FAQs - Contemporary Jewellery Designers UK
Whether you're new to our work or you've been collecting your favourite pieces for years, find answers to all of your questions here.
Our handmade jewellery is designed and created for modern jewellery lovers searching for the perfect gift or alternative wedding ring, engagement ring, eternity ring, necklace, earrings, or bracelet.
If you have a question about a particular item from our collection, we'd love to hear from you - please email us if we haven't answered your question here.
Can I order your contemporary jewellery pieces by telephone?
Yes. Please call 0121 240 8717 to order with us. Payment by all major cards is accepted.
If no one is available to answer, please leave a message or email kate@katesmithjewellery.co.uk and we will get back to you asap.
How long will my designer jewellery take to arrive?
Each product has an indicated estimated delivery time. However, please do get in contact if you need your item of jewellery more rapidly and we will do our best to help.
How will my jewellery be delivered?
Please see our delivery policy for full details.
If I am buying a present and it doesn’t fit or they don’t like it, can it be returned?
Yes it can. Please see our returns policy for full details.
I don’t know the size of ring I need to buy – help!
Please see our advice on ring sizing and how to work out someone's ring size without asking them.
What should I look for when choosing a contemporary jewellery designer in the UK?
We recommend the following considerations:
- Aesthetic – does their style align with your taste? Look for originality and craftsmanship.
- Materials and ethics – do they use high-quality, responsibly sourced materials?
- Customisation – can they create bespoke or made-to-order pieces if you want something unique?
- Reputation and reviews – check testimonials, online reviews, and past work to find out more about a jeweller's reliability and customer satisfaction.
Aftercare and services – do they offer resizing, cleaning, or repairs? Good aftercare ensures your jewellery lasts.
What is the black colouring on a lot of the silver jewellery?
This is created using a process often referred to as oxidisation, using a chemical that is applied to the surface.
This is then thoroughly washed off, and the resulting black colour is the end of a process called patination. It is generally only used in recessed areas so that it cannot be rubbed off over time.
Do you take bespoke commissions?
Yes, we specialise in bespoke jewellery handmade in the UK. Find out more about our bespoke rings and contemporary jewellery.
Do you offer a jewellery remodelling service?
Yes! Explore how our team can create a piece of jewellery personalised to your specific vision through our remodelling service.
How do I care for my jewellery?
To keep your jewellery looking its best:
- Store it in a soft pouch or box to avoid scratches.
- Remove it when showering, swimming, or using chemicals.
As for cleaning, there are a number of different finishes available, so see detailed advice on caring for your jewellery.
The majority of items can be submerged in warm soapy water and then gently cleaned with a soft toothbrush to remove any build up of grease or dirt and rinse thoroughly.
We also offer a free re-finishing service (subject to P+P charge only) to restore your treasured item to its former glory.
How do I know if a jewellery designer uses ethical materials?
Look for designers who:
- Clearly state their sourcing policies.
- Use Fairtrade, recycled, or conflict-free metals and gemstones.
- Work with suppliers who adhere to ethical mining and labour practices.
- Offer transparency about their production process.
Is contemporary jewellery suitable for everyday wear?
Yes! As contemporary jewellery designers, we create pieces that are both stylish and durable using high-quality metals, like 9ct and 18ct gold, and intricate processes and settings for daily use.
What's the inspiration behind your collections?
All of our collections are inspired by the natural world, from the spring cherry blossoms in our Isis Collection to the windswept sand dunes evoked in our best-selling Dune Collection.
We pride ourselves on creating elegant, understated pieces inspired by nature, so you can combine your love of all things natural with your timeless modern aesthetic.
You can shop on our website by collection or by category.
How do you achieve the different effects on your designer jewellery, like textured finishes and etchings?
We use various techniques to add unique textures and patterns to metal surfaces in creating our contemporary jewellery collections. Here are some examples.
- Hammering – we use different hammers to create organic textures, from subtle dimples to deep indentations.
- Etching – acid or laser etching is used to engrave patterns or designs onto the metal’s surface.
- Brushed and satin finishes – fine abrasive tools or sandpaper create a soft, matte effect instead of a high polish.
- Granulation – tiny metal beads are fused to the surface, adding intricate texture and depth.
- Oxidisation and patination – chemicals or heat treatments darken the metal for an aged, artistic look.
Do you do gemstone setting in-house?
While the majority of our processes are performed by hand in our Birmingham workshop, we use a specialist local stone setter for our diamond and other gemstone settings.
This ensures the highest quality for you, and allows us to spend more time design and making your favourite pieces.
Can I visit the studio to see the work?
Yes. Appointments can be made by emailing or calling us on 0121 240 8717. Standard hours are 9.30am – 4.30pm Monday – Friday.
Where else do you sell your handmade jewellery collections?
We sell through outlets throughout the UK & Ireland. Please visit our stockists page.