Frequently Asked Questions

SHIPPING & PRODUCTION

How long will it take until my order is shipped?

Please allow up to 4 business days for your items to be packaged. Most items will be shipped within 5 to 7 business days (except for custom pieces). Please note that paying for expedited shipping does not mean that you will receive your goods the next day. But I always do my best to get orders out as soon as possible. 

What shipping service do you use?

I ship all items either UPS or Fedex (if shipping internationally). When your order is ready to ship, you will receive an automated email including your UPS or FEDEX tracking number. 

I insure shipments on all orders. For legal purposes, the value of your shipment is non-negotiable and must directly reflect the cost of the jewelry. I also require signature for every piece I send.

Do you ship internationally?

Yes I do. 

Do you pay taxes/fees/duties?

For all international orders, please note that the consumer is responsible for any tax and duty fees on orders required to go through customs. I am unable to pre-calculate this fee for you as the cost is determined by each country’s customs.

If you are having trouble placing your order or want to know time frame for delivery please email hello@alchemybysamantha.com. I will do everything I can to help you.

Am I charged sales tax?

Sales tax is only charged to orders being shipped within the state of California. 

Can you do rushed production speeds?

The satisfaction of my customers is of the utmost importance to me. If you need your order by a specific date please email hello@alchemybysamantha.com and I will try my best to accommodate your request to the best of my ability, however I cannot guarantee an expedited speed. Every one of my custom pieces are handmade and take time to make sure they are up to my standard before I send them to their new home. 

When your order is ready to ship, you will receive an automated email including your UPS, DHL or USPS tracking number. For insurance purposes, all orders require signature upon delivery, no exceptions. 

What if I won’t be there to sign for my package?  

I always require an adult signature upon delivery to secure shipment as I am sending items of high value that should never be left unattended at your door. If you or any other adult cannot be present to sign, another delivery will be attempted the next day. If you call UPS or talk to your local office, they can reroute to another address or hold it at their office for you to pick up at your convenience.

 

PRODUCTION TIME

I use authentic and ethical gemstones, and 14K/18K Yellow or Rose Gold. All pieces listed as in stock will ship within 5-7 business days, while made to order pieces take 4 to 8 weeks to produce as they are each handmade by me. Every once in a while a piece may take a little longer to make but if that is the case, I will notify you asap. 

Please email hello@alchemybysamantha.com if you have any urgent shipping requests, and be sure to choose the appropriate delivery option. 

RETURNS & MODIFICATIONS

Alchemy by Samantha is not responsible for items damaged or lost in transit. This is why I insure each item for its valued worth. I do not refund shipping charges on return items.

Do you accept returns?

I strive for top customer service and wants all customers to be satisfied with their purchase. However, as each piece is handmade to order, or a vintage treasure, outside of repairs and issuing a claim for defect, I do not accept returns. If your piece has been damaged or is defective please email me at  hello@alchemybysamantha.com for a repair authorization within 24 hours from receiving your order. Custom pieces/personalized pieces cannot be returned unless the item is damaged or I made a mistake. Vintage finds are also non returnable. Please make sure that the piece is right for you before you purchase. If you need or want a ring resized please email me before placing your order at hello@alchemybysamantha.com. Not all rings can be resized. 

Can I order a necklace in a different length?

I do offer custom lengths for an additional fee. Please contact me at hello@alchemybysamantha.com and bear in mind that depending on the modification you'd like, the price will vary. Also, keep in mind, that custom orders are non-refundable.

Do you do custom pieces?

Yes! I love creating custom pieces for people. Please email me at hello@alchemybysamantha.com to discuss a custom order. 

 

SIZING

What is your ring sizing?

My handmade and vintage pieces come in multiple sizes. If you would like a ring you see made to a specific size or if you would like a vintage piece resized, please email me. Certain vintage rings are not resizable. If you don’t know your US size, I highly suggest getting sized by a local jeweler. Resizing rings will require an additional fee. 

Can you resize necklaces?

Each necklace can be made with any additional length extension. Please read the length of each necklace in the description to ensure it will fit. In the case you do need added length I can provide either a longer chain or a length extension for an additional fee.

QUALITY

What color/clarity are your diamonds and where do they come from?

My pieces are made from 14K and 18K recycled gold and conflict-free diamonds that go through the Kimberly process. I also recycle diamonds from vintage jewelry. I will always do my best to specify which diamonds are used in each piece. New diamonds used are near colorless (G) and VVS in clarity.

For the vintage jewelry I find, diamond quality may vary. 

To learn more about the Kimberly process, please click here.

What color/clarity are your gemstones and where do they come from?

I use authentic gemstones unless specified otherwise. I hand pick each stone for my jewelry. Please note that because of this no two stones are alike. They can vary slightly in color and size, as well as contain imperfections, due to their natural state. My gemstones are ethically sourced around the world from companies who are doing their part to make the Jewelry trade safer and more equitable for people and the planet. Please click here to learn more about the companies I purchase from. I have dedicated an entire page to them because I truly believe in what they are doing to better the industry and the communities across the globe. 

Is the Vintage Jewelry Authenticated?   

Every vintage item is fully authenticated before being added to the website. Some of the higher ticket items including the larger diamond rings, come with a certificate of authenticity and/or appraisal. If you would like a piece certified or authenticated before purchasing, please email me at hello@alchemybysamantha.com as this will require an extra fee. 

 

JEWELRY CARE

My solid yellow gold and rose gold jewelry only requires periodic cleaning and will not tarnish or corrode.  Avoid exposing gold jewelry to bleach, which will quickly cause gold to discolor and can possibly damage it. If you have any further questions on how to care for your jewelry please don't hesitate to reach out. 

HOW TO CLEAN EMERALDS, MOONSTONE, TOURMALINE, YOGO SAPPHIRE

SOAP AND WATER

Emeralds, Moonstone, Tourmaline, and Yogo Sapphires should NEVER be heated (via steam for example) or put in an ultrasonic cleaner. Soap and warm water is the best cleaning method, and it can breathe new life into your jewelry. Heating these pieces can change the color of the stone.