Ceramics, Jewellery and Art
Frequently Asked Questions
General
What is your environmental policy?
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Recycled silver bullion is now commonplace and we use it as much as we possibly can in our jewellery designs.
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In our ceramics studio we recycle clay in a process known as 'reclaim'. As long as clay has not been through a kiln firing, it can be recycled endlessly.
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We try our best to use packaging that has been recycled or can be recycled. We often reuse packaging, so if you find bubble wrap in our packaging, it has likely been repurposed!
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Do you support charities?
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We give a proportion of each sale to animal charities at the end of the year. We are not a registered charity and do this completely of our own volition. Animals have given us so much and we would like to give back. Please visit our blog at Christmas time to read about our charitable donations.
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Do you accept commissions?
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We occasionally accept commissions for jewellery, pet portraits and pottery. You are more than welcome to drop us a line at benjinca@talk21.com to discuss any ideas you may have.
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Jewellery
How do I care for my jewellery?
All jewellery is delciate and should be handled with care.
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Apply beauty products, e.g. creams, perfume and hairspray, before putting on your jewellery.
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Please remove your jewellery before showering, swimming, exercising and before you go to bed.
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Jewellery with patina (blackened areas) should not come into contact with water or abrasives. Otherwise, use warm soapy water and a toothbrush to gently clean your jewellery, and use a soft cloth to ensure each piece is completely dry afterwards.
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Store jewellery in its original packaging when not in use.
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All of these tips will help to protect your silver jewellery from tarnish. If tarnish does occur, use a jewellery polishing cloth to help bring back its shine.
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And most importantly - enjoy your jewellery!
Enamels
What particle size are your enamels?
The enamel powder fits through an 80 mesh screen which is the average particle size for most powdered enamels.
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Do the enamels contain lead?
Yes, these enamels contain lead which is said to improve the clarity of the glass. Please see the Health & Safety page for more information. It is usual to use either leaded or unleaded on separate enamel pieces, but you can mix them for effect. Normally leaded can be used over unleaded enamels without undue effects, but it is best to make a test piece first. Unleaded over leaded enamels can cause 'breakthrough' which may create a pleasing effect.
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Which enamel ranges do you supply?
At the moment I supply Nihon Shippo who create the most beautiful subtle and sophisticated colours. Nihon Shippo produce the most amazing pinks which can be applied directly to silver without necessarily having a flux undercoat.
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Will you be expanding the range?
Unfortunately no.t at this time. I have several colours left, but once they are gone they are gone!
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Which fluxes do you use on your test plates?
I use Soyer Copper flux and Silver flux, both available from Vitrum Signum in the UK. Vitrum Signum supply many English and French-made enamels plus a lot of tools and I highly recommend them. I also recommend Suddaby's Enamels as a new supplier of Nihon Shippo enamels.
