How to order custom jewelry from Chinese manufacturers for your own brand?

The Custom Jewelry Ordering Process: 7 Steps

1. Define Your Requirements — Specify product type, material (18k gold plated, S925 silver, etc.), target price point, estimated monthly volume, and target market. The clearer your brief, the more accurate your quotes.
2. Find and Vet Suppliers — Search on Alibaba.com, Made-in-China.com, or attend trade shows like Canton Fair. Filter for Gold Supplier or Assessed Supplier status. Check years in business (5+ preferred), export history to your target market, and whether they specialize in your jewelry category.
3. Submit RFQ with Design References — Send inspiration images, sketches, or a detailed written description. Include dimensions, materials, plating thickness, stone specifications, and any packaging requirements. Hengdian (HD) Jewelry accepts both reference-based and original design submissions.
4. Review Quote and Negotiate — Expect quotes within 2-5 business days. Negotiate on MOQ, unit price at different volume tiers, tooling/mold fees (often waived for ongoing partnerships), and payment terms (30% deposit + 70% before shipment is standard).
5. Approve Pre-Production Sample — Always order a sample before bulk production. This costs $30-100 per design and takes 7-15 days. Check every detail: weight, plating quality, stone setting, clasp function, hallmark accuracy. Do not skip this step.
6. Production and Quality Inspection — Bulk production typically takes 15-30 days. Arrange third-party QC inspection or request photo/video approval before shipment. Check plating thickness, stone security, clasp function, and finish consistency on a random sample.
7. Shipping and Customs — Choose air express (3-7 days, higher cost) for samples and small orders, sea freight (15-30 days, lower cost) for bulk. Ensure the supplier provides proper commercial invoice and HS codes for smooth customs clearance.

Customization Options at Hengdian (HD) Jewelry

• Logo and Branding: Laser engraving on pendants, custom hang tags, branded jewelry cards, and logo-printed gift boxes.
• Design Customization: Modify existing designs (change stone color, metal finish, size), or create entirely new designs from your concepts and sketches.
• Packaging: Custom jewelry boxes, pouches, cards, and inserts with your brand identity. Full packaging design support available.
• Plating Specifications: Custom plating thickness (0.5-3.0 microns), e-coating for durability, anti-tarnish treatments, and niche finishes.