Custom work and repair jobs create unique liability because jewelers are often working with sentimental items, unknown prior work, fragile stones, worn mountings, and customer expectations that may not match the technical realities of the job. This presentation explains how jewelry stores can reduce legal and operational risk by setting expectations early, documenting item condition, and using written approvals before work begins.

Areas covered include customer-supplied stone and metal releases, CAD and custom approval processes, stone setting and removal risks, fragile or previously set stones, repair limitations, revision and cancellation policies, final approvals before production, and the importance of photo documentation and detailed job notes.

Attendees will learn how to identify high-risk custom and repair jobs, protect against misunderstandings, and reduce liability through stronger forms, clearer communication, and more effective procedures that protect both the customer and the business.

About Hunter Brooks, J.D., G.G.

Hunter Brooks, J.D., G.G. is a legal professional, business owner, Gemological Institute of America Graduate Gemologist, and lifelong jewelry professional with deep roots in the jewelry trade. Raised in a family business built around design, manufacturing, wholesale production, and retail jewelry operations, Hunter brings a practical understanding of the challenges jewelers face every day.

Hunter has worked across retail management, custom design, wholesale manufacturing, sourcing, appraisal-related services, client consulting, business development, and production support. For the last seven years, he has served as one of the lead CAD designers at Specialty Casting, where he has helped bring custom jewelry projects from concept through production. With an estimated 10,000+ hours in CAD design work, he offers a firsthand perspective on both the creative and operational realities of the custom jewelry process.

After earning his Juris Doctor, Hunter began applying his legal and business background to issues affecting jewelry retailers, manufacturers, and trade professionals. His focus includes contracts, employment policies, customer intake forms, custom design approvals, repair documentation, vendor terms, and operational safeguards designed to help jewelry businesses reduce risk and operate more professionally.

Hunter’s presentations combine legal training with real-world jewelry experience, giving attendees practical tools they can apply directly within their businesses.