Bringing Dreams to Life: The Custom Design Journey at Aucoin Hart Jewelers

When we imagine a piece of jewelry, it’s rarely just about sparkle or metal—it’s about story, emotion, and identity. At Aucoin Hart Jewelers, that belief becomes tangible through our thoughtful custom design process. From the first spark of an idea to the moment the finished piece is placed in your hand, our process is crafted to be collaborative, transparent, and detailed.

It Begins With an Idea

Your journey starts with a consultation. Whether you already have a clear design in mind or just a vague vision of a special piece, this is where conversations happen. At this stage, the designers at Aucoin Hart spend time exploring your inspirations, reviewing jewelry already in their showroom, and discussing what resonates with you. Do you love the way a gemstone is set in one ring? Or maybe the hammered texture on another piece speaks to you? These references help establish a design direction. Together, you’ll decide whether to proceed with hand fabrication, carving a wax model, or using computer-aided design (CAD), depending on the complexity, aesthetic, and function of the piece. You’ll also talk about precious metals (gold, platinum, etc.), diamonds, gemstones, and the overall journey of craftsmanship.

CAD Imaging: Preview & Adjust

Once the direction is settled, we move to CAD imaging. This phase allows you to see a realistic rendering—almost what the finished piece will look like. Want to adjust the height of the center stone? Change the angles of side gems? Alter proportions or styling elements? CAD offers flexibility early on, so you can refine the design until it aligns with your vision. When you're satisfied with the digital version, that's the go-ahead to bring it into the physical realm.

Wax Model Creation

With digital approval in hand, a wax model is next. Depending on the design, the wax may be carved by hand or produced from the CAD file using in-house 3D printers. The advantage of this model is tangible feedback: you can see, hold, and examine proportions, size, fit, and overall feel. Before any irreversible steps (like casting), this wax model ensures all parties are confident about how the design will translate into metal and gemstone.

Casting & Fabrication

Once the wax model is approved, the casting process begins. Aucoin Hart handles casting precious metals—silver, gold, platinum—on site, using advanced equipment. Our casting machines melt metal in an oxygen-free environment via induction, which helps ensure quality, minimize flaws, and produce durable, beautiful foundations for the stones and finishing.

If the design calls for it, they’ll also use traditional hand fabrication. This is where old-world skill comes in: shaping, forming, joining, and building by hand. These techniques, handed down across generations, allow for ultimate control and customization; especially in complex or heirloom-quality pieces.

Gemstone Setting & Finishing Touches

After the metal work, the gemstones are set. Aucoin Hart has master setters who handle diamonds and colored gems under microscopes with precision. They are adept in styles ranging from prong, bezel, bead, channel, to more delicate styles like pavé and micro-pavé.

Next comes finishing: polishing, detailing, textures, surface finishes, hand engraving, and rigorous quality control. Every piece is polished to a mirror-like luster (or another finish you’ve chosen), inspected carefully, and then stamped with the Aucoin Hart hallmark before delivery.

Explore Custom Design Jewelry at Aucoin Hart Jewelers

Creating the perfect jewelry begins with trusted expertise and peace of mind that you always get what you pay for. At Aucoin Hart Jewelers, you can explore a wide range of exquisite jewelry that reflects the quality and beauty that we have become renowned for. From designer engagement rings to unique custom designs, every piece we offer is carefully crafted and verified for authenticity. We also offer personalized diamond consultations to help you find the perfect diamond that suits your wardrobe and lifestyle. Experience an incredible team ready to help bring your dream jewelry to life at Aucoin Hart Jewelers. Visit us in Metairie or contact us to begin your custom designed journey.