Working with a jewelry manufacturer — from RFQ to delivery

A good request for quotation (RFQ) shortens everything that follows. Send visual references (sketches, photos, 3D files — ideally STL), the material and hallmark (925 silver, 585/750 gold, titanium), an estimated volume, the expected deadline and a budget or price range. The more specifics, the more accurate the quote. If something is unknown — say what is fixed and what is open. On this basis the manufacturer judges whether the project is feasible at your volume and price range.

In jewelry the price is split into metal and labour. The metal cost depends on the current raw-material price and the item’s weight, which is why offers often have limited validity (e.g. a few days) and are quoted net, on EXW terms. Labour covers design, casting, machining, plating and finishing. This stage also sets the one-off costs of the 3D model and prototype. A good offer clearly separates these items so you know what changes the price on future orders.

Before the run, a 3D model (CAD) and a visualisation are made for approval, and often a physical prototype or sample too. This is the key control moment: you check proportions, weight, finish and ergonomics on a real piece, make corrections and only then approve production. The approved sample becomes the reference standard for the whole batch — so it is worth describing and keeping it. This stage costs money but protects against the most expensive mistake: a whole run made not the way you wanted.

Once the sample is approved, real production starts: casting from the model, mechanical and CNC machining, assembly, any stone setting, plating (rhodium, gold) and hand finishing. In full in-house production all these stages happen under one roof, which shortens lead times and helps keep repeatability. The real production time depends on volume and complexity — a good manufacturer states it after the model is approved, not blindly on the first email.

Before dispatch the batch undergoes quality control against the approved standard: dimensions, weight, coating quality, engraving legibility and hallmarking. It is worth agreeing an acceptance protocol and permissible tolerances before production — then any complaint is simple and unambiguous. Finally, packaging (often already under your brand) and delivery on the agreed terms. A successful first collaboration is usually the start of steady, repeat orders.