Frequently Asked Questions

Real answers about copper jewelry, my process, and what to expect when you wear a Mother of Metal piece. If your question isn't answered here, write to me through the contact page - I answer everything personally.

About the Copper

Does copper jewelry tarnish?

Copper develops a patina rather than tarnishing in a destructive way. Exposed to air and skin, it darkens over time, taking on warm browns and sometimes greens or rainbow tones. This is a natural reaction, not damage, and many wearers come to love how their piece evolves. If you prefer it bright, a quick polish with a soft cloth or a paste of lemon juice and salt will restore the shine in seconds.

Will copper turn my skin green?

Sometimes, and it's harmless. The green tint comes from copper reacting with acids in your skin, sweat, or lotions, and it washes right off with soap and water. Some people experience it, some never do - it depends entirely on your body chemistry. If it bothers you, a thin layer of clear nail polish on the inside of a ring or bracelet creates a barrier without affecting how the piece looks.

Is copper jewelry hypoallergenic?

Pure copper is one of the most skin-friendly metals available and is generally safe for people with nickel sensitivities, which are the most common cause of jewelry allergies. I never use plated metals, mystery alloys, or nickel-bearing wire. All my findings (ear wires, clasps where present) are stainless steel or solid copper.

What's the difference between reclaimed and recycled copper?

Both keep copper out of landfills, but "reclaimed" specifically means the copper kept its original form long enough to have a story before becoming jewelry - old plumbing, retired electrical wire, decommissioned roofing, salvaged wall art. Recycled copper is typically melted down and reformed into new stock. I work almost exclusively with reclaimed copper because I love that the metal in your piece had a previous life.

Why copper instead of silver or gold?

Copper is warm, alive, and full of personality in a way precious metals often aren't. It's affordable, infinitely recyclable, and historically considered a conductor of energy and healing in many traditions. It also lets me make substantial, sculptural pieces at prices that don't require a second mortgage. Silver and gold are beautiful - copper is honest.

About the Gemstones

Where do your gemstones come from?

From small lapidaries, ethical importers I've vetted personally, and the shores of the Bay of Fundy where I beachcomb for sea glass and tumbled stones. I avoid mass-market mystery suppliers. If you ever want to know the specific origin of a stone in a piece, ask me and I'll tell you what I know.

Are your stones real?

Yes. Every stone in my work is a natural gemstone, freshwater pearl, sea glass, or natural finding. I do not use glass beads marketed as crystals, dyed howlite passed off as turquoise, or other common substitutions. Where a stone is treated (some lapis is waxed, for example), that's standard industry practice and disclosed if you ask.

What gemstones do you work with most often?

Lapis lazuli, carnelian, amethyst, labradorite, moonstone, freshwater pearl, rose quartz, citrine, smoky quartz, and a rotating cast of locally found stones from the Bay of Fundy. The available stones shift constantly because I work with what speaks to me - check the current collections to see what's in rotation.

About the Pieces

Is every piece one of a kind?

Effectively, yes. Even within a single design, every wrap is done by hand and no two pieces come out identical. Some collections - like the AG Collection - are explicitly one-of-a-kind, made from materials that no longer exist once that piece is finished.

Can I request a custom piece?

Sometimes, depending on my workload and whether the idea fits my style. The best way to ask is through the contact page, with as much detail as you can share - what stone, what form, who it's for, any imagery that inspires you. I'll be honest with you about whether I'm the right maker for it.

What is the AG Collection?

The AG Collection is a series of one-of-a-kind pieces made from copper reclaimed from a single body of deconstructed wall art. When a piece sells, the materials behind it are gone. It's my way of honoring an original artistic legacy by giving it a second life as wearable talismans.

What is the Bay of Fundy Collection?

Pieces inspired by - and often containing materials from - the wild tides and ancient rock formations of the Bay of Fundy in New Brunswick. Many include sea glass, beach-tumbled stones, and forms drawn from the coastline itself, including the mermaid tail series.

Care and Wear

How should I clean my copper jewelry?

For a quick refresh, wipe with a soft polishing cloth. For a deeper clean, make a paste of equal parts lemon juice and table salt, rub it gently over the copper with your fingertips, and rinse in cool water. Pat dry thoroughly. Avoid commercial silver or jewelry cleaners - they're often too harsh for copper and can strip an intentional patina.

How should I store my piece?

In the small sealable bag your piece arrived in, with the air pressed out. Less air contact means slower patina development. Store in a cool, dry place. Avoid wooden boxes, which can off-gas and accelerate tarnishing.

Can my piece get wet?

Brief contact is fine - rain, hand washing, a sweaty walk. Avoid sustained submersion in chlorinated pools, salt water, or hot showers with harsh soaps. Always pat dry after any contact with moisture.

What if a wrap loosens or something breaks?

Send it back. I repair every piece I've ever made, free of charge for the original buyer. Reach out through the contact page and we'll sort out shipping.

Can I resize a ring or bracelet?

Most pieces can be gently adjusted at home - copper is forgiving and will give you a millimeter or two without complaint. For larger resizing, send it to me so I can adjust it without stressing the wire. Necklace lengths can almost always be modified; ask before you order or message me afterward.

Shipping, Returns, and the Business Side

Do you ship internationally?

Yes, worldwide from New Brunswick, Canada. Every order ships carbon-neutral through Shopify Planet. See the shipping policy for current rates and timing.

What's your return policy?

The full policy lives here. The short version: if a piece isn't right for you, reach out within the return window and we'll work it out. Custom and made-to-order pieces are generally non-returnable, but repairs are always free for the original buyer.

Do you do wholesale?

Yes, on a limited basis. See the wholesale inquiries page for details and to get in touch.

Where are you based?

New Brunswick, Canada. Every piece is made in my home studio by me, Bev - no contractors, no overseas production, no third parties.