FAQs

I create one-of-a-kind gold jewellery from my studio in Haliburton, Ontario. Each piece is hand-fabricated once, never replicated. I work in solid 18k and 22k gold (never plated) with natural gemstones sourced for character over perfection. My background as an oil painter shapes my approach: I see each gemstone as a tiny painting and design around its unique features rather than forcing stones into predetermined settings.

Yes. No molds, no multiples. When something sells, it's gone permanently. I might create something with a similar spirit using different stones, but I never make exact replicas.

Solid 18k and 22k yellow gold, sterling .925 silver, and fine .999 silver. Much of my gold is Fairmined certified. Gemstones come from small independent international suppliers I've worked with for years, selected for inclusions, unusual cuts, and distinctive character. Occasionally I incorporate found items like ancient coins and relics.

Fairmined gold is certified traceable gold from small-scale artisanal mines meeting strict environmental, labour, and community investment standards. It costs more than conventional gold, and that premium funds development programs in mining communities. I'm licensed to work with Fairmined gold. Learn more about Fairmined gold →

I trained as an oil painter at the Ontario College of Art & Design. I approach gemstones the way a painter approaches a canvas: looking for landscape-like features, mineral clouds, colour cracks, and fern-like patterns frozen in stone. Perfection doesn't interest me. Character does. This is why my pieces often feature dendritic agate, which contains natural tree-like or fern-like patterns, and other stones with visible inclusions that tell their own story.

Custom orders are collaborative 1:1 design projects. We start by exploring gemstone options together and identifying which of my past pieces inspire you. From there, we decide how to feature your chosen stones and select metals. Throughout production, you receive updates and images as your piece takes shape in my studio.

Minimums: $1,000 USD to begin a commission. Deposit: 50% non-refundable to begin fabrication. Subsequent payments follow an agreed timeline. Final payment due before shipping. Pricing is estimated upfront with a +/- 20% contingency as the design evolves.

6-12 weeks from deposit to shipping. This begins when I receive your deposit and ends at final payment and shipment. International shipping adds additional time. Rush orders may be possible when my schedule permits, sometimes with a fee. Let me know your deadline when you inquire.

Possibly. I review these case by case. I'll inspect your stone carefully and advise whether I can work with it safely. Some stones aren't suitable for setting due to stability concerns, and I'll be honest about limitations. I take excellent care of personal stones but cannot guarantee outcomes when working with materials I didn't source. If a stone breaks during setting, replacement is not included. You assume this risk when sending heirloom pieces.

No. All custom sales are final. The 50% deposit is non-refundable. Start a custom conversation →

The most accurate method is visiting a local jeweller for professional sizing, which is typically free. If that's not possible, measure a ring that fits your intended finger by measuring the inside diameter in millimetres. Please find out your size before purchasing. Contact me if you're uncertain. I'm happy to discuss sizing before you commit to a one-of-a-kind piece.

All orders ship from Haliburton, Ontario, Canada via Canada Post.

Complimentary on orders over $200 USD. Rates apply to orders under $200 USD.

Ready-made pieces ship within 2 business days. Custom pieces ship after final payment according to your agreed timeline.

Yes. Fully insured shipping or overnight delivery via international carriers like UPS is available on request. Additional costs apply. Let me know when you purchase.

You're responsible for all customs duties and import taxes in your country.

Basic partial insurance is included but rarely covers the full value of fine jewellery. I strongly recommend upgrading to full insurance for valuable pieces. Once a package is handed to Canada Post, I cannot be responsible for lost or stolen items. Damage claims must go through the shipping carrier.

All sales are final. I create one-of-a-kind handmade jewellery that cannot be resold as new once it leaves my studio. Please purchase mindfully and ask all questions before committing. If you don't love your piece, contact me within 5 calendar days to discuss exchange options. I do not offer refunds.

Each piece is genuinely one-of-a-kind. Unlike production jewellery, these pieces cannot be returned to inventory and resold. The final sale policy reflects the unique nature of handmade work. To avoid regret, I encourage asking questions before purchasing. I'm happy to send additional photos, videos, or discuss sizing, scale, and details.

Contact me within 24 hours of delivery. I inspect and package every piece carefully, but transit damage occasionally occurs. After 24 hours, I cannot address damage claims. If a piece is damaged in transit, you'll need to submit a claim with the shipping carrier.

Yes. I guarantee all my workmanship. If something is genuinely defective (not normal handmade variation), contact me immediately and we'll sort it out.

Yes. I create each piece entirely by hand. Small variations in texture, slight asymmetry, and tool marks are inherent to handmade work. I celebrate these characteristics as part of what makes each piece one-of-a-kind.

Remove jewellery before sleeping, bathing, swimming, or exercising. Avoid contact with perfumes, lotions, and household cleaners, as these affect surface finish. Natural body oils and sweat also affect metals and stones over time. Handle gently and avoid dropping. Metals and gemstones can scratch or fracture if treated roughly. Excessive heat or sudden temperature changes can also damage stones. Store pieces in an airtight pouch or container when not wearing. This slows oxidation and prevents scratches.

Warm water, mild natural soap, and a soft toothbrush. That's it. Never use chemical jewellery cleaners or ultrasonic equipment. These can damage soft stones, loosen settings, and affect precious metal finishes.

Yes. Silver and other metals will darken over time through natural oxidation. Sunlight, oxygen, oils, and sweat contribute to this patina. Airtight storage slows the process. A jewellery polishing cloth restores shine on bright silver. Do not use polishing cloths on pieces with intentional darkened patina, as this removes the surface finish.

Opals, turquoise, and other soft stones are more susceptible to damage. Avoid prolonged water exposure, chemicals, and sudden temperature changes. Handle pieces with soft stones carefully, especially rings which contact surfaces frequently. Natural gemstones are not indestructible. Care and treatment impact the lifespan and natural ageing of handmade pieces.

Yes, on a case-by-case basis. Contact me with details about your repair needs.

No. I only repair pieces from my own collection.

Prices are shown in USD. Some browsers automatically adjust to local currency (CAD for Canadian customers). Confirm the currency displayed at checkout. Tax is included in the list price for all orders within Canada.

Contact me immediately. Once an order has been processed, changes are not possible.

Email hello@lorifrancescutti.com or use the contact form →