Welcome
Doing business online is sort of an art form all of its own. I hope that the following information will shed light on how I do business, and answer any questions you might have. If at any point, before, during, or after, an online transaction you have an issue, please let me know, so that we can work it out to our mutual advantage.
Craftsmanship
Each piece of Stephanie Ritchie Jewelry is MADE BY HAND at The Tortured Heart studio in Park City, Utah. I take pride in my craftsmanship, techniques, and aesthetic. All of the pieces are one-of-a-kind, even pieces that I fabricate over and over. The Winged Hearts are a perfect example. I have made the silver heart with silver wings many times, but because the metal reflects the hand of the artist, no two are ever identical. So, if you notice that the piece you receive has slight distinctions in shape, texture or finish, that vary from the photograph on the website, this is a sign that you own a hand fabricated heirloom, and not a piece that was cast a thousand times in China.
Payment
We currently accept payments via PayPal, or you can checkout using your Visa, Master Card, AMEX or Discover credit cards.
All orders shipped within the state of Florida will be automatically charged a 6.5% sales tax during checkout.
Packaging
All jewelry comes beautifully boxed, ready for gift giving, with information about the artist enclosed.
ShippingAll items in stock are shipped within 5 business days from order placement. Items listed as made-to-order, can take from 1-4 weeks. If you need your jewelry sooner, please contact me and I will do my best to accommodate your timeline. You will receive an email notification when your order has shipped.
For US orders we ship:
– Priority Mail for $8.00 for items under $150
– Priority Mail for $10.00 for items between $150.00-$500.00
– Priority Mail for $13.00 for items over $500
All packages are insured for your protection.
For International orders we ship:
– First Class International Mail for $11.00 for items under $150
– First Class International Mail for $14.00 for items between $150.00-$500.00
– To Canada – Priority Mail International for $24.00 for items over $500
– To Everywhere Else – Priority Mail International for $30.00 for items over $500
All packages are insured for your protection
International customers are responsible for all duties, taxes and customs fees.
If you would prefer a more expedited service, please contact me so that I can use the shipping method that works best for you.
Returns
If you are unhappy with your online purchase, it may be returned for a refund within 14 days of receiving your order. Please email studio@thetorturedheart.com for a return authorization number, so that your request can be appropriately processed. No returns will be accepted without a return authorization number.
All returned items must be in new original condition with no signs of wear or damage. For your protection, when shipping the item, please package your item securely in a hard box and mail it using an insured delivery service. Stephanie Ritchie Jewelry cannot be held responsible for returned items lost in transit. Include your return authorization number and your contact information inside the package. Return shipping and insurance costs are the responsibility of the customer.
You will be notified by email once your return is complete. Your credit card will be refunded for the full amount of your jewelry purchase only, minus initial shipping costs. Please allow 1-5 business days for the refund to post to your account.
Rings and Sizing
It is my experience that there is no such thing as a ring that fits perfectly all the time, under every circumstance. It is particularly difficult when choosing rings with a wide band. For example, a size 7 ring with a wide band will fit more snugly than a size 7 ring with a narrow band. Other factors include salt intake, exercise, heat and cold. So, pop into your local jeweler, and get sized by a professional to determine your ring size.
Care and Cleaning
I do not recommend the use of commercial cleaners as they can alter the polish of your jewelry. I suggest removing your jewelry before bathing or swimming. Additional recommendations are below.
Silver: Sterling silver will tarnish naturally over time. There are several common methods for cleaning silver. My preferred method is using a jewelry polishing cloth intended for such use. Another common method is dry baking soda with a soft cloth, rubbing the jewelry carefully and rinse or wipe clean. Yet another common method is to use white toothpaste. Apply with fingers, soft cloth or an old toothbrush and rinse thoroughly with water.
Oxidized Silver: Oxidized (blackened) silver will burnish and develop highlights over time. I recommend cleaning with warm, soapy water or a soft cloth, as opposed to commercial cleaners.
Gold: Gold can be cleaned with a jewelry polishing cloth or warm soapy water.