What beads do I use?
I love gemstones, there are so many colours, shapes and sizes. My favourite changes all the time, and I love having them all around me. I admire handmade lampwork beads* too. They are miniature pieces of art made from melting Italian glass over a flame, into a bead, adding decoration and firing in a kiln. I also use Sterling Silver, from Thailand, Bali & Israel, and 14K Gold Vermeil. And Pearls, can't forget Pearls, Freshwater or Swarovski Crystal, they never date, and also Vintage & Czech Glass Beads. So many patterns and shapes to chose from.
*want to see handmade Lampwork beads - Laura Sparling in the UK is a very talented lady. Her beads are pure perfection, her customer service is top class and she is also a very nice lady!
What does the SRAJD Logo mean?
SRAJD means I am a Self-Representing Artist - Jewellery Designer. This logo means that I sell Jewellery that I designed and created. When you purchase items from a SRAJD member, you are buying directly from and supporting the artist.
Do you have Gift Certificates?
Yes, please see the Gift Certificates tab.
What is hand wire-wrapping I see in many of your descriptions?
Wire-wrapping is where you use Sterling Silver or Gold wire to wrap around your beads to attach to another. This method gives a lovely professional finish to your jewellery and your bead should never catch or fall off. There are many gauges (thickness) of wire for this method, and which one I use is dependant on the type and weight of the bead.
How often do I update my website?
As often as I can - every 4 to 6 weeks. When I do I send an email to those on my mailing list, so if you would like to be informed please join. Click here to email me. I keep my mailing list "private" and you are free to unsubscribe whenever you wish.
How is my order packaged and sent?
I wrap all items in tissue paper, and then it is sent in a jiffy bag (bubblewrap envelope). I wrap items just like I would like to receive something - with lots of TLC. I do not charge for packaging and tissue paper, that is all part of the service. Items come from a smoke and pet free home (there is nothing worse than opening a package and it's smoking!).
Can I adjust the size of a design?
I will happily resize an item if it will not change the design. Most adjustments are free of charge but also depends on what materials I need to use to alter the design for you. Please ask and I can give you an estimate.
Repairing/Altering Jewellery?
Of course. Please contact me for a quote.
How do I look after my Jewellery?
Store your jewellery in small zip lock bags, which can then be thrown into your jewel box (we are all guilty of that). Keep some of these in your jewel box so you have no excuse!!! Every now and then just wipe over your jewellery with a soft cloth. For Sterling Silver jewellery, invest in a polishing cloth and store your silver jewellery away from air, as the sulphur in air tarnishes the silver. Also keep Pearls separate as they are easily scratched.
What happened to my Guest Book?
I had to remove this. I was receiving way too many SPAM messages.
I would love to do something creative like this, how do I get started?
If you love and believe in what you do, all I can say is go for it. Everyone loves handcrafted items in this world full of mass production. All it takes is one extremely happy customer to tell their friends, who tell their friends and off you go. It takes a lot of work but if you are passionate about your craft, this passion will keep you going when things are slow. Believe in yourself and things will happen.
