Store Policies & Returns

BRAVAIS FINE JEWELRY — STORE POLICIES

Last Updated: July 2026

TERMS & CONDITIONS

By purchasing from Bravais Fine Jewelry, you agree to the following terms and conditions. Please read carefully before placing your order.

1. GENERAL TERMS

1.1 Business Structure

Bravais Fine Jewelry is a sole proprietorship owned and operated by Abigail Koppes in Boston, Massachusetts. All jewelry is handmade by Abigail Koppes personally.

1.2 One-Person Shop

As a one-person artisan business, production timelines may be affected by personal circumstances including health considerations. I operate on a sustainable, health-first business model and appreciate your patience and understanding.

1.3 Age Requirement

You must be 18 years or older to make a purchase from Bravais Fine Jewelry.

1.4 Right to Refuse Service

Bravais Fine Jewelry reserves the right to refuse or cancel any order at any time for any reason, including but not limited to: availability of inventory, errors in pricing or product information, suspected fraudulent transactions, or violation of these terms and conditions.

2. PRICING & PAYMENT

2.1 Pricing

      All prices are listed in US Dollars (USD)

      Prices are subject to change without notice (the metal market!)

      The price charged will be the price displayed at the time of order placement

      Orders placed at incorrect prices may be cancelled

2.2 Payment Methods

      Ready-to-ship items: Payment via Shopify (credit card, debit card, Shop Pay, etc.)

      Custom orders: Venmo, PayPal, Zelle, or bank transfer

      Payment in full is required before shipping (unless payment plan is arranged)

2.3 Sales Tax

Sales tax will be collected on orders shipped to addresses in Massachusetts as required by law.

2.4 Currency

All transactions are processed in US Dollars (USD).

3. ORDERS & PROCESSING

3.1 Order Confirmation

You will receive an email confirmation when your order is placed. This confirmation does not guarantee acceptance of your order. Bravais Fine Jewelry reserves the right to cancel orders after confirmation if necessary.

3.2 Production Timeline

Stone & Wild (One-of-One Originals):

      Each piece is hand-carved individually; timelines vary by piece and will be communicated at time of purchase

Stack Pack (Curated Collection):

      Stack Pack pieces are sourced and made to order through my trusted vendors in the United States rather than held in ready stock

      Timeline: Up to 12 weeks from order placement

      You will be notified of estimated completion date upon order

Curated Bridal & Custom Commissions:

      Timeline: 8-12 weeks from design approval

      Timeline begins after deposit is received and design is finalized

      Rush orders may be available for additional fee (see Section 4.5)

      Fill out this custom form to start the process

3.3 Order Changes & Cancellations

Stack Pack Orders:

      May be cancelled within 48 hours of order placement for full refund minus payment processing fees

      After 48 hours, all sales are final, as pieces are ordered per request through my vendors rather than held in stock

Stone & Wild, Curated Bridal & Custom Orders:

      Deposits are non-refundable once design work and carving have begun

      Cancellation before work begins: deposit refunded minus $200 consultation fee (custom commissions only)

3.4 Communication

I will keep you updated on your order progress via email. For custom orders, expect updates every 1-2 weeks. Please check your spam folder and add BravaisFineJewelry@gmail.com to your contacts.

4. CUSTOM ORDERS

4.1 Custom Order Process

      Start here: https://bravaisfinejewelry.org/pages/begin-a-custom-order

      Email inquiry with subject "Custom Inquiry - [Your Name]"

      Feel free to send me inspiration photos, my own pieces, or pinterest boards etc.

      Initial consultation (email or video call)

      Design proposal and pricing quote

      50% deposit required to begin work

      Wax carving created for your approval

      Changes allowed at wax stage (1-2 rounds of revisions included)

      Casting and stone setting

      Final photos sent for approval

      Final 50% payment due before shipping

4.2 Deposit Requirements

      50% non-refundable deposit required to begin custom work

      Deposit is non-refundable once design work and carving have begun

      Final 50% due upon completion before shipping

4.3 Design Ownership

All designs created by Bravais Fine Jewelry remain the intellectual property of Abigail Koppes. Custom designs may be reproduced for future collections unless otherwise agreed upon in writing.

4.4 Client-Provided Materials

See Section 9 "Heirloom Stone Policy" for complete terms regarding client-provided gemstones.

4.5 Rush Orders

      Rush fees: 25-50% of labor cost depending on timeline

      Availability depends on current workload

      Rush orders cannot be guaranteed

      Contact me to discuss availability before requesting rush service

4.6 Design Revisions

      1-2 rounds of changes included at wax stage

      Additional revision requests after 2 rounds: $100-300 per change

      Changes after casting: may require full remake at client expense

4.7 Recreating Other Artists' Designs

I will not recreate designs by other independent jewelry artists. I am happy to take inspiration from historical jewelry, general design styles, or create an original design based on your vision.

5. RETURNS & EXCHANGES

As a small one-person studio, return terms differ by collection since each is made differently.

5.1 Stone & Wild (One-of-One Originals)

All Stone & Wild pieces are one-of-one, hand-carved originals made using collector-grade gemstones. All sales are final. These pieces cannot be returned or exchanged.

5.2 Curated Bridal

Engagement rings, bands, and anniversary pieces are made to order through my trusted vendors in the United States. All sales are final once the deposit is paid and design work has begun.

5.3 Stack Pack (Curated Collection)

Stack Pack pieces are sourced and made to order through my trusted vendors in the United States rather than held in ready stock. Because of this, all sales are final.

If your item arrives damaged or not as described, contact me within 7 days of delivery. Include your order number, photos, and a description of the issue. Once inspected, approved claims will be resolved as store credit.

To start a claim: Email BravaisFineJewelry@gmail.com within 7 days of delivery. If approved, I will send you instructions and a prepaid return label for the piece.

5.4 Non-Returnable Items (all collections)

      Custom and personalized jewelry

      Items that have been resized

      Earrings (for hygiene reasons)

      Sale or clearance items marked as final sale

      Items damaged due to wear or misuse

      Items altered by another jeweler

5.5 Damaged Items

If your item arrives damaged, contact me within 48 hours of delivery with photos. I will repair, replace, or refund at my discretion. Damage claims after 48 hours cannot be honored.

5.6 Custom & Personalized Orders

      All custom and personalized orders are FINAL SALE

      No returns, exchanges, or refunds on custom work

      All sales final once deposit is paid and work has begun

6. SHIPPING & DELIVERY

6.1 Domestic Shipping (United States)

I offer door-to-door shipping with tracking and insurance on all items.

      Orders under $500: $10 flat rate USPS Priority Mail

      Orders $500+: FREE shipping

      All orders: Signature required for delivery

      High-value items ($2,000+): Shipped with full insurance and signature required

Delivery time: USPS Priority Mail typically delivers within 2-3 business days after the item ships.

6.2 International Shipping

Currently, I ship within the United States only. International shipping may be available for custom orders on a case-by-case basis. International clients are responsible for all customs duties, brokerage fees, and taxes.

6.3 Lost or Stolen Packages

      All packages are shipped with tracking

      High-value items ($2,000+) are fully insured

      If package shows delivered but you did not receive it, contact me within 48 hours

      File a claim with USPS if package is lost in transit

      I will work with you to resolve the issue but cannot guarantee replacement if carrier confirms delivery

6.4 Incorrect Shipping Address

      You are responsible for providing accurate shipping information

      If package is returned due to incorrect address, you are responsible for reshipping costs

      Contact me immediately if you need to change your shipping address

7. RESIZING

7.1 Ring Sizing Insurance

I offer one-time ring resizing insurance for a small fee at checkout, valid for the lifetime of the jewelry. This includes one resize, plus cleaning and inspection.

7.2 Without Insurance

First resize is $75-150 depending on design complexity.

7.3 Resizing Limitations

      Some items with engraving or patterns cannot be resized

      Typically limited to +/- 2 sizes without compromising the setting

      Resizing information is listed on each product page

      Customer pays return shipping to me

7.4 Additional Resizing

If you need resizing beyond the one-time insurance coverage, I'm happy to resize again at labor and material cost.

7.5 Important Note

If another jeweler resizes your ring, all warranties are void and I cannot guarantee the integrity of their work. Once another jeweler has worked on your piece, I may decline to service it.

8. Gemstone Information & Disclosure Policy

8.1 What We Provide:

      Detailed information about gemstone treatments based on supplier documentation

      Educational context about treatments using materials science principles

      Transparent sourcing information from reputable dealers

      Honest disclosure of what we know and what we don't know

8.2 What We Are NOT:

      A gemological testing laboratory

      GIA, AGL, or other certified gemstone grading service

      Able to provide independent gemstone reports or certifications

8.3 Our Approach:

As a materials science professor, I bring scientific knowledge about crystallography, thermal treatments, and gemstone properties to help you understand what you're purchasing. However, I rely on documentation from established gem dealers and laboratories for specific gemstone identification and treatment disclosure.

For high-value pieces (typically $5,000+), gemstones can come with independent laboratory reports from GIA, AGL, or other recognized institutions. For pieces under $5,000, I provide treatment information based on supplier documentation and industry-standard disclosure practices but am happy to obtain a report for you from a Boston Gem lab for a small fee.

8.4 Your Right to Independent Verification:

You always have the right to obtain independent gemological testing for any piece you purchase. I encourage customers making significant investments to seek third-party laboratory reports if desired and I am happy to arrange that for you.

8.5 Third-Party Appraisal

If you need formal gemological appraisal for insurance purposes, I can arrange certification through a local Boston gem lab for $400 (covers their testing and documentation fees). This is recommended for pieces valued over $5,000.

You are investing in a piece of art made lovingly by hand, backed by graduate-level materials science expertise.

9. WARRANTY

9.1 One-Year Manufacturer's Warranty

All items include a one-year warranty covering manufacturer's defects in craftsmanship. This includes:

      Defects in metalwork or stone setting

      Manufacturing errors

      Issues arising from normal wear under proper care

9.2 What is NOT Covered

      Normal wear and tear (scratches, tarnishing, minor prong wear)

      Damage from misuse, accidents, or rough activities

      Lost or damaged stones due to wear

      Damage caused by another jeweler's work

      Client-provided heirloom stones (see separate liability waiver)

9.3 Stone Damage or Loss

For pieces with expensive center stones, I recommend obtaining jewelry insurance (homeowner's policy or Jewelers Mutual) to cover loss or damage. Large stone damage may be fixable by recutting or polishing, but this is not always possible. A new stone may be needed if lost or damaged. Most stones I use are one-of-a-kind and cannot be exactly replaced.

9.4 After One Year

Any damage or wear can still be repaired, but will incur additional cost for parts or stone replacement based on labor and materials.

9.5 Inspection Clause

Once an item leaves my shop, it is no longer within my control. Wear and tear on returned items will be inspected and evaluated for warranty coverage. Normal wear is not covered under warranty.

10. LIFETIME SERVICES

10.1 Free Lifetime Cleaning and Inspection

I am happy to clean, inspect, and polish your item for free at any time for the lifetime of the piece. You only need to cover return shipping to me.

10.2 Service Requirements

This service is only available if:

      You purchased the piece from Bravais Fine Jewelry

      No other jeweler has worked on or altered the piece

      The piece is returned in reasonable condition

10.3 How to Use This Service

Email me to arrange return shipping. I will inspect for loose prongs, clean thoroughly, and polish before returning it to you.

11. HEIRLOOM STONE POLICY

11.1 Acceptance Criteria

I can reset family heirloom gemstones into new designs, but please be aware of the inherent risks involved.

I reserve the right to decline any heirloom stone commission if I determine the risk is too high. Before accepting your commission, I will:

      Thoroughly inspect your stone under magnification

      Document existing condition with detailed photos

      Assess risk level based on stone type, condition, and setting design

      Provide honest feedback about whether I recommend proceeding

11.2 Important Considerations

All gemstones carry some risk of damage during the setting process, especially older stones that may have existing stress fractures, chips, or wear that aren't immediately visible. Common risks include:

      Thermal shock during casting or torch work

      Pressure fractures during prong setting or bezel burnishing

      Existing internal fractures that become visible during cleaning

      Chips at girdle edges from previous settings

11.3 Stones at Higher Risk

The following stone types carry significantly higher risk:

      Emeralds (natural fractures, often oiled)

      Opals (sensitive to heat and pressure)

      Pearls (soft, heat-sensitive)

      Stones with existing chips, cracks, or visible inclusions

      Very old stones (may have internal stress from previous settings)

      Heavily treated stones (fracture filling, clarity enhancement)

11.4 Liability Waiver Requirement

A formal, signed liability waiver is REQUIRED before I begin work on any client-provided heirloom stone. By signing this waiver, you acknowledge and accept that:

      All gemstones carry inherent risk during the setting process

      I will use industry-standard techniques and reasonable care, but cannot guarantee the stone will not be damaged

      You assume ALL RISK of damage or loss to your stone

      I am not liable for any damage that occurs during the normal course of jewelry fabrication

      Your stone may have hidden flaws that only become apparent during the setting process

      You have been advised of the option to use a stone from my inventory instead

11.5 Damage to Heirloom Stones

      If your heirloom stone is damaged during setting, you are fully responsible

      No refunds, credits, or compensation will be provided

      Deposit is non-refundable even if stone is damaged

      I will document the damage and provide photos

11.6 My Recommendation

In many cases, I strongly encourage clients to commission a piece with a stone from my extensive rare gemstone inventory instead. This eliminates risk to irreplaceable family heirlooms while still creating a beautiful, meaningful piece to pass down to future generations.

Email me photos and any information you have about your heirloom stone, and we can discuss the best approach for your specific situation.

12. PRODUCT INFORMATION & ACCURACY

12.1 Gemstone Disclosure

All gemstones sold by Bravais Fine Jewelry include complete treatment transparency:

      Heat treatment status (heated or unheated)

      Irradiation status

      Clarity enhancement (fracture filling, oiling, etc.)

      Provenance information when available

12.2 Photography

      Photos are taken to represent items as accurately as possible

      Colors may vary slightly due to monitor settings and lighting

      Gemstones are natural and each piece is one-of-a-kind

      Minor variations in color, inclusions, and appearance are expected

12.3 Measurements & Weights

      All measurements and weights are approximate

      Small variations (±0.1mm, ±0.05ct) are normal and expected

      Ring sizes are accurate to within 1/4 size

12.4 Metal Content

      All metal content is guaranteed as described

      14k gold contains 58.3% pure gold

      Sterling silver contains 92.5% pure silver

      Metals are sourced from recycled materials and CSC-certified vendors

12.5 Ethical Sourcing

      Diamonds: Kimberly Process certified, conflict-free

      Gemstones: Ethically sourced from reputable vendors

      Metals: Recycled and CSC-certified

      I do not guarantee that gemstones are "mine-to-market" unless explicitly stated

13. CARE & MAINTENANCE

13.1 General Care

Your jewelry is made to be worn and enjoyed. Wear and tear over time is thus expected; however, to prolong the life of your handmade precious item, it is recommended that you:

      Remove jewelry before rough activities (gardening, swimming, sports)

      Avoid exposure to harsh chemicals (bleach, chlorine, perfume)

      Store in provided jewelry box or soft pouch

      Limit water contact to prolong jewelry life

13.2 Cleaning

      Safe for all jewelry: Warm (not boiling) water and mild dish soap with soft toothbrush

      Avoid: Ultrasonic cleaners (can damage soft stones like opals)

      Avoid: Harsh chemicals, steam cleaners, abrasive materials

13.3 Water Resistance

Unlike what you might see in other advertisements, there is genuinely no such thing as 'waterproof jewelry'. Some metals are less likely to tarnish and corrode in water (think platinum, pure gold, and stainless steel) and are better suited for continuous wear. Gemstones have porosity, and water or lotion can enter the pores, causing cracking or discoloration. It is recommended that water contact be limited to prolong the life of your heirloom.

14. INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY

14.1 Copyright & Trademarks

      "Bravais Fine Jewelry" name and logo are owned by Abigail Koppes

      All photographs, designs, and written content are copyrighted

      You may not use any content without written permission

14.2 Design Rights

      All original designs remain the intellectual property of Abigail Koppes

      Custom designs may be reproduced for future collections

      Clients may not commission other jewelers to copy designs I created

14.3 Photography Rights

      I may photograph finished pieces for portfolio and marketing use

      If you prefer your piece not be shared publicly, notify me in writing

      I will respect your privacy if requested

15. PRIVACY & DATA

For complete information about how we collect, use, and protect your personal information, please see our Privacy Policy.

Quick Summary:

      We collect only necessary information for order fulfillment and customer service

      We use secure payment processors (Shopify, PayPal, Venmo) and do not store credit card information

      We may use cookies and similar technologies for website functionality and analytics

      We may share information with advertising partners for targeted advertising (you can opt out)

      You have rights to access, correct, delete, or opt out of certain uses of your information

      We will never sell your contact information to third-party mailing lists or data brokers

Your Privacy Rights:

      Right to know what information we collect

      Right to request deletion

      Right to opt out of targeted advertising

      State-specific rights (California, Virginia, Colorado, Connecticut, Utah)

How to Exercise Your Rights: Email: BravaisFineJewelry@gmail.com — Subject: "Privacy Request"

Email Marketing:

      You may receive occasional marketing emails if you've opted in

      Unsubscribe link provided in all emails

      We respect your inbox and will not spam you (1-2 emails per month maximum)

See our complete Privacy Policy for detailed information.

16. DISCLAIMERS

16.1 Natural Materials

      All gemstones are natural and may contain inclusions, color variations, or minor imperfections

      These characteristics are part of the stone's natural beauty and are not considered defects

      Photos represent items as accurately as possible but minor variations are expected

16.2 Wear & Tear

      All jewelry experiences wear over time with regular use

      Scratches, tarnishing, and general wear are normal and expected

      Proper care (see Section 13) will prolong jewelry life

16.3 Professional Advice

      I am a Materials Science professor, not a certified gemological appraiser

      While I provide detailed gemstone documentation, formal appraisals are available through third-party gem labs

      For formal insurance appraisal, I can arrange third-party certification for additional fee

16.4 Medical Advice

      Vital medical ID jewelry is designed to display emergency information

      It is NOT a medical device and does not provide medical treatment

      Consult your healthcare provider for medical advice

17. LIMITATION OF LIABILITY

17.1 Maximum Liability

In no event shall Bravais Fine Jewelry's liability exceed the purchase price of the item in question.

17.2 Consequential Damages

Bravais Fine Jewelry is not liable for any indirect, incidental, special, or consequential damages arising from:

      Use or inability to use products

      Delays in delivery

      Lost or stolen packages (beyond insurance coverage)

      Damage to heirloom stones (per signed waiver)

17.3 Force Majeure

Bravais Fine Jewelry is not responsible for delays or failure to perform due to circumstances beyond reasonable control, including but not limited to:

      Health emergencies

      Natural disasters

      Postal service delays

      Material shortages

      Pandemics or public health emergencies

18. DISPUTE RESOLUTION

18.1 Contact First

If you have any issues with your order, please contact me first at BravaisFineJewelry@gmail.com. I am committed to resolving issues fairly and professionally.

18.2 Governing Law

These terms and conditions are governed by the laws of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, United States.

18.3 Jurisdiction

Any disputes shall be resolved in the courts of Suffolk County, Massachusetts.

18.4 Mediation

Before pursuing legal action, both parties agree to attempt good-faith mediation to resolve disputes.

19. MODIFICATIONS TO POLICIES

19.1 Right to Modify

Bravais Fine Jewelry reserves the right to modify these policies at any time. Changes will be posted on this page with updated "Last Updated" date.

19.2 Notice of Changes

Significant changes will be communicated via email to customers who have made previous purchases.

19.3 Acceptance of Changes

Continued use of the website or placement of orders after policy changes constitutes acceptance of the modified terms.

20. CONTACT INFORMATION

Bravais Fine Jewelry

Abigail Koppes, Owner

Boston, Massachusetts

Email: BravaisFineJewelry@gmail.com

Instagram: @BravaisFineJewelry

TikTok: @BravaisFineJewelry

Website: https://bravaisfinejewelry.org/ 

Business Hours: Monday-Friday, 9am-5pm EST

Please note: As a one-person shop, response times may vary. I appreciate your patience.

 

ACKNOWLEDGMENT

By placing an order with Bravais Fine Jewelry, you acknowledge that you have read, understood, and agree to these Store Policies in their entirety.

Thank you for supporting independent, handmade jewelry!

Bravais Fine Jewelry | Handmade by Professor Abby Koppes | Boston, MA