Not always. The cost of a custom piece depends on your choice of materials, gemstones, and the complexity of the design. In many cases, custom jewelry is comparable in price to ready-made pieces. At Reis-Nichols, we work with you to create a piece that fits your style and budget without sacrificing quality.
Top-tier Custom Design Jewelry in Indianapolis
Top-tier Custom Design Jewelry in Indianapolis
Bring Your Vision to Life at Reis-Nichols Jewelers
At Reis-Nichols Jewelers in Indianapolis, we believe that the most meaningful and loved jewelry is the kind you create yourself. Whether you’re dreaming of a one-of-a-kind engagement ring, redesigning a cherished heirloom, or crafting a unique statement piece, our custom jewelry design services turn imagination into reality. Our in-house team of award-winning designers and master jewelers works closely with you through every step of the process. From your initial inspiration to the final polish, we make sure every detail reflects your personal style, story, and sentiment. Discover our custom design process below, or fill out our Custom Design Inquiry & Consultation Form to start your journey today.
Concept
Creation
Concept
Creation
Our Proven Custom Jewelry Design Process
At Reis‑Nichols Jewelers, our custom jewelry design process is thoughtfully crafted to make your vision shine—from idea to treasured heirloom. Here's how it unfolds:
Concept
Creation
1. Imagine & Inspiration
Gather inspiration—browse our custom design portfolio, search Pinterest or Instagram, or sketch your idea. Not sure where to begin? Our seasoned designers, with decades of experience, guide you every step of the way.
2. Design
Meet with our expert team during a free consultation to share your vision and budget. Our goal: translate your inspiration into a detailed, personalized sketch.
3. Transform
Approve your sketch and we’ll create a 3D CAD rendering—you’ll get a complete view of size, proportion, and sparkle. Next, try on a wax model for fit and comfort.
4. Treasure
Once you give the green light, our master artisans cast your piece in premium gold, platinum, or silver and set your chosen gemstones. After careful finishing, we'll unveil your stunning custom creation in-store.
Crafting: The Art Behind Every Custom Piece
In‑House Workshop
Our Keystone location (over 12,000 sq. ft.) includes a dedicated on-site custom shop, with at least a dozen expert artisans actively working, and is visible from our showroom floor. Additionally, Greenwood has an in-house workshop with tenured expert jewelers. This transparency not only reflects our century‑long legacy of manufacturing, but also builds trust by exhibiting the craftsmanship in real time.
Wax Prototyping & CAD Precision
Following your 3D CAD approval, we translate digital designs into a wax prototype, either hand-carved or 3D printed. This tangible preview lets you feel the form and proportion exactly—a step our customers repeatedly praise when designing custom rings or heirlooms.
Traditional Lost-Wax Casting at Work
Inside our workshop, skilled artisans perform lost-wax casting using premium metals including gold, platinum, and silver. This refined process ensures every ring or pendant exhibits crisp lines, durable structure, and unmatched detail.
Precision Assembly & Hand Stone Setting
Once cast, pieces are assembled and gemstones precisely set—whether prong, bezel, pavé, or channel settings—to elevate both security and sparkle. Every cut and every polish is handled by certified expert jewelers committed to fine workmanship.
Finishing Touches & Final QA
Final polishing and finishing transform your piece into a wearable heirloom, delivered with optional in-house engraving or special texturing. Each creation undergoes meticulous quality inspection and is held to the highest standards before leaving our workshops.
Delivering Your Vision
Last, but certainly not least, is delivering your custom jewelry piece! One of the most exciting milestones in our custom design experience is sharing this moment with you. The anticipation is over and you finally have the piece in-hand, ready to be worn or gifted. Seeing the concept to creation is just part of the magic in the process of custom design, and it continues as it leaves our workshop, starting it's next chapter as a new jewelry piece, brought to life by your vision.
Authentic. In-House. Uniquely Yours.
Explore a curated collection of original, handcrafted jewelry designs—each piece a reflection of bold creativity and refined craftsmanship. Every creation in this portfolio is imagined, designed, and brought to life in-house, showcasing the exceptional artistry that defines our work.
Discover how custom design becomes timeless expression.
Why Choose Reis-Nichols for Custom Jewelry in Indianapolis?
Over 100 years of fine jewelry heritage and expertise
On-site custom design studio with CAD technology
GIA-certified gemologists and expert jewelers
Competitive pricing — custom jewelry can often cost less than expected
Personal service from concept to completion
Create Something Truly Personal
Custom jewelry is more than a gift or accessory — it’s a reflection of your individuality, your love story, or your most important moments. Whether you're designing a custom engagement ring, a unique anniversary pendant, or a modern take on a family heirloom, Reis-Nichols offers a memorable and meaningful design experience that’s as special as the piece you’ll wear.
Start your custom jewelry journey in Indianapolis today. Visit Reis-Nichols Jewelers or schedule a consultation with our design experts. Let’s bring your perfect piece to life.
Common Questions about Custom Designing Jewelry
Does custom design jewelry cost more?
How long does custom designing jewelry take?
The timeline varies depending on the design and scope of the project. On average, custom jewelry can take anywhere from 4 to 8 weeks from consultation to completion. This allows time for design sketches, CAD renderings, wax models (if needed), and the final creation of your piece. We’ll keep you updated every step of the way.
Do custom design jewelry pieces retain value?
Yes. Custom jewelry retains value just like traditional fine jewelry, especially when crafted with high-quality materials and natural diamonds. In fact, a custom piece often holds sentimental value that goes far beyond the financial investment, becoming a cherished heirloom for generations.
Have a Question?
Connect with a Reis-Nichols team member at your convenience for further assistance.
