Frequently Asked Jewelry Questions

All creations are never plated and never plated over base metals. All creations are handcrafted in solid, ethically sourced fine metals in silver, 14 karat, 18 karat, 22 karat golds, to platinum and palladium. All pieces will be stamped indicating which metal. I use a black rhodium oxidized patina for mostly the silver collection to give an age antique look highlighting textures that gives that old world other timely treasure to it. The finish is set within the metals and shouldn’t rub off. A high polish is used for gold collections. A patina with the gold is an option.

All silver creations with the oxidized patina are usually set in and tarnish is not an issue as I’ve found to be minimal. If it’s bothersome there is argentine silver, which will not tarnish. Please inquire if this is something you prefer and if it’s a concern.

The beauty of these treasures I specifically source and hand pick by resources that trace back to their sources of origin. Please see sustainability under the about section in the menu for more details.

If a piece of jewelry is $39.95, $59.99, or $139.95 you know two things –– it is made in the far east with very low wage workers

and/or it is made in runs of thousands. Only very large companies can afford to make runs in the thousands. Quality is usually less, metal weight is light, and designs are simple. If small-mid companies are charging this and there’s any intricate work present I question the quality of it or/and I question who is being exploited.

Small companies, such as mine, use manufacturers in the U.S.A. the manufacturers charge a living wage, and while they do give a cost break on making large quantities, small companies rarely can take advantage of this. Also, the more intricate the piece is…the more the cost to manufacture.

Michelle Valadon designs are intricate, have a good metal weight, designed by me personally, and manufactured in the U.S.A. the prices are the best I can give due to the above reasons. You will have jewelry that you will not see coming and going. I put the utmost care and time into each piece to assure you the quality, craftsmanship, and beauty that you believe in and will treasure for years to come.

Yes, absolutely. Do refer to my customer care & policies page for additional information.

For made to order items once payment is cleared an order is immediately worked on and put through production here in the USA where I oversee it. Once the item is ready you will be notified and the item will be shipped. A tracking number will be included.

Being a small operation, all creations are typically made to order, in limited quantities and are handcrafted; therefore not all are produced beforehand. Please allow 2-3 weeks for production along with additional time for shipment. Choice options for shipping times are offered in checkout. Once your order is placed and cleared, your item is sent to production to be made. Then it will be shipped to you with a notification and tracking number.

For in-stock creations (as stated or listed as available) you will be notified that the item is ready to ship. Please give one business day to prepare for shipping.

Modifications on existing pieces allow 2-3 weeks, yet more significant time will be required for specific stones and cuts that are more rare in nature to finding the perfect stone or rough and the time to perfect the cut. For bespoke customs allow 7-10 weeks. Please refer to custom page for further details or contact me.

Michelle Valadon designs ships securely and carefully by packing items within package for its safe travel. Items are shipped in oversize boxes for security. In some cases, they are double-boxed.

Within these boxes, each creation comes in a gift box revealing a beautiful wrapped packaging creation of old world style, a champagne colored logo wax seal, and satin deep sangria red ribbon.

At this time, I unfortunately do not. To keep everything fair and organized, I take in orders as a first come first serve. Please send me a message if you have placed your order and would like to upgrade to faster shipping.

Please refer to the sizing page for guidance and charts to help determine sizing. Please contact me if you have any concerns or questions on this.

I will be happy to size a ring by exchanging for your size. For bracelets I suggest to size up a little if you have a larger wrists than the average standard wrist size. Please notify me by sending me an email on what you would like, or for returning the item, and we can work it out. Return postage is not provided.

Yes and no. We can work with you to customize an original design that you can call your own. Best is to provide me with a general idea that I can work and build from and create a personalized unique piece based on the information you provide me. I’m not able to quote or create on other artists or company’s work due to the respect I will not infringe.

I believe it is important for you to fully express your uniqueness.

We will give your piece the time, care, and attention it deserves to ensure that your jewelry will enrich your experiences.

To get started, please fill out the bespoke custom request form on the custom page of this site.

Yes. We are open to customizing our existing gothic jewelry pieces, including the preferred stones. For instance, you may replace the diamonds in your diamond earrings with faceted onyx. Also different options of metals are available for your preference. Do note that pricing is subject to change reflecting on the value of metal and stone pricing at the time. I will let you know for your approval at that price and need approval and nonrefundable payment before proceeding with any custom work.

Additionally, we can also customize necklace length, ring size, and other options.

For customizations, please complete the custom preference on existing collections request form on the custom page of this site.

Not recommended since commercial jewelry cleaners and harsh chemicals might remove the oxidation or patina set on the metal. Even though these pieces are set in with the oxidation and patina, I prefer safer options to clean the jewelry.

The best way to clean textured silver is with simple warm water with a mild soap while rubbing the piece with your fingers. Do not wipe the pieces vigorously. Use only a soft, non-abrasive cloth to pat dry.

No. The mandala pendant with a silver filigree chain with oxidized finishes is $32 more than if you opt for silk ribbons.

However, the price doesn’t change between 16” and 18” options for the silk ribbons or the silver chain.

You can choose both the ribbons and the silver chain along with the mandala pendant bracelet in a single purchase.

The current selection of gothic rings available on our site do not include the type of diamond rings that are traditionally considered engagement rings.

However, we are open to customizing an existing ring in our collection or creating a custom engagement ring of your own design. We can create uniquely just for you.

Please contact me at michelle@michellevaladon.com before or after purchase with any questions or concerns.

We prefer selecting from our small network of diamond and precious stone dealers for the stone we will be setting in your bespoke jewelry.

However, we are open to discussing this possibility with you if you contact us directly at michelle@michellevaladon.com.

If you have a specific bespoke custom request using our supplied jewelry, please fill out the contact form on our custom jewelry page. You can mention your particular circumstances once we reach out to you.

The prices posted on the website are standard for all the diamond rings in our existing collections.

However, the price may vary if you specifically state your stone option preferences when you customize one of our existing designs.

For instance, in the case of diamonds of eternity ring, you may fill out the first contact form on our custom jewelry page to specify the quality, size, and other stone options for your ring.

Please allow an approximate lead time of seven to ten weeks for the completion of a custom piece.

However, depending on the complexity of the design, the lead time may change.

We will follow up and communicate with you at each step of the manufacturing process to update you on the status of your order.

For more details on lead time and any questions about custom pieces, you may contact us directly by emailing michelle@michellevaladon.com.

Yes. All of our diamonds are EGL-USA or GIA-Certified.

We source only from reputable gemstone dealers worldwide.

Our partners comply with all existing industry laws, such as the Kimberley Process and fair trade laws.

Our current collection does not include any platinum pieces.

However, you may request platinum as your choice of metal when you arrange for us to make custom from the existing collection or a bespoke custom jewelry piece made for you.

When you select platinum as the precious metal of choice for your piece, we will use platinum at pt 950 or platinum at 95% purity.

Yes. We can incorporate yellow gold, or any other precious metals you choose, into any of our existing designs.

Please fill out the first form you will find on this page and make sure to specify the metal that you desire.

Yes. If you are interested in becoming a wholesale partner for Michelle Valadon jewelry designs, please fill out the contact form on this page.

If you have any problems with our form, email us at michelle@michellevaladon.com.

We stand behind the quality and craftsmanship that goes into each piece we make. If you have an issue with the quality of a piece, please send us an email to michelle@michellevaladon.com.

 We offer re-sizing, repairing, tightening, and re-stringing services for all products for the first three months after their purchase.

We will charge a fee to cover the costs of repairs if the purchase was made more than three months before you notify us.

The customer will pay for the shipping either way.

Edwardian jewelry is a testament to exquisite craftsmanship and timeless beauty, characterized by delicate details and shimmering gemstones. Immerse yourself in the elegance of this era by exploring Michelle Valadon's curated collection of Edwardian Jewelry, where each piece is a captivating reflection of the period's refined aesthetic.

Victorian goth is a captivating blend of the dramatic, dark aesthetic of goth subculture with the opulent and intricate details of the Victorian era. It's a style that embraces the mysterious and romantic, often incorporating elements like deep colors, lace, velvet, and intricate embellishments. Consider it a modern interpretation of Victorian mourning attire, infused with a darker, more rebellious spirit. This intriguing style merges the historical elegance of the past with the contemporary allure of goth style, creating a truly unique and captivating look.

Michelle Valadon offers several Victorian gothic-style jewelry pieces that are ready-made for you to select from. Visit our Victorian Gothic Jewelry page to explore our intricate creations that capture all the elements that truly make this style of jewelry captivating.

Victorian and Edwardian jewelry are often put into the same category, but they possess distinct characteristics. Victorian jewelry, influenced by sentimentality and mourning, is known for its intricate details, rich colors, and symbolism. It frequently employs gemstones like amethyst, garnet, black diamonds, black onyx, and jet. In contrast, Edwardian jewelry embodies a lighter, more optimistic spirit. It is characterized by delicate platinum settings, dazzling diamonds, and ethereal gemstones, such as moonstones, showcasing a graceful and feminine aesthetic. Our modern incarnations feature white gold settings. While both eras produced exquisite pieces, their styles reflect their time's contrasting social and cultural climates.

Yes. Michelle Valadon offers freshwater pearl necklaces ready-made. The Mermaid Bliss Pearl Necklace features baroque freshwater pearls in shades of silvery blues and violets. Each pearl has an unique shape, making this necklace instantly transform any wardrobing option.

Tahitian pearl earrings are renowned for their unique and captivating beauty. These pearls are cultivated in the warm waters surrounding the islands of French Polynesia. What sets them apart is their rich, dark color palette, which ranges from silvery gray to peacock green, and even deep black. TheIced Arrows of Neptune Tahitian Earrings feature 11mm to 12mm silver-grey Tahitian pearls mounted on an Art Deco setting.

• Color: Their dark, lustrous colors are what make Tahitian pearls so distinctive.   
• Size: They tend to be larger than other pearl varieties, adding to their dramatic appeal.   
• Luster: Tahitian pearls are prized for their high luster, which gives them a shimmering, iridescent quality. 

These factors combine to create exotic and elegant earrings, making them a treasured possession for many.

Yes! Using rough diamonds in jewelry pieces has recently become a growing trend. While the traditional image of a diamond is a polished, sparkling gem, rough diamonds offer a unique and captivating alternative.

Their natural form and imperfections give them a distinctive character that appeals to those who appreciate one-of-a-kind pieces, such as the Ceres Treasures VI Teardrops Necklace featuring tiny rough diamonds suspended on a golden chain.

The texture of silver doesn't influence how quickly it tarnishes; instead, factors like exposure to air, moisture, and chemicals play a more significant role. While tarnish might be more noticeable on textured silver due to its increased surface area, both textured and shiny silver pieces require similar care to maintain their luster. Proper storage, using anti-tarnish products, and avoiding harsh environments are key to preserving the beauty of your silver jewelry.

Baroque freshwater pearls often command lower prices than their round counterparts of similar size due to their irregular shape. While this might seem counterintuitive, this unique characteristic makes them a sought-after choice for jewelry designers. For example, The intricate artistry of crafting necklaces can elevate the baroque pearl's allure, transforming its unconventional shape into a stunning focal point. As such, the value of a baroque pearl necklace often hinges on the skill and creativity of the jeweler, showcasing the pearl's beauty in a harmonious design.

Refined and elegant, Edwardian jewelry was introduced right before the end of Queen Victoria’s reign and is attributed to her successor, King Edward VII (1901 to 1915). Edwardian jewelry profoundly expresses femininity through its fine and delicate lines. It incorporates “white” gemstones and metals, such as white gold, sterling silver, and platinum, setting diamonds and moonstones. Colored gems, such as opals and sapphires, are used for a pop of color.

Victorian jewelry, though created over seventy years and with three distinct periods, favors bolder colors, darker metals, and gemstones with elaborate designs. On the other hand, Edwardian jewelry embraces lighter colors, such as white gold, platinum, and diamonds, with a more delicate feminine aesthetic.

Yes. Michelle Valadon’s Winter Dreams collection of Edwardian jewelry incorporates the beauty and delicate details of the Edwardian era with a versatile modern flair that suits any outfitting option.

Each of these pieces comes beautifully presented in a gift box. Inside, you'll find a wrapped creation with an old-world style, sealed with a champagne-colored wax seal and tied with a deep sangria red satin ribbon.

While oxidized silver and white gold are generally considered hypoallergenic, it's important to note that some people may still experience sensitivities or allergies. If you have known allergies to metals or other materials, we recommend consulting with a dermatologist or allergist before purchasing jewelry.

Here are some common allergens to be aware of:

• Nickel: Often used in white gold alloys.
• Cobalt: Another metal used in white gold alloys.
• Other base metals: Michelle Valadon jewelry do not have base metals because all pieces have either 0.925 silver or 14K or 18K gold.

Yes, we offer custom engraving services on some of our jewelry pieces. We can engrave your desired message or symbol on the piece, meaning the engraving can only be made on the piece itself without a separate piece or an attachment. Please note that engraving may incur additional fees and take extra time.

Yes, I can offer custom jewelry designs for men. While I don't have a specific men's collection, some unisex pieces would be perfect for men's styles. To discuss your preferences, please contact us.

Absolutely! We offer a variety of chain and cord options for our pendants, including different metals, lengths, and styles. Whether you prefer a delicate gold or silver chain or a silk cord, we can help you find the perfect match for your pendant.

If an item arrives misshapen or damaged due to shipping, I will gladly repair it. If there is a problem concerning any order in receiving it, please contact me. I will always work with you to the best I can to make sure the item is just what you want it to be.

Please take note that it takes a great deal of time and resources to make each custom piece to your exact specifications. As much as possible, we pursue to execute our work flawlessly to ensure each bespoke piece fits your demands. In this regard, we don’t usually refund or accept returns for our custom-made jewelry.

Yes, I do with the first 3 months free of charge after purchase. After 3 months there would be a fee or costs of what the repairs would cost. See policies page for details. Also contact me for questions and concerns.

Please take note that it takes a great deal of time and resources to make each custom piece to your exact specifications. As much as possible, we pursue to execute our work flawlessly to ensure each bespoke piece fits your demands. In this regard, we don’t usually refund or accept returns for our custom-made jewelry.

Yes. You may order our jewelry from abroad. All international packages will be declared at their full value. The recipient is responsible for covering all applicable customs fees. Please take note that the customs fees, duties, taxes, and shipping costs are not included in the item price and will be additional.

For items already in our existing collection, you should receive your order within 2-3 weeks of purchase. This timeframe includes order processing and shipping. Please note that this is an estimate, and actual delivery times may vary based on your location and the shipping method chosen.

Absolutely! We offer full coverage insurance for your peace of mind. Simply select this option during the checkout process to protect your precious purchase. This covers the insurance for your jewelry during shipment (and not after that).