Jewellery Remodelling & Custom Design
You’re not just looking for jewellery — you’re searching for something that holds meaning. A memory, a milestone, a moment captured in metal and stone.
Whether it’s a redesigned heirloom, jewellery you no longer wear, a bespoke engagement ring, or a talisman that reflects your story, I’m here to help you bring that vision to life.
Your story. My hands. One deeply considered piece.
Every HerbertandWilks custom design is a collaboration.
Repurposing What You Hold Dear
What’s sitting in your jewellery box right now?
Have old silver or gold, inherited gemstones, or a piece you no longer wear but can’t part with? Let’s give it new life.
Gold: I can melt and credit it toward your new piece, although it won’t necessarily be reused in its original form.
Gemstones: If they’re in good condition, I can often reset them. I’ll assess them carefully and let you know what’s possible.
For fragile or especially valuable stones, I will work with a trusted gemstone-setting specialist to ensure your gemstones receive the utmost care.
Your Journey, Crafted Together
It all starts with a conversation. We'll talk about what matters most to you — a person, a place, a feeling — and explore how to translate that into form and texture. From there, I'll sketch, source, and shape your ideas into something you can hold.
You don't need to arrive with the answers — just a spark. Together, we'll shape the piece into something truly personal.
Gemstones: Chosen With Care
Most custom pieces involve sourcing stones specifically for you. I work with a small group of New Zealand-based trusted suppliers.
Depending on the style of the commissioned piece, when involving gemstones, it’s likely I’ll collaborate with a professional stone setter to ensure the highest level of precision and care in your finished piece.
Metals: Finding the Right Fit
Not sure whether to choose gold, silver, bronze, or platinum? I'll guide you through your options — taking into account durability, colour, care, and what suits your lifestyle best.
You can also explore my Precious Metals Blog to learn more about the characteristics of each metal I offer.
Starting From Scratch?
You don’t need to have existing jewellery to work with me. If you have an idea for something completely new, we can start there too.
Alternative Engagement & Custom Wedding Rings
Your love is one of a kind — your rings should be too. Whether you already have a vision or need guidance from the ground up, we'll design something that reflects your bond, your values, and your style.
Classic or alternative, bold or symbolic — this is your story told in metal and stone.
What the Custom Design Process Looks Like
Every piece begins with you — your story, your ideas, your why. Here’s what you can expect when we work together:
1. Start with a Conversation
Book a free, no-obligation 30-minute consultation.
We’ll talk about your vision — whether it’s fully formed or just a feeling. You don’t need to have it all figured out.
2. Concept & Design
I’ll sketch or model ideas and help you choose materials that align with your aesthetic and budget.
We’ll work together to refine the design until it feels just right.
3. Quote & Deposit
Once the design is finalised, I’ll provide a clear quote.
A 60% deposit is required to begin crafting your piece, with the balance due before delivery or collection.
4. Crafting Your Piece
This is where your story starts to take shape.
Depending on your design, I may use a mix of techniques — from ancient methods like sandcasting and lost-wax carving, to modern CAD design and traditional hand fabrication.
Each piece is made thoughtfully, using the process — or combination of processes — best suited to the design, the materials and the meaning behind it.
If your custom design involves gemstones, I often work with a trusted specialist stone setter to ensure they’re placed with precision and care.
Throughout the making process, I’ll keep you updated and involved, so the final piece feels not just made for you, but made with you.
5. Delivery
When your piece is ready, I’ll let you know.
It can be collected or safely shipped to you — ready to wear, gift and treasure.
Timeframes
Every custom design is different, so timing depends on design complexity and material sourcing. If you have a special date in mind, let me know early — I'll always do my best to meet it.
Payment
A 60% deposit is required to begin a commission, with the remaining balance due once your piece is complete.
I'm always upfront about costs, so there are no surprises.
Ready to Begin?
Let’s talk.
You can book your free 30-minute consultation below — there’s no pressure, just a conversation about what’s possible.
Or if you're not quite ready, send me a message via the contact form below.
Let's Make Something Special