Is your jewelry sterling silver?TOP All
of my jewelry components are sterling silver - by definition and International
agreement "sterling silver" is 92.5% pure silver and 7.5% some other metals, usually copper. Pure silver is too soft to be used for jewelry and other items, but mixing it with a metal alloy makes it more durable. The 92.5% silver is why jewelry is often stamped with the numbers 925
or .925. I use artisan beads made in Bali, Turkey, India,
and Israel,
but those beads are sterling silver as well. I also use silver components made
in Thailand
by the Karen Hill Tribe, which are 99% silver. I do not use any silver plate or
base metal. Some charms are made of lead-free pewter, but that will noted in
the item description.
How do I take care of my jewelry?TOP As noted above, sterling silver is an alloy of pure silver and other metals. Tarnish, or oxidization naturally occurs when silver reacts with sulfur or hydrogen sulfide in the surrounding air. Tarnish may be polished off of sterling silver, returning it to its original luster. Sometimes sterling silver is intentionally oxidized for decorative purposes, creating depth and dimension. Base metal and silver-plate pieces start off bright, but as they wear they lose their luster, and no amount of polishing will return them to their original luster. Here are some ideas to extend the beauty of your jewelry. ~ Use a polishing cloth made for sterling silver to periodically wipe off your jewelry, or a 100% cotton cloth for a light buffing. The polishing cloths are available at stores like Target and Wal-Mart, or go online and do a search for "cleaning sterling silver jewelry," and all kinds of cleaning cloths and liquid dips will show up. Do not use toothpaste, baking soda, or any other abrasives to clean your jewelry, as sterling silver is soft, and can scratch. Take care when cleaning a piece that has been intentionally oxidized so as not to remove the decorative effects. It is not recommended to use jewelry dips on oxidized beads and findings.
~ Keep your jewelry in a jewelry box lined with anti-tarnish fabric. You can purchase anti-tarnish fabric at fabric stores, and make your own jewelry box liner or pouch. You may also store your clean jewelry in an air-tight zip lock bag. The aforementioned online search will also provide you with lots of anti-tarnish jewelry storage solutions.
~ Remove your jewelry when swimming, showering, doing dishes, cleaning - any time that the jewelry may come in contact with harsh chemicals that can affect the finish. Chemicals may cause discoloration, pitting and permanent damage.
~ Wear your jewelry, as body oils help prevent jewelry from tarnishing. However, it's a good idea to make your jewelry the last thing you put on in the morning, to avoid getting perfume or hairspray on it, and the first thing you take off at night, as movement during sleep can cause stress on clasps and connection points.
How do I place an order?TOP Make you selection, click "order," and you will be taken to
the payment page. See the "policies" section for payment options. If you have any questions about a specific item, order quantity, whatever - please email me.
How do I know what size bracelet to order?TOP Measure your wrist with a soft tape measure and
add 1 inch. This is generally the size bracelet you will need to order. Add or
subtract a 1/4 inch depending on how you like to wear your jewelry. Most
bracelets will fit the average size wrist - 7 1/4 - 7 1/2. Email me if you have
questions about a specific bracelet.
Can I make adjustments or changes to in stock items?TOP Generally speaking, yes I can. However, some
changes may alter the look of the piece. Please email me to discuss any
adjustments or changes.
Do you accept returns?TOP Yes, you may return your jewelry for a refund or
exchange within 14 days of purchase. See "policies" for complete
information.
I come
from a long line of angels - literally, as my mother's maiden name was Angel.
So the first half of the name was easy. My beloved sister, Mary, died of lung cancer in
2000. While visiting a Reiki message therapist in 2002, I asked the therapist
if my sister was around me. The therapist said that yes, Mary "whispers"
in my right ear...thus the second half of the name. I'd like to think that all
the Angels who have gone before me whisper guidance as I create my pieces.