The peak of luxury is a true one-of-a-kind. Sought-after Birkins, haute-couture, and jewelry crafted for one person and one person only (and perhaps the eventual heritage hand-me-down). Often gifting and occasion are the impetus for such creations: births, milestone birthdays, new jobs, anniversaries, pet adoption—even special occasions like Mother’s Day—has spurred the demand for custom pieces.
Thankfully, there are jewelers who have embraced personalization and custom as a true arm of their business beyond the expected realm of engagement rings. Yes, there are pieces that embrace stone sourcing to produce a one-of-a-kind but there’s nothing like the encapsulation of a story in a piece of jewelry to have forever. Brent Neale’s reinterpretation of children’s artworks; Retrouvai’s signet ring engraved with handwriting instead of machine script; Stephanie Gotlieb and Briony Raymond’s customizable number bangles; Irene Neuwirth’s carved miniature pet portrait charms. Smart and nuanced design has led the way beyond the traditional custom jewelry space into a place of real meaning.
Below, some of the Vogue jewelry team’s favorite ultra-customizable pieces.