Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ's)

1. What metals do you use in your jewelry?

I work exclusively in sterling silver, 14K gold filled wire use gold and silver plated findings.

2. What is Sterling Silver?

Sterling Silver is 92.5% pure silver hardened with another metal alloy of no more than 7.5%, usually copper.

3. What is Gold Filled?

Goldfilled, Gold-Filled, Gold Filled ( abbreviated g.f.) is wire that has a layer of gold 14 K mechanically bonded under heat and pressure to one or more surfaces of a supporting base material (usually brass). It is then rolled or drawn to a specified thickness or gauge.

4. What is Gold Plated?

Patented in 1840, electroplating is a process by which a thin layer of gold, silver, palladium, and other metals are deposited onto a conductive object to enhance its appearance and value. Utilizing an electrical current, positively charged metal "ions" travel through a liquid solution known as an "electrolyte", and are deposited onto a negatively charged metal object.  The result is a very thin layer, only a few microns, which is likely to wear much more quickly than gold filled.

5. Do you offer custom design services?

I am happy to incorporate slight variations as to sizing and choice of gemstones into existing designs. If you have your own stone, and would like to incorporate it into one of my designs, in most cases I would be happy to accommodate your request.

6. Do you repair jewelry?

I guarantee all of my jewelry free from defects and will repair at no cost to you if a repair is needed due to a fabrication error.  If a repair is required due to wear, I would be more than happy to make necessary repairs at reasonable rates. 

7. How to clean precious metals?

Sterling Silver will tarnish and gold will oxidize with exposure to air. To minimize oxidation, store silver and gold jewelry sealed in a plastic bags. You should never use abrasive silver or metal polish on precious metal jewelry nor should you use toothpaste.  The abrasives will wear away some of the metal and if the piece has had patina applied, totally remove that too. The best way to remove tarnish or oxidation is by using a Rouge Cloth (special jewelry polishing cloth), or by cleaning in an ionic or ultrasonic jewelry cleaner. Ultrasonic cleaners are not safe for most gemstones.  A jewelers cloth such as a Rouge Cloth can also be used for cleaning gold, silver, copper and brass jewelry. When using a Rouge Cloth, rub the surface to be polished with medium pressure. The cloth retains its special polishing and cleansing action until the cloth is completely darkened and it lasts for years. At this point it should be disposed of. Do not wash the cloth. You also can  organically clean sterling silver, fine silver, brass, and copper by soaking the item in balsamic vinegar for about 10 minutes. This method should only be used on bare metal jewelry (without attached gemstones or gem settings).

8. How to clean Pearls?

Pearls are porous and require special care. Never use jewelry cleaners, since this might turn light colored pearls black.  Instead wipe your pearls gently with a damp cloth. As a preventative measure, put your pearls on last to minimize direct contact with perfume, cologne, hair spray, lotions and make-up. The best way to care for your pearls is to wear them. The oils from your skin will help prevent the pearls from drying out. Do not store pearls in zip-lock baggie’s because moisture can build up inside a sealed bag and damage your pearls.  Instead, wrap your pearls in a jewelers tissue, tissue paper, or a soft cotton cloth, and store directly in a soft jewelry bag.

9. How to clean Gemstones?

Precious and semi-precious gemstone beads are made of natural minerals and are quite porous and will chip if not cared for properly. When wearing your beads, be careful to not knock them against hard surfaces. As with Pearls, apply cosmetics and perfume before putting on your jewelry. Cosmetics and perfumes may contain substances that will discolor your beads or damage the protective outer layer. Do not wear or leave your jewelry exposed to high temperatures. Remove your jewelry before entering a sauna or when you plan to spend long hours in direct sunlight. Do not wear your jewelry while swimming, as both salt water and chlorine will damage them.  Most gemstones should not be cleaned in an ultrasonic cleaner.