Frequently Asked Questions
If you have any further questions, or would prefer to talk things through, you’re very welcome to call us in the showroom on +44 (0) 131 526 3279 or email hello@patiencejewellery.com.
The Bespoke Process
What is the minimum spend for a bespoke commission?
Our bespoke commissions begin from £8,000.
Bespoke wedding rings begin from £2,500 and, due to workshop capacity, are currently reserved for existing engagement ring clients.
We will always confirm the final price with you before any work begins.
How does the bespoke process work?
Each commission begins with a conversation. Once a gemstone is selected or a design brief agreed, we create initial sketches or CAD visuals for your review. You will have the opportunity to refine the design before manufacture begins. A timeline is confirmed at the outset.
How long does a bespoke commission take?
Most bespoke commissions take approximately 10 -12 weeks from final design approval, depending on complexity. If you are working towards a specific date, please let us know early in the process.
How many design revisions are included?
Up to three rounds of refinement are included. Additional revisions can be discussed where necessary.
Signatures & Made to Order
What are Moira's Signature designs?
Signatures brings together the styles we’ve been refining in the workshop for over a decade.
New pieces are released throughout the year in small, limited releases, pairing familiar Moira Patience silhouettes with individually selected natural gemstones.
If a Signature design you love has sold, many can also be made to order around a different gemstone, subject to availability.
What is the difference between Bespoke and Signatures?
A bespoke commission begins with an individual design developed specifically for you.
With Signatures, the design language is already established. You can choose an existing piece or commission one of our Signature designs around a different natural gemstone, metal or carefully considered personal detail.
Can a sold Signature piece be made again?
Usually, yes. Many pieces in our Signature Archive can be made to order around a different natural gemstone.
Because we work with natural stones, the finished piece will never be an exact copy. We’ll source a selection of gemstones for you to choose from and make the piece individually in our workshop.
Made-to-order Signature pieces start from £4,000.
Gemstones & Materials
Do your diamonds come with certificates?
Where available, our diamonds and gemstones are accompanied by independent laboratory reports from respected organisations such as GIA.
For stones without an existing laboratory report, our qualified gemmologist and diamond grader, Meg FGA DGA, assesses and grades them in-house and we provide our own certificate.
This is particularly common with antique and old-cut diamonds, many of which have never previously been submitted to a laboratory for grading.
Do you use lab-grown gemstones or diamonds?
We work exclusively with natural gemstones and diamonds. The individuality, geological history and subtle variation of natural stones are central to our work.
Can I use my own gemstones or metal?
We do not work with gemstones purchased elsewhere. All newly sourced stones are selected directly by Moira and the team. This allows us to assess quality, authenticity and character first-hand, and to ensure responsible sourcing throughout.
We can sometimes work with heirloom gemstones or sentimental precious metal where appropriate. These pieces are considered individually, as the suitability of older stones and metals needs to be assessed before we begin.
How are your gemstones sourced?
We carefully source natural gemstones through trusted suppliers and long-standing relationships. Quality, character and responsible sourcing are central to our selection process.
Practical Matters
Do you provide insurance valuations?
Yes. We provide an insurance valuation for bespoke pieces and for gemstones supplied by us. Valuations may not be available where client gemstones are used.
Do you offer resizing?
We offer one complimentary resize within three sizes of the original agreed size, unless otherwise discussed. Further adjustments may incur a charge depending on the work required.
How will my jewellery be delivered?
Finished pieces are securely packaged and dispatched via insured delivery. Collection from the showroom can also be arranged. High value pieces can be delivered in person.
Engraving
Do you offer hand engraving?
Yes. Hand engraving can be incorporated into many Moira Patience pieces, from small personal details such as dates, initials or symbols to more intricate patterns across an entire piece.
Our Signature engraved wedding rings are also available made to order in a selection of established patterns.
Can I commission a bespoke engraved wedding ring?
Fully bespoke engraved wedding rings are currently reserved for existing clients.
If you are new to the studio, our Signature engraved wedding rings and textured bands are available made to order in a range of widths and precious metals.
Can you engrave jewellery made elsewhere?
We only offer engraving for jewellery made by Moira Patience. This allows the design, metal and placement of the engraving to be properly considered by our workshop.
For more information, please see our Engraving page.
Jewellery Aftercare
How should I care for my jewellery?
We recommend removing jewellery during heavy manual activity, avoiding exposure to chemicals, and storing pieces separately. We are happy to inspect and clean your jewellery periodically.
Do you offer ongoing servicing?
Yes. We offer inspections and cleaning, and professional polishing can be arranged where required.
Studio & Appointments
Where is your showroom?
Our showroom is located at No.1 Hill Street in Edinburgh’s New Town. Visits are by appointment; please contact us to arrange a time.
Do you work with clients outside the UK?
Yes. We regularly work with clients across the UK and internationally, with remote consultations available.
Can I bring someone with me to an appointment?
You are very welcome to bring a partner, friend or family member.