RETURNS & EXCHANGES

I do not accept returns, exchanges, or cancellations, but please contact me if you have any problems with your order. Descriptions and photos are as accurate and precise as I can make them. Please take the time to read each description and review the photos ~ some show size / relationship to common items such as dimes or quarters. I give accurate measurements in inches, and weight comparisons to common objects when needed. I don't want misunderstandings or disappointments. Information and communication are very important to me. If you're doubtful, PLEASE ASK. I'll be happy to answer any inquiries prior to your purchase. The only surprise I want you to have is when you feel that the item you purchased is even better in person! If an item arrives damaged or grossly misrepresented, please let me know as soon as possible. I will work with you to repair or replace the item. See RETURN POLICY below.

RETURN POLICY

DO NOT SEND THE ITEM BACK BEFORE CONTACTING ME. If I accept return of the item, please note the following: 1. Please contact me for a RETURN SHIPPING CODE. 2. The item MUST be shipped back to me in the original package and gift box, using the same shipping method by which it was shipped to you. Please provide me with the Tracking Number of the package. Return shipping fees are only refunded if the item was grossly misrepresented by me. 3. Once I receive the item, I will make an exchange, repair, or refund.

FREE USPS GROUND ADVANTAGE SHIPPING WITH INSURANCE AND TRACKING.

Shipping, in most cases, is via United States Postal Service (USPS) Ground Advantage Mail, which comes automatically with $100 insurance and tracking. Item will be shipped to the address on your account, or to the gift recipient if requested on the order. Please be sure that's where you want it to go! Notify me if you require shipping to an address other than what is on your account. You'll receive a shipping notification and tracking number when the package ships. I usually ship no later than the next business day. If order is received prior to 12 noon, I can sometimes ship the same day.

FAQ's
WHAT IS ARGENTIUM 935/940 STERLING SILVER

Argentium Sterling Silver has a higher Fine Silver content (93.5%-94%) than Sterling Silver (92.5%). Argentium Sterling Silver is made from recycled silver, and is nickel free and hypoallergenic. It's Copper alloy content has been reduced and fine silver content is increased. A small amount of a metalloid, "germanium", is added, which helps reduce tarnishing as well as being more wearable for people who have sensitivities to copper.

EAR WIRE METALS

I make most of my ear wires by hand, using Hypoallergenic Argentium Sterling Silver. Occasionally I'll use copper or .925 Sterling Silver wire. I also offer earwires made of 304 stainless steel. Each listing will outline all metals and other materials used in the particular pair of earrings, piece of jewelry, or object of decor.

WHAT IS VITREOUS ENAMEL? - First and Foremost, IT'S NOT PAINT!

Vitreous enamel, sometimes called porcelain enamel, is a material made by fusing powdered glass to a substrate (silver, copper, gold, steel, etc.) by firing in a kiln or by a torch, at temperatures usually between 1,380º and 1,560°F (750º and 850°C). The powder melts, flows, and hardens when cooled to a smooth, durable vitreous coating of glass. Though stable for the most part, it is still GLASS, and it may crack or chip if dropped or mishandled. Please care for your enameled piece as you would any fine art glass. Put your earrings on AFTER using hair spray or other products. Don't sleep or "rough-house" while wearing enamel jewelry. Please contact me if you have questions regarding the care of any of my work.

ENAMELING TECHNIQUES

CLOISONNÉ. Compartments (cloisons) are added to a metal object by soldering or affixing thin metal wires which remain visible in the finished piece, separating different colors of enamel.

CHAMPLEVÉ. Cells are etched/carved into the surface of metal & filled with enamel. Un-carved portions of the metal surface remain visible as a frame for the enamel designs, similar to Cloisonné.

PLIQUE-À-JOUR. French for "light of day". Similar to cloisonné, but with no backing in the final product so that light may shine through the transparent enamel like a stained-glass window.

BASSE-TAILLE. A design is engraved, etched, or impressed in metal, & fired with translucent enamel, allowing light to reflect from the edges of the designs through the enamel.

COPPER and GREEN SKIN

Green Happens! Wearing copper can and most likely will cause one's skin to turn dark or green if worn for an extended period of time. Don't be surprised at this. It's what copper does. There is nothing "wrong" with it or you. It might happen more to some people than to others, depending upon the nature of one's skin and what the copper jewelry is being subjected to. I occasionally visit hot springs in Eastern Oregon where the water contains sulfur and other minerals. My copper and silver rings turn black and my finger is green under the rings. It's just what it does. No biggie. Of course, if you don't like that or if you are allergic to copper, then copper or sterling silver [sterling silver contains copper] jewelry is NOT for you.

PATINA and TARNISH, Good or Bad?

I love the deep rich chestnut- or mahogany-colored patina of aged copper. The rustic nature of some of my craft reflects this. Copper and silver will tarnish and change color over time, which may be accelerated by frequent handling and use. This adds to the uniqueness of the item. If desired, the original color of the metals may be restored with a polishing cloth. Argentium .935 Sterling Silver is more resistant to tarnish, and, because of the reduced copper content as well as the addition of germanium, it is less allergenic for those who are sensitive to copper.