Frequently Asked Questions

All of my jewelry is sterling silver (never plated) and often combined with other metals such as gold, brass or copper. Most of the silver and gold I use is recycled and/or sourced from certified mines, and I recycle the scraps created during production. I work with both precious and semi precious gemstones. Most of the stones that I use are ethically sourced, and/or purchased directly from the lapidarist right here in British Columbia.

I often use Keum Boo, an ancient Korean technique for applying 24k gold to silver. The gold is gilded to the silver using heat and pressure. Although it is very time consuming and has me picking up tiny flecks of gold to carefully place in the perfect position, I love the process. It allows for a creative flow, giving me the opportunity to essentially paint with gold.

Ammolite is a truly unique, rare, beautiful and genuine Canadian gemstone. An opal-like organic gemstone that comes in all colours of the rainbow, it is primarily found along the eastern slopes of the Rocky Mountains in Southern Alberta. It is made from the fossilized shells of 71 million year old ammonites from the Mesozoic era. Indigenous Canadians from the Blackfoot tribe have long believed it to possess amuletic and healing powers, incorporating the gem into their medicine bundles for use in ceremonies. Feng shui practitioners call it the Seven Color Prosperity Stone and believe it is an influential stone with the power to detoxify the body by improving its flow of energy, or chi. Ammolite was officially designated a precious gemstone in 1981 and is the last of the gemstones accepted in the past 300 years. It is also amongst the rarest, alongside Opal, Ruby, Sapphire and Emerald.

Unfortunately, I am too busy to offer custom work.

Certain stones and settings provide challenges to resizing, but you can always ask. If resizing is possible, the fee is $45 and it will take longer to ship. Email galadriel@galajewelry.ca to inquire.

There are multiple factors determining how to care for and clean your jewelry. Stones are ranked in hardness/porosity according to the Mohs hardness scale (look up your stones here). Hard stones can be dipped in cleaning solutions, whereas liquid cleaners may damage softer, porous stones. Carefully follow the cleaning directions on any dip/liquid cleaner to avoid damaging your jewelry. In the case of softer stones such as pearls, turquoise, ammolite etc, use a polishing cloth.

Another thing to consider is the jewelry’s finish. My pieces often have an intentional patina or oxidization (darkening the silver to create depth in texture), which superficially changes the colour of the metal. Dipping or polishing with a cloth may affect the finish. On these pieces, carefully use a polishing cloth applied only to the elevated areas.

For ammolite, use only mild soap and warm water. Never use ultrasonic cleaning or dip/liquid cleaners. Always remove your jewelry when bathing, swimming, doing dishes, etc as immersion in water for extended periods of time may damage the stone.

When silver and other metals get oils on them from fingerprints, creams/perfumes, etc, it will gather the dirt and dust particles that cause tarnishing. An individual’s unique chemistry and hormones can sometimes cause tarnishing, as well as particular chemicals in water, or even certain foods.

As a general rule, if you wear it regularly, it will stay silver. And when not in being worn, store your jewelry in a small bag or box, out of the sun, and do not keep your precious treasures in the bathroom.

I keep packaging as minimal and earth friendly as possible. I use recycled cardboard and paper boxes. All items arrive in a gift box, with a handwritten tag that names the stones and metals, and a business card that identifies me, the creator.

I do not offer international shipping at the moment, but may be able to handle inquiries individually. If you are located outside of Canada or the USA please send me an email and enquire.

Free shipping for Standard shipping only in the US and Canada. You may choose to pay for express shipping.

The primary website images are by Bobbi Barbarich www.biz.bobbibarbarich.ca

A few other talented photographers with images on the site are @alhugs and @naasko_wripple

All product shots are taken by Galadriel Rael.

If you are a gallery wanting to represent Gala Jewelry, please contact me. I require a $3000 minimum first purchase. Thereafter, you may place smaller wholesale orders to supplement your stock. Full payment is due when the order ships.

Refunds are not accepted. Gala Jewelry is 100% handcrafted using multiple techniques. These techniques are what give my work distinct textures, asymmetrical qualities and a uniqueness that cannot be reproduced. These elements are intentional and define that you are buying something handmade.

I care enormously about having satisfied customers, so I am happy to hear from you in regards to any error in the “manufacturing” that causes the item to break, or other significant damage. Refunds and repairs are at my discretion.
If the item was a gift but not quite right, I accept exchanges or credit towards another piece.
Shipping for exchanges is at the customer's expense.

You will receive a Shipment Confirmation email with a tracking number (if applicable) once your order is shipped.

Gala Jewelry is not responsible for any customs, duties and/or taxes applied to your order. All fees imposed during or after shipping are the responsibilities of the customer.

Gala Jewelry is not liable for any products damaged or lost during shipping. If you received your order damaged, please contact the shipment carrier to file a claim, and save all packaging materials and damaged goods to file a claim.