Frequently Asked Questions
Devine & Co. is a jeweler specializing in custom jewelry design, jewelry appraisals, repair coordination, and buying and selling fine jewelry. Serving Carmel-by-the-Sea, Monterey, Pebble Beach, Pacific Grove, and surrounding areas. Below are answers to common questions to help guide you.
Custom Jewelry Design
What does custom jewelry cost?
There are three ways to create custom jewelry at Devine & Co., depending on your timeline, flexibility, and budget:
Premade Design ($1,000–$2,500 average)
We source an existing setting and set your heirloom stones or new diamonds. This is the most cost-effective option. Designs are limited to available styles and stone sizes and cannot be modified.
Full Custom Design ($2,500–$3,800 average)
We start with your idea and develop it into CAD renderings, followed by a wax model you can see and try on before production. This allows full control over every detail. Typical turnaround is about 4–6 weeks.
Fast Custom ($3,000–$6,000 average)
A fully custom piece completed in as little as 3–10 days. This option includes a premium for expedited production.
All pricing depends on design, materials, and stone selection. I go over all options and pricing clearly before anything is made.
Will I see the design before it’s made?
Yes. You are part of every step of the process from beginning to end.
You’ll review detailed CAD renderings and can request unlimited edits until everything feels right. A wax model is then created for you to see and try on before the piece is made in precious metal.
Wax models can also be shipped to you for at-home try-on if needed. The goal is for you to feel completely confident before moving forward.
Why does the CAD or wax model look thicker than the final piece?
This is normal and part of the process.
Wax models are typically about 10–15% more bulky to allow for polishing and finishing. Prongs are also designed larger in CAD and wax to ensure there is enough material to securely set the stone.
The final piece will always be more refined and balanced than what you see in the preview stages.
Can I use my own diamonds or old jewelry?
Yes. Most clients bring in inherited diamonds, gemstones, or jewelry they want to repurpose.
Existing stones can be reset into a new design, and gold can often be melted and reused if desired. This is a great way to preserve sentimental value while creating something new.
What if I don’t know exactly what I want yet?
That’s completely normal.
I don’t rush the process. We can explore ideas over time, review inspiration images, and refine details until it feels right. The goal is to create something you’re genuinely excited to wear.
How long does custom jewelry take?
Premade and full custom pieces typically take about 4–6 weeks.
Fast custom projects can be completed in as little as 3–10 days.
We can move as quickly or as slowly as needed depending on your timeline and budget.
What metals can I choose from?
Custom pieces can be made in a range of metals depending on your design and budget, including:
Silver and gold-plated silver, 10K, 14K, 18K, and 20K gold (yellow, white, or rose), Platinum
I will walk you through the differences in durability, color, and price so you can choose what works best for your piece and how you plan to wear it.
If I use my own diamonds or gold, how do I know they won’t be swapped?
Your stones and materials are handled with complete transparency and care throughout the entire process.
All items are documented and reviewed with you before any work begins. If needed, identifying characteristics can be noted or photographed.
You are involved at every stage, and your materials remain accounted for from start to finish.
Do you offer a warranty on custom jewelry?
Yes. All custom jewelry created through Devine & Co. includes a lifetime warranty covering manufacturing and craftsmanship defects.
If an issue related to craftsmanship arises, the piece will be repaired or replaced at no cost. Regular inspections and cleanings are recommended and offered to help maintain your jewelry over time.
Jewelry Appraisals
Do I need an appointment for an appraisal?
Yes. All appraisals are done by appointment to ensure dedicated time and a private, focused setting.
How much does an appraisal cost?
Appraisals start at $125 for the first item.
Each additional item is $75 when evaluated during the same appointment.
Travel fees may apply for appointments outside of the Monterey area.
What should I bring to an appraisal?
Please bring the jewelry you would like evaluated, along with any prior documentation you may have.
This can include receipts, previous appraisals, or diamond and gemstone reports such as GIA certificates.
If you don’t have any paperwork, that’s completely fine — I can still evaluate your items.
Do I have to leave my jewelry for an appraisal?
For smaller appointments (typically five items or fewer), appraisals can often be completed while you wait, watch, or the same day.
For larger groups of items or more complex pieces, additional time may be needed. In those cases, I may recommend leaving the items with me to complete the work properly.
All items left in my possession are covered under insurance while they are being evaluated.
What will I receive after my appraisal?
For single-item appraisals completed while you wait, the document can be printed or emailed to you as a PDF at the time of your appointment.
For multiple items, the completed appraisal is delivered via PDF to your email in a timely manner.
You also have the option to receive a printed copy by mail or pick up a hard copy at a later date.
All appraisals are certified and include the necessary documentation for insurance or estate purposes.
Does the appraisal value mean I can sell my jewelry for that amount?
No. Appraisal values are not the same as resale value.
Appraisals are typically prepared for insurance or estate purposes and reflect what it would cost to replace the item at retail. They are not intended to represent what a buyer will pay.
Most buyers will evaluate a piece independently and make their own determination of value based on the current market.
As a general guideline, offers in the resale market are often significantly lower than insurance appraisal values. I explain this during appointments so you have a clear understanding and realistic expectations.
Is my jewelry worth getting appraised?
It depends on your goals.
If you’re unsure what you have or whether it’s worth appraising, I offer complimentary consultations to help you decide. We can review your piece and discuss the best next steps based on what you plan to do with it.
Not every item needs a formal appraisal, and I’ll always give you honest guidance on what makes the most sense.
Are your appraisals accurate and accepted by insurance companies?
Yes. Appraisals are prepared to be professional, detailed, and appropriate for their intended use, including insurance and estate purposes.
My appraisals are backed by formal gemological education and follow industry standards, including USPAP compliance when applicable.
How often should I update my appraisal?
This is often a good question to review with your insurance provider, as requirements can vary.
As a general guideline, I recommend updating appraisals every five years or sooner if there are significant changes in the market.
Watch & Jewelry Repair
What types of jewelry repair do you offer?
I can assist with all types of jewelry repair, from basic services to more complex restoration work.
Repairs are handled by specialized experts depending on what the piece requires. This ensures your jewelry is worked on by someone with the right experience for that specific type of repair.
I have not come across a repair that I have not been able to complete.
What services are done in-office?
In-office services include watch battery replacement ($10 each), cleaning, basic polishing, inspections, repair estimates, and watch band sizing.
These services are typically completed quickly and by appointment.
Do you repair watches?
Yes. I work with experienced watchmakers for watch repairs and servicing.
While repairs are not completed through brand-authorized service centers, this allows for more cost-effective and faster turnaround times. High-quality generic or pre-owned branded parts may be used depending on the service needed, and all options are discussed before proceeding.
Can you clean or check my jewelry even if I didn’t purchase it from you?
Yes. I offer complimentary cleaning and basic inspections regardless of where the jewelry was originally purchased.
Please text ahead to confirm availability.
How long do repairs take?
Most repairs are completed within approximately 3–6 weeks, depending on the work required.
Rush service may be available for an additional fee.
I prioritize quality craftsmanship and proper repair techniques to ensure long-term durability.
Selling Your Jewelry
What should I expect when selling my jewelry?
The most important thing is understanding the current market.
I review comparable items that are actively for sale or have recently sold so you can see how your piece fits into today’s pricing.
Insurance appraisal values are not the same as resale value and are typically much higher than what a buyer will pay. I explain this upfront so you have a clear understanding before making any decisions.
There is no pressure to sell. You are always in control of the process.
What are my options for selling my jewelry?
Direct Buy (Liquidation)
A fast option where I can make an offer and complete payment the same day by cash or check.
Consignment
Your item is photographed and listed across multiple platforms while you keep possession of it. Once sold, we coordinate bringing it back in.
Consignment typically allows for a higher return but takes more time. Commission is approximately 20%.
Guided Selling
I help you understand pricing, market conditions, and the best approach before moving forward.
A payout calculator is available to help you understand fees and estimated net proceeds.
How long does it take to sell my jewelry?
Direct buy can often be completed the same day.
Consignment and other selling options can take anywhere from a few weeks to a year or more depending on the item and market conditions.
Am I required to sell my jewelry after receiving a quote?
No. There is no obligation to sell.
You are always in control of the decision, and the goal is to provide clear information so you can choose what’s right for you.
How do I know I’m getting a fair price?
You are welcome to shop around and get multiple offers.
I provide transparency by showing comparable sales and, when appropriate, wholesale market pricing so you can understand how values are determined.
Private Appointments & Security
Do you have a storefront?
No. Devine & Co. operates from a private office in Carmel-by-the-Sea by appointment only.
How do I schedule an appointment?
Appointments can be scheduled through the website, chat, phone, or text.
Is your office secure?
Yes. The office is private, secure, and monitored with multiple cameras for both your protection and mine.
An overhead camera is in place during appointments to document items, providing an added layer of accountability if anything needs to be reviewed.
The space is insured and secured with controlled access and locked entry.
Still have questions? Reach out anytime — I’m happy to help guide you in the right direction.