Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to common questions about our jewelry
General
Products & Materials
Pearls
Gemstones
Sizing & Fit
Customization
Orders & Shipping
Care & Maintenance
How to Wear
Customer Service
What makes Démodé Jewelry different?
Are your pieces handmade?
Yes. Every hand-knotted piece is crafted individually using traditional techniques. Each knot is tied by hand, each pearl is placed with intention, and each piece is inspected for quality before shipping.
How long does production take?
All our jewelry is handcrafted to order specifically for you. Each piece is created by hand with care and intention.
Standard production: 5-7 business days
Custom production: 7-10 business days (custom silk colors, custom combinations)
Rush option: 3-5 business days (+$25)
Worth the wait, we promise.
How should I care for my jewelry?
Store your pieces in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Clean gently with a soft cloth. Avoid exposure to harsh chemicals and remove before swimming or showering.
Can men wear your jewelry?
Absolutely. Our pieces are designed to be gender-neutral.
The Power Bracelets, gemstone chokers, pearl ropes, and Lucky Charms Collection all work beautifully regardless of gender.
Jewelry is for everyone who believes in magic, luck, and beautiful possibilities.
Do you take custom orders?
We love custom projects! Email us at demodejewelryco@gmail.com with your idea (length, stones, colors, inspiration) and we'll let you know if we can make it happen.
Do you offer restringing services?
Absolutely! We offer professional restringing services for all hand-knotted pieces, including your existing Démodé Jewelry, vintage pieces, heirlooms, or jewelry from other makers.
Whether your silk thread needs refreshing or you want to change the silk color on an existing piece, we can help. Contact us at demodejewelryco@gmail.com for pricing and turnaround time.
We recommend restringing every 3-5 years with regular wear, or whenever you notice silk stretching, fraying, or discoloration. Let us help keep your pieces beautiful for generations to come.
What's the difference between gemstone and pearl pieces?
Our pearls are hand-knotted freshwater pearls on silk thread, available in different lengths and colorways. They're classic, timeless, and versatile.
Our gemstones are natural stones selected for their energy and beauty, available in dainty (delicate) and power (bold) styles. They're more statement-focused and intention-driven.
Many customers wear both, pearls for classic elegance, gemstones for energy and intention.
Are your pieces handmade?
Yes. Every hand-knotted piece is crafted individually using traditional techniques. Each knot is tied by hand, each pearl is placed with intention, and each piece is inspected for quality before shipping.
Are your necklaces available in vegan materials?
Yes. While our necklaces are traditionally hand-knotted on silk, we're happy to use vegan nylon thread upon request , no difference in craftsmanship, just a different material.
If you'd like your necklace made without animal-derived materials, simply mention it when you order or contact us before purchasing and we'll take care of the rest.
Are these real pearls?
Yes! These are genuine freshwater pearls, hand-selected for quality and individually knotted on silk cord.
Are your gemstones natural?
Yes! All our gemstones are genuine and natural. Each stone has unique variations in color, pattern, and size, that's what makes them beautiful and authentic. We hand-select every gemstone for quality.
What metals do you use?
- Gold-plated brass or findings (most pieces)
- Gunmetal-plated findings (Black Spinel and Bronzite pieces)
- All metals are nickel-free and hypoallergenic
- High-quality plating designed to last with proper care
Are your pieces hypoallergenic?
Yes. All metals used in our jewelry are nickel-free and hypoallergenic.
What types of pearls do you offer?
We work exclusively with genuine freshwater pearls in various sizes and shapes:
- 2-3mm nugget pearls (delicate chokers)
- 5-7mm semi-round and round pearls (classic necklaces)
- 2mm accent pearls (gemstone jewelry)
All pearls are natural with organic variations in shape and luster. We hand-select each one for quality while celebrating the beautiful imperfections that make pearls unique. We don't currently offer saltwater varieties (Akoya, Tahitian, South Sea), but our freshwater pearls deliver exceptional luster and quality.
What is hand-knotting and why does it matter?
Hand-knotting is a traditional jewelry technique where individual knots are tied between each pearl or gemstone on silk thread. This is how fine pearl jewelry has been made for centuries, and we're not about to cut corners on tradition.
Why we knot every single pearl:
Protection: Pearls don't touch each other, preventing scratches and wear over time.
Security: If the strand breaks, you lose one pearl maximum, not the whole necklace.
Drape: The knots create flexibility and graceful movement. The silk warms to your skin and moves with you.
Quality: Hand-knotting takes significantly more time and skill than stringing without knots. It's the mark of quality pearl jewelry.
Beauty: The rhythm of pearl-knot-pearl-knot creates visual texture and dimension.
You can see the knots between pearls. That's not a flaw, it's proof this was made the right way, by hand, with care. Not mass-produced. Not machine-made. Real.
How do I style the Infinity Pearl Rope Necklace?
The possibilities are truly infinite:
- Wrap once: Dramatic opera length (44" or 66")
- Wrap twice: Classic layered elegance
- Wrap three times (66" only): Modern stacked luxury
- Knot it: Vintage-inspired at the collarbone
- Asymmetric loop: Leave lengths uneven for editorial edge
- Back necklace: Wear the clasp in front and let pearls drape down your back (stunning with backless dresses)
Change it daily based on your outfit or mood. That's the entire point.
How do I choose between Light Mode and Dark Mode (Infinity Rope) or Daylight and Twilight (Heirloom Choker)?
Light Mode / Daylight (white/cream pearls):
- Classic, versatile, works with everything
- Perfect for professional settings and traditional styling
- Beautiful with warm metals and soft neutrals
Dark Mode / Twilight (dark peacock pearls):
- Unexpected, sophisticated, mysterious
- Adds edge to classic outfits
- Stunning with cool metals, blacks, and jewel tones
- Great for those who want pearls with attitude
Can't decide? Many customers collect both and switch based on mood and outfit.
Which gemstones do you offer?
We offer nine carefully selected natural gemstones, each chosen for its beauty and energy
Malachite (green) - Transformation & Protection
Lapis Lazuli (blue) - Wisdom & Truth
Pyrite (gold) - Abundance & Confidence
Amethyst (purple) - Intuition & Peace
Garnet (red) - Courage & Vitality
Black Spinel (black) - Protection & Strength
Bronzite (bronze) - Grounding & Certainty
Lepidolite (purple-pink) - Balance & Calm
Selenite (white) - Clarity & Cleansing
Each stone is natural, which means minor inclusions and color variations make every piece unique.
Are your gemstones natural?
Yes! All our gemstones are genuine and natural. This means they have natural variations, inclusions, and color shifts. That's what makes them beautiful and authentic.
We hand-select every gemstone for quality. No two pieces are exactly alike. Your stones are unique to you.
How do I choose which gemstone?
Choose based on what calls to you. Some people select stones based on color preference. Others choose based on the energy or meaning they need most.
Ask yourself: What do I need right now? Clarity? Courage? Grounding? Peace? Protection?
There's no wrong choice. The stone you're drawn to is usually the one you need. Trust your intuition, the right stone will call to you!
Do gemstones actually have energetic or healing properties?
Many people believe in and experience gemstone energies. Whether you're drawn to stones for spiritual practice, intention-setting, or simply because you love their beauty and meaning, that's entirely your choice.
We select our gemstones for their traditional meanings and energy associations. Think of them as wearable reminders of your intentions, not replacements for medical advice.
Your stones are here to support your practice, however you define it. Wear them for the energy, the aesthetics, or both.
Can I create a custom gemstone combination?
Yes. You have a few options to choose from:
Explore Our Curated Intention Trios: We've pre-selected gemstone combinations designed to work together energetically. Browse our collection of intentional trios to find the perfect pairing for your energy and goals.
Power Pairs: Double your energy with matching Power Bracelets on both wrists. Choose the same stone for doubled intention, or mix complementary stones for combined energy.
Use code POWERUP for $10 off a Power Pairing.
Build Your Own: Select any gemstone pieces you love and create your own combination. Mix chokers, bracelets, and anklets based on what calls to you. Trust your instinct.
Use code DUO10 for 10% off any 2 pieces, or TRIO15 for 15% off any 3 pieces on any custom combination.
Can I wear gemstone jewelry together, or should I choose one stone per day?
Both! Wear one stone for focused intention, or layer multiple stones for compound energy. Our Curated Combinations (gemstone trios) are specifically designed to work together energetically. Or create your own combination based on what you need.
Examples:
- Stack malachite + black spinel + bronzite for triple protection
- Layer amethyst choker + pyrite bracelet for intuition + manifestation
- Wear all your gemstone pieces at once if that's your vibe
There are no rules. Your energy, your choice.
Can I layer and mix different gemstone pieces together?
Absolutely. Our gemstone pieces are designed to work together in endless combinations.
Layer different colors: Stack multiple gemstone chokers. Pair a Malachite choker with an Amethyst bracelet and a Garnet anklet for mixed energy.
Stack bracelets: Wear coordinated bracelets on both wrists. Layer chokers of different colors at your throat.
Match gemstones: Create a coordinated set by choosing the same stone for your choker, bracelet, and anklet for a unified, intentional look. Or double down on one energy—pair a Malachite choker with a Malachite bracelet to amplify transformation energy.
There's no wrong way to combine them. Your instinct is your guide. Many customers layer different gemstone pieces to combine energies and express all the versions of themselves.
Use code DUO10 for 10% off any 2 pieces, or TRIO15 for 15% off any 3 pieces when building your custom combination.
How should I care for gemstones?
Remove your gemstone jewelry before showering, swimming, or exercising. Water can damage the silk thread (in hand-knotted pieces) and affect the stones over time.
Wipe gently with a soft, dry cloth after wearing. Store in a soft pouch away from sunlight and extreme temperatures.
Some gemstones (like malachite) are softer than others, so handle all pieces gently and avoid rough surfaces.
See our complete Care & Keeping guide for detailed instructions.
Can I request a specific gemstone that's not listed?
We work with nine core gemstones that we've carefully selected and tested. If you're interested in a different stone, email us at hello@shopdemode.com and let us know what you're looking for. We may be able to help.
What necklace length should I choose?
- 14"-16" Choker: Sits at base of neck/collarbone. Perfect for layering or wearing solo.
- 18" Signature Strand: Classic princess length. Works with most necklines.
- 44" Infinity Rope: Wrap once for opera length, twice for layered look.
- 66" Infinity Rope: Wrap twice or three times. Maximum versatility.
Still unsure? Most customers find 18" the most versatile length for everyday wear.
How do I measure for a bracelet?
Use a flexible measuring tape or string to measure your wrist where you'd wear the bracelet. Our bracelets are available in two sizes:
- Dainty wire bracelets: Size S (6.5") or Size M (8")
- Power bracelets: Size S (6") or Size M (8")
Choose the size that best matches your wrist measurement. Not sure which size? Contact us at demodejewelryco@gmail.com and we'll help you find the perfect fit.
How do I measure for an anklet?
Measure around your ankle where you'd like the anklet to sit (usually just above the ankle bone). Our anklets are 8"-10" adjustable to fit most ankles comfortably.
How heavy is this?
Surprisingly lightweight! Freshwater pearls are lighter than you'd expect, and the silk knotting distributes weight. Even the 66" is comfortable for all-day wear.
What if the piece doesn't fit?
Contact us within 30 days and we'll help you exchange for a different size.
How do I choose between Standard and Bold Power Bracelet sizes?
Our Power Bracelets come in two adjustable sizes based on wrist circumference.
Standard (6"-7.5" adjustable) for smaller to average wrists.
Bold (7.5"-9" adjustable) for average to larger wrists.
Measure your wrist where you'd normally wear a bracelet and choose accordingly. Anyone of any gender can wear either size—the choice is based on what fits your wrist comfortably and confidently.
Do you offer restringing services?
Absolutely! We offer professional restringing services for all hand-knotted pieces, including your existing Démodé Jewelry, vintage pieces, heirlooms, or jewelry from other makers.
Whether your silk thread needs refreshing or you want to change the silk color on an existing piece, we can help. Contact us at demodejewelryco@gmail.com for pricing and turnaround time.
We recommend restringing every 3-5 years with regular wear, or whenever you notice silk stretching, fraying, or discoloration. Let us help keep your pieces beautiful for generations to come.
Do you take custom orders?
We love custom projects! Email us at demodejewelryco@gmail.com with your idea (length, stones, colors, inspiration) and we'll let you know if we can make it happen.
How long does customization take?
Custom silk colors add 3-5 business days to production time.
Total time: 7-10 business days before shipping.
Why Green? About Our Signature Green Silk
At Démodé Jewelry, we believe life is a beautiful gamble. Our signature Démodé emerald green silk is a subtle nod to the velvet gaming tables where fortunes change, risks pay off, and luck favors the bold. It's the color of:
- Vintage casino tables - Where dreams are made
- Four-leaf clovers - Nature's lucky charm
- Growth and renewal - Fresh starts and new chapters
- Prosperity - Abundance in all forms
- The heart chakra - Love, compassion, healing
The green is sophisticated, not loud. Between white pearls, it reads as elegant depth, not costume jewelry. It's a knowing wink, classic with a secret.
But if green isn't your story, choose your own silk color and make this necklace truly yours.
Can I choose my silk color?
Yes! Most hand-knotted pieces offer customizable silk thread colors.
Our signature is "Poker Table" green (emerald green), but you can choose cream, black, or request a custom color. Add your preference in the order notes at checkout or contact us before ordering.
What silk cord colors are available?
Our necklaces are hand-knotted in our signature Poker Table Green, a quietly daring shade inspired by vintage casino tables. But since every piece is made to order, the color is entirely yours to choose.
Available Colors:
- Poker Table Green (our signature) - Vintage casino-inspired
- Black Onyx - Deep and mysterious
- Ivory Pearl - Classic and timeless
- Dove Grey - Soft and sophisticated
- Sapphire Blue - Rich and regal
- Amethyst Purple - Spiritual and dreamy
- Garnet Red - Bold and passionate
Custom colors: Request anything at checkout or email demodejewelryco@gmail.com and we'll make it happen.
Are your necklaces available in vegan materials?
Yes. While our necklaces are traditionally hand-knotted on silk, we're happy to use vegan nylon thread upon request , no difference in craftsmanship, just a different material.
If you'd like your necklace made without animal-derived materials, simply mention it when you order or contact us before purchasing and we'll take care of the rest.
Can I create my own curated gemstone set?
Absolutely! Create your own custom duo or trio by mixing any gemstone piece you love.
Use code DUO10 for 10% off any 2 gemstone chokers, or code TRIO15 for 15% off any 3. Mix and match based on the energy you need, your mood, or your intention.
Can't decide? Check out our pre-curated Gemstone Choker Trios for intentional combinations we've already designed for you.
How long does production take?
All our jewelry is handcrafted to order specifically for you. Each piece is hand-knotted by hand with care and intention.
Standard production: 5-7 business days
Custom production: 7-10 business days (custom silk colors, custom combinations)
Rush option: 3-5 business days (+$25)
Worth the wait, we promise.
How long does shipping take?
You'll receive a tracking number once your handcrafted piece ships, and we'll keep you updated with email notifications along the way.
Shipping time after production:
- US: 3-5 business days
- International: 7-14 business days
Do you ship internationally?
Yes! We ship worldwide. International shipping rates are calculated at checkout based on your location.
How should I care for my jewelry?
Store your pieces in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Clean gently with a soft cloth. Avoid exposure to harsh chemicals and remove before swimming or showering.
View our comprehensive jewelry care guide.
How do I care for my gemstone jewelry?
For hand-knotted silk pieces:
- Same care as pearl jewelry (see above)
- Remove before water exposure
- Restring every 5-10 years with regular wear
For bracelets:
- More water-resistant than silk but remove for swimming/showering
- Wipe with soft cloth after wearing
- No restringing needed
All gemstone pieces:
- Avoid harsh chemicals and abrasive surfaces
- Store in soft pouch away from direct sunlight
- Some gemstones (like malachite) are softer—handle gently
View our comprehensive jewelry care guide.
How do I care for my pearl jewelry?
Daily care:
- Put pearls on last (after makeup, perfume, hairspray)
- Remove before water, exercise, or sleep
- Wipe with soft, dry cloth after wearing
Storage:
- Store flat or hanging in a soft pouch
- Keep separate from other jewelry
- Pearls need air, avoid airtight containers
Never:
- Expose to chlorine, salt water, or harsh chemicals
- Use ultrasonic cleaners or jewelry cleaning solutions
- Spray perfume or hairspray directly on pearls
Restringing: Hand-knotted pearl pieces should be professionally restrung every 5-10 years with regular wear. Contact us for restringing services.
View our comprehensive jewelry care guide.
Can I have my jewelry restrung?
Yes! We offer professional restringing for all hand-knotted pieces, including pieces you already own (vintage, heirloom, from other jewelers).
Contact us at hello@shopdemode.com for pricing and turnaround time.
We recommend restringing every 3-5 years with regular wear, or whenever you notice silk stretching, fraying, or discoloration. With proper care and maintenance, your pieces will last generations.
Can I shower or swim wearing my jewelry?
No. Remove all jewelry before showering, swimming, or exercising. Water (especially chlorinated or salt water) can damage silk thread, fade colors, and dull metals over time.
Treat your pieces as "dressed" jewelry. Put them on when you're ready for the day, take them off at night.
I'm new to wearing jewelry. Where should I start?
Start with one foundational piece:
- Classic route: 18" Signature Pearl Necklace (works with everything)
- Spiritual route: One gemstone choker in the stone that calls to you
- Playful route: A piece from the Lucky Charms Collection that makes you smile
- Bold route: Power Bracelet pair worn on both wrists
Then add pieces slowly based on what you reach for. Build your collection around what you actually wear, not what you think you should own.
Can men wear your jewelry?
Absolutely. Our pieces are designed to be gender-neutral. The Power Bracelets, gemstone chokers, pearl ropes, and Lucky Charms Collection all work beautifully regardless of gender.
Jewelry is for everyone who believes in magic, luck, and beautiful possibilities.
Can I match this to my choker or bracelet?
Absolutely! We offer the same gemstones across chokers, bracelets, and anklets so you can create coordinated sets.
What's the best way to stack bracelets?
For our Dainty Gemstone and Power Bracelets:
- Stack 3-5 of the same type for cohesive sparkle
- Mix Dainty (3mm) with Power (8mm) for scale contrast
- Alternate gold and silver seed beads for dimensional shine
- Combine with bangles, cuffs, or watches
For mixed materials:
- Layer our silk pearl bracelets with wire gemstone bracelets for texture play
- Stack delicate with bold for visual interest
- Odd numbers (3, 5, 7) create better balance than even numbers
Can I combine gemstone and pearl pieces?
Yes. Layer a pearl necklace with a gemstone choker. Pair pearl studs with a gemstone bracelet and anklet. Mix metals and materials freely.
Your signature collection should reflect all the versions of you. Express them all.
Can I wear your jewelry every day?
Absolutely! Our pieces are designed for daily wear. Just follow proper care guidelines (remove before water/exercise, store properly) and they'll last for years.
Can I mix metals?
Absolutely! Mixed metals are modern, editorial, and incredibly chic. Our pieces feature gold-plated and gunmetal finishes that work beautifully together. Don't be afraid to stack gold seed bead bracelets with gunmetal ones, or layer our signature green silk pearls with gold chains.
The old "match your metals" rule? Outdated. Wear what you love.
How do I layer necklaces without them tangling?
Start with different lengths to create visual separation. A good formula:
- Choker (14-16") as your foundation
- Classic strand (18") in the middle
- Longer piece (22-24"+) as your bottom layer
Pro tips:
- Vary the weight (delicate choker + substantial rope works beautifully)
- Mix materials (pearls + gemstones + chains for texture)
- Odd numbers look more natural (3 or 5 pieces layer better than 2 or 4)
- Put the piece you love most in the middle position where it gets the most attention
Our gemstone chokers, pearl strands, and lucky charm pieces are designed to layer seamlessly.
What should I wear to a wedding as a guest?
Pearls are always appropriate for weddings. Try:
- Our 18" Signature Pearl Necklace with a simple dress
- Heirloom Pearl Choker layered with a longer delicate chain
- Infinity Pearl Rope wrapped twice for elegant sophistication
- Gemstone choker for subtle color (amethyst or lapis are beautiful with jewel-tone dresses)
Avoid anything too bold or statement-making unless you know the bride well. Save the Jackpot Collection cherries for the after-party.
Can I change or cancel my order?
Contact us at support@demodejewelry.com within 24 hours of placing your order. Once production begins, we cannot modify or cancel custom orders.
What is your return policy?
Yes. We offer returns and exchanges within thirty days of purchase. Items must be unworn and in original condition with all packaging included. Custom/personalized pieces (custom silk colors, custom combinations) are final sale.
View our full return policy.
Do you offer exchanges?
Yes! If you need a different size or want to exchange for a different piece, contact us within 30 days. We'll help you find the perfect fit.
Are your pieces ethically made?
We work with artisans who share our values. Every piece is crafted with intention, fair practices, and respect for both people and materials.
Do you have a physical store?
We're online only right now, which allows us to keep prices accessible while maintaining quality. Follow us on Instagram @demode.jewelry for behind-the-scenes content and new drops!
What if my order arrives damaged?
We package every piece carefully, but if your jewelry arrives damaged, please contact us at support@demodejewelry.com within 48 hours.