Valiance

Frequently Asked Questions

What is .999 fine silver?

Fine silver is pure elemental silver (Ag), whereas traditional sterling is 92.5% silver and 7.5% copper. The .999 designates fine silver as 99.9% silver versus sterling's 925.

Fine silver is my preferred medium over sterling because it has a brighter tone and tarnishes far less than sterling. It is more precious.

Some who find they have reactions to sterling also have no issue with fine silver, since it lacks copper which is a common irritant. Furthermore, it is more valuable and has been appreciated in folk medicine for quite some time.

Unlike sterling, fine silver is also well suited for some of my favorite ancient techniques like chain weaving and granulation.

Why use 18g (1mm) ear wires and posts?

For the health of your piercings!

Most ear wires and posts on the market are 20-22g, or less than .8mm. When these thin wires are worn with weighty earrings, piercings begin to migrate, causing "cheese cutter ears".

Thicker wires allow healthier weight distribution of heavier earrings.

What's the process for commissioned work?

Please reach out to me through this site or at James.Morgenstein@gmail.com with your ideas!

My minimum for commissions is $600 USD.

I will respond with a price and a rough sketch if necessary for your approval.
After full payment is received, I will procure stones and begin fabrication.

From this point, most pieces are completed in 1-3 weeks.

Preferred materials for custom works are .999 fine silver, 24k fine gold and fine gems & diamonds.