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There are many variables that go into estimating the cost of a custom piece: size and shape of the stone, the wire in which it is to be wrapped; in Copper, Sterling Silver or 14kt Gold Fill wire, etc. In the most general of terms, for pendants and rings I usually charge somewhere between $50 and $100 for a custom piece where the customer provides the stone.
The best way to get a fairly accurate estimate is for you to take digital pictures of the stone(s) and e-mail them to me. For each stone a picture that shows the front, the back and a side shot that shows the depth of the stone will be important. Additionally, if you can have something in the picture to give scale, such as a ruler will be very helpful. With these pictures I can get as close as possible to the effect of holding the stone in my hands, which is how I would be evaluating it in person.
Once the pictures have been received, I can give you a fairly close estimate. If that estimate is agreeable to you, then you would ship the stone to me, the US Postal Service Priority Mail is a good method but you could also use UPS or FedEx Ground as well. For that matter, you could send it first class in a padded envelope for a lower charge; it will just take a few more days to get to me.
After I receive it I will examine the stone in person and e-mail you to either confirm the original estimate or give you a revision. If you agree to the estimate we will arrange for payment and I will commence the project. I can usually return the finished piece within a week.
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