FAQ & Policy
Where are you based? Do you have a physical location?
I'm fully based in Chicago! I currently run a closed-studio attached to my home.
For custom work, consultations can start virtually and I will send physical prototypes to you for review. I am happy to arrange in person consultations outside of my studio if you happen to be in the area.
How is your jewelry made?
I personally design my pieces, from sketching to sculpting the final 3D digital or wax model, and when possible, I set the stones myself. This hands-on approach allows me to push creative boundaries and explore unconventional designs.
Metals are cast with trusted suppliers in Chicago or New York, and for specialized stone setting, I collaborate with skilled Chicago-based fabricators.
What metals and stones do you work with? How do you source them?
I work with solid gold in 14k and higher carat weights, cast by specialists who source raw materials from DRC conflict-free mines or RJC-accredited refineries.
My focus is on natural colored gemstones and diamonds, which I value for their unique textures and hues not currently found in lab-grown alternatives.
For natural colored gemstones, I source from suppliers with direct ties to small mining families or those accredited for conflict-free practices.
For natural diamonds, I only source from Kimberly-process compliant vendors. My best recommendation would be to purchase recycled antique stones, or Canadamark diamonds for their traceability.
However, I understand that there may be specific situations where clients may prefer lab-grown stones, and I am open to discuss this option for custom work.
Can you reuse my gold and stones?
I can reuse colored gemstones and diamonds in suitable condition for custom pieces. I cannot reuse precious metals at the moment.
Jewelry Care
Cleaning care
Please only clean your jewelry with a soft toothbrush and soapy warm water. Ultrasonic machines may cause colored stones to fracture, or loosen stones from their settings.
Wear care
As a general rule of thumb, please take jewelry off when performing strenuous physical tasks, or when interacting with strong chemical agents. Such activities can physically abrade or chemically damage your pieces.
For instance, gym equipment can easily scratch metal and colored gemstones. The chlorine in cleaning agents and swimming pools or hot tubs will also corrode gold and can cause settings to become loose and brittle.
Shipping
USA & Canada
I offer complimentary fully insured shipping (with signature required) for all US and Canada based purchases.
UK, Germany, France, Singapore, Japan, South Korea
Insured UPS Worldwide Expedited:
Purchases equal or less $1000usd- Flat $50usd
Purchases above $1000-$10000usd- Flat $100usd
All other international shipping
Kindly reach out through my Instagram DMs or send an email to maggie@karmiladarling.store for all other international shipping options.
Duties & Taxes
Domestic US taxes will be collected at checkout. All international duties and sales and fees are the responsibility of the customer.
Resizing & Repairs
Yes! I currently accept resizing and repair work for all jewelry purchased from Karmila Darling.
For complimentary ring resizing (where offered), please allow an additional 5 days for order fulfillment.
Repair fees are quoted on a case-by-case basis.
Item weights
Weights are listed as-is, before any resizing or engraving. Even sizing up can lead to a slight reduction, as polishing and cleanup may remove a tiny amount of material. (e.g. 0..1g reduction)
Refund & Returns
I sincerely hope you love the pieces you have purchased!
All custom & made-to-order pieces are final sale, while in-stock items can be returned at the buyers shipping cost within 1 week of receipt for store credit.
Warranty & Insurance
I personally ensure all pieces meet quality before delivery. In the unlikely event you notice something amiss, please contact me within 7 days of receipt & I will make things right.
Please consider insuring your piece against damage due to wear, loss, theft, or any other unforeseen circumstances.