Marcasites, enamel and the marks of handwork

Our pieces are produced in traditional workshops by our master artisans. That has a consequence worth understanding: no two are ever quite identical, and some of what can look like a flaw is actually the opposite, it is evidence of the work behind each piece.

Marcasites

Our marcasite jewelry draws on the tradition of 18th-century Portuguese jewelry. Many pieces are made using molds that are, in some cases, centuries old.

Each marcasite is applied by hand. That manual application is what gives every piece its own character: small variations in tone and placement are part of the intentionally antique effect of marcasite jewelry, not a defect in it.

Enamel

Enamel demands exceptional precision from our artisans, and it's applied by hand too. Tiny characteristics in the finish come with that process. You can watch how enamel is applied to see what's involved.

Enamel is also the most fragile finish we work with. It doesn't react well to water, heat, perfume or cosmetics. Our care articles are worth reading if you own an enamel piece.

If your piece isn't what you hoped for

None of the above is meant to talk you out of how you feel about your jewelry. If a piece doesn't meet your expectations, tell us.

We'll exchange it or accept a return. If you'd prefer, the exchange can be for another piece of the same design with less visible evidence of the handwork. Your satisfaction is our priority, and our standard 30-day policy applies.

If something is genuinely damaged

Chipped enamel, a missing marcasite or a broken component is a different matter entirely. That's a repair, and it's covered: see How repairs work.