Frequently Asked Questions

No, we don't sell jewelry, but as operators of a national chain of jewelry stores, we have over 30 years experience in the jewelry trade.

You will need to start by having a model made of the piece you want produced. There are many freelance wax designers whom you can hire to help you with creating a model. Once you have the model, you need to source a manufacturer who can produce the piece by casting it from a mold made from the original wax.

If your design is to be produced in a precious metal such as gold or platinum, you are probably best to use a non-overseas caster. In the United States, there are many production facilities that will produce as little as one piece. If the item is in a base (non-precious) metal such as brass or white metal, depending on the quantity and labor involved, you may want to source an overseas manufacturer where labor costs are greatly reduced.

Most true wholesalers are only interested in selling in either bulk quantities or with minimum orders. Each company will have it’s own policy, however, so you will need to find out the order minimum per company. If a company does not have a minimum order policy, it may indicate that they are merely a discounted retailer and not a true wholesale company.

Most real wholesale suppliers will ask for documentation to verify that you are a legitimate business. The most commonly requested item is a state resale permit, but you may also be asked for items such as a business license or fictitious business registration. Also, membership in a trade organization, such as the Jeweler’s Board of Trade, can serve as a valid credential as well.

A resale number and certificate is issued by the state and is required in most states if you are selling merchandise. The process varies from state to state, but it is usually a fairly simple and quick application process. To apply for a resale license, contact the State Board of Equalization (also called Department of Revenue in some states) in your area.

For metal to be identified as Sterling Silver, it is stamped with the 925 mark. When buying silver represented as Sterling Silver, make sure it is marked with 925. The 925 refers to 92.5% silver content in Sterling Silver. The remaining 7.5% is metal alloys used to strengthen the silver.

Fourteen karat gold, the most common gold alloy in the United States, is 14/24ths (58.5%) pure gold and is marked either 14K or 585. Eighteen karat gold is 18/24ths (75%) pure gold and is marked either 18K or 750.

Swarovski Crystal is premium, full-lead crystal, that can be cut into faceted beads of dazzling beauty. They are available in an incredible variety of colors, shapes and sizes. While there are other crystal manufacturers, Swarovski crystal is used extensively within the fashion and jewelry industry because of its optimum quality and brilliance.