4 Pro-Tips for brands when working with a Custom Jewelry Manufacturer
Working with Custom Jewelry Manufacturers
The big headline is this: Regardless if you’re working with a jewelry factory near home or abroad, there is a right way and a wrong way to work with an OEM or Custom Jewelry Manufacturer. Take a moment to read these four tips and help ensure your private label jewelry brand is manufactured properly, smoothly and with a high likelihood for success.
Using a Custom Jewelry Manufacturer requires Accountability.
#1: Accountability: Whatever part of our the business you’re in, wholesale or retail, The FIRST THING you should keep in mind is that you need to be accountable to the creation of your collection. Accountability means you will take the lead and be prepared to you instruct, guide and coach your manufacturer to do exactly what you want and avoid leaving any decisions up to them to interpret. Your level of preparation, involvement, and guidance is directly connected to your potential for success.
Maintain an open line of Communication with your Jewelry Manufacturer
#2: Be prompt: Without upsetting the apple cart, being a prompt, squeaky wheel will keep your projects top of mind and not pushed aside. If you’re communicating sporadically, slowly, or not at all, you will likely frustrate the relationship and slow everything down. Keep in mind that manufacturers are working with different client personalities from every part of the world, believe it or not, but many brands do not answer questions or provide details quickly. Brands who can promptly advise what they want, how they want it and when they want it to stay on top of the pile and stay important to the manufacturer. Short, sweet and to the point always wins the day.
Who owns the design rights to your Jewelry ?
3: Buy your IP: I can’t stress this point enough, YOU DON’T PAY FOR YOUR DESIGNS, YOU PROBABLY DON’T OWN THEM. Over my years a fine jewelry OEM manufacturer, I have met several panicked brand owners who, upon an attempt to shift their production from one factory to another, were surprised to receive a mold, model or CAD design invoice for ten, twenty or even fifty thousand dollars. PRO-TIP here is to ask your manufacturer to invoice you up front for product development, list and pay for each design specifically. Depending on the complexity, you should plan on paying $100-$500 for a full set of CAD’s, 3-D printing and
Make sure your Custom Jewelry is correct.
4. Check the details: When you receive a CAD rendering or design specifications from your manufacturer, it’s important that you take the time to make sure it’s what you’re looking for. Always remember that CAD’s designs are only a representation of the final product however, the final product should be close (not exact, but close). As quickly as you can, provide the manufacturer with clear instructions and feedback, then turn them loose to move forward with your pricing and product sampling. The more you delay the process, the more you potentially push back your delivery dates.
In conclusion the four points are:
1: Accountability is key
2: Be prompt
3: Own your IP
4: Check the details
I highly recommend that as you decide to work with a custom jeweler in Bangkok or near you that you make note of these remarks as they will help you succeed sooner and smoother. In the long run, you should end up with a new productive relationship with a fine jewelry manufacturer who is on your side and rooting for your success.
About the Author, Greg Boudah.
Since 2006, Greg Boudah has been living & working in Bangkok Thailand. He is a jeweler, a GIA Diamond Graduate, A US Marine combat Veteran and the owner of Spokes Jewelry Services, a fine jewelry manufacturer in Bangkok. As always if you have any questions regarding creating your own fine jewelry collection, expanding your current jewelry collection or have questions regarding manufacturing, please contact him directly at info@spokesjewelry.com or visit us online at Spokes Jewelry