A sample is most useful when everyone knows what it is intended to prove. Before requesting one, confirm the design version, materials, measurements, cost scope and review criteria. Otherwise, the sample may answer a different question from the one the buyer intended.
Define the purpose of the sample
Is the sample intended to check proportions, stone setting, material appearance, comfort, construction or the complete finished product? If the project is still at concept stage, the sample may be exploratory. If it is intended as a final approval reference, the specification should be more complete.
State the decision the sample is meant to support.
Confirm the design version and dimensions
Identify the approved sketch, CAD or drawing by date or revision. Confirm the important measurements and units. Add side and back views where they affect setting height, clasp or connection details.
Mark unresolved values as targets or questions. Do not imply that a sample can be judged against dimensions that were never agreed.
Confirm materials and any substitutes
Identify the intended metal, fineness, color and finish. For gemstones, state material identity, origin category, dimensions and treatment information where known. If a substitute will be used for the sample, name it clearly and explain which aspects it can and cannot validate.
A sample made with a substitute may help review scale or construction but cannot confirm the appearance, identity or behavior of the final material.
Confirm the quotation and revision scope
Ask whether the quoted amount includes design work, CAD, material, sample production, revisions, packaging and shipping. State how many revision rounds are included or how additional changes will be quoted. Minimum quantities and production pricing should be treated separately unless the quotation clearly combines them.
Define the approval criteria
Write down what must be checked: dimensions, setting, symmetry, finish, fastening, comfort, weight, surface quality or other project-specific criteria. Identify who can approve the sample and whether approval allows a revised sample or authorizes production.
Agree the schedule and delivery
Ask when the sample is expected, what information or material availability the schedule depends on, and how it will be delivered. A requested date is not a confirmed date until the responsible parties agree to it.
Frequently asked questions
Should the first sample use final materials? Where appearance or material behavior is central, a final-material sample may be important. If a substitute is used, record the difference and limit what the sample is considered to prove.
Are sample costs always deducted from a production order? Do not assume so. Ask how sample charges are treated in the quotation and agreement.
Can a sample be approved by photograph? Photographs may support review, but they cannot assess every dimension, tactile quality, closure function or material property. Decide which checks require physical inspection.
Request a defined sample
VELORA MUSE can discuss design and sampling coordination with long-term manufacturing partners. Share your drawing and sample requirements to clarify the next step.