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What materials do you use?
All materials are selected with a focus on superior quality. Materials utilized include: 11/0 Charlotte Cut Glass Seed Beads, White Size D Nymo®, Nylon thread. Our earrings utilize 18K Gold Filled Hardware and Rhodium Plated Hardware. All bracelets and necklaces utilize 16K Gold Plated over Brass, Rose Plated over Brass, and Rhodium Plated over Brass.
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Pricing
Prices may vary as each piece is uniquely designed and carefully sourced. The time and effort invested in creation adds to its value. You can view pricing before making a purchase. I offer custom designs with limited availability each month. Pricing will be discussed, requiring a 50% deposit. Expect a turnaround time of up to two weeks before shipment. Wholesale options for small businesses are available upon request.
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Online Shop Process
Our products are crafted in limited quantities and small batches, ensuring each piece receives the care and attention it deserves. Online updates and restock dates will be announced on Instagram @xotujewelry. All products will be available on our site for you to view specifications and pricing. Please have your customer information saved and be ready to enter the site promptly. Accepted payment methods include Apple Pay, Google Pay, and Shop Pay. Remember, items in your cart are not yours until payment is completed.
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Where can I find jewelry in-store?
Pop-up locations (currently only in or near Kansas City) will be updated on our social media pages, including Instagram and Facebook. You can also find our jewelry in various stores coming soon. In November 2024, visit us at Monarca Art Space (MAS) located at 1225 Union Avenue, Suite 100, Kansas City, MO 64101.
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Shipping
All items are shipped via expedited or letter mail at the buyer's risk. For letter mail, proof of drop-off is provided, but we are not responsible for any damage, loss, or theft once the package leaves my home. Additionally, we cannot guarantee delivery times. Thank you for your understanding. All items are carefully packaged and shipped via Canada Post within 1-3 days of purchase. Shipping to Canada and U.S. only.
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What is gold-filled jewelry?
Gold-filled is an American metal manufacturing process that adheres to a legal standard of quality. It consists of two sheets of solid karat gold—most commonly 14kt—bonded over a core of brass (or rolled for wire).
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What is Gold/Rhodium plated?
Gold plating is a process that applies a thin layer of gold to a base metal. This technique is common in the jewelry industry, with gold and rhodium being two popular options.
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Cleaning Jewelry
You can easily clean your jewelry using these materials: dishwashing liquid, warm water, a small bowl, a cotton ball or swab, and a microfiber cloth.
Wipe Your Jewelry After Wearing:
Use a microfiber cloth or damp cotton ball to remove body oils and dirt. For gold-plated pieces, a jewelry cloth works well. Allow your jewelry to air-dry before storing.
Mix a Cleaning Solution:
If your jewelry feels sticky or has visible dirt, clean it with a soap and warm water solution. In a small bowl, mix two to three drops of dishwashing liquid with one cup of water.
Soak Your Jewelry:
If your jewelry has no embellishments like pearls, gemstones, or enamel, you can soak it in the cleaning solution for about 10 minutes. To avoid scratching, clean one or two pieces at a time.
Tackle Embedded Soil:
For intricately carved jewelry, use a cotton swab to clean small crevices. Avoid sharp tools like knives or paper clips, as they can scratch or chip the gold plating.
Rinse, Dry, and Buff:
After cleaning your gold-plated jewelry, rinse it with warm water. Dry it with a soft, lint-free cloth and gently buff to restore its shine.
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Jewelry Care
Follow these tips to keep your gold-plated jewelry as lustrous as the day you got it. We've also included preventative measures to minimize damage over time.
Avoid wearing gold-plated jewelry when applying perfume, makeup, or hairspray.
Ensure your hands are clean and free of makeup, lotion, and dirt before handling gold-plated jewelry.
Remove gold-plated jewelry when preparing acidic foods.
Take off gold-plated pieces before exercising to prevent damage from sweat.
Avoid swimming in saltwater or chlorinated pools while wearing gold-plated jewelry.
Don't store gold-plated jewelry in a purse with other pieces to prevent damage.
Store all gold-plated items in separate small boxes to avoid scratching.