jewelry equipment and technology.

If a project requires a specialized outside service, we'll discuss that with you.

How much will my repair cost?

We need to examine the jewelry first.

Two pieces that appear to have the same problem can require very different repairs depending on their construction, materials and overall condition.

Once we've inspected the piece, we can recommend the appropriate repair and provide pricing before proceeding.

How long will my repair take?

It depends on the repair and our current workload. Straightforward repairs may be completed relatively quickly, while restoration, stone sourcing or complex work may require additional time.

We'll provide an estimated time frame when we evaluate your jewelry.

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JEWELRY APPRAISALS

Why should I have my jewelry appraised?

A professional appraisal provides documentation describing your jewelry and, when appropriate for the intended purpose, an estimated replacement value.

This documentation can be important for obtaining appropriate insurance coverage and can be extremely helpful if jewelry is ever lost, stolen or damaged.

How often should I update my jewelry appraisal?

If your appraisal is several years old, it's worth checking whether your insurance company recommends an updated appraisal.

Jewelry, diamonds, gemstones and precious-metal values can change over time, so older documentation may no longer accurately reflect current replacement costs.

Can you appraise inherited jewelry?

Yes.

If you've inherited jewelry and don't have documentation—or simply aren't sure what you have—an appraisal or evaluation can be a good place to start.

Do you inspect the jewelry during an appraisal?

The jewelry must be examined as part of the appraisal process. If we notice visible concerns such as loose stones or worn prongs, we can discuss them with you.

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VISITING EKLEKTIC

Do I need an appointment?

Walk-ins are welcome for many services.

For custom-design consultations, larger collections of jewelry or projects that may require more time, scheduling an appointment can help ensure we have adequate time to work with you.

What should I bring to a custom consultation?

Bring anything that helps tell us what you're trying to accomplish: the jewelry or stones you'd like to use, inspiration photographs, sketches, AI renderings, measurements, appraisal documents or other relevant information.

And if all you have is an idea, that's perfectly fine too.

I'm not sure what I want to do with my jewelry. Should I still come in?

Yes.

You don't need to arrive with a finished design or even know whether you want to repair, redesign or replace something.

Bring us your jewelry. We'll help you understand what's possible.

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ONLINE ORDERS

What forms of payment do you accept?

We accept major credit cards and other payment methods displayed at checkout.

Is my payment information secure?

Our online store uses Shopify's secure checkout infrastructure. Payment information is encrypted during transmission and handled through the payment methods available through our online checkout.

Can I cancel an online order?

Please contact us as soon as possible if you need to cancel an order.

If production or processing has already begun—particularly for custom, altered, sized or personalized jewelry—the order may no longer be eligible for cancellation.

How long does it take to process an online order?

Processing time depends on the item. In-stock pieces generally ship more quickly, while made-to-order, altered or sized jewelry may require additional production time.

If you need a piece by a particular date, please contact us before ordering.

How will I know when my order ships?

Once your order ships, you'll receive confirmation and available tracking information using the contact information provided with your order.

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RETURNS & EXCHANGES

What is your return policy?

Return eligibility depends on the type of purchase.

Custom-made, personalized, altered, engraved and specially sized jewelry may not be eligible for return. Different conditions may apply to eligible in-stock merchandise.

Please contact us before purchasing if you have questions about a particular item.

What if there is a problem with my jewelry?

Please contact us as soon as possible.

We'll review the issue with you and determine the appropriate next step based on the piece and circumstances.

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Still Have Questions?

Jewelry can be complicated. Talking to a jeweler doesn't have to be.

Whether you have a broken piece, inherited jewelry, an idea for something new or simply aren't sure where to start, bring it to Eklektic.

We'll take a look and talk about what's possible.

Contact Eklektic Jewelry Studio

m@eklekticjewelrystudio.com