What to Expect When You Commission a Piece of Bespoke Jewellery

There's a moment that happens in our Frodsham shop — usually about ten minutes into a conversation — when someone's eyes light up. They've just realised that the piece they've been imagining, the one they couldn't quite find anywhere, is actually possible. That it can be made. For them.

That moment is why we love bespoke commissions.

At Les Harris Jewellers, we've been creating bespoke pieces since 1969. Over more than fifty years, we've made engagement rings that told love stories, memorial pendants that held a lifetime of meaning, and anniversary gifts that left people speechless. Every single one started the same way: with a conversation.

Here's what to expect when you commission a piece with us.

It starts with a chat — no pressure, no jargon

The first step is simply coming in. You don't need a fully formed idea, a sketch, or a budget figure. You just need a sense of what you're after — even if that's just a feeling.

We'll ask questions. What's the occasion? Who is it for? What metals and stones do you love? Is there a style you're drawn to — classic, contemporary, something in between? Do you have a budget in mind?

We listen without judgement. We've heard every kind of brief, from the beautifully specific ("I want a ring with my grandmother's sapphire, set in yellow gold, with a twisted band") to the wonderfully vague ("I want something that feels like her"). Both are fine starting points.

The design process

Once we understand what you're after, our craftsmen get to work on a design. We'll sketch options, discuss materials, and refine the concept until it feels exactly right.

You'll see and approve every detail before any work begins. The metal, the stone, the setting, the finish — nothing is left to chance or assumption. If something doesn't feel right, we change it. This is your piece; it has to be perfect.

For more complex commissions, we may produce a wax model so you can see and hold the shape before it's cast in metal. It's one of those small steps that makes a big difference.

The making

This is where the magic happens — though we'd call it craft rather than magic.

Our jewellers work by hand using techniques that haven't changed much in centuries. Metal is shaped, soldered, set and polished with patience and precision. Stones are selected for quality and character, not just specification.

We'll keep you updated as the piece progresses. Most commissions take between four and eight weeks, depending on complexity — though we'll always give you a realistic timeframe at the outset.

The moment it's yours

When your piece is ready, we'll invite you in to collect it in person. There's something about that first moment of seeing and holding the finished piece — something we never get tired of witnessing.

If it's a gift, we'll make sure the presentation is as special as the piece itself.

A few things people often ask

**How much does a bespoke commission cost?** It varies enormously depending on the materials and complexity. We work with all budgets and will always be honest about what's achievable within yours. The best thing to do is come in and have a chat.

**Can you incorporate an existing stone or piece of jewellery?** Absolutely. Remodelling a family heirloom or setting a stone that's been passed down is one of our favourite kinds of commission.

**What if I'm not sure what I want?** That's completely fine. We're good at helping people find their way to an idea. Come in, browse, and let's talk.

If you've been thinking about a bespoke piece — for yourself, for someone you love, or for a moment that deserves something permanent — we'd love to hear from you.

Come and start your bespoke commission at Les Harris Jewellers