Frequently Asked Questions
Is it necessary to come to the workshop?
NO
If you are in Brittany or in the Paris region in France, we could possibly agree on a meeting to discuss in person the creation of jewelry. However, we carry out the vast majority of our creations by communicating by email, telephone and videoconference in support of photorealistic drawings or eventually prototypes (nylon or synthetic resin) that we can send you.
How do I determine the dimensions of my jewelry?
For bracelets and necklaces, a tape measure will simply allow you to determine the size.
For rings, the best solution is to go to a jeweler near you and ask them nicely to measure your finger size or a ring that you usually wear. He should do it for free. A ring should absolutely not squeeze your finger, even slightly. She shouldn't be loose either. The right size corresponds to a ring that you do not feel on your finger.
Can I have my jewelry engraved?
Provided that the jewel is wide enough (at least 5mm wide for a ring or a ring) and that its text is not too long, we can carry out this engraving.
What if my ring is too big or too small?
If upon receipt you find that your ring is too big or too small, you should contact us immediately (you have 14 days to do it). It will probably be necessary to remake another one in the right size. Provided that this ring has not been used, we will replace it for you free of charge (excluding postage). To do this, it will be necessary to send us the jewel in its original packaging to the following address: Michaël Skellig, 17 rue Albert de Mun 29680 Roscoff, France
What are the differences between gold, gold plating and fine gold gilding?
Gold is resistant , shiny, it does not oxidize. Its major drawbacks are: its high price (gross: around €50,000 per kg) and its great sensitivity to scratches.
For to obtain a real "gold-plated" jewel requires a gold plating (18K or 24K) with a thickness greater than 3 microns deposited on a non-precious metal such as brass for example. This type of jewel keeps its shine for many years.
Any other veneer with a thickness of less than 3 microns cannot benefit from this designation "gold plating".
The name fine gold gilding is then used, but the fineness of the gilding (often less than 1 micron) means that these gilded jewels do not resist friction well and lose their "gilding" quite quickly.
Are some metals allergens?
Pure, silver and gold are non-allergenic metals. Some metals can be such as Nickel, and much more rarely copper. Gold or rhodium plating, made to prevent scratches and oxidation on brass jewelry, for example, also has the advantage of being non-allergenic. Stainless steel, which may contain Nickel, can sometimes be allergenic.
What do the terms 14K, 18K, 24K gold or 925 silver mean?
Pure gold (noted 24K = 100% gold) is a precious metal, but very soft, this is the reason why in jewelery we preferably use 18K gold (18/24 = 75% gold) which is harder . In France, to be able to be called gold jewelry, the gold used must be at least 18K.
For 925 Silver, the question is the same, pure silver is too soft to be used as it is in jewelry. 925 Silver corresponds to 925/100th pure silver (92.5%). In France, to be considered as a sterling silver jewel, the proportion of silver must be at least 925/1000.
What precautions to take to wear my jewelry?
The first recommendation is to put on your jewelry last after getting dressed and take it off first before undressing to avoid any snagging with clothes.
It is obvious also that shocks or falls are to be avoided at all costs so as not to scratch the precious metal, silver in particular.
Likewise, they should not be worn in the swimming pool or in sea water or exposed to contact with products chemicals. Do not wear them in circumstances where they could be damaged (physical exercises, gardening, ...).
How to clean jewelry?
Cleaning your jewelry regularly to prevent it from tarnishing is a good practice.
For metal, using lukewarm water with a few drops of dishwashing liquid is the most appropriate. It should be cleaned by hand or with a cotton swab for difficult places and dried well before storing or wearing.
For gems a dry, fine microfiber type cleaning cloth is recommended.
If this type of cleaning was insufficient, cleaning with an ultrasonic device at a jeweler is then desirable.
What should I do if unfortunately my jewelry is damaged?
If, unfortunately, your jewel is damaged, the first thing to do is to contact us by email or telephone. We will evaluate together if it is repairable, we will seek the best way to fix it, either by sending it back to us or by taking it to a jeweler near you.
