A Custom Football Cleat Pendant for a U.S. Independent Brand
How a first-time buyer moved from a reference image and a four-tier pricing request to an approved CAD design, paid prototype order and coordinated sample shipment.
The Brief
A U.S.-based independent jewelry brand approached MIRAMETAL with a reference image for a football-cleat pendant. The design depended on a specific combination of bright polished gold on the raised areas and darker detail in the recessed sections.
Buyer Requirements
- Retail product under the buyer’s own brand
- Separate pricing for one prototype and 10, 50 and 500 pieces
- CAD, mould, sample and shipping quoted transparently
- A finish that stayed close to the original visual reference
- Design confidentiality and ownership protections
Material Decision
Both copper with premium plating and 316 stainless steel with PVD were reviewed. Copper was selected for the prototype because it offered a more established path for the required gold colour and darker recessed treatment.
From Inquiry to Approved Prototype
1. Written Specification
The quotation separated the unit price, one-time mould, CAD design and shipping instead of hiding them inside a single number. The buyer could therefore compare the commercial structure before committing.
2. Contract and Payment
The buyer reviewed the cooperation and confidentiality terms, signed the contract and paid the prototype invoice before production began.
3. CAD and Sample Approval
The technical drawings were shared for review before production. The buyer approved the dimensions and appearance, allowing sampling to proceed.
4. Sample Preparation
Two finish samples were prepared: one in 18K gold and one in an antique-bronze direction for comparison. A coordinated brass rope chain was also included.
What the Client Said
“Everything looks great to me and I can’t wait to see them both.”
Translated from the client’s WhatsApp approval after the technical drawings and sample direction were reviewed. Client identity is withheld in this public case study.
What This Case Demonstrates
A Clear Quotation Structure
Separate line items make it easier to understand what is one-time tooling, what is design work and what is paid for the finished sample.
A Controlled Approval Path
The project moved through material selection, written quotation, contract, CAD review and sample preparation rather than rushing directly into bulk production.
Finish Is a Production Decision
The best material is not always the cheapest or the hardest. Plating behaviour, recessed detail and the target appearance all affect the recommendation.
Service Continues After Payment
The buyer received progress updates and a coordinated chain, and an extra 18K gold sample was offered after a logistics delay.
Discuss a Custom Jewelry Prototype
Send a reference image, target quantity, material direction and required delivery date. The team will confirm what is needed for CAD, sampling and quotation.