OEM means the client provides the drawing and the factory produces to spec; ODM means the factory offers existing designs or semi-custom models that the client brands and sells. Both routes normally take 30 to 45 days from inquiry to delivery. The core difference is who owns the design responsibility and what minimum order quantity applies.

1. Inquiry and Quotation

The client sends drawings, a physical sample or a reference style. The factory evaluates material, difficulty and process, then quotes unit price, mold fee and MOQ. For 925 silver pieces the typical MOQ is 100 to 300 pieces per style, higher for complex pavé work. The quote should state whether mold cost, plating, stones and packaging are included.

2. Sampling and Approval

The factory makes one to three hand samples. The client approves size, weight, color and stone seats, then signs a sealed sample. Bulk production must match the sealed sample; verbal agreements lead to color and finishing disputes. Sampling takes 7 to 15 days, and the sample fee is often refunded once the bulk order is placed.

3. Bulk Production

After sample approval the order moves into mold making, wax injection, casting, filing, stone setting, polishing and plating. The client can request progress photos or video mid-production. It is wise to inspect at key nodes, such as before stone setting and before plating. Bulk lead time is usually 20 to 35 days depending on complexity and the factory schedule.

4. Inspection and Delivery

Shipment is checked under AQL standards for size, weight, stamps, stone tightness and surface defects. Export packaging includes individual OPP bags, anti-tarnish cloth and outer cartons with packing lists. Cartons should also carry the labels required by the destination market, such as nickel release marks and country of origin. The balance payment is settled before dispatch.

5. Key Considerations

• Material must be written in the contract, specifying 925 or 999 silver content.
• Plating thickness affects cost and color retention; 0.03 to 0.05 micron is standard.
• Logo and stamp positions should be agreed early to avoid rework.
• Keep the sealed sample and QC report for after-sales disputes.

MASCOT Jewelry offers one-stop OEM and ODM service from design to shipment, with its own Shenzhen factory supporting custom designs for cross-border brands and online sellers.