FAQ
1. How do you make your jewellery?
At Bejewelled By Kê Lì, I craft my jewellery the old-fashioned way where every piece takes time to come to life. Starting with raw materials such as precious metal wire and solder (which is a special kind of metal that we use to join pieces together), I patiently shape and transform these elements into intricate designs. A key part of my process involves handcrafting my own claw/prong settings for rings. Rather than relying on premade components, I choose to individually create each setting. This time-intensive process ensures that every piece I make is perfectly crafted to suit each individual gemstone. The end results? Handcrafted jewellery pieces that are truly one-of-a-kind and make with love from scratch!
As you continue your journey in discovering beautiful jewellery, I would encourage you to delve a little deeper into the story behind each piece. It's not just about the aesthetic appeal, but also the origins and craftsmanship that go into creating the jewellery. Ask questions about where the jewellers source their materials, such as the origins of the gems? What methods does the jeweller use to transform these raw materials into the finished piece? It adds another layer of understanding and appreciation to your purchase, knowing that it's not just a piece of jewellery, but a testament to responsible sourcing and skilled craftsmanship.
2. What is Sterling Silver? What other metals do you use, and where do you source your precious metals from?
Sterling silver is a popular alloy used in jewellery and other decorative items. It is composed of 92.5% pure silver and 7.5% other metals. This is where the term '925 silver' comes from, often seen hallmarked onto jewellery. It is preferred choice over pure silver as it is a durable and long-lasting metal that can withstand everyday wear. The addition of other metals to pure silver creates an end product is strong and resilient, which allows for the creation of high-quality sterling silver jewellery that can be enjoyed for years to come.
At present, I work with Argentium Silver, Sterling Silver and Solid 9ct yellow gold. I am able to work with any other carats or colour (rose, white, etc.) upon request, as I would then special order the requested metal in.
I purchase my fabricated metals (raw materials) from reputable suppliers such as Morris & Watson (AU based) or Cookson Gold (UK based).
3. What is an opal? What is so special about opals in general?
Opal is a precious gemstone known for its stunning play of colors. It is formed from silica deposits and has a unique appearance, with iridescent flashes of various colors. Opals come in a range of hues and patterns, making each stone one-of-a-kind.
Whilst opals are unique, they are also challenging to cut because of their amorphous structure, meaning their atoms aren't arranged in a regular, repeating pattern as in most common gemstones, but rather, they're in a disordered, non-crystalline arrangement. This results in a gem that's delicate and susceptible to breakage or even explosion into thin air during the cutting process. In otherwards, Opals are very unpredictable. For example, you may cut a sliver too far and lose all your colour, or you might find random sand potches in the middle of some great colour that you simply get can't rid of because it goes too deep. Alternatively, you might find an exceptional play of colour, after cutting through a somewhat boring, dull colour of stone, where you initially had no hopes for that piece whatsoever!
This special property of opals makes every single piece unique and one-of-a-kind. Literally no two pieces of opal will ever be the same. This is what make opals so extraordinary!
4. What is the significance of Australian opal?
Australian opals are undeniably the most special in the world. Their phenomenal play of colors, including mesmerizing blues, greens, and fiery reds, is unrivaled. With opal mining embedded in Aussie heritage and opal-rich regions like Lightning Ridge and Coober Pedy, Australia holds the key to opal magic, making our opals the most sought-after and treasured gemstones globally.
In particular, black opal holds immense significance in the world of gemstones as it is renowned for its captivating play of colours against a dark background. Black opal is considered one of the rarest and most valuable opals and can only be found in Lightning Ridge, NSW, Australia. It symbolises elegance, mystery, and uniqueness, captivating the imagination with its deep, vibrant hues. Black opal is a precious gem that showcases the marvelous beauty and natural wonders of Australia.
The color red in opals holds special significance as it is highly valued among gemstone enthusiasts. Red is considered one of the rarest and most desirable colours in opals. Opals with vibrant red hues, often referred to as "fire opals" or "red opals," are cherished for their intense and captivating display of colour. Red symbolizes passion, energy, and vitality, evoking a sense of warmth and intensity. Opals featuring prominent red colours are considered particularly valuable and sought after by collectors and jewellery connoisseurs.
5. Are the opals used in your jewellery genuine?
Yes, I only use genuine solid Australian opals in my jewellery. I source rough opals directly from opal miners, or from reputable rough opal suppliers. Each opal used in my jewellery has been hand cut and polished by me, Kê Lì, on a lapidary machine. I take a single stone through the various grits of lapidary machines or polishing pads to achieve the desired smoothness and shine on the surface of the opal. At times I finish polishing small pieces with my hand rotary tool. All my opals are natural solid opals, not doublets or triplets (ie. glued with other stones). Additionally, no enhancements are utilised whatsoever. What I create is a polished opal is pure and authentic.
6. Do you offer customisations or personalised jewellery?
Yes, customs are currently open. Please chat with me now with the shop chat app (bottom left hand corner of webpage), or send me a DM on Instagram @bejewelledbykeli, or email me at info@bejewelledbykeli.com.au. I look foward to hearing from you.
7. How long does it take to receive my order?
Typically, our standard processing time for Australian is 4 - 14 days. For international orders, they usually take from 10 - 28 working days. Once your order is shipped, the delivery time will depend on your location and the shipping method chosen at checkout.
8. What is your return policy? What if the jewellery doesn't meet my expectations?
It is acknowledged that buying online can sometimes be challenging. Therefore, it is encouraged that customers choose carefully before purchasing. Detailed descriptions and photos of each piece is thoughtfully curated to enhance an informed decision. Please ensure to confirm all details, such as size, design and materials, before completing your purchase. Unfortunately, due to the handmade nature of our products, I cannot offer returns or exchanges. If you have any concerns or need more information about a product, don't hesitate to contact me prior to purchase. I always here to assist and ensure that your experience with Bejewelled By Kê Lì is a rewarding one. However, if there are any faults or issues with the jewellery, please get in contact with me ASAP so that we can look into resolving the issue. You can send me an email at info@bejewelledbykeli.com.au.
9. Are your products ethically sourced?
Yes, I endeavour to prioritise ethical sourcing of materials for my handmade jewellery. I only buy rough opal and I strive to ensure that all my stones are sourced responsibly, following ethical guidelines. I aim to support suppliers who prioritise fair trade practices and sustainable mining methods.
At Bejewelled By Kê Lì, I am deeply committed to sustainability and conscious of the impact my business has on the environment. I will continuously work towards an eco-friendlier business model, and part of that journey involves sourcing recycled precious metals. By using recycled materials, I can reduce the demand for newly mined resources and minimize the environmental footprint of my jewellery creations. I have also selected packaging that is eco-friendly and compositable. The mailing bags including bubble wrap that you receive are completely home and industrial compositable. They will take about 3 months to decompose at home, and even sooner commercially.
Although I am still in the early stages of this transition, I am excited about the progress I am making towards building a greener and more sustainable jewellery brand. Rest assured, I am dedicated to creating beautiful pieces that not only reflect your personal style but also align with your values of sustainability and environmental responsibility.
10. What is Argentium Silver?
Argentium silver is PURER, BRIGHTER, HYPOALLERGENIC, STRONGER, TARNISH RESISTANT, and made from ETHICALLY SOURCED SILVER. Overall, it's a higher quality and the best type of silver to use for keepsake jewellery. Please see Argentium Silver - Official Website | Home for more details.
11. How can I contact you?
You can reach me by completing the form on the Contacts page. Alternatively, please feel free to send me an email on info@bejewelledbykeli.com.au. I am happy to assist you with any inquiries, concerns, or assistance you may need.
