FAQ
How do I care for my jewellery?
The jewellery I make is designed to be worn, loved and to last. Sterling silver is an alloy containing both silver and metals such as copper. The copper reacts with sulphur – containing gases in the air to leave a layer of copper sulphide which makes the silver start to look black. Many other chemicals, and even humidity, sweat and oils can react to silver causing it to tarnish. The layer of copper sulphide can be cleaned off using a polishing cloth and the easiest way to avoid it is to wear your jewellery regularly. Following my tips below and your jewellery can be kept sparkly.
To reduce tarnish, I recommend the following:
- Remove your jewellery when you shower or bathe, particularly on the beach, in the sea and chlorinated water.
- Avoid spraying perfume or applying creams directly onto your jewellery – your jewellery should be the last thing you put on when getting ready.
- Keep away from extreme temperatures, humidity and sunlight, avoid wearing your jewellery when using bleach and other harsh household cleaners.
It is also important to keep pieces out of flowing air and humidity when not being worn.
Gemstones
If your jewellery contains gemstones, please take a little extra care. They can be damaged with cleaning solutions so clean gently using warm water and a polishing cloth.
Oxidisation
Jewellery that has areas of oxidisation (intentionally blackened), these are not a permanent finish and after time and wear the oxidation may wear off. Items can be re-oxidised so please contact me for advice.
How do I find out my ring size?
The best thing to do is go to a local jeweller and ask to get your finger sized, just make sure you get the finger that you want to wear the ring on measured! Alternatively, I have ring sizers to purchase. You may find this YouTube video https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xzBDFCrHMnw
The best time of day to measure your finger is at the end of the day, because that is when they are at their biggest. Your fingers are at their smallest when they are cold so avoid measuring at that time.
Rings which have a wide band will need to be half a size larger that your normal rings so consider this when checking your size.
Do you do commissions?
I’m not currently taking commissions.
Are you eco-friendly?
I have put a lot of effort into making sure my postage and boxing materials are all eco-friendly.
How will my order be packaged?
Your jewellery will come beautifully presented in a branded gift box. I will include care instructions and contact information. Your jewellery will arrive with a free jewellery polishing cloth and anti-tarnish storing strip. Your package will be securely packed in a postal box.
Each element of my packaging is either recycled or recyclable.
What is your shipping and returns policy?
You can find information here.
How do you make your jewellery?
Each piece starts purely from silver sheet and silver wire. I use 100% recycled silver. I then form it using traditional silversmithing techniques to turn into rings, earrings, pendants and bracelets. I also recycle off cuts of silver to make embellishments. If you would like to see some behind the scenes processes, follow me on of Instagram and Facebook where I share videos and photos.
What does hallmarking mean?
A hallmark is added to a piece of jewellery by an Assay Office after they have tested the metal and confirmed its fineness. In the case of silver, a hallmark is legally required if the piece weighs 7.78g or more. You can learn more about this here.
Can you make jewellery in gold?
Currently I’m only working with silver.
Can I add a gift message to my order?
Yes, I’m happy to write a gift message with your order at no extra cost, just let me know at the time of purchase what you would like written.