Custom Desing FAQs
What is the difference in natural and lab grown diamonds?
Natural diamonds are formed millions to billions of years ago naturally in the earth. Volcanic and tectonic activity slowly bring them to the earth's crust, and then they are mined, cut, and polished into what we use in jewelry. Their value lies in how the diamond was formed and its rarity.
Lab grown diamonds are young, potentially only weeks old since they are grown in laboratories. They have nearly the same chemical, optical, and physical properties as a natural diamonds. They are mass produced in laboratories. They are NOT the same as a CZ or diamond simulant (aka fake diamond).
How can I make sure I choose the right ring size?
There are several ways. The easiest way for locals in Northwest Arkansas is to schedule a time with me for a fitting. For non-locals, I can mail you a finger gauge for a do-it-yourself fitting. If you want to make the ring a surprise, find a ring that she wears and see where it fits on one of your fingers. Take note of that, and then we can size that part of your finger.
What should I consider when choosing the perfect ring setting?
There are many things to consider such as lifestyle and personal design appeal. To learn more about that, check out my blog series or download the full guide to choosing the perfect engagement ring.
How much does a custom ring cost?
Each piece is unique and is price accordingly. Custom design work starts at $2,000.
What is the turnaround time?
Please anticipate a 4-12 week process for creating your custom piece. Many factors influence the timeframe which will be discussed during our consultation.
What are the payment terms?
At the end of the first consultation, if we are a good fit to move forward with the design, a $250 non-refundable deposit that will be applied to the final invoice will be collected. Then sketches or CAD renders will be provided and the design finalized. To move the piece into production a 50% deposit will be collected. The remaining balance is due upon completion.
What if I don't like it?
The design consultations, sketches/CAD renders, wax models, and progress photos are all shared with you to ensure that you love your finished piece. In the rare instance that you don't love your piece, I will work with you to make modifications. Additional fees may incur if the modifications alter the design extensively.
Do you offer returns
All custom designs are final sale and are not eligible for return.
Do you offer appraisals?
If I have created and sourced 100% of your piece, I will proved an Insurance Evaluation Report that can be used when insuring your jewelry. If you have provided any of the stones for the piece, I cannot provide an Insurance Evaluation Report or Appraisal.
Do you only work with people in your local area?
Design consultations can take place remotely through Zoom, so I can work with you no matter where you live. Simply specify that you'd like a remote consultation when scheduling your appointment online.
Permanent Jewelry FAQs
What is permanent jewelry?
It's not a tattoo! Permanent jewelry is a piece of jewelry custom fit to your body, then welded shut to stay on forever (or until you decide to cut it off). Bracelets are the most common and most durable choice for permanent jewelry. Anklets are available but are more likely to break.
When and where can I get a permanent bracelet put on?
Since Julia Fryer Fine Jewelry does not have a brick and mortar store, you can find me popping-up around northwest Arkansas! Please see my calendar of events to find where we will be next.
Do I need an appointment?
Appointments are now available at pop-ups! However, walk-ins are still welcome!
Does it hurt?
No! There is a bring flash of light and a zapping sound, but this is a pain-free process! For those familiar with welding terms, we use a micro tig welder, also called a pulse arc welder. This means that the electricity generated to make the weld is localized at the weld spot and will not shock or burn you. Plus, my fingers are generally between your arm and the welder. If you would like a thin leather pad placed between your arm and the bracelet for the welding, please ask!
How do I remove my bracelet if I need to take it off?
Simply use sharp scissors or wire cutters to carefully cut the bracelet off. If you purchased a fine cable chain, please cut the small ring used to close the bracelet. If you would like to get the bracelet welded again at a later date or would like a clasp added, please bring the chain with you to a convenientpop-upfor you.
Can I get my bracelet re-welded? It broke or I had to take it off.
If you purchased your bracelet from me, re-welding is complementary. Things happen and sometimes chains break! Simply come to one of my pop-ups to have your bracelet fixed.
If you purchased a bracelet somewhere else, I can weld it for you for a small fee ($10 + tax).
I have a clasped bracelet I'd like made into a permanent bracelet. Can you do this?
As long as your bracelet is gold or sterling silver, yes! Simply come to a pop-upand pay a small welding fee ($10 + tax)
Can I buy a permanent bracelet as a gift?
Yes! A gift certificate is the perfect way to gift a permanent bracelet. You may purchase a gift certificate on-line or at one of my pop-up events. Gift certificates are sold at different value increments to accommodate the different types of chains and if you want to add a charm or gemstone. Charms and gemstones are changing all the time, so be sure check the price lists on the product page.
General FAQs
When will my order ship?
All of our items are handmade and most of them are made to order meaning they are not made until you place the order. If you see "made to order" on the product listing, it could take as long as 10-14 business days depending on our work load at the time. For pieces that do not say "made to order", your order will ship within 1-3 business days. If you need your order shipped more quickly, please call or email us to see if we can accommodate your needs. Again, some things we keep stocked and some things we make to order. Please note that we are closed on the weekend, so if you place your order on one of those days, it will be fulfilled once our staff is back in the shop on Monday as long as that Monday isn't a national holiday.
What is your return/exchange policy?
If you are not completely satisfied with your purchase, you may send it back for a refund within 7 days of the date your package was delivered. To be eligible for a return, your item(s) must be unused, in the same condition you received it, and in the original packaging. Custom orders are final sales and are not eligible for return or exchange. We strive to create the perfect piece for you, and to communicate clearly throughout the entire design process. However, if you are unhappy with your custom piece, we will work with you to modify or remake the piece for an additional fee. Fees vary based on labor and materials.
To complete your return, a receipt or proof of purchase and an Return Authorization (RA) number are required. Please do not send your purchase back without a RA number. An RA number can be obtained by emailing julia@juliafryerfinejewelry.com.
Once we receive your return, we will refund the purchase amount to the original form of payment.
Are sale items eligible for return/exchange?
Only regular priced items are eligible for a refund. Sale items may not be returned or exchanged.
How does the custom design process work?
For full details, visit theCustom Jewelry Process Page. Begin by filling out thecustom design inquiry form. You will then be redirected to schedule an in-person (in Fayetteville, AR) or Zoom consultation. In this design consultation, Julia will learn about you and/or who the jewelry is for. She will show you ideas, and together you will agree on a design concept. After the meeting, a $250 design deposit is collected, and then depending on the scope of the project, she will sketch a few options for you or have CAD renderings created. Gemstone and/or diamond options will be provided, as well. Once the design is chosen, she will email you an estimate for the completed piece. At this time, a 50% deposit is required to start the fabrication process. Once the deposit is received, fabrication can take 4-12 weeks. If desired, Julia will send progress photos to make sure you love the piece as it comes to life. Once the piece is finished, Julia will email an invoice with the remaining balance. Once the final payment is received, Julia will ship or arrange an in-person (for Northwest Arkansas) pick up.
How do I know my ring size?
Quickly and easily find your ring size from the comfort of your own home with the Multi-Sizer Adjustable Finger Gauge! The plastic finger gauge measures U.S. sizes 1–17 in half-size increments. Simply wrap it around your finger and tighten until the sizer is comfortably tight. It should not be too tight, but you should have to wiggle the sizer over your knuckle a little.
Can I place an order by phone?
Yes! If you have questions or want to inquire about customizing a piece for sale or starting a custom project, please call 479-445-8673. We are available Monday-Friday 8-5 CST.
Do you accept custom orders?
Yes! We love custom orders. You are unique, so your jewelry should be, too. If you want a custom made piece of jewelry, please fill out the Custom Design Form. If you want to customize a product that is currently for sale, please email julia@juliafryerfinejewelry.com with details.
Are your diamonds conflict free?
Yes! We are committed to selling only conflict free diamonds and only work with diamond vendors that guarantee that their diamonds are ethically and responsibly sourced.
How do I clean and care for my jewelry?
The best way to have your jewelry cleaned is to have it done professionally. If you are in the Fayetteville, AR area, please contact us to schedule professional cleaning.
We recommend having your jewelry inspected annually. Just like with other items you purchase (cars, electronics, etc.), jewelry will wear and need maintenance and repairs. All pieces need to be checked & stones tightened if they have come loose in the setting. Please have your pieces inspected by a jeweler annually. If you are in the Fayetteville, AR area, please contact us to schedule your annual check & tighten.
For cleaning at home, generally a mixture of warm water and a splash of ammonia and a soft toothbrush will do the trick. We personally use a mixture of warm water, Simple Green, and ammonia in our shop.
DO NOT USE BLEACH. Chlorine is corrosive to many metals found in gold and will tarnish sterling silver. That said, please remove your jewelry before getting in a swimming pool or hot tub. Some gemstones cannot tolerate chemicals, so better safe than sorry!