From Brushstroke to Bench
Bespoke fine jewellery as personal as the story it tells, for today's modern muse
The magic of jewellery lies in its power to capture the essence of who you are - your loves, your dreams, your defining moments. Whether you're reimagining a treasured heirloom or creating something entirely new, your bespoke piece will be as unique as your fingerprint, crafted with the same artistic vision that flows from my paintbrush to my jeweller's bench.
Planning something special? For engagement rings, wedding bands, and eternity rings, explore our dedicated Wedding & Engagement service - specially designed for life's most precious moments.
Why Choose Bespoke with Katherine Elder?
Artistic Heritage Meets Modern Craft
With over a decade as a practicing artist and five years perfecting my goldsmithing craft, I bring a painter's eye for beauty and a master craftsperson's precision to every piece.
Your Story, Perfectly Told
Every modern muse deserves jewellery that reflects her authentic self. I don't just create jewellery - I create personal talismans that speak your language.
London's Historic Hatton Garden Excellence
I personally handcraft your pieces in my studio, collaborating with master specialists in London's Hatton Garden only for techniques requiring their particular expertise - stone setting, engraving, or intricate casting.
Exclusive Attention
I only take on 4-5 bespoke commissions per month, ensuring your piece receives my complete focus and artistic dedication.
The Bespoke Journey: Your Story Unfolds
1. Discovery Consultation (Week 1)
Complimentary 60-minute session - in person or virtual
This is where magic begins. We'll explore your vision, lifestyle, and the story you want your piece to tell. I'll understand your aesthetic preferences, discuss timeline and investment, and identify any sentimental elements to incorporate.
What to expect: Inspiration boards, initial sketches, material discussions, and a clear project roadmap.
2. Design & Artistic Rendering (Weeks 2-3)
Where brushstroke meets vision
The design approach depends on your brief and the complexity of your piece. For intricate or high-value commissions, I create hand-painted watercolor renderings to help you visualize the final piece. For projects where you have clear reference images or simpler designs, we may work directly from sketches or inspiration images to keep costs focused on the craftsmanship itself.
Included: Design concepts tailored to your project's needs, detailed specifications, and refined timeline with final investment quote.
3. Gemstone Selection (Week 4)
Choosing your perfect stones
Whether you prefer to personally select from curated options or trust my expert eye, every gemstone is chosen for its beauty, quality, and harmony with your design.
Options: Private viewing appointments available, or leave selection to my expertise.
4. Hand-Crafted Creation (Weeks 4-12)
From bench to brilliance
Your piece comes to life in my studio, where I personally handcraft each element using traditional goldsmithing techniques. For specialised skills like intricate stone setting or engraving, I collaborate with master craftspeople in London's historic Hatton Garden, but I oversee every detail to ensure it meets both your vision and my artistic standards.
Progress updates: Regular updates throughout the creation process.
5. The Unveiling
Your moment of magic
Your finished piece arrives in signature Katherine Elder packaging, complete with care instructions, authenticity certificate, and a detailed story card about your unique creation.
Investment & Timeline
Timeline: 8-12 weeks (Rush orders possible with 4-week minimum)
Starting Investment: £1,500+ depending on materials and complexity (I focus on gold pieces that truly showcase the artistry involved)
Payment Options: 50% deposit, 50% on completion
For special occasions or tight deadlines, please mention this in your consultation request - I've been known to work miracles when inspiration strikes!
FAQs
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I recommend 3 months for special occasions, though I can work with shorter timelines. My books fill 2/3 months ahead, especially during engagement and holiday seasons.
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Perfect! Some of my most stunning pieces began with just a feeling or inspiration. My artistic background helps translate emotions and stories into tangible beauty.
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Absolutely. Transforming heirlooms into modern treasures is one of my specialties - it's like giving your family stories a contemporary voice.
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Everything. Your initial consultation, design concepts, and my expertise are complimentary. You only invest when you're completely thrilled with the design.
Ready to Begin Your Bespoke Journey?
Your story deserves to be told in gold, silver, and precious stones. Let's create something as extraordinary as you are.
Still Exploring?
View Our Bespoke Gallery - See the magic we've created for other modern muses
Read Our Journal - Discover the stories behind our most treasured pieces
Follow the Process - Watch bespoke pieces come to life on Instagram
KIND WORDS
“Katherine created a stunning gold and emerald necklace for my wife’s birthday. Commissioning a piece of jewellery can be daunting but Katherine made the whole process easy and enjoyable. She guided me through the design process, ensuring we crafted something perfectly suited to my other half’s tastes. Katherine’s concept sketches helped me imagine the piece and decide between designs. Communication was brilliant, conveying how different metal and gemstone options would affect the price. I was thrilled with the result and, more importantly, so was my wife! The necklace is elegant, beautiful and one of a kind. I’d be delighted to work with Katherine again.”
Tim Checkley
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