Image Under Glass™ creates custom photographic jewelry pendants and charms in sterling silver and 18 carat gold. I had the opportunity to review a product sample provided by the company, and I was impressed with the jewelry's quality and styling. Because each piece is custom made with a photo you provide, it makes an especially meaningful gift for a family member or loved one.

I reviewed this little oval pendant in sterling silver, gracefully hung on a simple ball-chain to be worn as a necklace. The pendant measures about 12mm wide and 15mm long (not including the ring) and is about 5mm thick. The first thing I noticed about this piece was its nice weight and solid feel. Although diminutive, it is not flimsy or cheaply put together. The quality is very good.

The next feature to catch my eye is the vividness of the photograph. The image is tiny, but somehow it "jumps out" and is very clear. (This feature seems impossible to capture in digital images of the jewelry.) It also looks deep-set into the pendant - not thinly covered near the surface. This is probably due to Image Under Glass' special glass-covering technique, which actually magnifies the little image.

The piece arrived in very nice packaging appropriate for a higher-quality product, and perfect for gift-giving. The paper tote bag contained coordinating tissue paper, an envelope with a card containing care instructions and a small jewelry-polishing cloth, and an attractive wood jewelry box. The necklace was inside the box in a luxurious little jewelry pouch.

This pendant is also available in 18 carat gold, which I'm sure is also lovely. Photos can appear on one side (as in my sample) or on both sides in a "double pendant." In addition to pendants, there are several styles of slightly smaller charms to choose from. These can be purchased on a charm bracelet or as earrings. There's even an option to purchase a pendant on a key fob.

As with all quality handcrafted work in precious metals, Image Under Glass products are not inexpensive. The necklace I reviewed is currently priced at $135. The same piece in 18 carat gold is $175. Here's a little more of what you'll be paying for:

• Each charm or pendant is custom-made from a photo you provide. You don't need to worry about sizing the image; Image Under Glass will do that for you. You can send a digital image by email, or a print through the mail. (Your original image will be returned to you.)

• Your jewelry is guaranteed to be waterproof and may be worn in the shower or swimming without the photo being damaged.

• Each piece is created carefully by hand to be an heirloom piece that can be passed through generations of your family.

To learn more about Image Under Glass, their products, and the ordering process, visit their website at iugstudio.com.