Bespoke Jewellery, Handmade in Scotland
Work with Alison to create a one-of-a-kind piece with meaning at its heart. From bespoke engagement and family rings to reworking sentimental jewellery, every commission is individually designed and handmade in Alison’s Thornhill atelier.
Alison x
Each commission is designed and made by Alison Macleod, an award-winning Scottish jewellery designer and goldsmith, from her atelier in Thornhill, Dumfries & Galloway.
What can we create together?
Every commission starts somewhere different. You may have inherited stones you would love to wear again, be looking for an engagement or wedding ring that feels completely your own, or have fallen for one of my designs but imagined it with a different stone or detail. We can begin with something very clear, or simply an idea, and work through it together.
“It makes me so happy to have those sentimental stones, which just sat in my jewellery box, now all clustered together as a thing of beauty that I can wear every day!
It makes me smile every time I look at it. Thank you!”
-BECKY, DORSET
The Process
Each bespoke journey begins with a conversation. Customers often come to me drawn to my signature style but looking for something uniquely their own -perhaps a different stone in an existing design, a combination of two favourite pieces, or a ring that marks a special moment in their life. In our atelier we specialise in custom engagement rings, family rings with personal stone clusters, and reworking sentimental heirlooms into jewellery that can be worn and cherished every day.
I personally oversee every step of the process, from consultation to final craftsmanship. The design process unfolds as follows:
1. Consultation – We start with a discussion, which can take place in the atelier, over email, or via Zoom. Understanding the wearer’s lifestyle, style preferences, and the occasion behind the piece helps us refine the design direction. I will guide you through options for stones, gold carat, and composition, ensuring everything aligns with your vision and budget.
2. Design Development – Using my collections as a starting point, we refine ideas and often create a Photoshop mockup to visualise the final design. This digital preview, while not exact in scale and colour, provides a strong sense of composition and allows for adjustments before moving forward. At this stage, I provide detailed quotes based on different metal and stone options, helping you make an informed decision. This process typically takes 2-3 weeks, though we can work within shorter timeframes when necessary.
3. Deposit & Material Sourcing – Once the design is finalised, a 50% deposit is required to begin the making process. If your design features a prominent stone, we can source multiple options for you to view—either in person or via photos and video.
4. Making Your Piece – With everything in place, I begin the meticulous handcrafting process at the workbench which typically takes 8-10 weeks. Bespoke pieces take time—from refining the design to carefully sourcing the right stones, I want to ensure that every element is considered with care. Letting the process unfold naturally leads to better decisions and a more meaningful final piece. If you have a tight deadline, please let us know at the beginning, and we will do our best to accommodate it where possible, without compromising on quality.
5. Completion & Delivery – When your piece is ready, I will send the final invoice. Once the balance is settled, your jewellery will be securely shipped via Royal Mail Special Delivery or FedEx for international orders.
My bespoke process is designed to be thoughtful, personal, and collaborative. I take great care to ensure that every custom piece is one you’ll treasure for years to come.
I’d love to hear about your ideas. You can book an appointment at the atelier or start a conversation by email.
“My gorgeous ring and bangle arrived this morning! I’m so pleased, both stunning pieces, you are so talented. Thanks again for your creativity and excellent customer service.”
“Thank you so much for my beautiful ring, I absolutely adore it. It is better than I could have ever imagined, thank you for your skill and artistry.”
“thank you for the wonderful job you did in producing a perfect ring which I am delighted with. There is a lot of unbelievable sentimentality attached”