FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Materials

Is this real gold?
It's real 18ct gold, plated to a minimum of 1 micron over 925 sterling silver. It is not solid gold, and we'd never describe it that way. Full detail on our materials page.

How long does the plating last?
With reasonable care, years. We plate to double the legal minimum thickness for exactly this reason. What kills plating fastest is perfume, chlorine and sleeping in it — see our care guide.

Are the stones diamonds?
No. They're AAA-grade cubic zirconia, hand-set. We chose CZ over glass because it's far harder and keeps its sparkle rather than going cloudy.

Will it irritate sensitive skin?
Our pieces meet EU REACH limits for nickel release, lead and cadmium, and earring posts are sterling silver tested to the stricter piercing standard. If you have a known sensitivity, email us and we'll send the test data for the piece you're considering.

Can I shower or swim in it?
Please don't. Chlorine and salt water strip plating faster than anything else.

Sizing

What size are your rings?
They're open, adjustable bands covering roughly UK J to Q. Most people can order without measuring. See the size guide.

How long are the necklace chains?
45cm with a 5cm extender, so you can wear them at 45cm or 50cm.

Orders & delivery

Where do you ship?
Ireland, Northern Ireland, the UK and the EU. All tracked.

How long does delivery take?
We dispatch within 1–3 working days. Irish deliveries usually arrive 1–3 working days after that. See our delivery page for full detail.

Will I pay customs charges?
Not within Ireland or the EU. UK orders may attract customs charges on delivery, payable by the recipient.

Do you gift wrap?
Everything arrives in our own packaging, ready to give. Add a note at checkout if you'd like it sent as a gift without pricing.

Returns

What's your returns policy?
14 days from delivery, for any reason. Full detail on our returns page.

Can I return earrings?
Yes — unworn and in their original packaging, within 14 days.

What if it arrives faulty?
Email us with a photo and your order number. We cover return postage on anything faulty, damaged or incorrect, and plating and settings are covered for 6 months.

Anything else

Email shoda@shodajewels.com. We reply within one working day.