Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the process of ordering a commissioned piece?
The process begins with a design consultation and discussion of your desires and expectations. Please contact us at 919-416-0010 or ateliernjewelry@aol.com to start discussing your custom piece. Once a design idea is finalized we will present you with a quote. Before we begin creation and production, we will require a deposit of 50% of the total. The balance for the piece is due upon completion, prior to delivery.
2. How long does the process generally take?
Commissioned and bespoke projects may take between 6-8 weeks to complete on average once a design idea is finalized. This can vary depending on our work schedule, intricacy of design and sourcing requirements. We will always aim to work towards a specific date, but due to the handmade nature of these pieces, completion times are never guaranteed to a specific date.
All Atelier N Jewelery pieces in the online store are ready to ship upon your request. If you need a piece before a specific date, please contact us before ordering to ensure this will be possible and avoid any disappointment. Every effort will be made to have your piece to you as quickly as possible. Please note that turnaround times are an approximate guide and are subject to change or delay.
3. Do you have a store/showroom where I can try on the pieces?
Our store in Durham, North Carolina houses a selection of one-of-a-kind pieces, manufactured jewelry and designs by local artists. If you would like to look at a particular piece, email us to request an appointment, and we can advise availability and what we have on hand.
4. Do you work with diamonds and other stones?
We work with most precious and semi precious stones. We are able to source all cuts and colours of diamonds and precious gemstones.
5. Where are your stones sourced from?
Atelier N is proud to be a member of the American Gem Society and the American Gem Trade Association. We are held to the highest of ethical standards in the jewelry industry. We fully participate in the Kimberley Process which works toward reducing the flow of conflict diamonds.
For specific stone information please contact us. Please also see the American Gem Society or American Gem Trade Association codes of ethics for further information.
6. Do you work with stones in existing jewelry or re-work existing jewelry?
Please contact us by email or telephone with your specific inquiries prior to sending us your jewelry.
7. Are you happy for me to supply my own diamond or gemstone?
Please contact us prior to shipping us your jewelry or gemstones. We will not be liable for any shipments without prior approval.
We are able to work with some stones which you supply or source, provided the stone is sent to us from within the US. We are unable to accept stones sent from overseas. Suitability of stones is assessed on a piece-by-piece basis. We are unable to accept any responsibility of stones which we have not sourced, as we are not aware of their quality or origin. This means that all care, but no responsibility, will be assumed for breakage or damage of the stone while in our possession and after delivery. If you wish to have the stone covered by our insurance for loss only whilst in our care, a verified appraisal will need to be supplied by a registered appraiser prior to handover. For more information on finding a qualified jewelry appraiser please click here.
A disclaimer to the effect of the above is required to be signed prior to handover.
We are glad to work with GIA and AGS certified diamonds as well as AGSL certified gemstones.
8. Can I purchase just the setting?
We are unable to make our settings, or any other design, without having the stone on hand. Our settings are specific in their crafting, and are fitted to the exact specifications of each stone. We are unable to make a setting based on only dimensions or carat weight of a stone, as there are too many variables.
9. What materials do you work with?
We work with most precious metals, Gold, White Gold, Rose Gold & Platinum.
10. Do you ship custom pieces interstate and internationally?
For interstate shipping, we use USPS express shipping, a secure overnight, hand-to-hand courier service with full insurance. Delivery cost is a flat rate.
We are currently only shipping domestically within the US, but please contact us for further consultation.