FAQ

  • Can you give me a quote for custom work?

    Yes, I can provide a price range for your custom work. For example, the quote might be £200–£400 plus materials (£185). This means the cost will not be less than £200 and will not exceed £400, even if the work requires more hours than initially anticipated. Materials are always charged at my cost plus 10% to cover consumables. The figure in brackets is my current estimate and may change as the project progresses, but I will keep you informed of any updates throughout.

  • Can you give me an estimate for repair work?

    Absolutely I can. The estimate will look very similar to a quote for custom work with some small differences. The minimum charge for any repair work is £15. I will provide you with an upper limit on what I will charge, and the actual figure will be the time spent multiplied by my shop rate (£35).

    So, a repair estimate will typically look like £15–£100 plus materials (£15). Materials cost will be my cost for the materials plus 10% to cover consumables and I will keep you informed of any updates throughout.

  • Why is your shop rate £35?

    Based on a market survey of average shop rates for jewellers in the UK, typical charges are as follows: jewellery repair ranges from £30 to £50, custom jewellery between £50 and £100, appraisals from £40 to £70, and cleaning and polishing between £20 and £40.

    For simplicity and transparency, I have chosen a flat rate of £35 per hour for all services. This rate reflects my many years of experience in the industry and the lower overhead costs I incur, as I do not operate from a retail space nor have employees. This allows me to offer professional, high-quality workmanship at a fair and consistent price.

  • What is your customer satisfaction and return policy?

    For any ready-made item, you may return it within 2 weeks if you are not entirely happy. Return postage is your responsibility.

    For custom work, you may refuse the end product or return it within 2 weeks; however, the 50% deposit is non-refundable, as this fairly shares some of the risk involved.

    For repair work, I will endeavour to make you 100% satisfied and will only charge a minimal amount should the item require reworking.

  • What is a construction video?

    Occasionally, the work is so interesting to me that I take photographs and videos during the process. I then compile these into a short video, which I repost on my YouTube channel. If you would like a construction video of the work I do for you, the cost is £30. This fee may be waived at my discretion, but I reserve all rights.

  • Why do you need my email?

    My billing is electronic, and I email my customers an invoice that includes my bank transfer details along with an optional link for online card payment. Once the invoice is paid, I will also send you a receipt by email.

    I can also accept a cash payment if you pick up from the shop, where you will receive a paper invoice marked paid.

  • Were is your workshop?

    My workshop is located in my home in Devizes, Wiltshire. For privacy and security reasons, I do not advertise the exact address and only welcome visitors by appointment.

    Pick-up and drop-off services at the workshop are available strictly by appointment. These appointments can be arranged for Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday between 1.00pm and 6.00pm. Please contact me in advance to schedule your visit.

  • Can you explain Hallmarking?

    Hallmarking guarantees the quality of precious metals and is legally required in the UK, except for very light items. My maker's mark is registered with the London Assay Office, where all pieces are hallmarked to ensure authenticity. Hallmarking typically costs around £30, including shipping. Marks like 925 can be misleading, as they don’t always guarantee genuineness. Only official assay office hallmarking reliably confirms precious metal quality.

  • What is Argentium?

    Argentium silver is a purer, hypoallergenic alloy that resists tarnish better than sterling silver. Its unique ability to fuse without solder creates stronger, cleaner jewellery joins, enhancing durability and appearance. Many of my pieces are made entirely solder-free, showcasing both the metal’s innovation and my precise craftsmanship.

    A fuller description of Argentium can be found here.