This section covers our most frequently asked questions. If you can’t find what you are looking for on this page you can email us here and we will get back to you as soon as possible.
What methods of payment do you accept?
We currently accept most credit and debit cards. Other payment options will follow in due course.
Can you reserve an item?
To make things fair we don’t reserve items - they are available for purchase on a first come, first serve basis.
Do you offer exchanges?
Unfortunately we are unable to offer exchanges. If you wish to return an item please refer to our returns policy for details.
Further information regarding sales, delivery and returns can be found on their respective pages or in the terms and conditions.
Do you make custom pieces of jewellery?
No, we do not offer custom or bespoke pieces of jewellery at this time.
Where do you source your Crystals/Stones?
The stones and crystals used are mostly from local suppliers or lapidaries as we prefer to select the stones by hand. This ensures we are happy with both the origins of the material and the quality of what we are buying.
As products of the earth, no stone or crystal will look 100% perfect. You can expect small blemishes, nicks, inclusions etc which are all natural and make up the character of the crystal. They do not impact the structural integrity of the the crystal or stone. Please check product descriptions and photographs carefully as anything particular will be detailed there.
Extra care will be needed with jewellery containing stones or crystals. Please see the jewellery care guide for more details.
What Metals do you use?
Precious metals - both silver and gold - are 100% recycled and sourced from a reputable UK supplier. The majority of Ornate Alchemy jewellery is made from sterling silver (925). Any gold used is solid gold (not plating or vermeil) and will vary between 9, 18 , 22 or 24 carat (375, 750, 917 or 999 respectively). The exact carat will be listed in the product description and hallmarked on the reverse of the piece.
Wire wrapped pendants are made from 316 surgical stainless steel which is both durable and hypoallergenic.
Copper and Argentium silver (935) are occasionally used for wire wrapped pendants.
Which jewellery has a hallmark?
The only jewellery hallmarked as standard at Ornate Alchemy are items which:
contain elements of solid gold (9ct, 18ct, 22ct and 24ct)
exceed the 7.78 gram silver content**
* Please note that some crystal talismans have a finished weight exceeding 7.78 grams. This is caused by the added weight of the stone/crystal. Hallmarking only applies to the amount of precious metal used not the overall weight of the jewellery item.
If you want to find out more about hallmarking please take a look at the blog post here. Alternatively more information is available on the dealer’s notice or at www.edinburghassayoffice.co.uk
How do I care for my jewellery?
Ornate Alchemy jewellery is intended to last a lifetime - with the proper care and attention. Please adhere to the instructions received with your new jewellery or have a look at our in-depth jewellery care guide to help you enjoy your jewellery for as long as possible.