How to price a custom jewellery piece: a simple breakdown
Pricing a custom piece is easier when you break it into parts. Each part has its own cost, and you add them up before applying your margin.
The cost parts
- Metal: the weight from the CAD model, plus an allowance for casting loss, at the current metal price.
- Stones: the main stone and any side stones.
- Design and CAD: the cost of the model and renders. See CAD pricing.
- Casting and printing: the casting house's charges.
- Setting: the setter's labour, higher for pavé and micro settings.
- Finishing: polishing, plating and hallmarking.
- Extras: packaging, certificates, shipping and insurance.
Margin
Add your margin to cover your time, overheads and profit. Check that the result is a fair price for the customer and the piece.
Get weight from the model
CAD can give the volume of the model, which gives a close estimate of metal weight before casting. This helps you quote with confidence. Ask your designer for the volume.
Share a clear quote
Tell the customer what is included, what could change the price (such as the stone) and how long it will take.
Frequently asked questions
Can CAD tell me the metal weight?
It gives the volume, and the weight follows from the metal's density. Ask for an estimate, and confirm with your caster.
Should I include the CAD cost in the price?
Yes, since it is a real cost, especially for one-off custom designs.
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