A custom jewellery sample can be produced in 7 working days when the design brief is complete on day zero. The seven days break down as CAD and review, wax printing, casting and filing, stone setting, polishing and plating, assembly and quality check.
The variable is never the factory floor. It is the brief. Samples that take three weeks almost always spent two of them waiting for a decision on stone size, plating colour or ring size. Here is exactly how the week is used, and what you need to supply so it runs.
The seven days, step by step
| Day | Stage | What you receive |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Brief review and CAD model | 3D render for approval |
| Day 2 | CAD revision round | Updated render with dimensions |
| Day 3 | Wax or resin printing | Printed pattern, weight estimate |
| Day 4 | Casting in your chosen metal | Raw cast piece |
| Day 5 | Filing and stone setting | Set piece, stone count confirmed |
| Day 6 | Polishing and plating | Finished colour sample |
| Day 7 | Assembly and QC | Photographs, weight, dimensions |
What we need from you on day zero
- A sketch, reference photograph or CAD file — any of the three works, but say which details must be exact and which are open.
- The metal and plating colour, stated by name rather than by 'silver colour'.
- The stone type, shape and size in millimetres.
- The ring size system you use, and the target finished weight if you have one.
- The clasp, chain or earring-back type, because these are usually the parts that are forgotten and then delay the sample.
Where the seven days can slip
Three things reliably cost time. First, an unresolved decision at the CAD stage, which pushes every downstream step. Second, a calibrated stone that has to be sourced specially — stock rounds and standard fancy shapes keep the schedule intact. Third, a plating colour that is not in the current bath cycle, since plating runs are grouped.
Any of these is manageable if it is raised on day one. None is manageable if it is raised on day six.
Sampling is a decision tool, not a formality
Treat the sample as the agreement. Photograph it, weigh it, sign and date it, and keep it. Everything after that — production, inspection, repeat orders — is measured against that object. It is also how you test a factory: a supplier who can hold a 7-day cycle at low MOQ is organised, and organisation is what protects your launch date.
Holycome runs a 7-day rapid sampling process and a 30-day risk-free guarantee, across 925 sterling silver, moissanite, lab grown diamonds, lab grown gemstones, synthetic stones and gold plated brass. Send your sketch, stone size and ring size to service@holycome.com, or start at our contact page and we will confirm your sample window before you commit.
