FAQ's
- Can you adjust the length of bracelets and necklaces?
- Are you able to reserve an item for me?
- I purchased an item but the colours are slightly different to what was on the website. Why?
- I like one of your designs but want it in a different color. Is that possible?
- Can you make another item that has been sold?
- Do You Have a Physical Store?
- How long will it take for my custom order to arrive?
- What is Lampwork?
- What is Annealing?
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 at time of purchase. The only exception are the stitched and knotted pieces. There may be an addition charge if more precious metal, gemstones, or crystals is required to complete a piece. If you receive an item and realize it needs adjusting, a small fee plus postage may be charged to alter it.
Are you able to reserve an item for me? TOP
I most certainly can. If you see something you want but need a little extra time to pay, please email me and we can arrange a payment plan.
I purchased an item but the colours are slightly different to what was on the website. Why? TOP
I take photos in natural light with a neutral background and the images are as close to the color of the actual item as possible. 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.
I like one of your designs but want it in a different color. Is that possible? TOP
Yes in many cases I can create a similar design with different colors. Of course due to the quirky nature of handmade, it may not be possible to source the exact materials as the original piece, but I will try to find suitable substitutes and make your custom requirements unique to your piece of jewellery.
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 colors 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.
Do You Have a Physical Store? TOP
No I do not have a physical store. All my glass beads and jewellery are created in my home in Pukekohe, Auckland. I occasionally display work at galleries and exhibitions, and I do have some work on display, and available for purchase at the Franklin Arts Centre (FACT), Massey Street, Pukekohe, Auckland.
How long will it take for my custom order to arrive? TOP
Please allow up to four weeks for commissioned work to be completed. 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. I will email you at regular intervals to let you know the progress of your order.
What is Lampwork? TOP
Lampwork is an age old process used to create small glass art such as beads. Murano, Italy is the home of lampwork where glass was melted over an oil lamp (hence the name) to create miniature works of glass art. Today with modern technology the same techniques apply, but a propane/oxygen gas torch is used in most cases.
What is Annealing? TOP
When glass is repeatedly heated and cooled, it becomes stressed and hairline 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.
