Frequently Asked Questions
Here you will find information on some of the most frequently asked questions relating to the jewellery making process and materials used, care for jewellery, measuring, ordering and delivery. Do feel free to contact me directly with any jewellery queries.
Materials
Sea Glass and Pottery
Sea glass and sea pottery are the common terms for pieces of glass and pottery which have at some point in their history found themselves in the sea. Broken pieces are shaped, frosted and marked by the huge power of the waves, sand and rocks to be discovered washed up on the shore. I mainly collect the sea glass and pottery used in my jewellery along the south east coast of Scotland and Northumberland. All pieces are thoroughly cleaned before being incorporated into jewellery pieces.
All sea glass and pottery used in my jewellery is collected by me (and Rich!) and kindly friends. I do not use glass tumbled to imitate sea glass nor do I buy glass from others.
The nature of using found materials means it is unlikely that I can replicate my designs exactly as there will always be variation in shape, colour and finish of the sea glass and pottery.
I do sometimes shape sea glass so I can use sections of larger pieces and this will be stated in the item description.
Silver
I use 100% recycled sterling, fine and argentum silver. Finishes range from delicately polished to satin to more heavily textured. When a piece is described as being 'oxidised' this is when I have sped up the tarnishing process to darken the silver usually resulting in black or dark tones on the silver.
Copper & Brass
I use copper and brass generally as accent colours and avoid designs where either metal would be in contact with the skin to minimise reactions.
Enamel
Enamel is tiny particles of crushed glass applied to metal and fired in a kiln to create a decorative finish. I use lead free enamel.
Care Instructions
To maintain the finish of your jewellery:
keep your jewellery away from lotions, perfumes and cleaning products.
remove jewellery before showering, bathing or cleaning; avoid submerging jewellery in water.
remove jewellery before undertaking any strenuous activity such as exercising, gardening, swimming.
avoid exposing your jewellery to extremes of temperature.
gently clean your jewellery using a silver cloth or soft cloth; avoid using any silver dip polish for any oxidised pieces as this will remove the patination.
avoid allowing any liquid on pieces with set glass as this can visibly tarnish the silver underneath the set glass.
How to measure for Jewellery
I am happy to provide assistance on sizing please send me a message using the contact form.
Rings
My rings are sized using UK ring sizes which are presented as letters. The most accurate way to measure your finger for a ring is to use a ring sizer available here.
Bangles
Bangles need to fit over the widest part of your hand across all five knuckles. To measure touch your thumb towards your little finger as if you were about to put a bangle on. Then measure across all five knuckles. Compare your measurement to the item description in the shop to check it will fit.
Bracelets
Measure the circumference of your wrist using a flexible measuring tape. Alternatively use a strip of paper and wrap it comfortably around your wrist then mark where the paper overlaps, unwrap and measure from the end of of the paper to the mark you made to determine the circumference of your wrist. Use this measurement to check against item descriptions in the shop.
Necklaces
Necklace descriptions will provide you with information on chain length and on most occasions can be varied; measuring chain you already own or using a piece of string to check against measurements in the product description will help you decide on your preferred chain length.
Gift Vouchers
Laura Johnson Jewellery Gift Vouchers are coming soon!
Ordering
Once you have selected the item you wish to purchase then add to your basket and proceed with the checkout process. Item and delivery prices will be on each listing.
Due to teaching commitments I am not able to accept custom orders at this time; I will update commission availability on my social media channels and newsletter.
Delivery
At this time I can post order to England, Scotland and Wales. I post using Royal Mail and prices are detailed on each listing.
I aim to send all orders out within two to three working days. You will receive an email confirming that your order has been posted.
Repairs & Refinishing
I am happy to repair, refinish or replace pieces of Laura Johnson Jewellery where possible. Please contact me to discuss what is possible; I will provide a quote for applicable time, material and delivery charges.