Frequently Asked Questions
General Questions
Precious Metals
| Q: |
What is Ed Levin's SS/14k or gold over option? |
| A: |
Our SS/14K quality mark denotes an Ed Levin precious metal laminate first fabricated at Ed's request over 40 years ago. A 14K sheet is bonded to a sterling sheet, then rolled or formed into flat sheet, wire or tube. With the exception of bracelet stock, this special metal is more than 25% 14K by weight. And it has served our customers exceedingly well for over a quarter century. Our laminate should not be confused with vermeil or gold-filled.
Vermeil is a thin electroplating, measured in microns, each only 4 millionths of an inch thick and virtually unmeasurable as a percentage of the metal's weight. Gold-filled is a process by which a layer of at least 10k gold has been mechanically bonded to a base metal.
There is no comparison between our SS/14k laminate and gold-filled or vermeil as to process, wear, quality, cost. |
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| Q: |
What exactly is oxidation? |
| A: |
Precious metals have always been valued partially because they resist oxidation. However, when they are alloyed to alter their color and strength, they can be affected by oxides to darken their surface. The result is sometimes desirable for a subtle antiquing patina or strong contrast on the bright reflective metal.
Historically, jewelers have always used a variety of methods to darken precious alloys. Although the term 'oxidation' is universally used for this process, jewelers use sulphides and other chemicals to achieve aesthetic 'coloring'.
Since only the surface of metal is altered, the oxidation is subject to wear, depending on many factors. Although surfaces can always be re-oxidized, you should recognize the pros and cons of oxidation. For instance chemicals, time and lifestyle can damage or remove oxidation.
Note: Gold is far more resistant to oxidations then sterling, and so its darkened color is far more difficult to maintain, especially if it is not in recessed areas. There is a minimal charge to reoxidize a piece of jewelry. Due to its density, platinum resists oxidation. We do not oxidize platinum. |
Care and Cleaning
| Q: |
How do I care for my Ed Levin jewelry? |
| A: |
Most sterling and gold jewelry can be cleaned with a soft cotton rag or a polishing cloth. When more aggressive cleaning may be necessary, especially with textured jewelry, we've found that heating the piece by dipping it in hot tap water, and then scrubbing with a soft toothbrush and toothpaste, baking soda or a non-abrasive silver polish will remove most tarnish and dirt.
Jewelry with pearls or soft stones (carnelian, lapis, malachite, opal, onyx) requires special care. Use only the softest cloth and wipe gently, and never use harsh cleaning solutions or chemicals.
To prevent damage and reduce the need for cleaning, keep all jewelry, (especially pearls and soft stones) away from household cleaners and hair care products. Chlorine bleach found in hot tubs and swimming pools can be especially harmful and will immediately tarnish most sterling and damage soft stones. |
Repairs
| Q: |
Can Ed Levin mate a lost earring? |
| A: |
Yes. We can mate most earrings, even some of the oldest of designs, with the exception of designs requiring materials we no longer have on hand. Handcrafted jewelry will have some variation from piece to piece, so we highly recommend that you bring to your local retailer the original earring for us to use as a match for the pieces we are creating. We will reshape and polish the original to match its new mate. |
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| Q: |
How can I avoid bending or breaking my earwires? |
| A: |
Bent or broken earwires can be avoided with proper care. We use a special alloy metal on our Classic Hoop earrings and work-harden the earring so that it springs to the side when opened. If the earring (not the earwire, the entire earring), is always gently opened in the direction that it springs, it will give a lifetime of joy. Included with your purchase of our Classic Hoop earrings we will include a simple instruction card on the care and function of these earrings. |
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| Q: |
What is the best way to to put on my cuff bracelet? |
| A: |
Cracks or breaks from metal-stress are caused by repeated opening and closing of cuffs, and are nearly impossible to repair. This problem can be prevented by understanding how to properly put on a cuff. You should slip the cuff over the side of the wrist, rather then the top, starting at the soft spot about two inches from the wrist, and 'roll' it on. Also, be sure the purchase the correct size, squeezing a cuff on the wrist for a better 'fit' will stress the cuff and cause it to break. Most of our cuffs are available in small, medium and large. Our stock size is medium, which is appropriate for most wrists from 6 1/2" to 7 1/2". |
Returns
| Q: |
What is your return policy? |
| A: |
Please see your retailer for returns. Most retailers will gladly accept returns within a reasonable length time, with the exception of special orders.
We want you to be completely satisfied with your Ed Levin Jewelry. Our Guarantee:We pride ourselves on making jewelry of heirloom quality. Repairs resulting from defects in workmanship or design will be made promptly at no charge. |
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