F.A.Q
I thought I'd whip up a F.A.Q. page because (I felt) that I had information scattered throughout this site but wouldn't it be easier to put it all in one place. There's bound to be stuff I've missed out, so if there's anything else you'd like to know, or think I should add, just let me know. You can use the comment box below if you like. Here you go...
How do I figure out my ring size?
The most precise option is to pop into a manufacturing jewellers shop and ask them to size your finger using sizing rings. There are other methods for doing a sizing yourself at home (see my blog post about this link here) but please make sure you pay attention, a millimetre either way means a different size. Contact me if you want help info@leahfirthjewelry.com. I know that when I wear rings (especially in the summer and I swell up in the heat - TMI?) I will actually swap fingers.
Can I get my money back?
Yes there is provision made for this. I know it can be a bit stressful spending a bit of money when you only see a picture or video. Click here to see the offical ins and outs.
How do I care for my purchase?
All jewelry is delicate so while I want you to wear your piece as often as possible there are some things that are not advisable. Gardening springs to mind. Some say don't wear your jewelry in the shower or to bed. I wouldn't wear mine while playing group sports (like that happens a lot). I've written a little guide book that might help click here.
Do you have any recurring dreams?
If you do it's your subconscious trying to tell you something using symbols. Write down what you remember as best you can and together we can pick it apart and try to decipher what the message is. I used to have one where I was in Paris but I never got to see the famous sites.
Will my purchase be packaged?
Yes, it will arrive in a super cute little suede pouch and wrapped in a polishing cloth. If you want a look click here.
What's your favourite colour?
Mine's blue at the minute. But it changes. How about you?
Can I ship to a P.O. Box?
No sorry. I want to make sure the delivery process is as robust as possible which means signatures etc. Jewelry has a way of going missing if it's not tracked. So I would recommend paying that bit extra. If you are going to return a piece to me or sizing, or it's within the returns period, always use the tracking option.
What stones do you use?
When I do a piece using the cast-in-place method then it's always the strongest corundum stones i.e. ruby, sapphire and diamond. And they have to be quality stones will little to no inclusions to ensure they survive the harsh process. I use a variety of natural and synthetic stones. The synthetic stones are less expensive but they too are quality i.e. no glue or cracks. If you see a piece you like but would prefer natural stones then just contact me and we can talk. I have a number of sources.
With the set stones there are more options available. The stones doesn't have to be a particular strength. I have used aquamarine and tanzanite, smoky quartz, heaps of different kinds of stones.
What metal do you use?
Mainly sterling silver. A bit of shibuichi (bit more copper in the sterling silver). And gold plating. I have done work in pure gold which is gorgeous and available. Obviously there is a higher cost involved. But again it can all be done just flick me a message and let's see what's what.
What is the meaning of life?
You know 42 is as good an answer as any. In all seriousness, I reckon (for what it's worth) that it has something to do with learning from your experiences and situation/circumstances and being as kind and authentic as you can about it all. What do you think?
Do you outsource work?
Not a thing. Am I a control freak? Probably. In my studio I am able to make moulds myself, fabricate, sand and lost wax cast. I have a sandblaster and an ultrasonic, a rolling mill, gosh what else, photo booth, plating set up. If I was going to outsource anything it would be the photography because it's not the best.
Do you pay for customs fees?
In New Zealand the GST is included in the price and paid to the Government by us. For all other countries it will be their customs agents that are responsible for any duties and taxes that are owing.
What if I get my ring size wrong?
If you order the wrong size and it is a style that is able to be resized, we will do so for a fee plus shipping. Please get in touch with us immediately upon delivery if the ring is too big or small.
How long will it take to get my piece?
Domestically it will only take a few days via NZ Post services, if you are buying an existing piece. If it's a remake especially for you then allow 2 - 3 weeks. If, for some reason, you need it sooner just get in touch.
Internationally shipments, outside of New Zealand, will be via Fedex. They will be tracked and a signature required (unless you have authorised otherwise). The time depends on your location but I have always found Fedex to be quick and reliable. If you need an idea of timing please just get in touch with me and I can contact Fedex. At the moment things are in chaos due to the Covid Pandemic.