Frequently Asked Questions

Is your jewellery available in a shop?

Only the online shop here, for the moment. There may occasionally be items sold by auction through Ebay or Etsy.

What metals do you use for your jewellery?

Most jewellery uses Sterling silver, which is 92.5% silver and 7.5% other materials. Occasionally I use Fine silver which is 99% pure, which means it is soft and quite delicate. I also use copper and bronze. The description for an item will tell you the materials used.

Can you tell me about the materials used in a specific piece of jewellery?

The description of each piece gives details of the materials included. If you would like further information on a piece, please email me.

Is your jewellery suitable for children?

Unless specifically labelled as children's, items are not intended for kids, which may in some cases be due to a piece being delicate. In fact, some pieces may not be suitable for adults who are hard on their jewellery - if you are prone to catching bracelets on things, anything described as 'delicate' may not be ideal for you! If in doubt, please email me to ask.

Do you have a returns policy?

Yes. See the Terms and Conditions page for full details.

What kind of glass do you use for your lampwork beads?

I use soft glass which has a COE of 104. Most of my beads use Effetre (also known as Moretti) and Vetrofond, which are Itialian glasses. I also use CiM (Creation is Messy), Lauscha, Reichenbach and Northstar.

What size holes are in your lampwork beads?

I generally use 1/16" mandrels, so this will be the hole size unless the description says otherwise.

Are your lampwork beads annealed?

Yes, all beads are annealed in a digitally controlled kiln - this removes stresses and gives the beads strength and durability. However, please note they are still glass - and as such may break if dropped or knocked on a hard surface. Treat your beads with tlc and hopefully they will last a lifetime!

Can I visit your studio?

Sorry, but I can't accept visitors at home and as the studio is currently the kitchen table it's not really practical.

Do you take commissions?

I occasionally take jewellery commissions, but this is subject to availability. If you would like to consider commissioning a piece, please email me in the first instance to discuss your requirements.

I do not take commissions for beads at the moment.

Can you make me a copy of a piece that's in your gallery?

Possibly, but it won't be exactly the same. In general, I don't make exact copies - my pieces sold here are one of a kind. I may be able to make something similar.

Can you make me a copy of a set of beads that are sold?

Sorry, I don't do copies of beads.

Any health and safety issues?

Please don't leave beads or jewellery alone with babies, small children or animals as they can represent a choking hazard.

If, despite annealing and care, a glass bead breaks, please dispose of it carefully as you would for any other broken glass.

Allergies - I do not knowingly use any items containing nickel. Sterling silver contains 7.5% other metals e.g. copper, tin etc. These are unlikely to cause a reaction unless you have extremely sensitive skin.