About and FAQ’s
I’m Carolyn, the designer and maker of all the jewellery you will see on this website.
I have a love of simplicity, a ‘less is more’ approach to life in general which is reflected in my jewellery and I only make what I would love to wear myself. It seems lots of you love that too which makes me so happy.
SUSTAINABILITY
Most of the silver I use is recycled silver, the gold filled jewellery of course is far more ecologically friendly than solid gold as far less gold is needed for each piece meaning less demand for newly mined gold.
The packaging I use is 100% recyclable including the organic cotton drawstring bags which all the jewellery comes in.
The gemstones I use are synthetic making them more environmentally friendly.
I offer a lifetime repair service.
Selling from my website means I don’t need a shop to heat and light and my packaging is letterbox sized which means it can be transported much more easily than larger parcels meaning less transport and fuel usage. I work from my workshop in my garden so no need for transport to get me to work.
FAQ’s
How do I know what size bracelet I need?
The best way is to measure your wrist at the wrist bone using a piece of string then add 1 cm to it. My sizes are small (17cm), medium (18cm) and large (19cm) but if for example your wrist measures 16.5cms then order a small if you like it fitting or medium if you prefer to wear them looser. You can always message me on Instagram @carolynclarejewellery or email me at carolynclare.co.uk@gmail.com if you want something making to a specific size.
What is gold filled?
Gold filled is the name given for a process that permanently bonds thick layers of 14 carat gold to a base metal. It is NOT plated and uses a completely different method and far thicker layers of real gold. It is the next best thing to solid gold as it has about 100 times more gold than plated jewellery so daily wear and tear will not have a significant impact on it. It doesn’t tarnish easily or wear off and should, if looked after, have a lifespan of around 30 years. It is a really good, affordable alternative to solid gold and much long lasting than gold vermeil.
Is it real silver?
Yes, I only use .925 sterling silver.
What is the difference between a ‘bracelet’ and a ‘stacking bracelet’?
Always read the description before ordering as it will tell you everything you need to know. Usually my ‘bracelets’ open and have a really strong magnetic clasp whereas the ‘stacking bracelets’ are stretchy and pull on. My semi precious ones have a trigger clasp.
How strong are the magnetic clasps?
Very! They are the strongest ones to ensure they are safe on your wrist. I have lots of customers who come back for more and at events are keen to show me that they are still wearing the bracelets they bought 2, 3, 4 years (and even longer) ago. Very often I hear the words “I never take them off” - music to my ears.
Which bracelets go together to make a stack?
Purely personal choice. They will all compliment each other really well. Remember that magnetic ones will cling together at the back if that would bother you but all the stacking ones go really well with all of the magnetic clasp ones. More recently I’ve had lots of orders for mixes of sterling silver and gold filled ones. There are no rules, you can have fun creating your own individual stack.