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 Quality & Care

Stone Quality

Swarovski™

All crystal and pearls (unless otherwise noted) are genuine Austrian Swarovski™ crystals and crystal-based pearls. Swarovski™ is considered to be the finest maker of crystal in the world today. I use only authorized sources for Swarovski™ materials – no phonies get past my door!

Gemstones & Minerals

The gemstone beads I use are the best quality available in the market. That said, remember that natural beads will typically contain more inclusions and natural artifacts than cut gemstones. In my opinion, this adds to the interest and organic feel of the piece.

I use glass beads from a number of different sources. We carry everything from fire-polished Czech glass and Murano glass from Italy to Japanese Foil beads and the ever popular Dichroic Glass. On certain occasions I am able to acquire very special handmade glass beads from a few select local sources. Keep your eyes open for these joyful pieces – they move quickly!

Stringing

Necklaces are strung on the highest quality silk. Bracelets are made to last on Beadalon™, a robust, yet pliable material that resists kinking and bending. All pieces are guaranteed for a full year. Just return all the parts and I will restore your jewelry for you at no charge. After a year, I will replace broken items for 50% of the cost.

Clasps & Findings

The findings, including ear wires, are either 14K gold-filled or sterling silver. Base metal findings are not allowed at The Beading Factory! If you need solid 14K for any reason just let us know and we’ll be happy quote your options for you.

Normally I use Toggle Clasps on all your necklaces and bracelets. I do this for two reasons – they look pretty and they are easy to use. Lobster clasps, spring rings and pearl clasps are also available at no extra cost.

I make most earrings on Fishhook earwires, that is the usual default ear wire. I can also use posts, leverbacks or even clipons – just let me know your preference and it’s yours.

Care & Storage

All necklaces are strung on high quality silk. It is best to store your necklaces laying flat in a drawer rather than hanging. Silk is a natural material and will stretch over time. If you have a knotted piece, it is a good idea to have it re-strung every 3-5 years. Your local jeweler can frequently do thisfor you. Or, if it makes you feel better, contact me and I’ll arrange a time with you for restringing (try to avoid the Holiday season rush, please!).

All the silver you see in my pieces is sterling silver and therefore will tarnish. 14K gold filled findings will, after a few years exposed to air, begin to darken. To avoid either of these situations you can store your jewelry in airtight containers (like a ziplock bag). Even simply keeping your beauties in a drawer or closed box to limit the amount of airflow past the metal will help keep things looking shiny.

If you do find some of the metal has darkened, simply wipe with a jeweler’s cloth from your local jeweler (usually $5 or less). Please do not dip the necklaces or bracelets into liquid tarnish remover as it will compromise the stringing media used almost guaranteeing a lap full of homeless stones the next time you wear your piece. Those solutions are also corrosive to some of the natural stones we use, so go easy when cleaning the earrings, too.

Because a little sparkle is always a good thing!!!