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Clasp Types

Toggle Clasp: A “bar and hoop” type clasp. They don’t accidentally open (just in case you’re worried). My bracelet has one of these, and it has never opened on its own. Toggle clasps offer a variety of styles not available from other types of clasps.
Lobster Claw Clasp: A “pinch and lock” type clasp. These are generally smaller and less noticeable than other types of clasps. They lock shut and are very secure.
Tube Clasp: A “slider” type of clasp. The small tube on one side slides into the larger tube on the other side. These are great for wider, cuff-type bracelets.

What is gold-fill wire?

Gold-filled wire has a heavy layer of gold bonded over a brass core. This is NOT gold plating!

Fill vs. Plate: The layer of gold on gold-filled wire can be 100s of times thicker than plating. Unlike gold plating, it won’t wear off and the pieces can be polished.

14/20 gold fill: I use “14/20” gold-fill wire: 14 karat gold that is at least 1/20th the total weight. The only thing you will ever see is the gold layer, and it will remain beautiful for years!

Price advantage: Gold-filled wire is less expensive than solid karat gold while giving you the exact same gold appearance and durability.

Getting the Right Length

Toggle Clasp: Add at least 1/2 inch to your wrist size to allow the toggle clasp to open and close. This will give you a slightly loose fit (which I really like).

Lobster Claw Clasp: Add at least 1/4 inch to your wrist size for opening/closing the clasp.

Tube Clasp: Add at least 1/4 inch to your wrist size for opening/closing the clasp.

Add more length for a looser fit, if you prefer

About the Versions

Standard Version

Non-soldered rings: For most designs, soldering is not necessary. The rings are strong enough and closed carefully enough that they won’t open under normal use. However, if the jewelry gets rough wear, some rings may loosen over time. Depending on the particular design, I may solder the end rings of the standard version jewelry.

Heirloom Version

Soldered rings: Soldered rings ensures that the jewelry will last for years and years. For some designs, this is not possible (and typically not necessary). For designs with larger rings and a more open weave, the rings may open over time with rough usage. Soldering makes sure that the rings stay closed and that the jewelry won’t need repair. Heirloom jewelry is priced higher because it takes many more hours to make than standard version jewelry.

Shop Policies

Shipping / Delivery Time

Most pieces take a week to make once you order. (Add an extra week for jewelry with gold fill wire—I have to order it from out of town.) Shipping is by USPS, first class with tracking, which can take up to a week.

Repairs

Treat your jewelry with care, and it should last for years. I will repair the jewelry once at no charge. (After that, there might be a fee.) You pay only shipping. Contact me first.

Returns

If you want to return the jewelry, notify me within 2 weeks. You will pay for return shipping. If the jewelry is returned in original condition, I will issue you a 100% refund, no questions asked.

Desert Chains

Award-winning artisan jewelry

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