Frequently Asked Questions
These questions cover some general points relating to jewellery design and valuations. If you require specific advice or want to discuss anything in further detail, please get in touch.
Why go bespoke?
Going bespoke means you get to be an integral part of what is often a piece of jewellery marking a very special occasion. With so many of us wanting our jewellery to reflect who we are and what we love, it means we can straight away focus on what you are wanting to achieve without the frustration of finding that ready-to-wear pieces are ”just not quite right”.
How much does it cost to have a piece of jewellery made?
Every job is quoted on an individual basis. There are so many variables when it comes to manufacturing processes, metals, gems and finishes so we prefer to nail down the details then provide you with a detailed estimate for you to review. Our consultations are totally obligation free so we are always happy to have a chat to discuss your ideas.
I have a collection of items I no longer wear, can you design me a new piece of jewellery?
Remaking and remodelling jewellery is a fantastic way for us to make use of what is already available to us. We do a lot of this at Frances Adrian and it can be a very satisfying way to transform and simplify our jewellery collection. There are some cases where, depending on what it is you have, it may not be a viable or economical option, however we are always happy to take a look at your collection and offer you some advice.
What do I need to know before we chat?
Some clients come with a detailed vision of their desired piece, others come with just a hint of an idea. Both work just fine! Whatever your inspiration, once we have a chat about your desired styles and stones, the creative process often gets going pretty quickly.
Jewellery valuations
I have a large collection of items, what actually needs a valuation?
This depends on the items of jewellery you own and the type of insurance policy you hold. Our consultations are complimentary and totally obligation free and are the best way to take stock of your collection as a whole. We will advise what items need a full report, what should have a written record and value (but not recorded in as much detail).
Valuations for buying and selling: do they differ to those for insurance purposes?
Yes. The value ascribed to an item you wish to specify on your insurance policy would reflect the cost to replace the item with another of equivalent quality - that is an item constructed of the same metal, by the same manufacturing method, and set with stones of equivalent quality.
A valuation supplied when someone is contemplating a purchase, or is offered along with the sale of the piece will not reflect a full insurance value. The value ascribed will reflect a fair Market Value, that is what you could expect to pay for a comparable item on the second hand market, not what it would be seen for new at a retail store. If you require information about this process we are happy to chat with you about it.
Is my existing jewellery valuation still valid?
Valuations are a document that is a snapshot in time. Due to fluctuations in international metal prices and the US/NZ dollar conversion rates, there can be some resulting fluctuations in the value of your items: both up and down.
It is worth checking with your insurer as to how frequently they require an updated valuation, however we are always happy to take a look at your existing documents and advise whether these require updating so you are correctly insured and would be adequately indemnified in the case of an insurance claim being made.
Jewellery care
General wear
We design and construct all our our jewellery to a weight and quality that can withstand general day-to-day wear, however not all jewellery is invincible! A certain amount of natural wear and tear is to be expected. We will discuss any special care requirements for your piece when we deliver it to you.
In general terms we recommend putting your jewellery on after skincare, makeup and perfumes have been applied, and removing it when you are at at home. We also discourage the wearing of jewellery while you are sleeping.
Your jewellery during exercise, cleaning and other hands-on activities
As mentioned, both precious metals and gems, including diamonds are not totally invincible. We recommend the removal of jewellery while you exercise to protect both yourself and the jewellery. This is especially important if you are a gym goer.
We also recommend you remove jewellery, especially rings, while you are cleaning or carrying out activities that involve the use of chemicals or corrosive materials. In certain cases these materials may irreversibly damage your jewellery. Should you own a piece containing gems with low stability we will always discuss care requirements with you.
Diamonds and coloured gems
Diamonds are generally hard wearing gems that can withstand general day-to-day wear. If for any reason your diamond has reduced durability we will discuss this with you and advise how to protect it.
Coloured stones such as sapphire, ruby and spinel are great gems for including in jewellery that is to be worn frequently as they are relatively hard wearing. However they, and all other coloured gems are not immune from being scratched, scuffed or damaged. We always make sure to suggest the most appropriate gems when designing your jewellery as well as advising of risks and making sure you know how to care for your jewellery correctly.
Metal care
We craft jewellery in yellow, white and rose gold, platinum and palladium. While these are generally tough metals some natural surface scratching and scuffing is to be expected. We can re-polish your items to new condition at any time.
White gold items are finished with a rhodium plating to give it its white, bright finish. This plating naturally wears over time so you will find your item needing to be subsequently re-rhodium plated from time to time. We will discuss the care of white gold with you.
Storing your jewellery
When you are not wearing your jewellery we recommend you store it in the box or pouch we provided to you. If at all possible, do not store multiple items all in together, this will help to protect the gems and metals from unnecessary wear and tear and potential knocks. Necklaces, chains and strands of pearls are best stored flat.
If you own particular gems such as pearls or opals that need to be stored in specific conditions we will advise you of how best to care for them.
Cleaning your jewellery
It is possible to give your jewellery a good clean at home, however we would prefer to discuss the best way to do this directly with you. This is due to the vast range of gem types, some requiring more delicate handling than others.
We are happy to give your jewellery a professional clean and polish at any time. We will also check over your pieces for any signs of wear or damage that may need attention.
Repairs
If you have jewellery that needs repairing we are able to undertake this for you. We will always need to see the item in person before providing you a quote. Contact us for more information if you have a piece that needs some TLC.
Need further information?
Anna Seelye FGA
022 460 9430
anna@francesadrian.co.nz
By appointment only