Mission & Design Philosophy

Q: What does “Jewelry about YOU. For YOU.” mean?
At KM Jewelry Design, this phrase is the heart of everything I do. Each piece starts with your story — the people, milestones, and memories that make life meaningful. Together, we’ll turn that story into a wearable work of art using gemstones, metal, and engraving.
✨ Schedule your complimentary design consultation.

Q: What makes KM Jewelry Design different from other jewelers near Peoria IL?
I’m not a retail jewelry store — I design by private appointment, focusing on meaning over mass production. Every design is created specifically for your story, not a trend, ensuring your jewelry is timeless and personal.

Q: What’s the story behind your logo and colors?
The black and white in my logo represent possibility — a blank canvas for each client to “fill in” with their favorite color or gemstone. My signature KM Rose pink honors my late father-in-law, who helped plant roses outside my first home before his passing. It symbolizes love, remembrance, and new beginnings.

Custom Design Process

Q: What can I expect when we design together?

1. Tell your story. Fill out a short questionnaire with inspiration, photos, and favorite gems.

2. Start designing. We’ll meet virtually or in person to refine every detail.

3. See your design in 3D. Review your realistic rendering and request changes.

4. Wear your story. Once finished, your piece will become a daily reminder of what matters most.

Q: How do I start my custom jewelry project?
Complete the online intake form and schedule your complimentary consultation. Whether you’re in Morton, East Peoria, or Washington IL, I’ll guide you through the full design process.

Q: How long does it take?
Most custom designs take 4–6 weeks from consultation to completion. If you need it sooner, just note your preferred date on your form and I’ll confirm if it’s possible.

Q: Is it safe to ship my jewelry?
Yes. Every order is securely packaged and fully insured. Local clients can also choose free pickup or drop-off in Morton, East Peoria, or Washington IL.

Q: What design tools do you use?
I use professional 3D CAD software — MatrixGold and Rhino — so you can see your jewelry from every angle before it’s made.

Heirloom Redesigns & Meaningful Transformations

Q: Can you redesign my heirloom jewelry?
Absolutely! Redesigning heirloom pieces is one of my specialties. I love combining sentimental stones into fresh, modern designs that celebrate family history.

Q: I inherited jewelry from my mom — can you help me decide what to keep or redesign?
Yes. Many clients bring me heirloom pieces they aren’t sure how to wear. I’ll help assess which items are valuable, sentimental, or ready for redesign — at no cost.

Q: Can you combine multiple old rings into one new piece?
Definitely. It’s a wonderful way to honor several family members by blending their pieces into one meaningful design.

Q: I went through a divorce — can you redesign my wedding ring?
Yes. Redesigning post-divorce jewelry can be an empowering way to turn the past into something positive. We can reuse your diamonds and transform them into a new ring, pendant, or bracelet that reflects your growth and new chapter.

Gold Recycling & Appraisals

Q: Can you reuse my old gold?
Sometimes, old gold can be melted down and recycled into simple, hand-fabricated jewelry pieces, it depends upon the design your are looking to achieve. Usually, I reuse your diamonds and gemstones but not the old gold itself. Recasting gold from multiple sources can cause weak spots, so it’s often better to refine it for credit toward your new design.

Q: What can I do with my old gold?
I work with a trusted gold refiner to help you get the best possible price. The value is then applied directly toward your new piece — you keep the gems, and your old gold continues your story in a new way.

Q: Can you appraise inherited jewelry in Morton or Washington IL?
Yes! I provide professional jewelry assessments to help you understand stone quality, gold value, and redesign potential.

Engagement Rings & Gemstone Education

Q: How does the custom engagement ring process work?
We’ll start with your story and inspiration, then create a 3D design for you to preview. You’ll see exactly what your ring will look like before production begins.

Q: Do I have to use a diamond?
Not at all! Many couples choose colorful stones such as sapphire, spinel, or moissanite. I personally wear a red spinel — let’s find what fits your love story.

Q: Do you offer lab-grown diamonds?
Yes. Lab-grown diamonds are a budget friendly option. I’ll show you both mined and lab options side-by-side.

Q: Can you design a wedding band to match my engagement ring?
Of course! I can create a matching or complementary band for stacking, contrast, or harmony.

Q: What is a custom-cut gemstone?
It’s a gemstone hand-cut by a lapidary to maximize brilliance, clarity, and color. No two are alike — perfect for a one-of-a-kind piece.

Q: What is a GIA Applied Jewelry Professional (AJP)?
It’s a certification from the Gemological Institute of America covering jewelry, diamond, and colored stone essentials. I hold this credential to ensure every design reflects professional gem expertise.

Q: What is the Gemological Institute of America (GIA)?
Founded in 1931, GIA is the global authority on diamonds, colored stones, and pearls, known for its unbiased standards and education.

Repairs, Resizing & Jewelry Care

Q: Do you offer jewelry repair or resizing in Morton, East Peoria, or Washington IL?
Yes! I partner with local experts to handle ring sizing, prong repair, rhodium plating, and polishing. Drop off your items by appointment or at a partner location.

Q: How should I clean my fine jewelry at home?
Use warm water, a mild soap, and a soft brush — no harsh chemicals. For gemstone jewelry, a BlingBRITE pen is safe and easy. I recommend an annual professional cleaning and inspection.

Q: Can I have my jewelry resized or repaired later?
Absolutely! I’m your long-term jewelry partner. Whether you need refinishing, replating, or resizing, I’ll help ensure your pieces stay beautiful for life.

Local Service Areas & Client Experience

Q: Do you design custom jewelry in Morton, East Peoria, and Washington IL?
Yes! I serve clients throughout central Illinois. Whether it’s a redesign, engagement ring, or meaningful gift, you can meet with me locally or online.

Q: How much does a custom jewelry piece cost?
Pricing varies based on design complexity, gemstones, and metal choice. During your free consultation, I’ll walk you through budget options and keep everything transparent.

Q: What is it like to work directly with a jewelry designer?
Think of me as your personal jeweler. You’ll receive one-on-one attention, expert guidance, and genuine excitement for your story. I’m here to celebrate your milestones through fine jewelry — not just make a sale.

Q: How can I make sure my ring fits perfectly before production?
We’ll confirm your size during the design process and can create a prototype or sample band to test before your final piece is made.

Q: Where do you serve clients outside Morton?
In addition to Morton, I serve East Peoria, Washington, and the greater Peoria IL area — plus virtual design clients nationwide.