FAQ
Everything you need to know about my handmade jewelry
What makes handmade jewelry different from mass-produced pieces?
Handmade jewelry is crafted individually with care, not manufactured in bulk. Each piece reflects the artisan's creativity and intention, resulting in small variations that make it unique. This process allows for better quality control, meaningful design, and a deeper connection between the jewel and the person who wears it.
What materials are used in artisan jewelry by Izaskun Zabala?
Each piece is made with high-quality metals like sterling silver and gold-plated brass. Gemstones are carefully selected for their beauty and symbolism. These materials are chosen not only for their visual appeal, but also for how they support the storytelling behind every handcrafted creation.
How do I care for my handcrafted jewelry?
To protect your handcrafted jewelry, store it in a soft pouch away from humidity and perfumes. Avoid wearing it during physical activities. Clean it gently with a soft cloth to maintain its shine. With proper care, artisan jewelry remains radiant for years and retains both beauty and sentimental value.
Visit our Care & Repairs section for more information.
How long does it take to create a custom piece?
Creating custom jewelry takes time, intention and collaboration. Typically, the process ranges from eight to twelve weeks, depending on the complexity of the design. This includes consultations, sketches, adjustments and final crafting. Every step is a celebration of slow, conscious artisan work with a meaningful result.
Can I order a bespoke jewelry piece of I live outside Spain?
Yes, absolutely. Izaskun works remotely with international clients using video calls and WhatsApp. The entire process—from the first consultation to the final shipment—is designed to be smooth and personal. Wherever you are in the world, you can co-create a piece that resonates deeply with your essence and style.
Visit our Custom Handcrafted Jewelry section for more information.
What's the difference between gold-plated and gold-filled jewelry?
The main difference lies in the amount of gold used and its durability. Gold-plated jewelry has a layer of gold applied to the surface, while gold-filled jewelry contains a layer of gold bonded to the base metal.
Although they can look similar at first, gold-filled pieces are generally more durable. Over time, factors such as friction, water, sweat, and daily wear can affect both finishes, but the thickness of the gold layer—and proper care—plays a key role in how long the piece lasts.
Can my piece be re-plated?
Yes. Gold plating naturally wears over time, especially with frequent use and regular exposure to friction, skin contact, water, or cosmetics. If your gold-plated piece has faded, please contact us and we will be happy to offer a re-plating service to restore its original finish.
Re-plating involves carefully repolishing the piece and applying a new layer of gold. Please note that the costs of repolishing, gold plating, and shipping are the responsibility of the customer.
Why am I having an allergic reaction?
Our chains are gold-filled over silver and are free of nickel in the base metal. Our hypoallergenic gold-filled (over silver) ear wires and posts are also nickel-free and suitable for most people, with minimal risk of irritation. If you experience an allergic reaction, we recommend consulting a specialist to identify any metal sensitivities.
Some people may be sensitive or allergic to brass. Although our jewelry is gold-plated with a thickness of approximately 3 microns over brass, we recommend avoiding our pieces if you know you have a brass allergy, as individual skin reactions can vary.
Can I return a sale item?
All items on sale, purchased with a discount code, or made to order cannot be returned for a refund, online credit (including e-gift cards), or exchanged for a different size, colour, or style.
We understand that buying final sale items can be tricky, so if you have any questions about sizing or fit, please reach out to us before placing your order.
How do I measure my ring size?
The most accurate way to measure your ring size is by visiting a local jeweler. If that’s not possible, you can measure an existing ring by placing it on a ruler and measuring the inner diameter in millimetres, then matching it to a standard ring size chart.
If you don’t already own a ring in the correct size, you can also wrap a strip of paper or string snugly around the base of your finger, mark where it overlaps, and measure the length in millimetres. Be sure to measure when your hands are warm and at the end of the day, as finger size can vary.
If you’re unsure, feel free to contact us at izaskunzabalajewelry@gmail.com to help you find the right fit.