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Below are answers to some common questions I receive. If you have an unanswered question about anything on my site please email me
What is Lampwork? TOP
Lampwork is an age old process used to create glass art such as beads. It used to be done using an oil lamp hence the name lampwork. Today with modern technology the same techniques apply, but a propane/oxygen gas torch is used in most cases. Glass rods are heated, then the glass is applied to a mandrel (metal rod) which is coated with a ceramic type bead release to make the bead come away from the mandrel, although some glass beads can be created off a mandrel.
What is Annealing? TOP
When glass is heated and cooled, it becomes stressed and cracks form. The cracks may not be evident immediately and the stresses may be too small to see with the naked eye. These stress cracks make the bead prone to breaking. Annealing is the process by which the bead is "baked" in a kiln at a certain temperature, for a certain length of time, then cooled slowly. This process significantly reduces the stresses in the glass and makes the bead strong and durable. All beads I make in my home studio are annealed to give them lasting heirloom quality.
Can you make another item that has been sold? TOP
If the item was made with mass produced beads (swarovski elements) as some of my work is, then I may be able to replicate it. My lampwork jewellery is not easily replicated - I can make similar designs and use similar colours but the nature of handcrafted work means no two pieces will ever be exactly the same. I also prefer my customers to know that they will be the only person in the world to own a piece of jewellery like the piece they have bought.
I purchased an item but the colours are slightly different to what was on the website. Why? TOP
I take photos which are as close to the color of the actual item as possible however, every computer monitor emits colors differently and while it may appear to be a close match in color on one screen, it will look quite different on another.
Why is your lampwork jewellery and beads more expensive than your other stuff? TOP
The process of creating gorgeous and unique lampwork beads is costly and very time consuming. I spend hours at a torch sometimes to produce one bead that is worthy of putting on my site for purchase. The price reflects the effort I put in to make the beads. I also use top quality findings (mainly sterling silver) to finish my jewellery which is also reflected in the price. My standard jewellery range uses mass produced beads which cost significantly less to purchase and base metal findings and wire.
Do you do custom orders? TOP
Yes I am happy to make something to suit your individual taste and style. Please email me your idea and I will work with you to create your unique item.
How long will it take for my custom order to arrive? TOP
Please allow 7-14 days for commissioned work to be sent out to you. Glass beads take time to make, anneal and clean, and I may also need to order items (crystals, silver components etc). Good things take time and I wouldn't want to rush your jewellery.
Can you adjust the length of bracelets and necklaces? TOP
In most cases I can make a necklace or bracelet longer or shorter and generally at no extra cost to you. The only exception are the stitched and knotted pieces. There may be an addition charge if more precious metal (sterling silver) is required to complete a piece.
Are you able to reserve an item for me? TOP
I most certainly can. If you see something you want but can't get it right away for whatever reason, please email me and I will hold it for you until you make the final payment (maximum length of a layaway is 6 weeks).
What if I want jewellery made with no lampwork? TOP
No Problem! I will happily make your jewellery using the beads or gemstones you prefer. Lampwork is my passion so most of my jewellery has some lampwork, but I am more than happy to accommodate your personal requirements. Please email me for more information.
Why are the prices on your website different to your Etsy store? TOP
A good question. Etsy is American based and therefore US$. My website uses NZ$ for the currency. To list things on Etsy I need to convert my NZ$ equivalent, and this fluctuates with the exchange rate, sometimes several times a day. My Etsy listings factor an average exchange rate, as well as shipping, Etsy fees and Paypal fees.
To be sure to receive a stable price I would suggest using my website for purchases. If you don't mind paying slightly more or less then feel free to use Etsy. I am currently testing the waters to see which method of promoting myself works best. I don't promote my website with Etsy because of technicalities with the Etsy smallprint. What do you mean by Patinaed Sterling Silver Plated Brass? TOP
I have searched the globe for quality findings and components to use in my jewellery. I use a combination of base metals and precious metals. The base metals in the components I use is either copper or brass, and I will say in my description if the metals are plated. The silver plated components I use are plated with sterling silver that has an antiqued finish (patina) - hence the term patinaed.
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