FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
chances are, if you are wondering, so has someone else…
What is Electroformed jewelry making?
Electroformed jewelry is the intricate process of fusing copper or silver to other mediums such as organic materials, sea glass or pottery. The process involves a low voltage charge passing through an electrolyte bath during which the metal is formed or fused onto the structure. Electroforming builds a substantial amount of metal onto the object, leaving a thick and robust coating, thereby taking items that were once fragile (such as sea urchin shells or dried leaves) and giving them strength.
What is Sea Glass?
Sea glass is glass that has been in the ocean for decades, at least. It has been tossed about in the sand and rocks, wearing down its hard, jagged edges. The saltwater leeches out minerals in the glass, causing the “c marks” or pitting that you see and sometimes even changing the color of the glass. Then, once nature has completed its art, the glass washes up on the beach, ready to be collected and admired. Beautifully, it is nature’s way of taking garbage, and making something we treasure, it is recycling at its finest!
Does copper jewelry tarnish? How can I clean it?
Yes, like silver, copper jewelry will turn dark and dull over time. It’s super easy to clean though with nothing but ketchup and a minute of your time. Simply rub the ketchup on, let it sit for maybe one minute, then wash with warm water and a little dish soap. Please take care not to let ketchup sit on any stones as the acid could etch the stone.
Will copper jewelry turn my skin green?
Depending on your body’s PH levels, copper could turn your skin green, especially under a ring band where you have more oils and sweat throughout the day. This is not necessarily a bad thing. There are thought to be many health benefits from wearing copper in contact with your skin, which is why I leave all my copper jewelry raw. However, if you don’t want green skin it’s very easy to remedy. You can use something as simple as clear nail polish to add a layer of protection. Or a better option is to use jewelry wax, such as Renaissance wax.
I have sensitive skin and metal allergies, what earrings can I wear?
The majority of my jewelry is made with copper or sterling silver, which are both known to be hypoallergenic. However, some people with extreme allergies to metals cannot even tolerate sterling silver. I have available surgical implant grade titanium for those customers. This product is known to be the most hypoallergenic metal on the planet. To request ear wires made with it, please just add a note to your order or send me an email.
Do you do custom jewelry orders?
Currently I do accept custom orders for jewelry and lighting, however the turnaround time depends on how many other projects I am working on. I also charge a small fee for custom designs, unless you are a VIP member. Please fill in the form under jewelry>custom order to discuss having something made just for you.
Do you have layaway options?
Yes, I offer interest-free layaway on already made, full price items! I require 25% as a deposit and the balance must be paid in full within 6 weeks. Deposits and payments are non-refundable and non-transferable. Coupon codes and discounts are not accepted for layaway items. Purchases will only be mailed once the balance is paid in full. If you would like to arrange layaway for a specific item please send me an email at silvercoastdesigns@gmail.com
Do you accept cancellations or returns?
If you contact me prior to shipping I will accept order cancellations. I accept returns only within the first 7 days after you have received the item and only so long as the item is unused and in its original condition. Buyer will be responsible for return shipping costs. Refunds will only be issued once I have received the returned item(s). If you have a defective or damaged item please contact me. I am often happy to make repairs at no cost. The most challenging thing can be getting the item to me, but I often have solutions for that.
Where do you ship from and how long does it take?
We ship most items from Idaho, USA via regular post. Once your order has shipped you will receive an email with a tracking number. You can visit the USPS website to sign up for email or text notifications. Most orders should arrive within a week. International orders will take longer, it often depends on the situation with customs in your country.
Do you teach classes?
I am currently working on a program for electroforming artists and those who would like to learn. I hope to have it up soon, so stay tuned. If you’d like to be notified about it once it’s available please sign up for my newsletter or send me an email through the contact form.
