Our Process

Lauren Ramirez specializes in custom jewelry and heirloom repurposing. She prides herself on close collaboration with clients to create their desired designs. Whether you have a family ring you’d like to modify, old jewelry to repurpose, or an idea to realize, we can help. 

Getting Started

To start the conversation about a new project, we ask that you book one of four types of appointments:

Stone Curation + Consultation

This 45 minute appointment includes a design conception discussion, a chance to view different materials and metal options, and the opportunity to view and choose from a curated selection of stones. During this appointment, we will also discuss any applicable model fee. We suggest booking this type of appointment is you have a firm idea of your budget and a collection of images of styles and designs you admire. The cost of this appointment is $150. This fee covers our time and gives us the flexibility to curate an array of materials, metals, and available stones for you to view and choose from during your appointment. This fee is non-refundable and does not apply to your final project. To book an appointment click here.

Jewelry Repurposing Consultation 

This 15-30 minute appointment gives you the opportunity to discuss your visions for repurposing stones or sentimental material you currently own. We welcome all fine metals (gold, platinum, and palladium) and stones. During this appointment, we will also discuss your budget and any applicable model fee. We ask that you bring any materials that you are interested in using to this appointment. There is no fee for this type of appointment. To book an appointment click here.

Wedding Band Consultation

This 15-30 minute appointment gives you the opportunity to discuss your ideas and look at a selection of wedding band samples. During this appointment, we will also discuss your budget and any applicable model fees. There is no fee for this appointment. To book an appointment click here.

Quick Consultation 

During this 15 minute appointment, you will learn about available materials and budget options. Samples and loose stones will not be available to view. If you are unsure of your budget, don’t have a firm idea of what styles you are most attracted to or would be most conducive to your lifestyle, or have general questions, we suggest booking this type of appointment first. There is no fee for this type of appointment. To book an appointment click here.

Creating a Model

As a part of our process with custom projects, we create a 3D model of your desired design out of silver or wax before starting on the final piece. You will have the opportunity to view the model in person, try it on, and request any modifications if needed. Our turnaround time for creating a model is typically 2-3 weeks. Once a model has been approved, we will take a deposit for half of the cost of your project and move forward with creating your final piece.  Our model fees range from $150 to $300 depending on the complexity of your design. This fee covers the cost of our time, the material used to create the model, and any CAD renderings or mockups needed. This fee is non-refundable and does not apply to your final project.

Finalizing Your Piece

Once you have approved a model and paid the 50% deposit (or total if above 20k) to start your final piece, the process moves fairly quickly. When your piece is ready to be picked up, we will email you to schedule a time for you to stop by the shop. If you are not local to the Raleigh area, will be happy to ship you your piece at no additional cost. When you come to pick up your final piece, you will be asked to pay your remaining balance. We are also happy to include a formal receipt for your purchase upon request. This can be used for insurance purposes. Should you need any sizing adjustments or modifications throughout the lifetime of your piece, please let us know. If you are gifting a piece of our jewelry or are having an engagement ring made and do not want to ruin the surprise, we are happy to make sizing adjustments after the piece has been gifted at no extra cost. 

If you have any additional questions about our process, please visit our Terms + FAQs page or email us at quercusraleigh@gmail.com.