FAQs

Our organization remains deeply committed to the principles of responsible manufacturing, ensuring that all precious metals used in our collections consist of recycled or ethically sourced gold, while every diamond is obtained through channels that guarantee they are conflict-free. Our own internal jewelry line is produced entirely within New York, upholding high standards for craftsmanship and sustainability. Regarding the distinction between ten-karat and fourteen-karat gold, the primary differences lie in the concentration of pure gold and the resulting color saturation. Ten-karat gold exhibits a slightly lighter hue and generally serves as a more accessible entry point regarding cost. It is essential to understand that all our gold pieces are crafted from solid material rather than plated surfaces, ensuring that they will not tarnish over time. Furthermore, while fourteen-karat gold is widely recognized for its excellent balance of strength, ten-karat gold offers an even higher level of durability, making it an ideal choice for everyday wear. Ten-karat gold comprises forty-one point seven percent pure gold, while fourteen-karat gold contains fifty-eight point three percent, with the remainder consisting of alloying metals necessary to improve structural integrity.

We frequently utilize recycled diamonds, which are reclaimed stones sourced from pre-existing jewelry. While these gems cannot be traced to an original mine, they represent a sustainable choice because they require no new environmental or social impact associated with traditional extraction. When selecting stones for engagement rings, we prioritize the Mohs scale of hardness. Diamonds are the most resilient choice, followed closely by rubies and sapphires. We generally advise against using softer, more delicate gems like opals, pearls, or emeralds for rings intended for daily, lifelong wear. Should you experience any damage to your items, we are here to support you. We strive to make every piece resilient, but should a stone come loose or a chain break, we invite you to review our service policies and contact our team to discuss the appropriate resolution. All repair inquiries must be formally approved by our staff before any action is taken.

Regarding jewelry maintenance, we have developed a dedicated resource to guide you through proper cleaning procedures. If you notice discoloration on your solid gold pieces, please know that this is a common occurrence often caused by a reaction between your skin chemistry, lotions, or environmental factors, and it can usually be rectified with a gentle polishing cloth. Concerning black diamonds, please be aware that most are heat-treated to achieve their opaque color and may not register accurately on standard authenticity testers designed for clear diamonds; a jeweler can provide a more accurate evaluation using specialized equipment. At this time, we do not perform custom work or set stones provided by customers. For those with metal sensitivities, please note that our alloys may contain trace amounts of various metals, as they are often processed in shared facilities. While nickel is not a primary component in our gold, trace amounts can occasionally be present, so we encourage those with severe allergies to reach out for further clarification.

Regarding our limited-edition offerings, we often operate in small, sustainable batches. If an item sells out and later returns, it is because we have managed to secure additional materials or production capacity to meet high demand, though constraints on stone availability and studio resources sometimes prevent us from restocking certain pieces. Finally, for those interested in personalization, please consult the details section of any product page for specific character counts and font options. We are unable to process requests that include non-English characters, personalized handwriting, or language that is discriminatory or offensive in nature. Should you require further assistance with any of these topics, please feel free to reach out to our team at ‪(408) 800-5702‬ or send an email to catbirdnycusa@outlook.com.