FAQs
Q: Do you accept requests for custom pieces?
A: In the past I have done custom pieces, and I continue to do so depending on the request and my work schedule. A lot of things have to be considered when doing custom work, including subject matter, materials or stones, cost, and time. I usually request a non-refundable deposit before I begin work, but that is something I will discuss during correspondence. If you have questions about working with me on a custom order, please submit your initial request using my contact form here on the site, and I will get back with you.
Q: Can I order by mail or by phone?
A: At this time it is easier to accept orders via my online shop. If we have already agreed on a custom order, then I may send you a PayPal invoice for the deposit, and then another invoice for the finalized item.
Q: Where are you located?
A: I work out of my home studio in central New Mexico, USA. The closest town is Corona. I create all of my jewelry by hand here in my home studio, and if I am selling an original artwork it will also be shipped from my home studio. My prints and other artworks may involve print on demand and/or drop shipping services, but that will be clearly noted in an item's listing.
Q: I've just placed an order, how will my item come?
A: I love to add artistry to my packaging as well, so any jewelry items that I ship will be packaged in a black cardboard kraft-style box with decorative ribbon and an "Old World" style wax seal with my "K" logo. I also occasionally use decorated organza bags. Other items, such as art or greeting cards, will be well packaged so as to prevent bending or damage during shipping. I ship items from my home studio using the United States Postal Service, since that is the only option I have where I live. If it is a drop-ship item, that will be determined by the drop shipper. In these instances I will make sure to provide you with any tracking information that I have access to.
Q: Is your jewelry safe for those with metal sensitivities?
A: I personally have an allergy to nickel, so I do not use nickel-based metals in my jewelry. I use fine silver, sterling silver, copper, brass, gold-filled, and niobium. Occasionally I will use pewter, but never in ear wires. Any metal used will be noted in the item description. For ear wires on earrings made with copper, I prefer to use copper-colored niobium ear wires, since niobium is a very hypoallergenic metal. I do occasionally use antique brass, and brass tends to be naturally hypoallergenic; however, all of this depends on your level of sensitivity.
Q: You said "gold-filled." What exactly is gold-filled?
A: Gold-filled metals allow me to incorporate the classic look of yellow and rose gold into the jewelry I create, while keeping my designs more affordable. Some think this is the same as gold-plated, but that is not the case. Gold-filled metal is made by using heat and pressure to permanently bond a layer of 12- or 14-karat gold to a brass core, creating a tarnish-resistant surface. The layer of gold is therefore permanent and will not flake off like gold plating. Gold-filled metal is more expensive that gold-plated, and also generally more expensive than silver, but not as expensive as jewelry made with solid gold.
Q: How should I care for my jewelry?
A: The jewelry I create should not be worn while swimming or showering/bathing. Also, please avoid soaking your jewelry, and apply hair spray or perfume before you put on your jewelry. Another thing to be careful with is steam-cleaning, since some stones are sensitive and might change color.
In the case of silver or sterling silver jewelry, one of the best and most accessible cleaners I've used is a paste of baking soda and water. Rub this onto the jewelry with your fingers, and you may start to see it turn gray as the dirt and tarnish lifts. Rinse with clear water to remove all the residue before drying thoroughly with a soft cloth. For buffing, a plain cloth or old t-shirt works well. I also use what is called "sunshine cloth," which is a dry felt-like cloth impregnated with jewelry cleaner. This works really well to bring back the shine if you notice your jewelry looking dull. These methods are generally safe, even on the sterling silver jewelry pieces that I've intentionally oxidized to give them that "antique" look.
One final note--if you live in a humid climate, where silver tends to tarnish more quickly, you might consider using anti-tarnish strips in your jewelry box or other storage system.
Q: How do you make your jewelry, items, etc. and where do you order your supplies?
A: I don't have a single source for my supplies, and I tend to shop around. A couple of my suppliers offer only wholesale accounts based on quantity and cost, as well as my business license. As for how I make my jewelry, I used to offer classes on fundamental wire wrapping techniques, but I no longer have a venue for those. I may consider online classes in the future, but in the meantime I offer a few written tutorials which are available here in my shop.
Q: Are you on social media?
A: I have accounts on Instagram, Pinterest, and Facebook. You can find those links on the home page, or you can click the links below: