1. Who Makes True North Jewelry?
All items are handcrafted by me, in my Ramona, CA studio. Being handmade, your new jewelry is often one of a kind or a limited run. Each piece is hand built, incorporates natural stones and unconventional materials, and is subject to photographic variations. Consequently, duplicate items will vary somewhat from photographs.

2. What is Gold Filled?
Gold filled metal is an economical alternative to solid gold. Gold filled is a layer of gold (I use 14Karat) that is pressure bonded to another metal (usually brass), and is about 100x thicker than gold plating. It is tarnish resistant, does not flake off, rub off, or turn colors. It wears similarly to solid gold. I only use sterling silver, gold filled wire and rose gold filled wire in my earring wires and posts.

3. What is Argentium Silver?
Argentium silver is purer, brighter and whiter than platinum, white gold or traditional sterling. It’s hypo-allergenic, antibacterial and the perfect choice for those who are sensitive to metals and traditional sterling or white gold. Argentium silver is highly tarnish resistant, easy to care for, and simple to keep clean.

4. What is Sterling Silver?
Sterling Silver is an alloy of pure (fine) silver and copper. It does oxidize (tarnish), but easily cleaned with a polishing cloth.

5. What is Copper?
Copper is pure metal that can oxidize quickly on its own, however, this often enhances the patina. I often apply a chemical patina to bring out the textures and beauty of the metal. Sometimes I seal the finish depending on the piece.

6. Steel, Acrylic, Concrete: These materials lend greater lightness and juxtaposition to the typical preciousness of ‘jewelry’. The steel (not stainless) and concrete are sealed with an industrial lacquer, while the Acrylic is either matte or hand finished.

7. How do I maintain the look of my jewelry?
Silver/Copper/Argentium: All respond well to jewelry polishing cloths (with the exception of sealed copper.)
Steel: Will be sealed to prevent rust, but be sure to wipe any moisture off…not for bathing or swimming and store in dry place.
Note: keeping all your jewelry in a small plastic bags will slow the oxidation process greatly and protect your pieces from dings, scratches, and tangling.