Appointment-Only jewelry studio

Couples shopping for engagement rings and wedding bands, gift buyers, and people with jewelry to repair or redesign, often reached by referral or social media.

Markup on pieces sold or ordered to spec, plus repair and resizing fees. With little stock held, most sales are made-to-order or from supplier catalogs.

• Consultative selling and building trust
• Eye for design and style
• Social media and photography basics

• Home occupation permit, HOA or lease rules, and customers visiting your home, check with your city or county
• Business license and sales tax registration, check your state and local requirements
• Insurance that covers stock and customer visits, since home insurance often excludes business jewelry
• Customer safety and your own: meet new clients in a way that feels secure, and avoid advertising your home address
• Accurate descriptions of metals and stones, check the FTC Jewelry Guides, and be cautious about buying used gold, which is regulated in many places

Startup costs are typically around $5,000 to $25,000, depending on how much stock you carry, your studio setup, insurance and any partner bench jeweler arrangements. Carrying less stock than a storefront is one way owners keep costs down.

Monthly revenue is typically around $1,500 to $7,500, depending on your prices, how many engagement and custom orders you win, and how you find clients. Plan on at least about 10 hours a week.

Check your city or county for a home occupation permit, plus HOA or lease rules and customers visiting your home. Also check business license and sales tax registration, insurance covering stock and visits, and how to meet new clients securely.