What Materials Can Be Used for Custom Jewelry?
Quick answer
What fits depends on your design, budget, target market, how the piece should look and how long it needs to last. We work in 925 silver and gold across karats — 9K, 14K and 18K — plus lab-grown diamonds, and we'll match the specification to your specific product and project rather than a one-size default.
Metals we work with
Each metal carries different cost, weight and character. The same design in different metals is a different product. Gold can also be specified in lower karats such as 9K for cost-sensitive pieces or a target market's convention:
925 sterling silver
The affordable workhorse — the lowest material cost, ideal for first samples and budget lines.
14K gold
The balance of durability, value and cost — the most common choice for pieces that must last.
18K gold
Higher gold content, richer color and higher material cost — chosen for premium and heirloom pieces.
Stones
Lab-grown diamonds are available as a stone option for suitable designs. Stone choice affects price by tier and count — every set stone is bench time.
How material choice affects your product
- Cost — metal price-per-gram times weight, plus stones
- Weight — the same design carries very different heft in silver vs gold
- Appearance — color, warmth and finish differ by alloy
- Durability — hardness and wear behavior vary by metal
Material questions, answered
What metals can you work with?+
925 sterling silver and gold in 9K, 14K or 18K, with lab-grown diamonds available as a stone option for suitable designs.
How does material choice affect cost?+
Metal price-per-gram times weight is the base of the cost. Gold carries a far higher material cost than silver, and stone choice multiplies price by tier and count.
How does material affect weight and feel?+
A chunky gold piece carries several times the metal weight of a silver piece in the same design — weight is the silent cost and feel factor.
Which material should I choose?+
It depends on your design, target market, budget and durability requirements. We confirm the right specification for your specific product.
Is a lab-grown diamond a real diamond?+
Yes — it is chemically and physically identical to a mined diamond, with the same crystal structure and hardness. It is not a simulant such as moissanite, cubic zirconia or glass.
Can I choose the diamond's specifications — color, clarity and cut?+
Yes. Tell us your priorities at the quote stage — we source stones to your specification and price the options for your project.
Related reading
Choose the right material for your design.
Send your idea and we will confirm the material specification that fits your design, budget and market.