Frequently Asked Questions
Private Glows Q&A
1. What is freshwater baroque pearl jewellery?
Freshwater baroque pearls are uniquely shaped pearls known for their irregular, non-spherical shapes. These pearls are often used in various jewellery pieces due to their distinctive and organic appearance.
2. What does 18k gold-plated mean?
18k gold-plated jewellery consists of a base metal (often stainless steel, brass, or copper) coated with a thin layer of 18-karat gold. This gives the appearance and feel of gold jewellery without the high cost. The gold layer is applied through a process called electroplating, which involves using electrical currents to deposit the gold onto the metal base.
3. How should I care for my gold-plated jewellery?
To maintain the shine and longevity of your gold-plated jewellery:
• Wipe it gently with a microfiber cloth after each wear.
• Avoid contact with chemicals, perfumes, and lotions.
• Remove jewellery before swimming or cleaning.
• Store it in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight.
• Use cleaners specifically designed for gold-plated jewellery.
4. Is gold-plated stainless steel jewellery durable?
Yes, gold-plated stainless steel jewellery is quite durable. Stainless steel is resistant to tarnish and corrosion, making it an excellent base for gold plating. With proper care, gold-plated stainless steel jewellery can retain its lustre and beauty for many years.
5. What is 14k gold-filled jewellery?
14k gold-filled jewellery involves bonding a thick layer of 14-karat gold to a base metal, typically brass. This process creates a durable, high-quality finish that is more resistant to tarnish and wear compared to standard gold-plated items.
6. What are the benefits of S925 silver and S925 silver-plated jewellery?
S925 silver, also known as sterling silver, contains 92.5% pure silver, making it a high-quality material for jewellery. S925 silver-plated jewellery involves a layer of sterling silver over another metal, combining affordability with the appearance of pure silver. Both types offer a brilliant shine and are relatively easy to maintain.
7. Are your products hypoallergenic?
Many of our products, especially those made with stainless steel and S925 silver, are hypoallergenic. This makes them suitable for individuals with sensitive skin, as these materials are less likely to cause allergic reactions.
8. How do I determine my ring size?
To determine your ring size, you can:
• Use our online ring sizing chart.
• Visit a local jeweller for a professional measurement.
• Measure your finger with a piece of string or paper and compare it to our ring size chart.
9. What is the difference between karat gold and gold-plated jewellery?
• Karat gold: Refers to the purity of the gold, with 24k being pure gold. Common karatages include 18k (75% gold) and 14k (58.3% gold).
• Gold-plated: Involves a thin layer of gold applied over a base metal. It has the appearance of gold but is more affordable.
10. How should I clean my jewellery?
• Gold and gold-plated jewellery: Use a soft cloth and mild soapy water. Avoid harsh chemicals and abrasive materials.
• Silver jewellery: Use a silver polishing cloth or a silver cleaner. Store in an anti-tarnish bag when not in use.
• Gemstone jewellery: Clean with a soft brush and warm soapy water. Avoid ultrasonic cleaners for certain stones.
• Freshwater pearl jewellery: Use a soft cloth dampened with lukewarm water. Avoid using any harsh chemicals or cleaners. Pearls are delicate and can be damaged by chemicals and excessive scrubbing.
11. Can I wear my jewellery in water?
It depends on the type of jewellery:
• Solid gold and platinum: Generally safe to wear in water, but can be affected by chemicals in pools.
• Gold-plated, silver, and base metal jewellery: Should be removed before swimming or showering to prevent tarnish and damage.
12. What are moissanite diamonds, and how do they differ from natural diamonds?
Moissanite diamonds, also known as synthetic silicon carbide, are lab-created gemstones that closely resemble diamonds in appearance and hardness. The key differences are:
• Composition: Moissanite is made from silicon carbide, while diamonds are pure carbon.
• Hardness: Moissanite has a hardness of 9.25, slightly less than diamond’s 10 on the Mohs scale.
• Brilliance: Moissanite has a higher refractive index than diamonds, making it appear more brilliant and fiery.
• Price: Moissanite is generally more affordable than diamonds, making it an economical alternative.
• Ethics: Moissanite is lab-grown, ensuring it is free from the ethical and environmental issues associated with diamond mining.
13. How can I prevent my jewellery from tarnishing?
• Store jewellery in a dry, cool place.
• Keep pieces in individual pouches or boxes to prevent scratching.
• Avoid exposure to chemicals, perfumes, and lotions.
• Clean regularly with appropriate materials.
14. What should I do if my jewellery breaks?
Contact us for repair services. We offer warranties and repair options for our products to ensure your jewellery remains in excellent condition. Please note that as a jewellery and accessories buyer’s shop, all repairs need to be sent back to the manufacturer. Repairs beyond the warranty period may incur repair and shipping costs, which can sometimes exceed the original purchase price of the item. These costs are the customer’s responsibility. Additionally, long-distance shipping can take considerable time, whether within (when out of stock)or beyond the warranty period, usually requiring 2-4 months.
15. How can I tell if a gemstone is real?
• Purchase from us, as we provide certificates of authenticity.
• Have the gemstone appraised by a certified gemologist.
• Check for trademarks or stamps on the jewellery indicating the type of gemstone and metal used.
16. What payment methods do you accept?
We accept a variety of payment methods, including:
• Credit/debit cards (Visa, MasterCard, American Express)
• PayPal
• Bank transfers
• Instalment payment options like Klarna or Afterpay
17. How long will it take for me to receive my items?
Within Australia, the delivery times are as follows:
1. Standard Delivery:
• Within the same state: 2-6 business days
• Interstate: 3-10 business days
2. Express Post:
• Next business day delivery to most metropolitan areas if lodged before the cut-off time (usually around 5 PM) .
For overseas orders, the delivery times are as follows:
1. Express Service:
• Generally 4-8 business days.
2. Standard Service:
• Usually takes 6-12 business days.
• Costs vary significantly, an delivery times are influenced by many factors, so please keep track of your order’s progress. For the most accurate delivery times and costs, you can use the Australia Post postage calculator.
This comprehensive Q&A will help you find the information you need and make informed decisions when shopping with Private Glows.
If there is any other information you are looking for but cannot find here, please contact us.