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Frequently asked Questions
Here you will find some of the most frequently asked questions in the jewellery trade. If you have a question not covered here please get in touch with us directly at chrissimpsondesigns@gmail.com
Alternatively, feel free to book and appointment.
Popular Questions on Repairs
Do I need an appointment for a repair or resize?
No appointment is necessary for a quick look and assessment — just message to check we are in and bring your piece into the studio in Wimborne. If you would prefer a dedicated time with Chris, you can book a free workshop appointment online.
chrissimpsondesigns@gmail.com
How long does ring sizing take?
Ring sizing typically takes around 7 days. If you need it sooner, we can often arrange an expedited turnaround for an additional fee — just let us know when you bring the piece in.
What repairs do you carry out?
We carry out ring sizing, chain and bracelet repairs, stone replacement and re-tipping, rhodium plating for white gold, clasp repairs, and full restoration of older or damaged pieces. If you are unsure whether we can help, bring the piece in and we will take a look.
Can you repair antique or vintage jewellery?
Yes. Chris has over 30 years of experience working across every era and metal, and is well-used to the particular needs of older pieces. We approach antique and vintage work with extra care and will advise if a repair might affect the piece's character or value.
How long do repairs and restorations take?
Most repairs and restorations are completed within 14 days. More complex restoration work may take a little longer, and we will always agree a timescale with you before work begins.
Do you offer rhodium plating?
Yes. White gold loses its brightness over time as the rhodium plating wears. We re-plate white gold rings and other pieces to restore their original shine and protect the metal.
Does my jewellery leave the workshop?
No. All repair and restoration work is carried out in our on-site workshop in Wimborne. Your piece stays with us from the moment you hand it over to the moment you collect it.
Can you resize any ring?
We can resize most rings, including gold, silver and platinum. Some ring styles — such as those with stones set all the way around (eternity rings) or very intricate settings — have limits on how much they can be adjusted without affecting the design. We will always advise you honestly at the assessment stage.
Is there a charge for the initial assessment?
No — the initial assessment is completely free. We will look at the piece together, discuss what you would like done, and give you an honest view of the work and cost before anything is agreed.
Popular Questions on Bespoke
How does a bespoke commission work?
It starts with a free consultation at our Wimborne studio — no charge, no obligation. We sit down together, talk through your ideas, and begin to sketch out what the piece could look like. From there we produce a detailed design (and a 3D rendering for more complex pieces) for your approval before any work begins.
Can I use my own stones or existing jewellery?
Yes. If you have gemstones or gold from a previous piece, or jewellery you would like to remodel into something new, we can incorporate them into a bespoke commission. This is one of the most meaningful things we do — transforming inherited or sentimental pieces into something you will wear every day.
How do I start designing a bespoke engagement ring?
Book a free consultation at our Wimborne studio. Bring any references you have — a photograph saved on your phone, a style you admire, or simply a description of your partner. Any starting point works.
Do you offer lab-grown diamond engagement rings?
Yes. We work with both natural and lab-grown diamonds and will give you honest, independent advice on both. Chris is a qualified diamond specialist and gemologist, so the guidance you receive is expert and not driven by what happens to be in stock.
Do you ship?
For bespoke commissions and repairs, we prefer clients to collect in person so we can inspect the piece together and ensure it is exactly right. For some finished items we do ship — please get in touch to discuss your circumstances.
How long does a bespoke commission take?
Most bespoke commissions take 2 to 4 weeks from design sign-off to finished piece. We will agree a specific timescale with you at the consultation stage and keep you updated throughout.
Do you work with lab-grown diamonds?
Yes. We work with both natural and lab-grown diamonds, and will advise honestly on the differences in quality, provenance and cost so you can make a choice that suits your budget and values.
How long does a bespoke engagement ring take?
Most engagement ring commissions take 2 to 4 weeks from design approval to finished ring. We produce a detailed 3D rendering before any metal is worked, so you can see exactly what the ring will look like and make any changes before it is made
How much does a bespoke engagement ring cost?
Bespoke engagement rings typically start from around £1,200, depending on the metal, stone and design. Because we work directly with no middlemen or retail markup, you often get more for your money than a comparable high-street ring. We are always happy to talk through what is achievable at your budget.
How do I get in touch?
You can book a free appointment online at chrissimpsondesigns.com/book-online, or email chrissimpsondesigns@gmail.com. For repairs and restorations, no appointment is needed — just send us message to make sure we are in. Bring the piece to the studio.
What does a bespoke commission cost?
Bespoke commissions typically start from around £1,200, depending on the materials, complexity and gemstones involved. We are happy to talk through what is achievable at different price points — there is no awkwardness in that conversation.
What metals do you work with?
We work in platinum, 18ct yellow gold, white gold and rose gold, and sterling silver. We use ethically sourced gemstones and 100% recycled precious metals where possible.
Can I see a design before the ring is made?
Yes — for engagement rings we always produce a detailed 3D CAD and rendering for your approval before work begins. This is done in our studio using the latest CAD software. We also 3D print a prototype for you to see exactly how the finished ring will look on your hand, and we will refine it until it is right.
Where is the studio?
We are based in the centre of Wimborne, Dorset, and serve clients from across Dorset and Hampshire — including Bournemouth, Poole, Christchurch, Salisbury, Southampton and the New Forest.
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