FAQ

"When will my package ship?"

We try to be extremely responsive to our customers and ship within 1-2 business days. If orders come in late in the afternoon, they will ship the next business day. This includes Fed Ex shipments. Orders received before about 10 am PST commonly ship that business day. Very large orders or orders requiring custom work may take an additional day or two. Please be sure your contact information is correct! If we have a question, we may need to contact you to complete your order.

"Does Silver mean Sterling Silver?"

Yes. We use the terms interchangeably. Sterling Silver is .925 Silver. Silver is really a very soft metal, so it needs to be alloyed to give it more strength. If the item is Silver Plated, the description will use that term. Fine Silver is the term for 99.9% Silver and is often used in custom work.

"What is Gold Fill?"

Gold Fill is actually more expensive than Sterling Silver. Why? Because Gold Fill jewelry findings are made of 20% by weight of 14kt Gold. This is very, rich thick Gold Plate and the next best thing to 10K or 14K.

"Why have your prices increased?"

If you watch the precious metals market then you KNOW that Silver/Gold are just skyrocketing in price. Increased demand from overseas markets, the weak dollar, all contribute to the rise in prices. 10 years ago, when we started this business, Silver was about $5-6 per ounce. Now it's closer $17! In addition, gemstones are becoming scarcer and scarcer. For instance, the Southwest US used to be famous for the prolific Turquoise mines. Now less than 25% are still in operation. The world is just getting smaller and demand is rising. The GOOD NEWS? Your gemstones and precious metal jewelry are likely to appreciate in value (rather than that sweater that'll end up at the Salvation Army after a few years).

"What is a Bezel Setting?"

A Bezel Setting is a setting done by a Silversmith. Sometimes the Silversmith will be more ornate, or add a fancy bail, but generally, the BACK of the gemstone is open, i.e., if you turn a Bezel Set pendant over, the back of the pendant is open to the gemstone. A bezel setting, then, is basically a heavy rim of silver soldered around the cabochon gemstone.

"Is Gift Wrapping Available?"

We offer Gift Wrapping in a variety of papers. At checkout you can add Gift Wrapping to your order by clicking on the link in the Shopping Cart or here.

"Do you use all real stones?"

We love genuine, untreated gemstones! If we cannot obtain genuine untreated gemstones, we'll disclose it in the item description. Some stones are very difficult to get in their natural state. For instance, Black Onyx is frequently dyed to even the color. We carry a few synthetic stones (by popular demand), such as Cubic Zirconium and synethic Hematite.

"How can you sell real stone jewelry at such great prices?"

We don't have to pay for a fancy storefront and commissioned salespersons, all of which add to the cost of jewelry.

"You keep talking about "mm". What is a "mm"?"

"mm" stands for millimeter, which is one of the ways to measure the size of stones. It's most commonly used with beads, though sometimes with faceted stones as well (faceted stones are often measured in carats or weight). To give you an idea of sizes, see the chart below, which is a good approximation of millimeters to inches. 8mm is, by far, the most popular size in beaded jewelry.

"Why are you qualified to pick out these stones?"

With a full time Geologist on Staff, our gemstones are checked for authenticity. The owner's father was a Geologist before them. We also have our expensive gemstones (Emeralds, Sapphires, etc) GIA certified for authenticity.

"What is the difference between an Elastic Bracelet and regular bracelet?"

Elastic bracelets are all the rage--they are strung on a very sturdy elastic band which makes them exceptionally easy to put on/off. They tend to be more casual, in general, and less expensive. Why less expensive? Because you're not paying for the sterling silver clasp, bead cups, etc. A regular bracelet is strung on something called "Beadalon" which is 49 strands of very, very fine steel to give it strength, durability and flexibility.

"What if I don't like my new gemstone? What are your return policies? Shipping Policies?"

Please see our Policies page.

"How long have you guys been in business?"

Our business was founded in Denver, Colorado in January, 1996. In 2002 we relocated to the beautiful Pacific Northwest.

Disclaimer: Newage Enterprises makes no claims as to the healing properties of this gemstone. We provide information on legends surrounding this stone's mystical and healing properties which allow the informed user to make their own decision.

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