The custom creation of a piece of jewelry is something we pride ourselves in at the J. Cotter Studio. Whether the piece is destined to be a gift, a promise, or a personal piece, we take pride in the work we co-create with our clients. As we embark on this creative journey together, we bring our tried and true knowledge and expertise to source the highest quality materials for your piece.
Step 1: Inspiration
What makes you inspired? Start collecting images and materials.
Many of our clients bring heirloom jewelry or stones from their personal collections to transform and bring new life into them.
Step 2: Consultation
Meet us at our studio at 663 Boulder St, Minturn, CO or set up a video meeting/phone call with us.
We will get your ring size, discuss gem options and the budget. We want to get to know you and clarify the next steps to design your personalized jewelry.
Step 3: Wax Prototype
We specialize in the lost wax casting method, meaning each Jim Cotter piece begins as an original wax design.
We will design a wax piece for you to try on and decide on any changes that you would like to make. Come into our studio or have it shipped directly to you. We want to be sure that you love your Custom Cotter.
Step 4: Casted and Set
When the design is finalized, we cast it into metal and set the stones.
Your jewelry is ready for you to see!
Frequently Asked Questions:
How long does it take?
While this depends on each piece, it typically takes 4-6 weeks after we confirm the design.
Do I need to come to the studio in person?
No, we can and have conducted custom jobs remotely. We can hold consultations over the phone or through a video call. We can also text or email photos to you throughout the process.
What is the average price range of a custom piece?
We work with a wide range of budgets and will work with you to find a fair price. Typically, customs start at $500 and increase depending on the materials used and time spent creating your piece.
Can I reuse gold and gemstones from my own collection?
Yes, absolutely! Whether you are repurposing heirloom jewelry, stones from your personal collection, or simply looking to reuse materials, we are happy to reincorporate silver, gold, and gemstones. We have also used our client’s ashes, bones, sand, and other found objects from our clients. Anything you can imagine, we are willing to get creative with you!
Are engravings available at J. Cotter?
Yes, engravings are an amazing way to add a heartfelt personal touch to your jewelry. We offer fully customizable fonts and styles.
How does the J. Cotter Gallery value sustainability?
As a small team, we do everything we can to practice sustainability. We use recycled metal in all of our work. We believe in provenance transparency. Cotter has a large collection of rare and unique stones he has collected over decades from close friends and professionals. Since 1998, the J. Cotter Gallery has worked to ensure ethically sourced diamonds and gemstones.
Do you offer lab-grown diamonds?
Yes, we offer a large selection of both lab-grown and natural gemstones.
How do I set up a consultation?
Send us an email at vail@jcottergallery.com. We are thrilled to do this together :)