Concierge-style jeweler, wholesale jeweler, bench jeweler…what do these descriptive phrases mean how do they apply to me you ask?  Let me elaborate on my process at Nicole Compton Jewelry.  I describe myself as a concierge-style jeweler because I do not own a traditional brick and mortar jewelry store.  I do not have showcases filled with inventory for you to peruse when you visit with me.  I treat every client as a custom jewelry project.  How is that different from a wholesale jeweler?  Do I actually manufacture the jewelry?  Let me answer those questions and more.

What is a wholesale jeweler?  A true wholesale jeweler is someone who only sells to people within the jewelry trade.  This means whomever is buying from a wholesale jeweler is buying in order to resell to the end consumer (retail transaction.)  This is a sore spot with me…if someone is telling you they are wholesale to the public then they are not being completely transparent.  I don’t care for that kind of misinformation because we are all buying diamonds at the same price and it is misleading to the client.  Be honest, most of us in the jewelry industry are selling diamonds amongst each other (wholesale) and to end consumers (retail) the way we price diamonds and jewelry depends on who we are selling to.  99% of my transactions are retail but I am able to sell at a more discounted price than international retailer…the blue box you know…because I have lower overhead than most.  I don’t think it is wrong for those retailers to charge more, of course not, we live in a world dependent on capitalism.  That capitalism is dependent on global marketing that created brand recognition.  Someone has to absorb that cost and it is the end consumer.  This is true in ALL recognizable products not just jewelry stores!  So, there you go, my take on “wholesale to the public.” …steps off soapbox…

Do I actually manufacture the jewelry?  No.  I have a deep desire to learn how to repair and manufacture jewelry.  I think it’s a fascinating combination of an engineer’s mind and an artist’s mind and let me tell you a truly gifted bench jeweler is BOTH!  I use an amazing bench jeweler that I have known for the last 10 years and friends she is both.  I work with a gentleman who has been using CAD for over 30 years.  I’ll talk more about CAD in jewelry design more in a separate post but there are a lot of designers out there using this platform without a knowledge base of what will be structurally sound for jewelry.  Having access team of experts who have a combined 60 years of experience in designing and manufacturing jewelry is something for which I am not worthy.  I believe surrounding yourself with those who exceed your abilities and then listening to their advice is the key to success!

So, what is my process?  I am so glad you asked!  Let me break it down for you

1. Initial Consultation - It starts with the initial contact be it a phone call, e-mail, social media contact, etc.  I am going to ask you some questions about your project, your timeline and your budget.  Once I have a good understanding of your expectations.  I start my own research mission seeking out the very best gemstones, jewelry, designs to present to you.

2. Design Meeting - Once I have done all my research and have curated a sample within your expressed parameters we meet.  This is where I can be completely flexible and accommodating.  I can meet you at your home, office, invite you to my office, etc.  Whatever is most efficient for you.

3. Manufacturing - Once we make decisions on design and gemstones we can start the manufacturing process beginning with a CAD model.  You will be able to approve and/or make changes based on this rendering before the actual manufacturing begins.  Once the rendering is approved we begin to make the ring.  A custom project, depending on the complexity, should take anywhere from 2-6 weeks.

4. Delivery!  Smiles all around!!! 

I am so honored to be able to work with each and every client on their jewelry needs be it an engagement, celebration of a birthday or anniversary, or a just because it’s Wednesday type gift.  Thank you for allowing me to be a part of your special moments!

xoxo,Nicole