Frequently Asked Questions

Packaging, postage, delivery and returns

Postal delays and customs requirements

Due to the continued global pandemic there are still a number of delays with postal systems across the world. I continue to package and dispatch within 3 days for in stock items, with many orders leaving same or next day but please be aware there are a number of areas of the UK and the world that are struggling with local and national restrictions meaning some post is taking longer then it would normally.

The UK left the EU at the end of 2020 and as such all customers ordering from outside the UK will be liable for any customs or import duty, permits and other local requirements. If importing items from the UK attracts an importation tax or custom’s payment this is the responsibility of the customer, if you are unsure of your country’s rules please make suitable checks prior to ordering.

Please be patient and do feel free to contact me if you have any questions.

Returns

In the unlikely event that you have changed your mind after purchase please contact me at the first possible opportunity. In line with UK distance selling rules I only accept returns if you have contacted me to agree to a return with 14 days of receiving your item. Items must be returned within 28 days of receiving your item. Please ensure that all original packaging is returned along with the item is in its original and unworn condition. Buyers are responsible for return postage costs. If the item is not returned in its original condition, the buyer is responsible for any loss in value.

Exclusions – Returns are not possible on items that are on sale, have been made as a special commission or are personalised.

Packaging

All items of jewellery are supplied in a branded gift box with the exception of cufflinks, these are supplied in a black leatherette hard sided box.

My boxes are made from FSC certified products which not only means better protection and presentation for your purchase but also for forests and animals. It also means the Foresters receive training and a decent wage.

You will find I re-use bubble wrap so please do not be offended, lets all do our bit. Please re-use and recycle to help preserve our planet.

Dispatch and postage times

Dispatch times

For in stock items I do my best to process and post orders within 2 working days but at busy times this isn’t always possible. If you require your item quickly please contact me so I can confirm if I can meet your deadline.

If you’re requesting a made to order item please let me know your requirements and any dates so I can confirm I can meet your deadlines.

Normal delivery times

I post using the UK Post Office and I am dependent on their service times. At busy times, such as Christmas, post can take a little longer. Again if you have a deadline please contact me to be sure I can meet it.

  • UK 1-5 working days
  • Europe 5-10 working days
  • USA 10-20 working days
  • Canada 10-30 working days

Customs information for outside the UK

Buyers are responsible for any customs and import taxes that may apply. I am not responsible for delays due to customs.

Contact information and opening hours

Opening hours

I’m based in Newmarket, Suffolk in the UK so times quoted are local.

My normal opening hours are:

Monday to Friday 08:30 – 17:00

I will often respond to messages outside the quoted hours but please be patient if you do not receive a quick response outside these hours.

What is hallmarking?

What is hallmarking and why do we need it?

In the UK it is a legal requirement for silver over 7.78g, gold and palladium over 1g, and platinum over 0.5g to have a UK recognised hallmark. It is also illegal to sell or describe any item as silver, gold platinum or palladium if they are over these weights.

All of my items are hallmarked, where required, by the Goldsmith’s Company Assay Office in London. I will often send items below the minimum weight for hallmarking as this is your guarantee that the material you are buying is as described.

If you would like an item hallmarked that is not normally I can arrange this for you at an additional cost, please feel free to contact me to discuss this.

  • JAS Hallmark image from Assay office
  • Hallmark inside a bangle
  • Hallmark sepia

Sizing

Ring sizing

I use UK ring sizes, which are measured in letters. If you are unsure of your ring size you can order a small, re-usable ring gauge from my shop that will help you to select the correct size. Please click here if you would like to buy one.

Ring sizer
Ring sizer

Bangle sizing – how to get the correct size:

How to measure to ensure you get the correct size of bangle.

Firstly take some string or a fabric tape measure, measure around the largest part of your hand across the knuckles, remember to tuck your thumb in. This is the circumference measurement and will be a bigger size than your wrist size.

The description for each item has information regarding the finished sizes of the bangles to help you choose the best one for you. Select the nearest size from the drop down on the bangle’s page, I always recommend choosing the next largest size if you are in between, especially if you are purchasing a thicker/ wider bangle.

If you are unable to find the correct size please let me know and I can help by either creating a bespoke item for you or guiding you to ensure you get the correct size. Contact me here

Materials

What is the difference between gold, gold-filled and gold plated?

Any item in my shop will be clearly listed as one of the following solid gold, gold-filled or gold plated.

With solid gold the higher the carat, the larger the percentage of gold. So 9ct is 37.5% gold, 18ct is 75% gold and 22ct is 91% gold.

If an item is listed as gold-filled all components are created using gold-filled materials. Gold-filled or rolled gold material is created using a base metal, such as brass. Gold is then mechanically bonded onto the brass core using heat and pressure. In order for the material to be sold as gold-filled it must contain at least 5% or a minimum of 1/20th gold.

Gold plating is a process that uses an electrical current to produce a thin layer of gold over an item. Typically the item is either copper or silver and the layer of gold is 2 or 3 microns thick.

Can you customise your products?

Custom and personalised orders

I am more than happy to customise an item for you, if I can. Some examples could be changing the length of a bracelet or necklace, increasing/ decreasing the number of charms or making a smaller/ bigger bangle. Please use the contact form with your requests and I will do my best to work with you to get something that is just right.

Care instructions and cleaning

Care Instructions

Sterling silver naturally tarnishes when it is worn. This process will be accelerated by the silver coming into contact with cleaning chemicals, natural salts produced by our bodies and leaving the items out in the air. If you do find your jewellery is heavily tarnished don’t worry, polish it with a soft polishing cloth and it will sparkle again. I recommend regular care including gentle cleaning with a polishing cloth to prevent heavy tarnish.