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How much time should I allow for an order?
How long do custom orders take?
How long do repairs take?
Can you rush an order?
What methods of payment do you accept?
How do you ship pieces, and what are your shipping rates?
If I haven’t received my package, what should I do?
What is your return/exchange policy?
How do you handle gift orders?
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How do I store and polish my jewelry?
Can you polish or re-oxidize a piece of jewelry?
How durable is the jewelry?
How do I take care of cable neck wires?
What is your warranty policy?
What happens if I break a piece of my jewelry?
What are the fees/procedure for repair?
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I’ve lost 1 earring. What should I do?
Do I have to wear the rubber earring stoppers?
What if I want a different piece that I don’t see on your website? Or want another option (different chain length, certain ear wire, large necklace bail for changing pendants, certain type of clasp, etc.)?
How do I measure my hand to fit a bangle?
Do you have any hypoallergenic ear wires available?
Can you make earrings with gold posts?
Can you make clip earrings?
How are custom jewelry orders handled?
What happens if you do not have the ring in my size?
Can I buy a chain from you?
Will you make a donation to our cause or fundraiser?
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How is the jewelry made?
Where can I learn how to make jewelry?
What type of metals do you use?
Do you use Argentium? What is it?
What does “oxidized” mean? How do you oxidize?
Why is your silver work dark?
Is the patina permanent?
Where do you get your materials?
Frequently asked Questions
How much time should I allow for an order?
If the piece is in stock & I am in the studio, it wil ship ship in 2-5 business days.
How long do custom orders take?
In general 2-8 weeks. We will discuss delivery time in our initial conversation!
Please know that my studio gets very busy during art shows and around major holidays, so place your order as early as possible. If you have a specific deadline, please contact me in advance, to see if it’s possible. I will do what I can to meet your deadline.
How long do repairs take?
That depends on my travel schedule and previous commitments. Usually repairs take 2-4 weeks from the time that the piece to be repaired is received.
Can you rush an order?
Before placing a rush order, call or email me to see if it’s possible to make a piece that day in the studio. Extra charges apply.
What methods of payment do you accept?
I accept money in just about any way you want to send it… cash, check, MasterCard, Visa, or PayPal are all possible ways to pay. Due to ease for paying over the internet, all online orders are processed through PayPal. You can call me for direct payment over the phone with a credit card or mail a check with your order (orders will be mailed once the check has cleared).
How do you ship pieces, and what are your shipping rates?
I shipping via USPS. Delivery confirmation is included in the shipping charge. USPS Priority
Inside U.S starts at $9.75 and goes up with the value of the shipped piece.
I am not responsible for lost, stolen, misplaced, or damaged packages. Once it is in the mail it is out of my hands, literally.
Upon request I will ship UPS second day air with full retail insurance. This will require processing your order and payment over the phone or by email, so be sure to give us your contact information so we can follow up with you.
If I haven’t received my package, what should I do?
If you placed your order requesting UPS as shipping option, I will either give you the tracking number or track it for you. If your package is lost, I will re-send the order to you if you help me to file a claim for the loss. If you used another shipping option, please email the studio so we can look up the delivery confirmation for you and we will go from there to figure out where your package is.
What is your return/exchange policy?
All sales are final. No refund. Merchandise in its original sale condition may be exchanged for other existing pieces within seven days from receipt of the item Shipping and handling charges will apply. Do not worry about giving a gift of jewelry! If you are giving the jewelry as a gift and need a longer time period pre-arrange it with me....
How do you handle gift orders?
Let me know if you desire it to packaged in a gift box with a care card and artist information so that the recipient knows it is handmade. There will not be an invoice in the package. I can include a card in the package so that the recipient knows whom to thank.
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Care of your jewelry
How do I store and polish my jewelry?
If your new jewelry is made of sterling silver, it likes to tarnish over time. This mottled darkening of exposed surfaces adds a richness and complexity to the designs that many people enjoy. I know that sounds kind of funny, but I mean it. A lot of my jewelry is very artful and it enhances the experience, look, and overall patina of the piece the way that it changes over time. With that said, you can help prevent the tarnishing of your jewelry by storing it in a sealed plastic bag or jewelry box. Wearing it frequently will also slow tarnishing. If you do want to remove any tarnish, there are a number of methods you can use:You can rub gently with a polishing cloth, moving in the direction of the wires. This is a very delicate and detailed process. If your piece is all silver with no gems or pearls you can dip it into a liquid tarnish remover following the manufacturer’s instructions. In general, no polishing is needed if your piece has an oxidized patina. In general, soap and water are all that are needed to clean the jewelry.
Can you polish or re-oxidize a piece of jewelry?
I am more than happy to work on a piece for you if you want it polished, cleaned, reworked, or touched up in any way. If the piece does not have any gems or pearls, I can re-oxidize it for you to the dark blackish color. I can touch it up for you and restore any lost shine. Shipping and handling fees apply and I do charge for the studio time it takes for the work.
How durable is the jewelry?
Durable, but that does not mean it will not show signs of wear and tear. It ages- as all things- and is by now means indestructible. It is designed to be worn with some pieces being more delicate than others. Pieces may need to get occasionally restrung ( think of shoes going to the cobbler) If you have a question about a specific piece, please email me and I can answer any questions and point you towards certain pieces that meet your criteria.
How do I take care of cable neck wires?
The cable neck wires I sell are made of stainless steel. Though they are not fragile, they can be damaged and kink if pulled. If your cable gets a kink, it can be worked out by gently rubbing the wires to soothe the bump out. You can also rub the bump gently against the rounded edge of a counter or desk while pulling the cable taught. The best way to store a cable is in a box. You can un-clasp it and coil it loosely so it fits into a smaller box, but don’t force it or it may kink.
What is your warranty policy?
I guarantee that the materials and workmanship in every product I make will stand up to the use for which it was designed. This warranty does not cover damages caused by improper care, accidents, or natural breakdown of materials over extended time and use. All products should be returned to us for evaluation and will be repaired or replaced at our discretion. Damages due to accident or improper care will be repaired at a reasonable rate.
What happens if I break a piece of my jewelry? What are the fees/procedure for repair?
With proper care and maintenance, my jewelry will reward you with a lifetime of enjoyment. To consult about a repair
please contact me by email or phone. Prices may vary depending on the condition of the jewelry and the work involved.
All repairs are handled on a case by case basis depending on the extent of the repair needed.
I need to see the piece before quoting a price. You can send a detail photo for review.
Please email me before you send the piece my way, as I am not always available to check my P.O.Box and I want to avoid that the package is returned to you, unopened.
When you mail the piece, please include a note with your contact information in the package. I make it as quick, easy and painless as possible, and most repairs are done on an hourly rate to give you the best possible price. In some cases, when stones are incorporated into the piece, I will ask you to seek out a commercial repair facility in your town. It will most likely require the use of a lazerwelder.... and I do not own one.
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I’ve lost 1 earring. What should I do?
This is always a sad situation, but most of the time I can make a matching earring for you. I charge 60% of the price of the pair of earrings to make a mate since it is harder to make the exact size mate, plus return shipping. I will also need you to mail the remaining earring to me so I can match it exactly. But before you mail me the single earring, with your contact information, e- mail me first for the pricing information and enclose a check with your earring. Depending on my travel schedule special orders requests can take 4-8 weeks. (Please let me know if you have a specific deadline to meet)
Do I have to wear the rubber earring stoppers?
It is up to you whether or not you wear them, but I suggest it!
What if I want a different piece that I don’t see on your website? Or want another option (different chain length, certain ear wire, large necklace bail for changing pendants, certain type of clasp, etc.)?
You can always email me for special requests, especially if you saw a piece at a show that you do not see on the website. Simply contact me and explain what you are looking for. I will do what I can.
How do I measure my hand to fit a bangle?
Cut a long 1-inch wide strip of paper. Pull the tips of your fingers together and make your hand as small as possible (mimic the way you would put on a bangle). Wrap the piece of paper around the widest point of your hand (usually the knuckles) and mark the point where the paper overlaps to form a complete circle. Measure the length and compare it to this chart for my bangle sizes. Double check your measurement by taping the paper together in a circle to make sure it can slide on and off over your hand. Send your measurement to me and I make the custom bangle for you. I build in just enough room so it will slide easily over your hand. Please allow up to 4-8 weeks for a custom order.
At any given show, I usually have a selection of bangles, if you want to try on a variety of sizes to see what works for you!
Do you have any hypoallergenic ear wires available?
I have niobium ear wires available, which work well with oxidized sterling because they are a dark gunmetal color. Here’s what Wikipedia says about niobium: “Because niobium metal and some niobium alloys are physiologically inert (and thus hypoallergenic), they are used in jewelry and in medical devices such as pacemakers.” I can put niobium ear wires on your earrings by request.
Can you make earrings with gold posts?
I use sterling posts for my earrings. However 18k gold posts are offered at an up charge of $30.00 per pair.
Can you make clip earrings?
Yes. I often utilize an omega clip mechanism in earrings. Additional charges apply, as the finding costs more and requires more labor. You can email or call me with this type of request.
How are custom jewelry orders handled?
If your custom jewelry order is essentially a tweak to an existing design in the jewelry catalog, it is handled like a regular order and will be filled quickly. If your custom jewelry order requires design time and conception, talk to me and let me know what you have in mind. I will check my schedule to see if I have time to take on a special project as I have to make sure I have the time to fill my regular studio commitments. Generally for orders involving fabrication changes to existing styles add 20%. Custom design is handled on an hourly basis to include sketching, meeting, and design revisions plus the cost of materials. An estimate will be provided for your approval. 50% deposit is required and is non-refundable. Exchanges of special orders are not accepted.
What happens if you do not have the ring in my size?
My rings can be ordered to size and you can always talk to me about custom ring designs, adding stones, changing details…
Can I buy a chain from you?
If you need a replacement chain or simply want another option for a piece of jewelry you purchased from me, please contact me and let me know what you are looking for.
Let’s talk.
Will you make a donation to our cause or fundraiser?
I am selective in my support for charities. I wish I could help everyone! Please send your request to me via mail or email so I can review it.
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The jewelry making process
How is the jewelry made?
Following an age old tradition of goldsmithing…too long to explain in one paragraph. It involves a workshop full of tools and techniques like sawing, filing, bending, soldering to name a few.
Where can I learn how to make jewelry?
If you are curious about the process, check out a how to book and /or sign up for a class at a community college. It is fun! ….and YES, I teach.
What type of metals do you use?
The jewelry is almost exclusively made from sterling silver and solid 22k gold and as the newest addition, palladium (a “sibling” to platinum). Other karats of metal are introduced as I see a need for it in function or design. Custom work can be done in other types of metal as requested
Do you use Argentium? What is it?
Argentium is a new type of sterling silver that does not tarnish as quickly as regular sterling; I do not use it as I utilize and desire the capacity of sterling silver to patina. You will not be able to visibly discern pieces that are made of Argentium vs. sterling silver. Both are officially considered .925 sterling silver.
What does “oxidized” mean? How do you oxidize?
“Oxidized” describes sterling silver that has been patinaed. In a chemical reaction the small amount of copper that is used to alloy the silver to make it .925 sterling reacts to a chemical and darkens the surface of the metal. The chemical I use is liver of sulfur (found for example in the yolk of an egg).
Why is your silver work dark?
I initiate the dark look to contrast the silver with the gold. In this intended application the darkening is called a patina and is desired. Sterling silver tarnishes over time, why fight it?
Is the patina permanent?
I do remove the patina in areas where it is not going to hold permanently-on all high
and exposed bars. My intension is to present the piece to you in a way that it can be maintained. Time and wear will dictate how the piece will evolve. The patina does not come off on your skin when wearing them, but often the dark oxidation gets lighter and shows more of the delicate underlying pattern of my work. On request I can apply a light lacquer coating to the work. It helps slow the change. Accept that few things are constant and embrace the change.
Where do you get your materials?
I have a large network of suppliers. I mail order metal from Hoover & Strong and. I hand-select my gems and pearls with specific vendors at gem shows a couple of times a year.
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Where to find
Do you have a store?
I do not maintain my own retail venue. Over the years I have sold to stores, now I sell primarily at a variety of art fairs around the country. For a complete list visit my show schedule.
Where can I purchase your work?
Some work is available year around on this site. It includes newly finished work that has not been revealed at a shown and pieces from my designer line. The most complete selection of my work is always available when you see me in person at an art fair at the beginning of the show. First day, morning hours…
Will all pieces be available at a show?
Absolutely not and I say that with a smile. My inventory changes rapidly with each show I do. I am foremost an artist (with good business practices). I always strive to bring fresh work to shows, particularly to shows that I visit each year. Being able to stay exited about my work is vital for me. You will however find work in the flavor of my design style. If there is a particular piece from my designer line that you would like to see at a show, email me and let me know. I will try to have the piece set aside for you per arrangements we make together.
Can I special order your work?
Yes. Contact me by e-mail or phone to arrange details.
What if I want to see a specific piece at a show but am not sure I want to buy it?
As long as it is a piece from the catalog, that is fine. I appreciate it if you can come by my booth as early as possible in the show to look at the piece so that if you decide not to buy it I can put it out on display for the remainder of the show.
Will I see you at this show next year?
Not necessarily! You may become used to seeing me at your favorite show, but the fact of the matter is that I have to apply to each show every year (unless I’ve won an award or been re-invited) and wait for the results. Nothing is set in stone. I also travel to a lot of shows and often have to make choices about where to apply based on my trip planning.
How many shows do you participate in each year?
I average about 14 shows a year, not counting gallery exhibits.
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Definitions and studio information
Where is the jewelry made?
The jewelry is designed and finished in my Salinas, California studio.
Can I come to visit your studio?
The studio is essentially a manufacturing, production, and distribution facility. The jewelry is not usually on display, and the environment can be chaotic since I load and unload equipment for show travels a lot. It is fun to see where the jewelry is made, but it takes time for me to clean up to be comfortable for you to come and visit. Usually once or twice a year I host open studios, which are great casual shopping experiences (often with sale bins) and are a nice way to see where the work is made in a slightly cleaned up atmosphere.
How do you define a one of a kind?
One of a kind to me means, I make every element by hand, from start to finish. Without fail each time details vary. This evolution drives my work and keeps things fun for me.
Is everything one of a kind, or do you re-make pieces?
Not everything is one of a kind. To offer pieces in different price points I also offer limited production pieces and a designer line.
How do you define limited production?
In my limited production the size of the piece is consistent due to cast nature of the frame, inlaying a patterned gold and silver in hand-work results in variation in each piece
What is your Designer Line?
The designer line is a catalog of pieces available in multiples. They are cast in silver and show little to no variations in the size and the design of the piece. My designer line is available in dark finish and bright finish upon request.
How do I know in what quantity a design is produced?
The second letter in my style number indicates the quantity in which a piece is made.
O= Original, P=Limited Production, C=Designer Line
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