Every week, we receive messages from customers who are curious, excited, and sometimes a little nervous about ordering a custom piece for the first time. That’s completely understandable — whether you’re looking for a personalized dog necklace, a cat memorial jewelry piece, or a meaningful pet remembrance gift, a custom pendant is not an off-the-shelf purchase. It’s something made specifically for you, from a photo that means something to you.

So we’ve gathered the most common questions we receive and answered them honestly, the way we’d answer a friend.

Q1: What kind of photo should I send?

The ideal photo is clear, well-lit, and shows your pet’s face from the front or at a slight angle. We need to be able to see the details — the shape of the eyes, the texture of the fur, the expression that makes your pet them.

A few tips:

• Natural daylight works best. Avoid flash photos, which flatten features and wash out color.
• A single subject in focus is easier to work with than a group shot.
• Higher resolution is better, but a sharp phone photo is usually more than enough.

If you’re unsure whether your photo will work, just send it to us. We’ll let you know honestly before anything moves forward.

Q2: Is the design free? What if I change my mind?

Yes — the design preview is completely free, and there’s no obligation to proceed.

We send you a full design preview before you pay anything. If you love it, you place your order. If you change your mind, you walk away — no charge, no pressure. Zero risk.

This is how we work: we talk first, design second, payment only after you’re happy.

Q3: How long does it take?

From your first email to the finished pendant arriving at your door, the typical timeline is 3 to 4 weeks.

• Days 1–3: We review your photo and send you a free design preview — technical drawings and a 3D rendered preview so you can see the piece before anything is made.
• Days 4–14 (approx. 10 business days): Once you approve the design and complete payment, we begin handcrafting the piece.
• After completion: We send you photos of the finished piece for your final confirmation, then arrange international shipping.

If you have a specific date in mind — a birthday, an anniversary, or you need a dog memorial gift for a grieving friend — please let us know when you first reach out and we’ll do our best to accommodate.

Q4: Can I customize the size, shape, or metal type?

Yes, within reason. Our pendants are handcrafted, which means there’s more flexibility than with mass-produced jewelry. Whether you want a custom dog necklace, a custom cat necklace with names, or a personalized pet memorial jewelry piece with a special date — just tell us and we’ll work with you.

We work primarily in S925 sterling silver. If you have a specific request, mention it in your first email.

Q5: What if I’m not happy with the design?

Before we make anything, we send you a complete design preview. If anything isn’t right, tell us and we’ll revise. We won’t begin production until you’ve given your approval — and since the design is free, there’s genuinely no risk in trying.

Q6: Is this a good gift for someone who lost their dog?

It’s one of the most meaningful ones you can give. If you’re wondering what to get someone whose dog passed away, or looking for a gift for a friend whose dog died, a custom pet portrait pendant transforms a beloved photo into something tangible and lasting.

Unlike flowers or generic sympathy gifts, a dog remembrance jewelry piece is something the recipient will wear and treasure for years.

Popular choices for dog passing gifts and pet memorial gifts:

• Custom dog portrait pendant — wearable, personal, $150
• Custom cat portrait pendant — for cat lovers, $150
• Custom pet watercolor portrait — a beautiful home keepsake, $120
• Custom pet enamel portrait pendant — hand-painted color, full of life, $150

Q7: Do you ship internationally? Are duties included?

Yes — we ship worldwide, and duties and taxes are included in the price. The price you see is the price you pay. No surprise fees when your package arrives. All orders include tracking.

Q8: How does the ordering process work?

Step 1 — Email us your photo (free, no commitment)
Send us your photo and any customization requests. No payment needed yet.

Step 2 — Receive your free design preview
Within 1–3 business days, we’ll send you a design preview. Once you’re happy, you place your order and complete payment.

Step 3 — Handcrafting (~10 business days)
We make your piece by hand and send you photos of the finished item for final confirmation.

Step 4 — International shipping, duties included
We arrange express international delivery. Everything is included — no hidden costs.

Still have a question?

Reach out through our contact page. We read every message and reply personally.

📚 Further reading:
→ How Much Does Pet Memorial Jewelry Cost? Complete Price Guide
→ The Design Process Behind Our Custom Pet Portrait Pendants