frequently asked questions

How do I know what ring size to order?

Accurate ring sizing is really important as its not always possible to resize designs in my studio, so here are a few pointers on how to take a ring size:

• Try to avoid sizing your finger when hot or chilly as your finger size will alter.

• If attempting to buy a ring for someone else without their knowledge be sure to measure an existing ring from the correct hand as the fingers on a dominant hand are usually larger than those on the other hand (I am right handed and my left hand fingers are all a half-size smaller than those on the right).

• A wide band ring may require a larger size than a narrow band in order to allow the ring to slide over the knuckles so be sure to use an appropriate width of ring sizer.

• If you have prominent knuckles you may find that rings that are large enough to pass over the knuckle may then swing around on the finger. Do not be tempted to buy rings that are tight as this will only make your finger swell, especially when you are hot.

• Adjustable plastic ring sizers do not provide an accurate measurement.

• You could ask a High Street jewellery retailer (cheeky I know) to measure your finger using the UK A-Z wheatsheaf measurement scale.

• Ideally when creating a ring to commission, I would like to take my own measurement of a finger, or an existing ring but, failing that please read tips above in order to provide me with as accurate a measurement as possible.

How do i take care of my jewellery?

• All jewellery needs to be stored away in its own box or bag to ensure it isn’t damaged and to avoid tarnishing. Please only put your jewellery on once all make-up, lotions and perfumes have been applied and have dried as these chemicals are capable of tarnishing silver and destroying other sensitive patinas. Jewellery should not be worn when exercising, gardening or swimming for the same reason.

• CARING FOR SILVER JEWELLERY

  If necessary, a quick clean with soapy water and an old toothbrush will clean most dirt and grime from a piece of silver jewellery. If you dry the item and then polish it with a soft ‘silver cloth’ you should find that the bright sheen returns. If the silver has a dark patina applied you should only wipe the surface with a dry, clean, soft cloth.

• CARING FOR PATINATED METALS

  Patinas are merely skin deep and are susceptible to abrasion and chemical attack. If required, the surface should only be wiped with a clean, dry, soft cloth. Patinas on copper are all protected with a wax and/or lacquer protective layer which can be enhanced with an additional light application of wax. Gold leaf does not like water and, although lacquered against light wear, there is a risk the leaf will lift if wet.

• CARING FOR PEARLS

  Pearls are noted for their wonderful soft lustre but also for their fragility. Pearls don’t like chemicals so all the above notes about chemicals and abrasion are valid and it is always good to individually store pearl jewellery in its own soft bag or box. Again, only clean with a soft dry cloth.

How do I know what chain length to order?

Chain lengths are, on the whole, to a few standard lengths. As I often make my own necklace chains by hand myself or use lengths of purchased chain and add my own choice of catch, so I can usually provide chains to any length requested, with a few exceptions. As to what length you will require, your own width of neck and how you wish the necklace to hang will determine what length you will need. Ideally, measure your own favourite necklaces or, if buying for someone else, consider reviewing some of the information pages on the web on this topic. Given the size of bail on some pendants, it is not always feasible to change chains on pre-made items.

What if the item I purchase from the website is just not me?

Of course, sometimes what you buy just isn’t as you imagined it to be. I am happy to accept returns as long as the circumstances adhere to my Returns Policy.

What if I buy it as a gift and they don't like it or it doesn't fit?

The usual Returns Policy still holds for such purchases.

How is the work packaged?

I am aware that the jewellery industry is often guilty of seriously over-packaging their wares and I am also keen that customers are able to suitably store their pieces of jewellery. To this end my designs are in small boxes made with recycled card and paper together with a fabric drawstring storage bag. My sturdy postal boxes, sealed with paper tape and lined with paper tissue, are made of cardboard.

Do you use recycled materials?

I purchase recycled silver and gold sheet, wire and tube from a reputable bullion supplier and, where feasible, findings as well. When a client specifically requests recycled materials I can oblige, either by arranging for their own metals to be included in a casting pour or by adding their own metals as accents to designs. There may be additional expenditure involved as using scrap metals may involves additional manufacturing costs. There is also the option for clients to re-cycle the value of their unused jewellery by selling it as scrap and putting the money against the cost of a new commissioned piece.

Are your stones conflict free?

Stating that stones supplied are always Conflict Free is merely stating the obvious as it is illegal to deal in such stones here in the UK. I purchase my stones and metals from reputable companies that adhere to the Kimberley Process (2014) and have declared that they source their materials responsibly and ethically, staking their reputation on doing so. My primary bullion supplier supplies recycled gold and silver sheet and wire. Stones and metals that I have identified as Fairtrade and Fairmined have been purchased from dealers who specifically purchase from such sources.

do you do wholesale?

I create each piece of jewellery by hand myself and do not sell wholesale. Small groups of individual pieces are provided to selected fine art and craft galleries to sell on a commission basis. Should you be interested in representing me in an area I am not yet visible in please do contact me to discuss this.

Any other questions?

I hope I have anticipated all the questions you may have, however, if there is some other burning question you would like answered please do contact me and I will do my best to help.