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 Frequently Asked Questions 

What is memorial and heirloom jewellery?

Memorial and heirloom jewellery is created to hold a small amount of a personal element — such as ashes, hair, fur, breastmilk, flowers or other meaningful keepsakes — allowing you to carry love, memory and connection in a wearable form.

These pieces often become treasured family heirlooms, offering comfort through the quiet presence of what they hold.

What personal elements can be included?

Heartstones® jewellery can incorporate a wide variety of meaningful personal elements, including:

  • Cremation ashes
  • Hair or pet fur
  • Breastmilk
  • Dried flowers or petals
  • Fabric or clothing fibres
  • Sand
  • Blood
  • Embryo Straws
  • Other small, meaningful keepsakes

If you have something special in mind that isn't listed, please get in touch. I'll be happy to discuss whether it can be safely and respectfully incorporated into your chosen piece.

How much of my loved one's ashes or other personal element do you need?

Only a small amount of your chosen personal element is needed to create a Heartstone.

As a general guide, the typical quantities are:

  • Cremation ashes: Approximately one teaspoon.
  • Breastmilk: Around 5–10ml.
  • Blood: Around 5–10ml.
  • Hair or fur: As little as a single strand can sometimes be used, although a small lock approximately 1cm wide is usually ideal.

These are general guidelines, and the amount required may vary depending on your chosen jewellery design and personal element.

I understand how precious and irreplaceable these materials are. Every personal element is handled with the utmost care and respect, and any unused elements will always be carefully returned to you with your completed jewellery.

Only the amount needed to create your Heartstone® will be used. Any remaining ashes, hair, fur or other personal elements are carefully packaged and returned to you with your completed jewellery.

If you would prefer not to have unused ashes returned, we have a small memorial flower planter where they can be respectfully scattered, but only with your express permission.

We also offer a secure ashes and personal elements holding service, allowing us to safely store your remaining elements should you wish to commission additional pieces in the future.

Nothing is ever discarded, scattered or retained without your permission.

If you only have a very small amount available, please get in touch before ordering. I'll be happy to discuss what's possible.

How are my personal elements cared for?

Every personal element entrusted to Heartstones® is treated with the utmost care, dignity and respect.

From the moment your ashes, hair, fur or other precious keepsakes arrive, they are securely stored, individually identified and carefully documented throughout the entire process.

Your personal elements are never mixed with another family's. Every commission is handled individually to ensure your treasured elements remain identifiable, secure and protected.

I understand that these are not simply materials. They are irreplaceable connections to someone you love, and I treat them with the same care and respect I would want for my own family's precious memories.

From their arrival to the completion of your jewellery, your trust is always my priority.

Can more than one loved one or pet be included?

Yes, absolutely.

Many Heartstones® designs can incorporate personal elements from more than one loved one or pet, allowing you to honour multiple special connections within a single piece of jewellery.

Depending on your chosen design, personal elements can be combined within one setting or kept visually separate in individual settings.

Only the amount needed to create your jewellery will be used. Any remaining personal elements will be carefully kept separate, clearly identified and returned to you unless you have requested otherwise.

If you have a particular idea in mind, please get in touch. I'll be happy to discuss the options and help you create something truly personal.

How do I get my personal elements to Heartstones®?

There are several ways to get your precious personal elements to Heartstones®, so you can choose whichever feels most comfortable for you.

Postal Collection Kits

For UK customers, we provide a collection kit containing secure packaging, a prepaid return envelope and a complimentary ring sizer where applicable.

Your kit includes clear instructions to help you safely prepare and return your personal elements.

Personal Collection & Hand Delivery

If you would prefer not to send your loved one's ashes or other precious keepsakes through the post, personal collection and hand delivery are available throughout South Wales and Bristol by arrangement.

For families further afield, collection may also be possible. I'm always happy to travel where I can, with a mutually convenient date and any applicable travel costs agreed in advance.

You're also welcome to arrange to hand your personal elements to me directly.

International Customers

For customers outside the UK, I'll provide guidance on suitable packaging and shipping arrangements, subject to the regulations in your country.

Whatever method you choose, your personal elements will be treated with the utmost care and respect from the moment they're entrusted to Heartstones®.

Can frozen or previously stored breastmilk be used?

Yes! In many cases, breastmilk that has been frozen or stored for an extended period can still be used to create a beautiful, meaningful Heartstone®.

Because the breastmilk is being preserved within jewellery rather than consumed, it doesn't need to meet the same freshness requirements as milk intended for feeding. As long as it is free from visible mould and suitable for preservation, it can often still be used.

Breastmilk jewellery can preserve memories of your breastfeeding journey, whether that journey lasted days, months or years.

You don't need a large amount. Typically, just 5–10ml is sufficient.

If your breastmilk has been stored for a long time, has separated or you're unsure whether it's suitable, please get in touch before ordering. I'll be happy to discuss your circumstances and advise on what's possible.

Every breastfeeding journey deserves to be remembered, no matter how long or short it may have been.

What metals do you use, and is the jewellery hallmarked?

Heartstones® offers a range of memorial jewellery in different metals to suit your preferences, style and budget.

Precious Metals

Our collection includes sterling silver and solid 9ct gold, with selected designs available in other precious metals.

Where required by UK law, eligible precious metal jewellery is independently hallmarked to verify its metal content.

Alternative Metals

We also offer selected designs in stainless steel, titanium and tungsten, providing durable alternatives to traditional precious metals.

Some designs are available with gold-coloured finishes, which are different from solid gold.

Quality & Transparency

Each product listing clearly identifies the metal used, so you know exactly what you're purchasing.

Whether you choose sterling silver, solid gold or an alternative metal, every Heartstone® is created with the same care, attention and respect for the personal elements entrusted to me.

If you're unsure which metal would be most suitable, I'm always happy to help you explore the options.

Is Heartstones® jewellery suitable for everyday wear?

Yes! Heartstones® jewellery is designed to be treasured, worn and enjoyed, allowing you to keep your special memories close throughout everyday life.

Every piece is carefully handcrafted using quality materials and professional jewellery-making techniques, with durability and longevity in mind.

Caring for Your Jewellery

Like all jewellery, your Heartstone® will benefit from a little care to keep it looking beautiful.

We recommend removing your jewellery before:

  • Swimming, bathing or showering
  • Heavy manual work or gardening
  • Contact sports or strenuous activities
  • Using cleaning products or harsh chemicals
  • Applying perfumes, lotions or other beauty products

Avoid exposing your jewellery to unnecessary knocks, prolonged moisture or extreme temperatures.

Cubic Zirconia (CZ) Stones & Settings

Some Heartstones® designs feature carefully set cubic zirconia (CZ) stones, adding a beautiful finishing touch to your jewellery.

Every piece undergoes careful quality checks before leaving our workshop, including inspection of the stone settings to ensure they are secure.

However, as with all stone-set jewellery, accidental knocks, impacts or excessive pressure can occasionally loosen, damage or dislodge stones, even when they have been correctly set.

Following our recommended jewellery care instructions will help minimise this risk and keep your piece looking beautiful.

Please note: Damage or stone loss resulting from accidental impact, misuse or general wear and tear is not covered by our workmanship guarantee. This does not affect your statutory consumer rights.

Should a stone become loose or fall out, please get in touch. In most circumstances, I can replace or reset CZ stones, subject to an assessment of the jewellery and any damage to its setting. Any applicable repair costs will be discussed beforehand.

Every Heartstones® piece is made with care, and I'm always happy to help you keep yours looking its best.

Looking After Your Heartstone®

Your Heartstone® contains carefully preserved personal elements, protected within its setting. Although designed for regular wear, it should still be treated with care to help maintain its appearance and longevity.

A jewellery care guide is included with every order, providing advice tailored to looking after your treasured piece.

If you ever have concerns about your jewellery, please get in touch. I'm always happy to help.

How long does it take to make my jewellery?

Every Heartstones® piece is individually handcrafted with care, and turnaround times vary depending on the jewellery you choose.

Sterling Silver Jewellery

Most in-stock sterling silver designs are completed within approximately 1–3 weeks of receiving your personal elements.

For those needing their jewellery sooner, a priority service may be available, with some pieces completed within just one week. Please contact me to check availability before ordering.

Solid 9ct Gold Jewellery

Most solid gold designs are made to order and typically take approximately 8–10 weeks, including manufacture, personalisation and hallmarking where applicable.

Bespoke Commissions

Completely bespoke designs may take up to 11 weeks or longer, depending on the complexity of the design and any specialist manufacturing requirements.

Important Information

All timeframes are estimates rather than guaranteed completion dates. I'll always aim to complete your jewellery as promptly as possible without compromising on quality or care.

If you need your jewellery for a particular date, please get in touch before ordering so we can discuss what's possible.

If anything affects your estimated completion date, I'll keep you informed throughout the process.

Can I choose the colours and gemstones in my Heartstone®?

Absolutely! Every Heartstone® is individually handcrafted, giving you the freedom to create something that feels truly personal.

Colours & Opals

Choose from an extensive range of colours and beautiful opals, including options from the full Bello Opal catalogue.

Whether you'd like a loved one's favourite colour, a meaningful shade or something inspired by a special memory, we'll work together to find the perfect combination.

Genuine Crushed Gemstones

We also have more than 60 genuine crushed gemstones available in our workshop, including birthstones and other meaningful stones.

These can be incorporated into your Heartstone® to add colour, texture and personal significance.

Can I Combine Multiple Colours or Gemstones?

Yes! You can combine multiple colours, opals and gemstones within the same Heartstone®, depending on the design and available space.

Some clients prefer a subtle, delicate finish, while others choose vibrant combinations or contrasting colours. There's no single right way to create your piece.

Not Sure What to Choose?

I'm always happy to help you explore the possibilities.

Colour samples can also be included in your postal collection kit at no additional charge, allowing you to see your chosen shades in person before your jewellery is made.

Please remember that colours may appear slightly different on individual screens, and every handcrafted Heartstone® will have its own unique appearance.

Can I request a bespoke design, and will my jewellery look exactly like the photographs?

Bespoke Designs

Absolutely! Heartstones® specialises in creating personal memorial and heirloom jewellery.

Whether you have a specific design in mind, would like to adapt an existing piece or simply have an idea you'd love to explore, I'm always happy to discuss what's possible.

We can explore different jewellery styles, settings, colours, gemstones and meaningful details to create something that reflects your story.

Will My Jewellery Look Exactly Like the Photographs?

Every Heartstone® is individually handcrafted, meaning no two pieces will ever be completely identical.

Our product photographs show actual finished Heartstones® jewellery wherever stated, giving you a realistic idea of the designs and finishes available.

However, slight variations in colour, pattern, placement of personal elements and gemstone distribution are a natural part of the handmade process.

These differences are what make your Heartstone® uniquely yours.

Working Together

If you have a particular appearance in mind, please let me know before your jewellery is made.

I'm always happy to discuss your preferences and help you choose a design that feels right for you.

There is never any pressure to place an order, and you're welcome to ask as many questions as you need.

How do I find my ring size, and can my jewellery be resized or repaired?

Finding Your Ring Size

Choosing the correct ring size is important, particularly when ordering a piece containing precious personal elements.

For UK customers, a complimentary ring sizer can be included with your postal collection kit, allowing you to check your size before your jewellery is made.

International customers are encouraged to have their finger professionally measured by a local jeweller or use a reliable ring sizer.

Please remember that wider rings can sometimes feel tighter than narrower bands, so the width of your chosen design should also be considered.

If you're unsure about your size, I'm always happy to offer guidance before you order.

Can My Ring Be Resized?

In some circumstances, yes.

Whether a ring can be resized depends on its metal, design, construction and the placement of its Heartstone® setting.

Some designs, particularly those made from alternative metals such as tungsten or titanium, cannot be resized using traditional methods.

Please contact me before arranging any alterations so I can advise on the options available.

Repairs & Restoration

Where possible, I can also assist with repairs to existing Heartstones® jewellery, including damaged settings, loose stones and other issues.

Every repair is assessed individually to determine the safest and most appropriate approach.

If your jewellery becomes damaged, please get in touch with photographs before sending it to me. Where possible, retaining a small amount of your original personal elements can also be helpful if restoration is required.

Any applicable repair charges will be discussed and agreed before work begins.

Ongoing Support

My care for your jewellery doesn't end when your order is completed.

If you ever have questions about sizing, repairs or looking after your Heartstone®, you're always welcome to contact me.

Will I receive updates about my order?

Absolutely. I understand how important your commission is, especially when you've entrusted me with something so precious and irreplaceable.

From your initial enquiry through to the completion of your jewellery, you'll be dealing directly with me.

Communication Throughout Your Order

I'll be in touch whenever I need to discuss your design, confirm colours or personalisation, or clarify any special requests.

If there are any important updates, unexpected delays or changes to your estimated completion date, I'll always let you know.

Can I Ask for an Update?

Of course!

You're welcome to contact me at any point during the process if you'd like to check on your commission or ask a question.

Please remember that every Heartstone® is individually handcrafted, so there may be periods when your jewellery is progressing behind the scenes without a specific update to share.

A Personal Service

Heartstones® is a small, independently run business, and I personally oversee every commission.

I know that you're not simply waiting for a piece of jewellery. You're waiting for something that carries an incredibly important connection, and I'll always treat that trust with care and respect.

Do you offer payment plans?

Yes! Heartstones® offers Klarna as a payment option at checkout, allowing eligible customers to spread the cost of their jewellery.

Paying With Klarna

Depending on your eligibility and the options offered at checkout, Klarna may allow you to split your purchase into instalments or pay at a later date.

Simply select Klarna at checkout to view the payment options available to you.

Klarna manages your repayment arrangements directly, so there's no need to organise individual instalments with Heartstones®.

Making Memorial Jewellery More Accessible

I understand that commissioning memorial jewellery isn't always a planned expense.

My aim is to make meaningful keepsakes as accessible as possible, without compromising the care, quality and attention that goes into every piece.

If you have any questions about ordering or would like to discuss your options before making a purchase, you're always welcome to get in touch.

Klarna payment options are subject to eligibility, approval and applicable terms. Availability may vary depending on your order and location. Please review the repayment terms carefully before choosing this payment method.

Can I order memorial jewellery as a gift?

Absolutely. Memorial and heirloom jewellery can make an incredibly meaningful gift, offering someone a beautiful way to keep a loved one close.

Whether it's for a birthday, anniversary, Christmas, remembrance date or simply to show someone you're thinking of them, I'm always happy to help you create something special.

Choosing a Meaningful Gift

Every Heartstone® is individually handcrafted, with options to personalise colours, gemstones, jewellery styles and other meaningful details.

If you're unsure what the recipient would prefer, please get in touch. I can help you explore suitable designs without any pressure to order.

Using Personal Elements

If your gift will contain ashes, hair, fur or another personal element, please ensure you have permission from the person responsible for those precious keepsakes before sending them to me.

If you're hoping to arrange a surprise, we can discuss the most appropriate way to organise the collection of personal elements and any necessary personalisation.

Gift Presentation & Delivery

Your jewellery will arrive carefully presented, ready to be given to someone special.

If you'd like to arrange delivery directly to the recipient or have particular gifting requirements, please let me know before ordering so we can discuss the available options.

Ordering for a Special Date

If you're hoping to give your Heartstone® on a particular date, please contact me before ordering.

As every piece is individually handcrafted, production times vary depending on the jewellery design and materials. I'll always be happy to advise whether your requested date is achievable before you commit.

International orders and shipping.

Yes! Heartstones® welcomes enquiries from customers outside the United Kingdom.

I understand that memories and connections have no borders, and I'd love to help you create something meaningful wherever you are in the world.

International Shipping

International delivery may be available depending on your location, the jewellery being ordered and any applicable postal or customs restrictions.

Please contact me before placing an international order so I can confirm whether delivery to your country is possible and provide information about shipping costs and estimated delivery times.

Sending Personal Elements From Overseas

If your jewellery will contain ashes, hair, fur, breastmilk or another personal element, we'll need to discuss the safest and most appropriate way to get these to me.

Different countries have their own rules regarding the transportation of certain materials, particularly cremation ashes and biological elements.

It's important to check these requirements before sending anything internationally.

I'll happily discuss the process with you and help identify suitable arrangements where possible.

Customs & Import Charges

International orders may be subject to customs duties, import taxes or handling fees imposed by the destination country.

These charges are generally the responsibility of the recipient and are not included in your jewellery price unless explicitly stated otherwise.

A Personal Service, Wherever You Are

Whether you're in the UK or further afield, every Heartstone® receives the same individual care, attention and respect.

You're always welcome to get in touch to discuss your ideas and find out what's possible before committing to an order.

Can I cancel, change or return my order?

I understand that circumstances can change, especially when ordering something as personal and meaningful as memorial jewellery.

If you need to change or cancel your order, please contact me as soon as possible so we can discuss the options available.

Changing Your Order

If you'd like to change your chosen design, colours, gemstones, engraving or other personalisation details, please get in touch as early as possible.

I'll always do my best to accommodate changes, but once materials have been ordered or work has begun, certain alterations may no longer be possible or may involve additional costs.

Any additional charges will be discussed with you before proceeding.

Cancellations & Returns

Jewellery made to your individual specifications or clearly personalised for you may be exempt from the standard 14-day change-of-mind cancellation right that applies to many online purchases.

This includes many bespoke memorial pieces created using your loved one's ashes, hair, fur or other personal elements.

For eligible non-personalised items, your statutory cancellation rights still apply.

Please contact me if you're considering cancelling an order so I can explain the options relevant to your purchase.

What If Something Is Wrong With My Jewellery?

If your jewellery arrives damaged, faulty or not as described, please contact me as soon as possible with photographs and your order details.

I'll work with you to find an appropriate resolution in accordance with your statutory consumer rights.

Nothing in our cancellation or returns arrangements affects your legal rights.

Your Personal Elements

If an order is cancelled, any unused personal elements held by Heartstones® can be returned to you using an agreed delivery or collection method.

Where personal elements have already been incorporated into a finished piece, they may not be safely removable without damaging the jewellery.

If you have any concerns, please get in touch. I'm always happy to discuss your circumstances with care and understanding.

What if I'm not sure what I want or need help choosing?

That's absolutely fine. You don't need to have everything figured out before getting in touch.

I understand that choosing memorial jewellery can feel overwhelming, particularly when you're grieving or trying to create something that truly represents someone special.

I'm Here to Help

Whether you have a clear idea, a few scattered thoughts or absolutely no idea where to begin, I'm always happy to talk through the possibilities with you.

We can explore different jewellery styles, colours, gemstones and meaningful personal touches together.

Sometimes a loved one's favourite colour, birthstone, personality or a special memory can be a lovely starting point.

Take Your Time

There's no rush and absolutely no pressure to place an order.

You're welcome to ask questions, explore different options and take as much time as you need before making a decision.

If you're not quite ready to have jewellery made, that's completely understandable too.

A Personal, Understanding Approach

You'll be speaking directly with me, the person who will be creating your jewellery.

Having experienced loss myself, I understand that grief doesn't follow a timetable and that something which feels right for one person might not feel right for another.

My role is to help you create something meaningful when the time feels right for you.

You're Always Welcome to Get in Touch

No question is too small, and you never need to apologise for being unsure, emotional or needing a little extra guidance.

Heartstones® is about more than jewellery. It's about giving grief a place to go.

What happens to unused personal elements?

Your loved one's personal elements are incredibly precious, and I understand how important it is to know exactly what happens to anything that isn't used in your jewellery.

Returning Unused Personal Elements

Only the amount needed to create your Heartstone® will be used.

Any remaining ashes, hair, fur or other personal elements will be carefully kept separate and returned to you, unless we've agreed on another arrangement.

Nothing will be intentionally discarded without your permission.

Our Memorial Garden Planter

For families who would prefer not to have their loved one's remaining ashes returned, I offer the option of scattering them in our dedicated memorial planter.

This is a large, peaceful memorial planter filled with wildflowers, forget-me-nots, angel ornaments and gentle solar lighting, creating a beautiful space for remembrance.

With your permission, your loved one's remaining ashes can be respectfully scattered amongst the flowers, becoming part of a living tribute alongside others who are dearly loved and remembered.

This is an entirely optional service, offered as a meaningful alternative to having unused ashes returned.

No ashes will ever be scattered without your express permission.

Keeping Personal Elements for Future Jewellery

Heartstones® also offers an ashes-holding service for customers who may wish to commission additional jewellery in the future.

This can be particularly helpful if you're considering having matching pieces made for family members or would simply prefer to keep a small amount safely stored for a future commission.

Please contact me to discuss availability, storage arrangements and any applicable terms before choosing this option.

Always Your Decision

Your loved one's personal elements will always be treated with dignity, care and respect.

I'll never make decisions about their use, return or alternative arrangements without discussing them with you first.

 Have a Question We Haven't Answered? 

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