Once upon a time before mass manufacturing became widespread, products were meticulously handmade by skilled artisans and other trade professions. While the modern era has made many goods more accessible to everyone, it is undeniable that product quality suffered as a result. What’s more, most brick and mortar stores simply cannot stock every size and color variation, limiting one’s scope of choices.

At William Barthman, we wholeheartedly believe in artisan talent and traditions such as goldsmithing and lapidary. For that reason, we only carry brands who prioritize hand making their pieces. Not only does this raise the standards of quality control, but ensures a more sustainable process due to a more limited supply quantity.

While those factors certainly add to the allure of luxury goods, you as the buyer still lack control of many aesthetic details of your piece. That’s precisely where bespoke designing shines—from sketch to final product, you have a direct impact on the entire process. This is especially important for milestone gifts, such as engagement rings, wedding bands, or other items of high sentimental value.

Before and After turning extra pearls from a necklace into trendy paperclip earrings

We are lucky enough to have a truly excellent master jeweler, as well as a network of other designers, suppliers and jewelry professionals who can translate your wildest ideas into the perfect gift for any occasion. Here are 10 reasons to commission a custom design today:

1. A unique statement—The personalization market is only growing in popularity, so help someone stand out with jewelry thoughtfully created just for them.
2. More options—As with most ready-to-wear companies, products that are easily available are made to appeal to groups of clients, large or small. With a custom-designed piece, the wearer can break free of conventional choices and express their individuality.
3. Meaningful designs—Much like the friendship bracelets we made for each other as children, custom-designed jewelry allows you to present something that’s tailored to the recipient’s personal style and your bond with them.
4. Exclusivity—Due to the intricate nature and involvement of the custom design process, each piece requires individual attention and care, a rarity compared to mass-produced items. This elevates the value of the jewelry, and imbues the wearer with a sense of exclusivity. It is truly a one-of-a-kind luxury.
5. Expert craftsmanship—Custom designs can be rather complicated to execute, and typically require an experienced hand to turn ideas into reality. Our master jeweler has been making dreams come true for over 30 years, so expect nothing but the highest level of skill and detail for any project you can imagine.
6. Ethical and sustainable sourcing—By truncating the supply chain through which you receive your gift, you are more able to monitor that your jeweler follows ethical and sustainable sourcing practices. At William Barthman, we are committed to upholding the Kimberley Process, a zero tolerance policy against conflict or “blood” diamonds, and only work with suppliers who follow the same stringent compliances.
7. Shared legacy—Create modern heirlooms to pass down through generations, knowing that high quality, handmade pieces are crafted with materials that can survive through several lifetimes. Not only that, but the pieces themselves hold their own history, giving them a special significance as their stories are shared.
8. Memorable—Most of the time, custom-designed gifts are an unexpected and delightful surprise, so the receiver is sure to treasure the piece, as well as the emotions it evokes. This makes a truly unforgettable gifting experience!
9. Special occasions—Commemorate important dates such as birthdays, anniversaries, and milestones with a gift that fits the moment. Every little detail matters, whether it’s using their birthstone or a having a personal message engraved on the pieces.
10. Support small and/or local businesses—Since 1884, William Barthman has been a family-owned NYC mainstay for luxury jewelry, timepieces and fine gifts. Although we now have two locations and a new family at the helm, we are still fully committed to serving the greater New York community.

Before, During and After a pendant was converted to a unique ring

If you or someone you know is considering custom jewelry design, we invite you to book a free consultation with our service department to kickstart the process. Following the initial discussion, our team will present next steps, including what will be handled internally, or if specialized materials need to be sourced.

Additionally, many of our existing brands offer the ability to special order or modification options. If you find something in store or on our website that you would love in a different metal or with an alternative stone, please inquire with one of knowledgeable sales professionals for further information.

Custom designing is just one of the many services we are able to offer clients. Visit our jewelry and watch repair pages to discover how we can help maintain your existing pieces. We look forward to your next visit!