FAQs
Where are your products made?
All our pieces are made with love ethically and only from high quality metals and craftsmanship in the United States, and assembled by hand in Sydney, Australia.
Where do you deliver to?
We deliver to Australia, New Zealand, United States, Canada and most countries in South America, Africa, Europe, Asia and the South Pacific.
What are your delivery rates?
Australia: Express Delivery - $10 AUD and free for orders over $50 AUD
US: Standard Delivery - free for all orders
New Zealand: International Post Standard - $12 AUD
Canada: International Post Standard - $12 AUD
Mexico: International Post Standard - $20 AUD
Asia: International Post Standard - $15 AUD
Europe, South Africa & Brazil: International Post Standard - $20 AUD
Middle East & Africa: $25 AUD
Oceania: $15 AUD
What are your delivery times?
We will endeavour to dispatch orders ASAP but please allow some time for delivery delays during this time, and 2-3 days for the processing of orders.
- For Australian orders, we deliver via Australia Post Express Post which will take 1-8 business days. The Express Post guarantee currently suspended for next day deliveries.
- For US orders, we deliver via Australia Post Standard Post which will take 10-15 business days.
- For Canada orders, we deliver via Australia Post Standard Post which will take 10-15 business days.
- For New Zealand orders, we deliver via Australia Post Standard Post which will take around 5-12 business days.
- For orders to Asia, we deliver via Australia Post Standard Post which will take around 10-15 business days.
- For orders to Europe, Africa, South America and other countries, we deliver via Australia Post Standard Post will take 12-25 business days.
What is your return policy?
Returns made easy!
We want you to be satisfied with your purchase so we offer a great return policy for change of mind. You can choose to receive either a refund or store credit for the return. Please contact us within 30 days of delivery for a FREE return label with Australia Post.
Returns are processed within 72 hours after the package is received. You will receive a confirmation email as soon as it is processed.
Qualifying return items:
- Jewellery must be unworn. Earrings can not be returned due to the nature of the product. There must be no visible signs of use, including perfume, scents, etc.
- All original packaging and free gift with purchase must also be returned.
- We do not accept returns for final sale items.
What is your policy for faulty items?
We inspect all merchandise before packing and sending, however if for some reason your item arrives damaged, please email mimi@theessentialjewels.com.au within 72 hours of delivery with photos and order number. Items received damaged will be handled on a case by case basis.
Can I exchange my jewelry?
Yes, but we aren’t able to offer automatic exchanges right now. Please email mimi@theessentialjewels.com.au if you'd like to exchange your order.
What is the difference between gold filled and gold plated jewelry?
Gold filled jewelry comprises of a solid layer of gold that is permanently bonded to a base metal, such as brass. The minimum layer of gold must equal at least 1/20th the weight of the total item. It is very hard wearing and under normal wear the gold will not peel or flake, unlike gold plated jewelry. Most of our jewelry pieces are gold filled and will last a long time if taken care of properly.
Gold filled is absolutely your best option after solid gold for quality and durability. This metal can withstand the forces, if properly cared for. It is waterproof, will not flake off or turn your skin green and offers a great option for people with sensitive skin. Gold filled jewelry is water resistant, but not 100% tarnish resistant.
Gold plated jewelry is a very light layer of gold - 0.05% actual gold or less - on top of a base metal (usually brass or copper). The thin layer of gold is plated onto the base metal to create gold plated jewelry. Since the gold plating is very thin, the gold can rub off easily. It is also more prone to tarnishing when exposed to any kinds of liquids or chemicals. Although gold itself does not corrode, copper and brass will, especially when exposed to liquids (in air, sweat, lotion, perfume, etc).
What is gold vermeil?
Gold vermeil is heavy gold plating (2.5 microns by US standards) over sterling silver. It does not tarnish for a long time and is hypoallergenic, so people with metal allergies can wear it safely. Since the gold plating in vermeil is much heavier than gold plated jewelry, the gold lasts much longer and will not rub off (although over time, some gold may wear off). However, gold vermeil pieces are not water resistant so we recommend taking off the jewellery when showering or swimming.
What is rhodium plating?
Rhodium plating is a special process that involves plating the jewelry with a surface that guards against scratches. It gives silver and white gold jewelry a more vibrant, deeper look and makes it appear brighter, richer and more lustrous.
Do you offer wholesale?
Absolutely, for wholesale orders please send us an email at mimi@theessentialjewels.com.au and we will be in touch.