Our REMODELLING Process
Turning an old fashioned heirloom into a modern day treasure.
Step 1 - Consultation
Old-cut diamond family cross pendant
We start with a personal consultation at our Shoreditch Showroom.
We don’t charge for these and we are also very happy to arrange Zoom or phone meetings upon request. Here we will talk through your vision for the piece, thoughts, ideas, timings and begin to define a brief. Starting with what makes the original piece special. It might be that some parts of it are more significant than others. Is it the stone(s), metal or a particular shape that you like to use in the new piece?
Most often, it’s the stones that people want to re-use. Finding a way to give a nod to the original piece is almost always our priority, however subtle that may be.
Step 2 - Design
We start to form your ideas into a design draft and fine tune the ideas and direction, teasing out all the tiny details.
This may be sketches or reference imagery so you can see a strong visual of the direction. The design process comes out of a collaboration between the individual/couple and ourselves to define whether they want an extreme change from the original piece or a more subtle approach.
Giving a new new lease of life to something just a little tired or old fashioned is something we thrive off. This is also where we would source any extra stones for the design if needed.
At this stage we provide an accurate cost for the bespoke piece alongside the costs of any additional stones and agree the timeline. If additional stones are chosen at this stage we take payment for the stones themselves in full to secure it.
Please note we do not work with lab grown diamonds.
Step 3 - CAD
The next stage in the process is CAD (computer aided design).
Here we show you a digital mock-up of your design and create a 3D print so you are able to try it on and get a true sense of proportions and feel. We can make any adjustments to the design before moving on to the next stage.
At this stage we request a 50% deposit for the bespoke piece. Once funds are received we can get started making it for you.
Step 4 - Workshop
We pride ourselves on our invaluable connections with hand-picked, trusted goldsmiths, lapidaries, engravers, pearl stringers and watchmakers, all of whom we look upon as an extension of our own team. Every item of Bear Brooksbank bespoke jewellery is either made or restored to the highest standard in Hatton Garden, London’s world famous jewellery quarter. We have worked with the same highly skilled goldsmiths since the brand launched in 2012.
We usually ask for 4-8 weeks for the actual making of your piece, and the whole process from start to finish takes approx 3 months. For a shorter timeline please do ask as we will always do our best to accommodate where possible.
Step 5 - your finished piece
Diamond flush-set five-stone 18ct yellow gold Gypsy rings, made using diamonds from the cross pendant.
The really exciting bit when all the hard work comes together.
Once we’ve checked every part of your piece and made sure everything is perfect, we will invite you to come and collect from our showroom. Any items belonging to you that weren’t used in the new piece will be returned to you at the same time.
On collection we make sure you are 100% happy with everything, and we will explain and provide care instructions to keep your piece looking its best. This is when the outstanding balance is settled. For out of town clients, shipping is arranged.
We also offer a full bespoke service if you’re starting from scratch.