Custom Work FAQ

I’m so thrilled you’re interested in commissioning a custom piece of jewellery from me! I love creating jewellery that celebrates your milestones, tells your story, or captures a special memory. One of my favourite parts of custom work is incorporating hidden meanings and symbolism that make each piece completely unique to you.

I often get questions about what kind of commission work I create and how the process works, so I’ve put together some of the most frequently asked questions below.

 

What kind of custom work do you create?

I carefully select the custom work I take on so that each piece fits within my unique style and aesthetic. I recommend browsing through my shop and portfolio first to get a feel for my work and see if we might be a good fit.

Creating variations of designs I’ve already made is one of my favourite types of commissions! Whether it’s changing a gemstone, adding a personal detail, or creating a new version inspired by an existing piece, I love building on ideas that already feel connected to my work.

one of a kind sterling silver dragonfly earrings

custom made one of a kind dragonfly earrings with peridot gemstones

One-of-a-kind "Dragonfly Dance" earrings vs custom made variation with peridot gemstones instead of flowers.

I found a piece of jewellery online… will you remake it for me?

No — I don’t copy other artist’s designs. If you love another artist’s work, I encourage you to support them!

However, if you find something inspiring about a piece you’ve seen, I’d be happy to chat about what you’re drawn to and explore how we can create something new and unique that captures the feeling or inspiration behind it.

 

How long does custom work take?

Custom pieces typically take 6–8 weeks to complete.

Please note that custom orders are closed from October–December due to my busy holiday show season.

How much does custom work cost?

The cost of custom work varies depending on the complexity of the design, materials, and time involved.

Custom pieces require extra time for designing, discussing ideas, sourcing materials, and creating the final piece. As a general guideline, you can expect custom work to be approximately 20% more than a comparable piece already listed in my shop.

Once we settle on the design, I require a 50% non-refundable deposit before beginning work.

What materials do you work in?

The majority of my work is created in traditional .925 sterling silver or .935 Argentium sterling silver. I also create pieces in solid karat gold.

Can you melt down my old gold?

I’m not currently set up to reuse heirloom gold in entire pieces. When old gold is melted down without being professionally refined to remove impurities, it can become brittle and more prone to issues like discoloration and pitting.

However, I love the sentimentality behind incorporating older jewellery. Sometimes I’m able to use a small amount of heirloom gold as an accent or meaningful detail within a larger piece.

Silver Marigold leaf pendant with small accents of yellow gold

one of a kind "through the garden gate" pendant ins sterling silver and 10k gold

Custom made sterling silver and 10k gold pendant

 These pendants are all examples where I have small accents of 10k or 14k yellow gold.

The Custom Process

1. Get in touch!

Reach out to me through my contact form or email and let’s start the conversation. It’s helpful to include any sketches, and links or screenshots of pieces from my website shop or portfolio pages that you’re especially drawn to.

It’s also helpful to include your budget and timeline in your first email so we can make sure we’re a good fit from the beginning.

2. Design & planning

If it looks like we’re a good fit, I’ll create a few sketches with approximate pricing. We’ll refine the ideas together until we land on a design you’re excited about.

3. Creating your piece

Once the design is finalized, I’ll send an invoice for the 50% non-refundable deposit. Payment can be made by e-transfer or credit card.

Once I receive the deposit, I’ll begin creating your piece. Custom work typically takes 6–8 weeks to complete. I often share behind-the-scenes progress on my Instagram stories (@melissapedersen) , so feel free to follow along as your piece comes to life!

4. The finishing touches

Once your jewellery is complete, I’ll photograph it for my portfolio, let you know it’s finished, and send along the final invoice.

After the remaining balance is paid, we’ll arrange pickup (if you’re in the Calgary area) or shipping (which includes tracking and insurance).

Then it’s time for you to take home and enjoy your one-of-a-kind piece of jewellery!