APPRAISALS
Q: Do you offer appraisals? A: Yes, we offer complimentary appraisals ($120 value) for custom projects over $3000.00. This document that will describe your piece before it leaves our facility, assess its relative quality, and assigns it a value. Descriptions cover the visible, measurable, and analyzable facts about the item (weight, materials, markings). Appraisals provide detailed information most insurance carriers need to offer coverage for your jewelry. The updated value, along with the detailed description provided by an appraisal, will help smooth your settlement process if you were to suffer a loss.
CUSTOM CONSULTATIONS
Q. What can I expect? A. An initial 45-minute consultation is held at no charge to discuss your desires, preferences, and vision for your custom piece. This includes exploring design ideas, materials, gemstones, and budget considerations. Clients will then select the materials for the custom piece, such as the type of metal and any gemstones to be incorporated. A loose sketch of your vision will be provided. After the initial consultation, a $600.00 non-refundable Design Deposit is required to move forward with any custom project. The purpose of the Design Deposit is to secure the services of Buffalo Craft and will fund any CAD design fees (pay our CAD technician) or (if hand fabricating) compensate for work done to configure stone layouts, metal weight, source materials, and implement minor adjustments to meet customer expectation. During this time, we will use our expertise and experience to develop your design and calculate how to transform your vision into the metal of your choosing. This process will take 2-4 weeks depending on our current workload. *This process is a bit like ordering à la carte, with that said, please keep in mind, alterations to dimensions, material, and additional ornamentation all affect price. If you are getting away from your budget, we will do our best to communicate this. This is a unique opportunity to collaborate with a skilled craftsman, one who is highly knowledgeable on jewelry materials, craftsmanship, and care. We will help guide you through the selection process based on your personal preference and budget. It is our goal to fulfill your vision for a one-of-a-kind piece of jewelry that holds sentimental value and meets your specific requirements. *Due to fluctuating metal markets, price quotes are valid for 7 days.
Schedule a Custom Consultation
CONSULTATION PREPAREDNESS
Q. How can I prepare for my consultation? A. 1. Research and Inspiration: Spend some time gathering inspiration and ideas for your custom piece. Consider any specific styles, themes, or elements you would like to incorporate. Bring along 2-3 inspiration pictures or sketches and an idea of what you are looking for. This gives us a great jump off point to begin designing your custom piece. 2. Define your Preference and Budget: Set a realistic budget for your custom jewelry project. Consider factors such as materials, craftmanship, complexity, and any additional services you may require. Due to the time and materials involved, there is a $3,000.00 minimum on all custom orders. 3. Gather Relevant Information: If you have any existing jewelry pieces, old gold or heirloom stones you wish to incorporate into the custom design, gather them and bring them to the consultation for reference.
4. Prepare Questions and Discussion Points: Write down any questions or topics you would like to discuss during the consultation, such as design, process, timeline, pricing and customization options. Consider any uncertainties you may have and be prepared to discuss them with us.
SCHEDULE A CUSTOM OR REPAIR CONSULTATION
CONTACT
Q. Where are you Located? A. Visit us at: 1035 Parkway Drive STE 12A Spring Hill, Tennessee 37174
Q. What are your hours? A. We are available by appointment Monday-Friday 9am-5pm Appointment times are reserved for consultations, discussing jewelry repairs, drop offs, and pick ups.
Schedule a Custom Consultation Schedule a Repair Appointment
Q. How can I contact you? A. We can be reached by phone or email. 615-856-8013 info@buffalocraftcompany.com
CUSTOM WORK
Q: Can you create a custom piece for me? A: Creating custom, heirloom quality jewelry for an individual customer is a privilege and we enjoy every minute of it. It is our hope that we can make custom jewelry an approachable, accessible and enjoyable experience for our clients. The fabrication of this work is a special process for many individuals and couples, and is truly a collaborative effort between Buffalo Craft and our clients. We welcome the opportunity to work and collaborate with you to bring your vision to life. Please begin by filling out a contact form (under our "Custom Consultation" page) with a brief description of your desired project. Once we review your submission we will follow up via email within 1-2 business days.
*Due to the time and materials involved, there is a $3,000.00 minimum on all custom orders.
Custom jewelry is non-refundable due to its unique nature. Each piece is meticulously crafted to your specific preferences and requirements, making it tailored exclusively for you. Unlike ready-made jewelry, custom pieces may not appeal to a broader audience, as they are designed to reflect your individual style and taste.
All finished work and designs created by Buffalo Craft remain the sole property of Buffalo Craft Company. We reserve the right to photograph any jewelry, custom or not to utilize the work in a repertoire or portfolio for future promotion. These pictures may be viewed on www.buffalocraftcompany.com or shared on other promotional sites chosen by the company.
Schedule a Custom Consultation
DEPOSITS
Q: Why do I need to make a $600.00 non-refundable Design Deposit? A: While non-refundable deposits may seem stringent, they are a common practice in the custom jewelry industry to protect both the jeweler and the client's interests throughout the design and fabrication process. Custom jewelry involves significant time and labor, including design consultations, craftsmanship, and customization. A non-refundable Design Deposit compensates Buffalo Craft for their time and expertise invested in the design process, regardless of whether the customer decides to move forward and have the piece fabricated and completed.
Q: Why do I pay 1/2 down before beginning fabrication? A: Once a customer approves a design a 50% deposit is made to begin the construction of the actual piece. At this time, we begin sourcing materials and resources specific to your custom piece. Often, these materials are non-returnable or non-refundable, making it challenging to recoup costs if the order is canceled. Additionally, by placing a deposit, you reserve Buffalo Craft's time, expertise, and resources for your custom piece. With experience we have found that non-refundable deposits help deter speculative or frivolous orders, ensuring that our time and resources are dedicated to serious clients who are committed to completing their custom jewelry project.
DESIGN APPROVAL
Upon design approval we will collect ½ down or the purchase price of the center stone (engagement and high fashion rings). At this time, we begin sourcing materials and resources specific to your custom piece. If we are using a CAD, your printed model will be cast. We then use traditional jewelry methods to handset, engrave, azure, and milgrain each piece to its specifications before, hand finishing and polishing. If we are fabricating the entire piece by hand the process is the same accept, we will start with stock to form and build your piece instead of using a CAD. Sometimes it makes sense to have a CAD and sometimes it is better to build from hand. The remaining balance will be due at the time of pick up or shipping. Additionally, as a gift to you, all custom orders will receive a complimentary third-party appraisal (valued at $120.00), and free inside ring engraving if you choose to do so.
GEMSTONE DISCLOSURE
Some gemstones are processed from the time they are extracted from the earth by one or more traditionally accepted trade practices and have been subject to colored gemstone enhancement processes.
We specialize in natural gemstones for their rarity and beauty. We are not responsible for any naturally occurring defects found in the stones that we use i.e. feathers, inclusions etc. Stones are not indestructible and should be worn with care. Replacing or repairing damage to these materials is the responsibility of the owner.
HEIRLOOM STONES & OLD GOLD
Q. Can you re-set my heirloom stones and use my old gold? A. In most cases, YES! We will determine if your heirloom stones and gold can be used during your consultation. *In order to uphold our reputation for quality and craftsmanship we do not work with new, customer sourced stones. We have many established relationships within the gemstone community and order exclusively from our trusted sources.
Q. Will you buy my scrap gold? A. Yes, we do buy scrap gold and can deduct this price from the final cost of your piece.
Q. Can you color match my old gold. A. Yes, in most cases we can color match your original gold.
JEWELRY CARE
Regular jewelry maintenance helps preserve the appearance and extend the lifespan of jewelry, ensuring that it remains wearable for years to come. Gemstones can become loose or damaged overtime and regular inspections can prevent this. Loose clasps or prongs can lead to loss of gemstones or even the entire piece of jewelry. Routine maintenance helps identify and repair any issues before they worsen. Regular cleaning removes dirt, oils, and bacteria that can accumulate on jewelry, preventing skin irritation. Q: Can I wear my jewelry all the time? A: Your jewelry should be treated with care; stones and precious metals are not indestructible. We recommend removing your ring when exposing yourself to household cleaners containing bleach. Avoid exposure to chlorine such as hot tubs and swimming pools as it can weaken any gold alloys. Lost stones, pitting, corroded or crumbling jewelry can result over time. Strongly consider removing your ring when gardening, playing sports, working out or during any other activities that might cause trauma to or damage the ring in any way.Q: Will my ring show scratches and wear overtime? A: Some metals are harder and more durable than others, however, all precious metals scratch from regular wear, changing the finish slightly over time. This is considered normal wear throughout the life of the ring. It is recommended to consider your lifestyle and daily activities before choosing the right ring for you. If at any point you would like us to reapply the original finish or texture to your ring, we will be happy to do so. A small fee may apply.Q: How should I clean my jewelry? A: All fine jewelry can be cleaned with any commercially available jewelry cleaner or cloth. You may also use a mild dish soap and warm water to gently cleanse your piece with a soft toothbrush.
JEWELRY INSURANCE
Q: Should I insure my jewelry? A : Yes, insuring your jewelry is often a wise decision, especially if you own valuable pieces or sentimental items. Here are a few reasons why:
1. Financial Protection: Jewelry can be expensive to replace or repair if lost, stolen, or damaged. Jewelry insurance provides financial protection against such events, ensuring that you can repair or replace your items without significant financial burden. 2. Coverage Beyond Homeowner's Insurance: While some homeowner's insurance policies may cover jewelry, they often have limitations and may not fully cover the value of your pieces. Jewelry insurance provides specialized coverage tailored to the specific needs of your jewelry. 3. Coverage Anywhere: Jewelry insurance typically covers your items no matter where they are lost, stolen, or damaged, including while traveling internationally. 4. Peace of Mind: Knowing that your jewelry is insured provides peace of mind, allowing you to enjoy wearing your pieces without worrying about potential loss or damage. We recommend insuring your jewelry through Jewelers Mutual. They offer the most comprehensive insurance for jewelry. We will include information about their company with your custom purchase. Additionally, as a gift to you, Buffalo Craft provides every custom order over $3000.00 with a complimentary third party appraisal. This detailed description of your custom piece will help smooth your settlement process if you were to suffer a loss.
LAB-GROWN DIAMONDS
Q: Can you make me a piece with a lab-grown diamond?
A: We do not make pieces using lab-grown diamonds. Buffalo Craft specifically specializes in natural diamonds and stones.
Q: Aren't lab-grown diamonds more ethical than natural diamonds?
A: Not necessarily. Click here to learn more.
OUR GUARANTEE
Q: What is your guarantee? A: Buffalo Craft Company guarantees the craftsmanship and materials of each piece i.e. jewelers workmanship, metals and design as well as meeting all of the specifications approved in the final design of any custom order. Our work is assured to be of the finest quality and free of defects when it leaves our facilities.
With every $3,000+ custom order Buffalo Craft will provide a complimentary third party appraisal valued at $120.00. This gift will provide you with a detailed description of your piece before it leaves our facility. If you choose to insure your piece it will help smooth your settlement process if you were to suffer a loss.
*It is the customer’s responsibility to order the correct ring size. Please contact us if you need assistance with this. *See “Stones” for full stone disclosure..
PAYMENT
Q: What is your preferred method of payment? A: We accept visa, mastercard discover, amex, cash, check, or bank transfer.
Q: How do you break up payments for custom orders? A: A $600.00 non-refundable Design Deposit is required to move forward with any custom project. The purpose of the Design Deposit is to secure the services of Buffalo Craft and will fund any CAD design fees (pay our CAD technician) or (if hand fabricating) compensate for work done to configure stone layouts, metal weight, source materials, and implement minor adjustments to meet customer expectation. During this stage we will use our expertise and experience to think through and calculate how to transform your vision into the metal of your choosing. Upon design approval we will collect ½ down or the purchase price of the center stone (engagement and high fashion rings). Lastly, The remaining balance will be due once the work is complete. If you need to break up the payments further, we have no problem doing so. Just ask!
PRODUCTION TIME
Q: How long does production take?
A: Each custom piece is unique, so production timelines can vary widely. Some projects may be completed in several weeks, while more complex designs can take several months or longer. The overall timeline depends on the design, materials, our current workload, and how quickly approvals are provided throughout the process.
After the initial consultation, we begin the design and engineering process, using sketches, digital renderings, or 3D models to translate your ideas into a finished piece. Clients review and approve each stage before we move forward.
Once the design is finalized, we source the necessary metals and gemstones and begin fabrication. Depending on the design, this may involve CAD and casting or fully hand-fabricated techniques using traditional jewelry methods.
After fabrication, the piece undergoes a final quality inspection and any necessary adjustments. If an appraisal is being provided, it will be completed before the piece leaves our facility. The finished piece is then made available for pickup or shipping.
REPAIRS
Q: Can I bring you my repairs? A: Yes, Buffalo Craft surpasses industry standards and provides expertise in the following areas: Repair and Antique Restoration, (restoring damaged or worn jewelry to its original condition, including channel repair, stone replacement or setting, resizing, ring prong re-tipping or replacement, ring head or setting replacement, chain or clasp repair, polishing, and cleaning), Engraving, Gemstone Identification and Certification, Redesign and Upcycling, and Education and Consulting.
Q: Can another jeweler size or repair my purchase? A: We do not recommend having another jeweler size or repair your purchase. Not all jewelers hold themselves to the same standards and understand how to correctly work with the materials, gemstones and unique mountings that we provide. Upon receiving your jewelry we will clean and evaluate your purchase. We will notify you if any service or repairs are needed. Costs of repairs are determined on a case-by-case basis.
Schedule a Repair Appointment
RETURN POLICY
Q: What is your return policy? A: Custom jewelry is non-refundable due to its unique nature. Each piece is meticulously crafted to your specific preferences and requirements, making it tailored exclusively for you. Unlike ready-made jewelry, custom pieces may not appeal to a broader audience, as they are designed to reflect your individual style and taste.
Additionally, the materials and labor invested in creating custom jewelry are often non-recoverable, as they are chosen and utilized solely for your piece. This customization process involves detailed consultations, design adjustments, and precise craftsmanship to ensure that the final product meets your expectations. As a result, custom jewelry orders are non-refundable to uphold the integrity of the craftsmanship and honor the time and effort invested in bringing your vision to life. We strive to work closely with you throughout the design process to ensure your complete satisfaction with the final product.
SHIPPING
Q: How do you ship? A: Unless other arrangements have been made, all domestic orders ship UPS 2nd day, fully insured. An adult signature will be required at the time of delivery. If the package is left without obtaining a signature, no claim can be made for its loss under the shipping insurance requirements. Once a package is delivered, our insurance is considered null and void.
Arrangements can be made to ship to your place of employment. Please provide the name of the business when providing the shipping address.
Q: Do you ship internationally? A: Yes, we ship DHL to international customers. The customer is responsible for all shipping fees and any customs, duties or clearance charges. Please contact us directly to place international orders and provide a shipping address for an accurate shipping charge. Once we receive your inquiry and shipping information we will email you an invoice to pay at your convenience. Receipts will be emailed after every transaction.
Q: How do I ship my jewelry or gemstones to you? A: We recommend shipping your items through UPS or Fedex, overnight or 2day, fully insured. Do not ship items over a weekend.
SIZING
Q: How do I determine my ring size? A: If you are not local and ordering a custom ring, the best way to get your ring size is to visit a professional jeweler and have them measure your finger, preferably with a comfort fit sizing set. Alternatively, you can use a printable ring sizing chart or measure the circumference of your finger with a piece of string and compare it to a sizing chart. A properly fitting ring should feel snug enough to stay on comfortably, but loose enough to slide over your knuckle without too much effort. You should be able to easily rotate the ring on your finger without it feeling too tight or too loose. Rings can be made quarter sizes to provide a more precise fit if needed.
Q: What if I ordered the wrong size? A: 99% of our rings can be resized. If you ordered the incorrect size, we can resize your ring for an additional charge.
STONES
Q: What kind of stones can be set in engagement rings and wedding bands? A: We believe that the center stone of an engagement ring is an integral part of the design. The stone should enhance the overall feel and look of the ring or set. The center stone should demand respect and visual attention. As a result we strive to use only the best quality and most unique stones the planet has to offer.
Many stones are not appropriate for everyday wear due to their delicate nature. Some are brittle and can break easily while others are soft and scratch quickly. For engagement rings and wedding bands we highly recommend using diamonds, sapphires, or rubies, as they are the three hardest and most durable stones on the planet. They will stand the test of time. *Alternative stones may be used for jewelry other than engagement rings and wedding bands.
We have diamond suppliers whom we work with very closely and specialize in very clean, bright, GIA certified diamonds. Q. Can you re-set my heirloom stones? A. In most cases, YES! We will determine if your heirloom stones can be used during your consultation. *In order to uphold our reputation for quality and craftsmanship we do not work with new, customer sourced stones. We have many established relationships within the gemstone community and order exclusively from our trusted sources.
WARRANTY
Q: What is your warranty? A: At Buffalo Craft, we stand behind the quality and craftsmanship of our custom jewelry pieces and repairs. Each piece is meticulously crafted or repaired to the highest standards, using the finest materials and techniques.
If you encounter any defects in workmanship with your jewelry, please contact us immediately. Our skilled jewelers will assess the issue and work diligently to repair your piece. Please note that defects in workmanship do not cover damage caused by accidents, improper care, or alterations made by third parties. We are committed to ensuring your satisfaction with your custom jewelry or repair purchase and are here to assist you every step of the way.