Frequently asked questions

Every piece is made by hand in my workshop in Florence. Below are the questions I am asked most often. If yours is not here, write to me at chiara@chiaradefilippis.it or through the WhatsApp button on the site.

The pieces and the materials

What metals do you work with, and what is their purity?

I work with 925 sterling silver (925/000) and 18kt gold (750/000), in yellow, white, red and champagne. The Keum-boo finish uses 24kt gold (999/000). Every product page states the purity of the metals used in that specific piece.

What is Keum-boo?

Keum-boo is an ancient Korean technique. Thin laminated sheets of 24kt gold are fused directly onto sterling silver using heat and pressure, without any soldering. I laminate the gold myself, choosing the thickness according to the piece. Because the gold is applied by hand, layer after layer, the pattern is different on every piece and cannot be reproduced identically.

Does the Keum-boo gold wear off?

No. Keum-boo is not plating: the gold is mechanically fused into the surface of the silver, not deposited on top of it. It does need gentle care, though — see the care questions below.

Are the pieces unique?

Yes. Every piece is forged and finished by hand, so small differences, irregularities and variations in colour are part of the work and are not defects. Where a piece exists in several variants — a stone, a gold colour, a size — the variants are listed on the product page.

Sizes and made-to-order pieces

How do I find my ring size?

Ring sizes on this site follow international sizing tables. If you are unsure, write to me with the WhatsApp button on the product page and I will help you find the correct size before you order.

Can a piece be made in a different size, or modified?

Yes. Most pieces can be made to your measurements, and existing designs can often be adapted. Write to me with what you have in mind and I will tell you whether it is possible and what it involves.

How long does a made-to-order piece take?

Two to five weeks, depending on the piece and on the work already in the workshop. Pieces that are not in stock are made to order, and this is stated on the product page.

Why does the price of a commissioned piece vary?

For pieces in gold, the price depends on the gold market rate at the time the piece is made. Gold is quoted daily and its price moves, so a commission quoted today may cost more or less than the same piece quoted six months ago. I confirm the price with you before starting the work.

Caring for your jewellery

Does sterling silver tarnish?

Yes, and it is normal: silver darkens over time in contact with air and skin. It is not a defect and it is easy to reverse. Clean the piece with very hot water and baking soda, rubbing gently with a toothbrush, then polish occasionally with a soft cloth.

How do I care for a piece with Keum-boo or a patina?

Differently — and this matters. Do not use baking soda, a toothbrush or any abrasive on these pieces: they would damage the gold finish and remove the sulphur or white patina, which are part of the design. Polish gently with a soft cloth only, and avoid harsh cleaning products.

How do I care for a piece set with gemstones?

Polish with a soft cloth and avoid contact with harsh cleaning products, both on the metal and on the stones. If you clean the silver with baking soda, keep it away from the stones.

How do I care for gold?

Polish occasionally with a soft cloth and avoid contact with harsh cleaning products. Gold does not tarnish like silver and needs very little.

Orders, shipping and returns

Do you ship internationally?

Yes. Shipping rates for your destination are calculated and shown at checkout.

When will my order be sent?

Orders of pieces in stock are processed within two working days of the order confirmation. You will receive a notification with a tracking number when the piece is dispatched; tracking information becomes available within 48 hours. Made-to-order pieces follow the two to five week timescale above.

My order has not arrived. What should I do?

If you have not received your order within 7 days of the dispatch confirmation email, write to chiara@chiaradefilippis.it with your name and order number and I will check.

Can I return a piece?

Yes. Under European consumer law you have 14 days from delivery to withdraw from your purchase. The piece must be returned unused, in its original packaging and complete with any accessories. Return shipping is at your expense, unless the piece is defective or there was an error on my part. The refund is issued within 14 working days of receiving the return.

Are there pieces that cannot be returned?

Yes. Personalised pieces, pieces made to your measurements, items modified at your request and special orders are excluded from the right of withdrawal, as European law allows.

My piece arrived damaged.

Write to chiara@chiaradefilippis.it within 48 hours of delivery with photos and a description of the problem. I will arrange a replacement or a full refund, shipping costs included.

The workshop

Can I visit the workshop?

Yes, in Via San Giovanni 13r in Florence. Write or call ahead — +39 333 5960226 — so that I am there and not at the bench with the torch lit.

Do you sell to shops and galleries?

Yes. Write to chiara@chiaradefilippis.it and I will send you the conditions.