Many web sites and TV shopping programs advertise "designer jewelry", "custom design jewelry", "handmade jewelry", "handcrafted jewelry", or "custom made jewelry". Often, these pieces are not truly one of a kind or "custom" made".

Instead, they are created from molds, manufactured and created many times in various metals and gemstones. It may be jewelry that is assembled from various parts like beads, clasps and findings and made from components where the gemstones are glued into pre made ring, bracelet and pendant settings.

That isn't to say that these pieces can't be beautiful and carefully made, they just aren't unique and, often, thousands of like pieces are made and sold.

To be considered "custom jewelry design", the piece can only be created one time. It is based on the jewelry designer's creativity and the customer's vision. The finished piece is further enhanced by the fine tuned skills of the jewelry artist.

"Handcrafted", "handmade" and "custom made" jewelry is often a term used to promote sales of jewelry which is actually manufactured in large runs and thousands of identical pieces are sold.

A custom design is an original, it complements the wearer's unique and personal style.

Creating these unique designs starts with a customer's ideas, their choice of metal and gemstone(s), their preference for a design style and their desire to have an original piece of wearable art.

The jeweler uses her artistry and experience in design and craftsmanship to interpret and transform a vision into a unique piece of wearable art.

These are one of a kind, individually designed pieces of designer jewelry handmade with uniquely cut stones.