Maybe you have a sketch for a crystal candle holder, a reference photo for a gift set, or an idea you can only describe in words. Any of those is enough to start a conversation. At MLDCRYSTAL in Donghai, China, we help turn early ideas into natural stone products, from the first concept render to the approved sample and production run.
Project at a glance
- A description, sketch, reference image, or intended use is enough to start.
- Three rounds of revisions are included in the project quote.
- We typically make two samples. Production starts at 100 sets.
Start with a short brief
In your first inquiry, tell us what you want to make, how it will be used, your target budget, and when you plan to launch. Share any sketches or reference photos you have. If your idea is confidential, we can sign a nondisclosure agreement (NDA) before you share the details.
We review feasibility and costs, confirm whether tooling is needed and what it would cost, and set out the scope in a project agreement. Once the development fee is paid, we begin the agreed work, including the concept render. Depending on the project, our design services can cover shape, dimensions, stone selection, technical drawings, 3D visuals, and packaging.
Design for the stone
During the feasibility review, we flag details that could affect production or everyday use. Thin sections can break, sharp corners can chip, and a solid piece can be heavier than expected. We also assess whether holes, inlays, and joints are practical for the shape and stone you have in mind. If a detail is difficult to make, we can suggest a different stone, a thicker section, a simpler construction, or another surface finish.
Pieces made entirely from natural stone or crystal are typically shaped by hand and usually require no mold. Designs with components in other materials often need tooling, depending on the part and how it will be made.
Understand the quote and payment schedule
We provide one consolidated development quote for the agreed scope, which may include product design, packaging design, sampling, tooling, and sample shipping.
- Development. Design, sampling, and any tooling fees are paid in full upfront.
- Revisions. The quote includes three rounds. Additional changes, material swaps, or sample rework carry no extra charge when they add no actual cost.
- Production. The sample fee can be credited toward your production order. The production payment is split into a 50% deposit and a 50% balance due before shipment.
Approve the sample before production
- Approve the concept render. Review the proposed shape, proportions, and overall look before we make the physical sample.
- Review the physical sample. We typically make two pieces. One is shipped to you and one stays with us as a reference.
- Confirm the final sample. We make any agreed revisions and confirm the reference sample with you.
- Begin production. We use the approved sample as the production reference.
The minimum for the first production run is 100 sets, and the packaging minimum is also 100 sets. A small pilot run can be arranged. Timing depends on the product and the work involved. Our typical lead-time estimate is 7–15 days, starting once the development fee has been paid. We confirm the schedule for your project during the feasibility review.
Develop packaging around the product
We can design the outer box, inner tray, instruction card, and labels. Your brand logo is enough to get started. We can make an unprinted mock-up first so you can check the fit and structure, then create a printed sample for approval. Retail display packaging and transit packaging can be quoted separately.
Agree on natural variation and future orders
Your project agreement sets out the acceptable variation in the stone’s color and veining. Before buying production materials, we confirm any batch changes, material shortages, or expected differences from the approved sample with you.
You keep your design files, samples, and molds. We retain a reference sample during development and production. Exclusivity and repeat-order terms are handled under the agreed confidentiality terms.
Have a product idea?
Tell us what you want to make, your target budget, and your planned launch date. We’ll review what it would take to develop a sample.
Discuss Your Product Idea
