Frequently Asked Questions
Custom Work
If you are interested in commissioning a custom piece of jewelry please visit our Custom Work page.
Payments
We accept all major credit cards online. Cash, Check and Credit Cards are accepted at our studio location. All transactions are processed using a secured payment system.
Return Policy
We hope that you love your purchase. However, if you do not, items must be returned within 10 days of purchase. They must be returned unworn and in pristine condition. Customer is responsible for shipping costs. Exceptions to this policy are custom or defective work. Custom commissions are made for you and therefore are not eligible for return. Any piece that is deemed to be defective due to craftsmanship will be repaired free of charge. The studio will also be responsible for shipping charges in such a case. Please see our Shipping & Returns page for instructions to complete a return.
Care and Cleaning
Care and cleaning varies by item. If special instructions are needed for your particular piece we will be sure to include this with your purchase.
However, in general a soft toothbrush and mild dish soap is the safest method for cleaning most all jewelry.
If you have any questions regarding the care of your piece please do not hesitate to contact us.
Refinishing
We offer refinishing services (i.e. re-oxidizing silver or restoring matte finishes) at no charge for items purchased from April Higashi Online.
Sizing
Most of our rings can be sized. Depending on the style this typically takes 1-3 weeks. In most cases the first sizing is complimentary. However, if complicated or if a large sizing increase is needed, a sizing charge may apply.
Sizing Charges
Standard sizing fees range from $40-$150.
Repairs
We stand behind the craftsmanship and fabrication of our pieces. Please contact us to discuss if you experience a problem with your piece. Nominal repair charges will be applied to pieces if the repair is due to normal wear and tear.
Metal Trade
We accept gold and platinum for trade credit.
Up to 75% of metal value can be used for trade.
Heirloom Gemstones
Stones provided by the client should have a current appraisal for insurance purposes. (Or we can arrange to have it appraised for you at an additional cost – see Appraisals below) Please be aware that stones may have imperceptible cracks and/or natural inclusions which can lead to breakage during the un-mounting or setting process. Our highly experienced goldsmiths rarely encounter this problem, however we strongly recommended that the stone is appraised and insured for this reason. All gemstones provided by the client are the responsibility of the client.
Appraisals
We offer stone appraisals for both diamonds and colored stones by a GIA (Gemology Institute of America) certified gemologist.
Most appraisals start at $110.00 and include a certificate of value and stone plotting.
Metal and stone sourcing
We are conscious of the social, economic and environmental impact of our choices. Our diamonds and stones are purchased from reputable dealers who we have worked with for years and are dedicated to sourcing conflict-free gemstones. The studio also uses recycled metal whenever possible.
Privacy Policy
We do not sell, rent, trade, or share the names, postal addresses, email addresses, or phone numbers on our mailing list.
We recognize that your purchases of jewelry are often meant as surprises. For this reason we will not discuss your visits, inquiries, wishes, or purchases with any one else other than our staff.