Metal Studio Jewelry Blog
Behind the Scenes: The Process of Crafting Custom Jewelry
Jewelry is more than an accessory—it’s a deeply personal expression of style, emotion, and individuality. At Metal Studio Jewelry, designer Sirilak Samanasak brings her clients’ visions to life through custom, handcrafted pieces that tell a unique story. But what goes into creating these one-of-a-kind treasures?
In this blog, we’ll take you behind the scenes of the custom jewelry-making process, giving you a glimpse into the artistry and meticulous attention to detail that make each piece special.
1. The Consultation: Turning Ideas into Reality
Every custom piece begins with a conversation. During the consultation, Sirilak takes the time to understand your vision, preferences, and the story you want your jewelry to tell. Whether you have a clear idea or just a vague concept, this is where ideas take shape.
What’s Discussed:
Your preferred style (e.g., minimalist, vintage, modern)
Desired materials (e.g., silver, gold, gemstones)
Symbolism or sentimental elements to incorporate
Budget and timeline
This collaborative stage ensures that the design reflects your personality and meets your expectations.
2. Selecting Materials
Choosing the right materials is a critical step in the custom jewelry process. Sirilak sources high-quality metals and stones to create pieces that are both beautiful and durable.
Materials at Metal Studio Jewelry:
98% pure silver: Known for its unique softness and luminous finish
Gold: Available in yellow, white, or rose gold for a timeless appeal
Gemstones: Carefully selected for brilliance, color, and meaning
This step ensures that every piece not only looks stunning but also stands the test of time.
3. Handcrafting the Jewelry
With the design finalized and materials ready, Sirilak begins the crafting process. Each piece is meticulously handmade, ensuring attention to detail at every stage.
The Crafting Process Includes:
Shaping and forming the metal into the desired structure
Setting gemstones securely
Adding textures, engravings, or finishes for unique detailing
Polishing the final piece to achieve its signature shine
This is where the artistry truly shines, as no two pieces are ever exactly alike.
4. The Final Reveal
Once the piece is complete, it’s time for the final reveal. Seeing your custom jewelry for the first time is a special moment, as it represents your vision brought to life. Each piece is carefully inspected to ensure perfection before being delivered to you.
Custom jewelry from Metal Studio Jewelry is more than just a product—it’s a meaningful keepsake designed to be cherished for generations.
Why Choose Custom Jewelry?
Custom jewelry offers unparalleled personalization and emotional value. Whether it’s a gift for a loved one or a piece you design for yourself, the result is a treasure that is truly one of a kind. With Sirilak’s expertise and artistry, you can create something that reflects your style, story, and individuality.
If you’re ready to start your custom jewelry journey, contact us today to schedule your consultation. Let’s create something extraordinary together.
How to Care for Your Metal Jewelry: Tips for Long-Lasting Shine
Your jewelry is more than just an accessory; it’s a reflection of your style, memories, and personal story. Whether it’s a cherished heirloom, a gift, or a piece you’ve carefully chosen for yourself, caring for your metal jewelry properly ensures it stays beautiful for years to come. At Metal Studio Jewelry, Sirilak Samanasak crafts pieces meant to last, but proper care can make all the difference in maintaining their shine and quality.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through essential tips on how to care for different types of metal jewelry—whether it’s silver, gold, or copper—so your pieces remain as stunning as the day you first wore them.
1. Sterling Silver (and Higher-Grade Silver)
Sterling silver, and the 98% pure silver used in many of Sirilak’s designs, is known for its bright shine but can tarnish over time due to exposure to air, moisture, and certain chemicals.
Care Tips:
• Avoid exposure to chemicals: Keep your silver jewelry away from household cleaners, perfumes, lotions, and chlorinated water.
• Store properly: Silver is prone to tarnishing when exposed to air. Store your pieces in an airtight bag or anti-tarnish pouch when not in use.
• Polish regularly: Use a soft, non-abrasive polishing cloth designed for silver to gently restore its shine. For heavier tarnish, a silver cleaning solution can be used sparingly.
Pro Tip: For pieces made with 98% pure silver, the natural softness of the metal means it can develop a beautiful patina over time, adding depth to its color. However, regular polishing will keep it looking luminous.
2. Gold Jewelry (Yellow, White, and Rose Gold)
Gold jewelry is highly resistant to tarnishing and corrosion, but it can still lose its shine if exposed to dirt, oils, and chemicals over time.
Care Tips:
• Keep it dry: Avoid wearing gold jewelry in the shower, pool, or while applying lotions and perfumes. Moisture can dull the finish and cause buildup.
• Buff with a cloth: Use a soft polishing cloth regularly to maintain gold’s natural shine.
• Deep clean occasionally: If your gold jewelry starts to lose its sparkle, soak it in warm water mixed with a bit of mild dish soap. Use a soft toothbrush to clean hard-to-reach areas, then rinse and pat dry with a soft cloth.
Pro Tip: White gold may need to be re-plated with rhodium to maintain its bright appearance over time, while rose gold’s copper content gives it a warm glow that’s less prone to tarnishing.
3. Copper Jewelry
Copper has a warm, earthy tone that can oxidize over time, leading to a patina or even turning green (known as verdigris) if not cared for properly. Some people love the patina, while others prefer to keep their copper looking shiny.
Care Tips:
Prevent tarnish: Store your copper jewelry in an airtight bag to reduce oxidation. Avoid wearing it in water, as moisture accelerates tarnishing.
• Polish regularly: Use a soft cloth with a mixture of lemon juice and baking soda to polish your copper and restore its shine.
• Remove verdigris: If your copper jewelry develops green tarnish, you can remove it with a mixture of white vinegar and salt. Gently rub the area, then rinse and dry thoroughly.
Pro Tip: Wearing copper jewelry regularly can help prevent oxidation due to the natural oils on your skin. However, if you notice any green marks on your skin from copper jewelry, don’t worry—this is harmless and can be washed off with soap and water.
4. Mixed Metals
Mixed-metal jewelry pieces, such as combinations of gold and silver or copper and sterling silver, are becoming increasingly popular for their versatility and unique look. However, they require careful attention to avoid damage.
Care Tips:
• Clean each metal individually: When cleaning mixed-metal jewelry, treat each type of metal with the appropriate method. For example, clean the gold sections with a gold-safe cleaner and the silver with a silver polish.
• Store carefully: Keep mixed-metal pieces in separate pouches to avoid scratches or tarnish transfers between metals.
General Care Tips for All Metal Jewelry
• Keep jewelry dry: Water and chemicals can harm all types of metal, especially during activities like swimming, showering, or cleaning. Always remove your jewelry beforehand.
• Store jewelry properly: Store each piece in a soft pouch or a lined jewelry box to prevent scratches. Keep pieces separated to avoid contact between metals that might react.
• Handle with care: Put on your jewelry after applying makeup, lotions, or perfumes to minimize exposure to chemicals.
Final Thoughts
Taking care of your metal jewelry ensures that your pieces stay beautiful and long-lasting. With the right care and maintenance, your jewelry from Metal Studio Jewelry will continue to shine, maintaining its original beauty and charm for years to come.
Explore our collections and discover how Sirilak Samanasak combines timeless materials with unique designs to create pieces that are as enduring as they are beautiful. And remember, a little care goes a long way in preserving the quality and brilliance of your treasured jewelry.
Jewelry has always been more than just an accessory; it holds deep personal meaning, cultural significance, and often represents milestones or aspirations.
At Metal Studio Jewelry, Sirilak Samanasak carefully infuses her creations with motifs that are not only beautiful but also rich in symbolism. Whether you’re wearing a piece to express your individuality or to celebrate a life event, understanding the meanings behind different jewelry designs can add another layer of personal connection.
In this post, we’ll explore the symbolism behind some of the most popular jewelry designs and motifs, so you can choose pieces that reflect your story.
1. The Circle: Eternity and Wholeness
One of the oldest and most common motifs in jewelry is the circle. A circle has no beginning and no end, symbolizing eternity, infinity, and wholeness. It’s often used in the design of rings, particularly in wedding bands, to represent unending love and commitment.
At Metal Studio Jewelry, the circle is often used in minimalist and modern pieces, where its simple, elegant form can be worn daily as a reminder of lasting connections.
Meaning:
Eternal love and unityPerfection and completion
Perfect For:
Wedding or anniversary gifts Those seeking timeless, minimalist designs
2. Feathers: Freedom and Spirituality
Feathers are commonly associated with freedom, flight, and spirituality. In many cultures, feathers are thought to represent a connection to the spiritual world or to symbolize protection. Feathers in jewelry often convey a sense of lightness and the desire for liberation.
Sirilak Samanasak frequently uses delicate feather motifs in her handcrafted pieces, reflecting the beauty of freedom and personal growth.
Meaning:
Freedom of the spirit Spiritual connectionGrowth and personal evolution
Perfect For:
Those embracing a journey of personal transformationA gift for someone starting a new chapter in life.
3. Leaves: Growth and Renewal
Leaves are symbols of growth, renewal, and the changing cycles of life. In jewelry, they represent transformation and the beauty of nature. Whether it’s a single delicate leaf or a cascading design of multiple leaves, this motif speaks to those who find peace in growth and change.
Metal Studio Jewelry incorporates leaf designs that are organic and intricate, capturing the quiet beauty of nature’s cycles.
Meaning:
Growth and rebirthConnection to natureThe cycle of life
Perfect For:
Nature lovers Celebrating personal or professional milestones
4. The Heart: Love and Compassion
One of the most recognizable symbols in jewelry is the heart, which universally represents love, compassion, and affection. While traditionally associated with romantic love, heart motifs are also symbolic of kindness and friendship.
At Metal Studio Jewelry, Sirilak offers heart-shaped designs that go beyond traditional interpretations, with modern twists to suit a variety of styles.
Meaning:
Love and affectionCompassion and kindnessDeep emotional connections
Perfect For:
Valentine’s Day giftsCelebrating friendships or family bonds
5. Infinity Symbol: Limitless Possibilities
The infinity symbol, a loop that never ends, represents endless possibilities, eternal love, and an unbreakable bond. It has become a popular motif in modern jewelry, especially in bracelets, necklaces, and rings.
Sirilak uses the infinity symbol to create subtle, elegant pieces that are both meaningful and stylish.
Meaning:
Eternal loveEndless possibilitiesUnbroken bonds
Perfect For:
Anniversary gifts Those embracing an infinite future of opportunities
Final Thoughts
Jewelry is not only a reflection of your personal style but also a way to tell a story or express deeper meaning. Whether you’re drawn to the symbolism of eternity, the spirituality of feathers, or the growth represented by leaves, Metal Studio Jewelry offers unique, handcrafted pieces that allow you to wear your story.
When choosing jewelry, consider the motifs that resonate with you personally. Each design has the power to remind you of special moments, cherished people, or important milestones.
Explore Sirilak’s collection and find the piece that speaks to your heart.
Creating Your Custom Jewelry: A Step-by-Step Journey with Metal Studio
At Metal Studio, crafting your custom jewelry is a personalized and meticulous process. From the initial consultation to the final product, we ensure that every detail is handled with care and expertise. Here’s a look at what to expect when you embark on this creative journey with us.
1. Initial Consultation
The journey begins with a consultation, either in person with Boom, our designer, or online. During this meeting, we take the time to understand your vision, preferences, and any specific details you have in mind. We may use a form or a series of questions to gather all necessary information. This step is crucial for setting the foundation of your unique piece.
2. Design Process
Boom's design process is both creative and hands-on. For most designs, Boom prefers to work directly in metal, translating your ideas into tangible forms. For more intricate designs, we might create a wax mock-up to give you a better sense of how the final piece will look. This collaborative approach ensures that your vision is realized with precision.
3. Material Selection
You have a range of options when it comes to materials. We offer beautiful choices in silver, gold, and a variety of gemstones. If you have your own materials that you'd like us to incorporate, we’re happy to work with those as well. Our goal is to use high-quality materials that align with your vision and preferences.
4. Craftsmanship
Each piece is meticulously hand-crafted by Boom. With a focus on precision and artistry, Boom uses traditional techniques and tools to bring your design to life. This hands-on approach ensures that every detail is perfect and that your jewelry is truly one-of-a-kind.
5. Production Timeline
The timeline for creating your custom piece is structured to ensure quality and satisfaction. While the design phase can take some time to finalize, the actual crafting of your jewelry typically takes two to three weeks once the design is approved. We request payment upfront to begin this process.
6. Feedback and Revisions
We want you to be thrilled with your custom jewelry. If you have any concerns or wish to make adjustments, we’re happy to accommodate changes that align with the original design. Major redesigns, however, are not possible once crafting has begun. Your satisfaction is our priority, and we work closely with you to ensure your piece is perfect.
7. Final Product Presentation
Once your jewelry is complete, we’ll send you photos of the final piece for your approval. Your custom jewelry will be presented in our standard, branded packaging, adding a touch of elegance to the delivery.
8. Customer Experience
While we don’t offer additional services beyond crafting and presentation, we’re committed to ensuring that your experience with us is smooth and enjoyable. Our focus is on delivering a high-quality product and exceptional customer service throughout the process.
9. Showcasing Past Work
At Metal Studio, we’ve had the pleasure of bringing hundreds of unique designs to life. From setting cherished gemstones into bespoke pieces to collaborating with designers on complete collections, our portfolio is a testament to our expertise and dedication. Each project showcases our commitment to craftsmanship and personalized service.
Creating custom jewelry with Metal Studio is a journey of collaboration and creativity. We take pride in turning your vision into a beautiful reality, ensuring that each piece is as unique as you are. If you’re ready to start your custom jewelry journey,
Click here to reach out and schedule your consultation with Boom today.
The Importance of Custom Jewelry Design: A Personal Touch That Makes All the Difference
Jewelry has always been more than just an accessory—it's a reflection of who we are, a symbol of our values, and a way to mark life's most meaningful moments. While mass-produced jewelry offers convenience and variety, there's something uniquely special about custom jewelry design that resonates deeply with those who value individuality and personal expression.
Personalization: Expressing Your Unique Style
Custom jewelry design allows you to break free from the limitations of pre-made pieces and embrace your unique style. Whether it's a bespoke engagement ring, a necklace that symbolizes a significant milestone, or a pair of earrings crafted to match your personality, custom jewelry empowers you to create something that is truly your own.
One of the greatest advantages of custom design is the ability to choose every element of the piece. From the type of metal to the setting style, every decision is in your hands. This means you can create a piece that perfectly matches your aesthetic preferences, whether you lean towards classic elegance, modern minimalism, or bold, statement-making designs.
Meaningful Gifts That Last a Lifetime
Custom jewelry isn't just about style—it's also about sentiment. When you design a piece of jewelry with a loved one in mind, it becomes more than just a gift; it becomes a cherished keepsake. The thought, care, and creativity that go into creating a custom piece speak volumes, making it a deeply meaningful gesture.
Imagine giving a custom ring engraved with a special date or message, or a pendant featuring a birthstone that holds personal significance. These thoughtful touches transform jewelry into a lasting memory, one that will be treasured for years to come. It's this level of personalization that makes custom jewelry an ideal gift for special occasions like anniversaries, birthdays, and milestones.
Popular Customizations: Engraving and Stone Selection
When it comes to custom jewelry, the possibilities are endless, but some customizations are especially popular for their ability to add a personal touch.
Engraving: Engraving is one of the simplest yet most impactful ways to personalize a piece of jewelry. Whether it’s a name, a significant date, or a short message, engraving adds a layer of meaning that makes the piece uniquely yours. For example, couples often choose to engrave their wedding rings with their initials, wedding date, or a phrase that holds special significance to their relationship.
Stone Selection: The choice of stones is another critical aspect of custom jewelry design. Birthstones are a popular choice for personalized pieces, as they add a layer of personal connection and meaning. For instance, a mother’s ring might feature the birthstones of her children, each one representing a beloved family member. Beyond birthstones, you can choose gemstones that hold particular significance, such as a sapphire for its symbolism of loyalty or an emerald for its association with growth and renewal.
Why Custom Jewelry Matters
In a world where so much is mass-produced, custom jewelry stands out as a celebration of individuality. It's an opportunity to create something that is a true reflection of who you are or the bond you share with someone special. The process of designing custom jewelry is not just about the final product—it's about the journey of bringing your vision to life, with each decision contributing to a piece that tells your story.
Moreover, custom jewelry has the power to become a family heirloom, passed down through generations, each time carrying with it the stories and memories of its original owner. This makes custom pieces not only valuable in terms of material but also priceless in terms of emotional significance.
In conclusion, custom jewelry design is a powerful way to express personal style and create meaningful, one-of-a-kind pieces that will be cherished for a lifetime. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion, commemorating a milestone, or simply treating yourself to something truly unique, custom jewelry offers a level of personalization and significance that mass-produced pieces simply cannot match. So why settle for ordinary when you can create something extraordinary?
Unveiling the Magnificence: Exploring the Mysteries of July's Birthstone, the Ruby
As we enter the heart of summer, let us explore the captivating world of July's birthstone—the mesmerizing ruby. Renowned for its vibrant red hue and enchanting allure, the ruby holds a special place in the realm of gemstones. Symbolizing passion, love, and vitality, this precious gem has captivated humanity for centuries. In this blog post, we will delve into the fascinating origins, legends, and qualities of the ruby.
--> Shop Metal Studio Jewelry's collection of Ruby Jewelry
The ruby derives its name from the Latin word "ruber," meaning red. Its rich crimson color has fascinated civilizations throughout history. Discover more about the captivating history and cultural significance of the ruby by visiting reputable educational resources like the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) [link: https://www.gia.edu/ruby] or the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History's gem encyclopedia [link: https://geogallery.si.edu/10002870/ruby].
The geological formation of rubies is a marvel in itself. Delve into the intriguing process of how these precious gemstones are created by exploring informative websites such as Geology.com's article on "How Do Rubies Form?" [link: https://geology.com/gemstones/ruby] or the Gemstone.org's detailed overview on ruby formation [link: https://www.gemstone.org/gem-by-gem/english/ruby.html].
Discover the color spectrum of rubies and the factors that influence their value. From intense scarlet to slightly purplish or orangish-red hues, the diverse range of colors adds to the allure of this gemstone. Learn more about the grading and evaluation of ruby colors by visiting the International Gem Society's guide on "How to Buy Ruby: Color and Clarity" [link: https://www.gemsociety.org/article/how-to-buy-ruby-and-ruby-buying-guide].
Explore the captivating legends and folklore associated with rubies. From ancient Sanskrit texts calling it the "king of precious stones" to tales of protection and good fortune, the ruby's mythical properties have fascinated cultures worldwide. Unearth these captivating stories on websites like the American Museum of Natural History's "Gemstones of the World" [link: https://www.amnh.org/exhibitions/permanent-exhibitions/earth-and-planetary-sciences-halls/harry-frank-guggenheim-hall-of-gems-and-minerals/gems-and-minerals].
Conclude your journey into the world of rubies by understanding their metaphysical properties and healing energies. Explore the holistic beliefs surrounding the ruby's ability to amplify energy, promote vitality, and inspire courage. For in-depth insights, websites such as Crystal Vaults' guide on the metaphysical properties of ruby [link: https://www.crystalvaults.com/crystal-encyclopedia/ruby] can provide valuable information.
By immersing ourselves in the captivating world of rubies, we can appreciate the timeless beauty, rich history, and symbolic significance of July's birthstone. Explore these informative websites to deepen your understanding and connection to the majestic ruby, and let its fiery charm ignite your imagination and passion.
Explaining Gold "Loss" in jewellery production
--> Click here to fill out the contact form.
A Guide to Birthstones and Choosing the Right Gemstone for your Jewelry
1. January ~ Garnet
Garnet is typically known as a deep red gemstone with a very clear internal structure. While the majority of garnet is deep red in colour it can be found in colours ranging from orange into the green spectrum. Garnets can be found in deposits all over the world. Garnet is overall one our most popular gemstones because of its stunning beauty and because of its highly accessible price when compared to ruby.
--> Click here to shop some of our most popular garnet jewelry
2. February ~ Amethyst or Pearl
Amethyst is a variety of quartz crystal that comes in various shades from light to dark purple. It is a crystal that is found in abundance in South America. One of the most interesting characteristics about amethyst is the way that it is formed and found naturally. Amethyst crystals form inside geodes which are hollow rocks that have crystal structures growing inside them. The outside looks just like a regular rock but break the rock open and there are stunning crystals growing inside of the hollow rock.
3. March ~ Aquamarine
4. April ~ Diamond
Due to careful marketing on the part of the diamond industry diamond is often referred to as the only April birthstone. However the high price of diamond often puts off customers looking for more affordable birthday gifts. While Metal Studio Jewlery does have some diamonds in the collection we often prefer to make diamond jewelry by customer order rather than stock pieces.
A secondary option for people wanting a piece of diamond jewelry but not looking for the high prices of cut diamonds are rough diamonds. Rough diamonds are how all diamonds come from the earth before they are cut and polished. Rough diamonds have simply not been cut prior to setting giving them a rough look. Rough diamonds are becoming increasingly popular especially as wedding or engagement jewelry
--> Click here to visit diamond jewelry on the Metal Studio Jewlery website.
Another very good option for April jewelry gifts is Opal which is the other lesser known birthstone of April. Opals are one of Boom's favourite gemstones and we have a large selection of opals. Opals are stunning gemstones usually found either in Australia or Ethiopia however the look of Australian and Ethiopian opals is very different.
Australian opals tend to be found in very thin slices and are often bonded with a substrate to form larger flat pieces with stunning blue and green colouration. Australian opals tend to have very vibrant fire and a lot of movement that moves through the gemstone as it passes through different light sources.
Ethiopian opals are usually found in larger deposits and because of this are often cut into solid pieces and not backed with a substrate. They typically have more red and orange colouration and a white to creamy yellow medium.
--> Click here to visit our collection of opal jewelry.
5. May ~ Emerald
The gemstone of May is one of the most rare and valuable gemstones. Emerald is a deep green variant of Beryl. The stunning green colour has made these gemstone highly sought after and their rarity makes them highly valuable. Excellent quality specimens with few inclusions are more valuable than a similarly sized diamond.
6. June ~ Pearl / Alexanderite
Alexandrite is one of the most recent additions to the list of birthstones. While most gemstones on this list have been used as decoration throughout history, Alexandrite was only discovered in 1830 in the Ural mountains of Russia. Alexandrite is a fascinating gemstone because of its fascinating property of changing colour depending on the light source. While in mixed or bright daytime light Alexandrite appears to be deep purple, in fading light or by candle light it changes to a vivid yellow or orange. The change is very dramatic with not just a flash of yellows coming through the gemstone but the entire gemstone changing colour.
Alexandrite is incredibly rare and valuable. While we don't currently stock alexandrite we are able to obtain pieces on a one off basis for custom orders.
Pearl is the other more common birthstone of June. While not technically a gemstone because of the way it is formed pearl is nonetheless valuable and highly sought after. Pearls are often farmed inside of oysters. A small particle of sand or other foreign body is placed inside of a live oyster. In response to the invasion the oyster will coat the inclusion in a layer of calcium. The longer the inclusion is allowed to grow inside of the oyster the bigger it will become. While pearl is quite common larger pearls or uniquely coloured pearls, especially ones that are perfectly round are very valuable.
--> Click here to visit the Metal Studio Jewelry collection of pearl jewelry