Frequently Asked Questions
Caring for your jewellery begins with mindfulness: knowing when to put it on, when to take it off, and when to have it serviced professionally. Our instructions were created specifically for fine jewelry. We are always available to consult with you about any care questions. You can reach us at juliakowpakjewellery@gmail.com
What is your warranty policy?
We provide a lifetime warranty against manufacturing defects which is a defect in a product that was not intended. The warranty becomes void if another jeweller works on the item.
The warranty does not cover loose stones, stone damage or loss. If you are concerned, we recommend purchasing insurance against loss, damage, and theft.
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I think I need a repair to my piece, what do I do?
Repairs are considered as needed based on what has happened. If you notice any missing stones or warped metal or just need an overall repair, please contact us and we will try to provide the best possible solution.
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Should I purchase insurance for my jewellery?
Fine jewellery is an investment. You spent a lot of time choosing your piece and you want to protect it. Insurance is recommend as it provides important protection; please consult your provider for further information.
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Most insurers need an appraisal; to purchase one or for further information please contact juliakowpakjewellery@gmail.com. This also applies to jewellery purchased elsewhere.
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Do I have to pay everything at once? Is there a deposit?
All the made-to-order jewellery items require payment at checkout. For custom jewellery, there is a 50% deposit upon approval of the design and the rest of the payment is due at pickup.
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Do you resize rings?
We offer one free resizing to all rings designed and made by Julia Kowpak Jewellery. If you purchased a ring elsewhere, resizing starts at $30.
What are some ways to personalize a piece of jewellery?
The best way to personalize your piece of jewellery is by making a custom jewellery item that reflects your personal story. You can provide images of specific gemstones, metal preferences and setting styles that we can incorporate into the jewellery design.
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For example, choosing a birthstone, custom engraving of an image or text in the typeface of your choosing, or incorporating hidden gem stones so only the person wearing it knows about the stone.
How do I know what my birthstone is?
January – Garnet
February – Amethyst
March – Aquamarine
April – Diamond
May – Emerald
June - Pearl
July - Ruby
August - Peridot
September - Sapphire
October - Opal
November - Citrine
December - Blue topaz
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Visit the Unique Gemstone page for stones that can be purchased for a custom design.
Can I bring my own gemstone(s)?
Any loose gemstone(s) or gemstone(s), that can be safely removed, from previously loved jewellery can be worked into a new design. There are limitations with some gemstones and they will be considered on a case by case basis.
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Can you repurpose old jewellery?
Metal from old jewellery can be melted down and used as part of a new design. However, there are limitations for reusing some metals as they all have different properties. As an example; yellow gold is the easiest to rework because of its malleable properties, while white gold or rose gold often becomes too brittle after its been remelted. In the event your metal cannot be melted down, we will purchase it at material cost and apply that value towards your custom piece. These options will be discussed on a case by case basis.
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Gemstones can also be repurposed; see question above.
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How do I care for my jewellery?
Depending on your lifestyle and occupation, consider removing your jewelry during working hours.
Keeping the jewellery item away from chemicals or drastic temperature changes is the best way to maintain the gemstone, stone security, and metal. Things like hair products, lotions, abrasive soaps, detergents, chlorinated water, hot water, ice cold water, gardening products, extreme sports and activities, can dim or dull a stones brilliance, damage the metal or loosen stones. When the item is not being worn we suggest to store it in a secure, soft place (like a pouch) so it won't get scratched.
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For more detailed information visit the care guide.
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How should I clean my jewellery?
Whether it has coloured gemstones, diamonds or is only metal, jewellery should be cleaned over a towel (never a sink) with room temperature water, mild soap and a soft toothbrush. Never clean your jewellery with an ultrasonic cleaner unless you've discussed this method with a jeweller.
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Stone cleaning instructions will be discussed when an item is purchased with a sensitive stone or setting.
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For more detailed information visit the care guide.
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What should I do if I think I have a loose stone?
For any item with stones, especially rings, we recommend having the tightness of the setting checked every four to six months by a professional. In between those checks, here's how you can check at home. Use a pinhead to gently tap the sides of the stone and see if they move. You can also listen for loose stones by holding your piece between your thumb and middle finger next to your ear while gently tapping it with your index finger. If even one stone is moving, refrain from wearing the piece until it can be tightened and contact juliakowpakjewellery@gmail.com. This also applies to jewellery purchased elsewhere.