Question 1

Where is the jewellery made?

Accepted Answer

All items are made in the UK, handmade by me, Laura in my workshop in Eton, Windsor.

(The necklace chains and metals I purchase from estabaished UK based companies
International Craft & The Curious Gem, and Cooksons)

Question 2

What is Metal Clay?

Accepted Answer

Silver Clay is made up of fine silver particles (usually recycled from the photographic industry, X-rays electronic devices etc) and organic plant based binder and water.  The clay can be moulded, rolled textured and shaped. When torch fired, the binder burns away to produce the pure fine silver.

Question 3

What is Gold Filled?

Accepted Answer

Gold filled is different from gold plated because there is solid layer of gold bonded to a base metal. The bonded gold is 100% thicker so it will not flake away or tarnish. With love and care the beautiful chain really will keep its 14k gold finish for a long time.

Question 4

What is the 24k gold and how is it applied?

Accepted Answer

The foil i use is 100% Recycled 24-Carat Gold. And it is conflict free gold.
I use "Art Clay" gold (which is the same Japanese supplier as the Silver Clay) it is 100% recycled gold, which has been extracted from scraps of industrial use (ie. electric parts, plating), jewellery and dentistry. It is not sourced from conflict mines. Aida Chemical Industries Co. Ltd is recognised as Conflict-free Smelters which conforms to international guidelines set by CFSI (Conflict Free Sourcing Initiative).

The gold is fused to the silver using a technique called "Keum Boo"  An ancient Korean technique which translates as "attached gold" I use a hot plate, lay the silver piece flat on the heat source and then apply the gold using two burnishing tools. one to hold th epeice and place, and the other to smooth and add pressure.  The combination of heat and proessue permanently bonds the two metals.

Question 5

How will my jewellery arrive?

Accepted Answer

Each item if jewellery is presented in a small, matchbox style gift box. I hand draw an Achillea Flower to each box for an individual touch.
Inside will also be a thankyou card and "how to care for your jewellery guide"
The postal box will fit easily through the letter box and I use Royal Mail tracking service, so you can keep up to date with when the parcel will be delivered (a tracking number will be emailed to you as soon as I ship your items)

If you are sending as a gift directly, you can add a note when ordering and I will hand write a message within the parcel. (the gift box is wrapped inside and finished with ribbon so do make a lovely gift to receive!

Question 6

How do I care for my jewellery?

Accepted Answer

I really hope you enjoy wearing your handmade jewellery.

To keep it looking lovely and sparkling and to avoid any discolouring here are some top tips:
- Clean your items regularly with a soft dry cloth.
-To really bring out their sparkle you can give them a monthly bath (I make a small bowl of warm water with a tiny amount of fairy liquid and let the items soak for a few minutes. Then carefully dry them on a piece of kitchen towel, and dab clean with a super soft micro fibre cloth. This really works well on gold filled items too!  See that sparkle really come back. Check out the video below that shows you the easy process)
-Store away from light, preferably in an air tight container. (gift box or jewellery box) If you have brought a pendant you will have a denim pouch inside the box, which is the perfect way to keep your jewellery dry and away from light.
-Sterling Silver does tarnish over time and different metals react differently to all skin types, perfumes and even ph levels.  
-Remove earrings and necklace when swimming or showering, and be aware that perfumes can impact the colour of the metal.

These items are handmade and can be delicate so do treat them with care.

Question 7

Can I return an item?

Accepted Answer

Most items of jewellery are handmade to order so will usually take 7-10 days to ship. Unless it is already in stock, in which case allow 1-2 days to ship.
 
If for any reason there is a problem with items when you receive them please let me know as soon as possible. 
Email me: achillea.jewellery@gmail.com

I cannot accept returns on earrings due to hygiene reasons.

FAQ

Frequently asked questions