Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, we have over 100+ videos on how to use this welder!

YOU CAN VIEW THEM HERE

*Please note that all out training is via YouTube video. If you have further questions, you can email us at sales@stonesandfindings.com- Attention Dana. 

Yes, shipping is free to the US and Canada!

Do you need chains and findings? Place your stock order with your Orion Welder and you will receive FREE Purolator Ground shipping on your stock order as well!*

*Please note that your stock order may be shipped separately from you welder. You may receive two separate tracking numbers for this purchase.

For International orders, please contact us at Sales@stonesandfindings.com for a shipping quote.

Buying a welder? you will get FREE purolator Ground shipping if you place chains and findings stock order!

To receive your FREE shipping on your stock purchase, please chose the shipping option “Forgot Something?” and we will ship this order with Purolator Ground for you!

*Please note that your stock order will be shipped separately from you welder. You will receive two separate tracking numbers for this purchase.

Only available in Canada and the US

After ordering your welder with us, shipping time averages 2-4 business days. Once it has been shipped we will contact you with your tracking number. 

There is a 10% restocking charge for unused welders, 20% restocking charge for used welders within 20 days of receipt, and no refund after 20 days.

Yes, you will receive a warranty through Sunstone. With any questions about this warranty, please contact Sunstone customer support.

If you have a mechanical issue, please contact the Sunstone technical support team- tech@sunstonewelders.com or call +1 801-658-0015

No, you will not be charged anything further at delivery! Taxes are paid when you order your welder through stonesandfindings.com and we will cover any import fees. 

If, for some reason you are charged fees at delivery, please contact us right ways with your receipt of charges. We will fix this issue right away.

 

You will only be charged state taxes on your Sunstone products. (IE:Welders, Cases and Grounded Pliers)

All other items purchased from Stones and Findings will be tax free. 

Any additional fees will be covered by us.

If, for some reason you are charged fees at delivery, please contact us right ways with your receipt of charges. We will fix this issue right away.

 

Please contact us at sales@stonesandfindings.com

The melting on the top happens when the power setting is too high and/or you are not using argon gas.  

Watch our recent video on the optimal power setting. Even though we have created the chart, it may be worthwhile watching this because it shows you what happens at the top of the ring, and we have some pictures to compare in the video:

https://youtu.be/6cTq8COoLLA?si=qBctya9xz0wWgljQ

Here is the chart we have formulated after our experiments:

https://stonesandfindings.com/optimal-power-setting-for-micro-welding/

Even though your welding has worked previously, conditions and requirements change due to the condition of the electrode; The sharper the electrode, the more power it admits, because the point is more concentrated.  Also, the more blunt, the higher the power required.  

Smokiness is due to soot build up And can be minimized by keeping the tip of the electrode clean and sharp.  A minor point would be if the Jump rings might have a bit of dust or grease from handling, but that’s hard to see. 

If you have any questions about how to use the Orion Micro welder, you may be able to find your answer in one of our 60+ training videos:

https://www.youtube.com/user/StonesFindings

If you cannot find the answer in our videos, please contact us at sales@stonesandfinding.com. Attention Dana.

 

 

Yes. You can view it here:

https://sunstonewelders.com/pdf/mpulse-user-manual-sunstone-welders.pdf

Yes! Please note that we are only provide free shipping to Canada or the US. For all other countries, please request a quote.

VIEW THEM HERE

From our experience, the best machines on the market are Orion Micro Welders, made in the USA, by Sunstone Engineering. The many reviews from users state that they are vastly superior in portability, reliability and power control. If you are considering an unbranded machine, please read reviews and ask your peers on their experiences before purchasing. Although many use unbranded machines, and have had no issues, some machines are listed as good for Permanent Jewelry, but were not designed to be used in this manner. The biggest complaints we have heard with some Chinese made unbranded machines was uncontrollable flashes. This can cause issues with welding and possible burns for your client. 

Our PJ expert, Dana, has only ever used the Orion welders and here is a video of how simply it is to operate.

We’ve created a comparison chart to help you choose from our selection!

VIEW THE CHART HERE

ADL stands for auto dimming lens.  Without the ADL, there is a stand for the stylus that is included in the basic Zapp Plus model.  With the ADL, there is a a stand with lights, and a shaded shield which automatically goes dark when there is weld contact.  This serves to protect the eyes from repeated exposure to the flash.   WIthout the ADL, you can wear the protective shades that come with the standard package.

Two further items that comes with the ADL package, which the standard package does not have:

  • Regulator for argon gas
  • Sunstone’s PJ starter kit

We’ve created a comparison chart to help you choose from our selection!

VIEW THE CHART HERE

Yes! We have kits that include your welder as well as kits that include our most popular chains, findings and ready to wear products!

VIEW OUR KITS

It is best to buy at least 2m because often groups (bridal party, sororities, teams..) have more than 5 people, and they often want the same bracelet.  Two meters will give about 10 bracelets and that is not a lot for one style of chain.  

You should also begin with 3-5 different styles of chain.  Although there will be one or two that will be the most popular, selection is key to customer shopping experience satisfaction.

As you expand and there is also more competition in the markets you are at, then you want to increase your variety to 8-10 different styles.

Try one of our Kits!

 

1 meter = 3.28 feet = 39.4 inches

Average North American female wrist size is 6.5” (so, 1m makes 6 bracelets)

Average North American male wrist size is 7.5” (so, 1m makes 5 bracelets)

Yes, you can.  There will be a small dot (size of half of a poppy seed) of weld mark that may darken over time, due to exposed metal that has been fused with the exterior gold sheet of gold filled.  However, it is inconspicuous and customers do not seem to mind.  If you do not feel comfortable, you can always choose to use solid gold jump rings.

Here is a video with a more in depth discussion.

Yes, but sometimes the plating bubbles and peels.  It depends on the metal and the plating job.  It is highly not recommended for permanent jewelry.  Normally, base metal chains are finished before it is plated as the final step, for the aforementioned reason.

No, a jump ring is not necessary for a successful weld, but it is highly recommended.  A well made jump ring will have ends which are completely flush, allowing for an easy, secure and lasting weld.  The consistency of using a jump ring will be an enormous time saver and a small jump ring is inconspicuous.  The use of jump rings is favored by the vast majority of Permanent Jewelry welders.

If you choose not to use a jump ring, please make sure that you use flush cutters when cutting the chain link, making sure that both ends of the cuts are completely flat.  In this way, they can meet together with the maximum amount of connecting surface.  If the ends are not completely flat and touching, it will not weld securely.

When the chain is too fine for a jump ring to go through the link, we have developed a way to weld the chain by balling the ends.  Here is a video to demonstrate the technique.

 

First, we want to ask you: are you using pliers to check if you can break the jump ring open?  You should.  If it doesn’t break, even with force, then it will withstand wear.  If it does snap open with force, then the weld is not deep enough.

Oftentimes the first snap (weld) doesn’t work, and it takes two or three tries, for the following reasons:

  1. jump ring isn’t closed tightly enough for both ends to be touching (I know I’ve mentioned this many times before, but it is number one and you should close it by almost grinding the ends together as you slide the ends of the ring closed – almost feel the grit and pressure)
  2. your hand sometimes moves around, the needle is tiny and your hands are suspended in an awkward position
  3. your hand instinctively withdraws a little when you hear the click sound – it’s a natural reflex.  Although there ends up being fire, it is very very light and will break open in a short time.  It takes practice to overcome that urge.  Practice keeping constant pressure on the contact between the electrode and jumpring.
  4. the electrode is not touching RIGHT IN THE MIDDLE of the seam (touching on one side more than the other, so it melts one side and barely heats the other, so the weld is not strong)
  5. not enough power to penetrate through both sides of the jumpring – this could be setting being too low, or the electrode had dulled.  You should sharpen the electrode regularly, but if it is dulled, then you need to up the power.

After you’ve checked and practiced the above, you should increase your power to 7w.  I think 10w will be too high and will startle you, if not melt the ring, but try it if you feel up for practicing.  Once you are able to weld securely at higher wattage and master it, reduce the wattage and make sure you master that as well.  By mastering, I mean you are able to repeat successfully each time.  

Always check with pliers that you cannot break open the jump before the clients leave the chair.  You will sleep better at night.

 

Here is a Power-Setting Guide we have created for different metals and thicknesses:

https://stonesandfindings.com/optimal-power-setting-for-micro-welding/

 

 

Here is a free video for troubleshooting common mistakes in welding.

 

 

For most jump rings of 24ga-22ga, there is no need to change power setting (7w has worked best for me) and no need to change electrodes (some welding machine makers suggest having sharper electrodes for more power and duller electrodes for easier metals like 925 silver, but it is a hassle to change if you have a line of people waiting).  The difference is minimal and you should find success by keeping your electrode sharp and simply adjust the power as you need.

We created a chart to help you with this.

VIEW CHART HERE

You can clean the oxidation build up by using a tissue and wiping the electrode every few welds.  As it dulls, the easiest and cheapest way to sharpen it is simply to use a thick file.  Here is a free video to demonstrate how.

We also carry the Pilot for a quick sharpening. 

Pricing by-the-bracelet is best under most circumstances, for the following reasons:

  1. It will avoid people making appointments only to realize, when they finally get measured, that it is out of their budget or more expensive than they had anticipated.
  2. By the inch is harder for gift giving and budgeting for the gift giver.
  3. A lot of time is wasted on doing the calculation and decision making because one chain is more than another x the cost of then length.

The following method may be more practical:

  1.  Build into your cost that the average bracelet will be 6.5” to 7.5”, depending on the wrist size of your local population. 
  2. Have a range of 3 different price points for dainty, medium and thicker chains and different metals.
  3. If others are advertising based on per inch and your per bracelet price seems expensive, you can always quote  in brackets “avg $6 per inch” or something of the sort

For Solid 14K gold, where the cost of material is a more significant portion of the sale, pricing by the inch is fine.

 

Despite what some people say on the internet, you do not need to have argon gas in order to achieve strong and secure welds when micro welding.  We  filmed an honest review and comparison for welding with and without argon:

Is Argon Gas Really Necessary (and how to set it up)

Argon is way more controversial than it should be. The benefits of argon when used for permanent Jewelry are less noticeable than with other forms of welding, because the size of the weld is so small. In larger scale welding the welding systems would not work, and damage would occur if gas was not used. Simply put, in normal welding (outside of Jewelry) there is no application where gas is not required, it is universally used and required.

The main benefits of Argon are:

  • Pushes Oxygen away from the weld site preventing unwanted oxides to form in the molten metal.
  • Protects and prolongs the electrode tip. Electrode will remain sharper and last longer.
  • Less porosity (holes) in your finished welds. Oxygen & Oxides cannot get trapped in the metal.
  • Pulse arc welding uses a plasma arc. This plasma is what generates the amount of heat needed to melt the metal. The ions in the gas are positively charged and help create a stable arc.
  • More consistency in creating welds as the Arc will be stabilized by the argon gas.
  • More consistency of welds – Less misfires
  • Argon will help the metal flow together better – Less oxygen, nitrogen, hydrogen contaminated the weld flow)

The key is the use of a Noble gas – there are 7 total, all but two are far too expensive for welding use. Argon & Helium are the two options that can be used for a shielding gas. Argon is used on all metals and all applications, is ideal for every welding condition. Helium is more expensive in most cases, less effective is some alloys. That is why Argon is the most recommended.

Watch our video here

26ga (0.40) and 24ga (0.5mm) wire thickness is the easiest for welding. However, if your chain allows for a larger size, 22ga would be the next best. If you are using the Orion Micro Welder (other brands may vary in power), the power setting of 7w is the ideal.  3mm diameter jump rings are large enough to connect most fine chains.

Our Optimal Power Guide for Welding

 

All of our 925 silver chains are made in Italy.

Half of our solid 14K gold chains are made in Italy, the remainder made in USA.

Virtually all of our gold filled is made in USA, a few styles are from a USA company that has factories they operate elsewhere.

Yes, sterling silver does tarnish. The speed of the metal darkening depends on the chemical makeup of the person’s skin, whether the silver has been exposed to toxic chemicals like chlorinated pools and sulphur springs. However, silver tarnish is superficial and welded bracelets can be easily cleaned.  Here is a video to show you how. 

No, we do not carry silver filled.  Silver naturally tarnishes, although the amount varies with different people, and in some cases, it becomes shinier with wear.  To clean silver, especially with Permanent Jewelry, it is advisable to clean with liquid cleaner, which takes microscopic amounts away from the surface.  This would not be advisable for silver filled, which has a brass core that can be exposed with long-term and frequent cleaning.

We have a large selection of premium quality 925 silver chains from Italy.  Due to the high volume we purchase, along with keeping the margins low, we are able to offer tremendous .925 silver chains similar to the price of silver filled. 

Gold-filled jewelry is made by bonding a layer of gold to a base metal (brass).The gold layer in gold-filled jewelry is thicker and more durable compared to gold-plated jewelry. American standard is 1/20th gold.  However, it is still possible for gold-filled jewelry to leave a dark mark on the skin and/or have the metal oxide under certain circumstances.
Gold Filled is a very durable metal and it is a popular choice for many designers including those offering permanent jewelry.
The dark mark or discoloration that can occur with gold-filled jewelry is often a result of abrasion or the base metal reacting with substances present on the skin. Here are a few reasons why this may happen:
1. Body Chemistry: Every individual’s body chemistry is unique, and some people’s skin chemistry can react with metals differently. Factors like pH levels, sweat composition, and skin acidity can influence the reaction between the base metal and the skin, leading to discoloration.
2. Friction and Moisture: When gold-filled jewelry comes into contact with moisture, such as sweat or water, it can accelerate the reaction between the base metal and the skin. Additionally, friction caused by the movement of the jewelry against the skin can contribute to the dark mark.
3. Chemicals and Cosmetics: Contact with chemicals found in cosmetics, lotions, perfumes, hairsprays, or household cleaning products can cause gold-filled jewelry to darken. Some chemicals can react with the metal components, leading to discolouration.
4. Environmental Factors: Exposure to certain environmental elements, such as air pollution, sulfur, or high humidity, can accelerate the tarnishing process of gold-filled jewelry.
 

This is because many sellers, unknowingly or unscrupulously, name plated brass or copper as gold filled.  In some countries, they are understood as one in the same.  However, in the USA, and by extension North America, gold filled is a legal standard that cannot be confused with gold plated.

There is a huge difference between gold plated brass and gold filled – gold plated base metal should never be used in Permanent Jewelry.  While the inferior metal is less expensive and popular in cheap costume jewellery, permanently welded jewellery must be able to withstand being worn in the shower, exposed to sweat and skin care products.  Plated base metal chains would tarnish within a couple of months under these circumstances. Here is a video explaining the differences. 

This is hard to say because it is still fairly new.  In our own experience, the breakage was not at the weld seam, but rather when the chain finally broke as it got caught on something while the person was in a hurry.  This was after 7 months of love and rough wear.

Theoretically, it should last for many years, if one doesn’t get it snagged.  However, after it breaks, one could easily weld it again at the break.

Although all our chains are sold for the purpose of making jewellery, some chains may be an irritant for 24hr wear. 

Flat wire can feel scratchy to some. Chains that are not a smooth line (like satellite chains) can catch on things.

When choosing your chains, make sure to offer product knowledge on your offerings to make sure your customers are getting the perfect chain for them!

Yes, precious and demi-precious chain can stretch. The higher the gold of silver content, the softer the metal.

The finer the wire link in the chain, the higher the chance of stretching. Saying this, the finer links are ideal for PJ as for security and safety reasons, you want it to stretch and pop apart if caught on something. You will find that those who are very active- like runners will have more occurrence of stretching or breaking or metal abrasion. You will find that your chains may stretch more on anklets simply because there is so much more movement on an ankle vs wrist. Lots of tendons, muscles, socks and shoes to contend with!

Simple things like getting the bracelet caught in a blanket when sleeping, pulling the bracelet when taking off gloves/shirt or simply that you touch/tug at the bracelet often, can cause a bit of stretching. With anklets, boots and socks can get caught. With necklaces taking off shirts and scarves can cause this as well.

Although precious metal is the preference for PJ, the metals still require care. We call it Permanent Jewelry, but it is not indestructible! Even more so when being worn 24/7.

Note that many chains still look good when slightly stretched and are still very wearable. Some chains, like the satellite styles of chains, may not look as good when stretched. The beads on the satellite chain are lightly soldered and the beads may move when the link on the chain are stretched flat. 

We do not recommend using anything plated for PJ.

If using Vermeille, the gold will eventually wear down to the silver casted part. If you use Vermeille, it is best to let your customer know this before purchasing.

Solid gold, gold filled and sterling silver are excellent metals for PJ, but they are not indestructible and can break or stretch if the jewelry is caught or tugged.

We take great care to include the thickness of the metals used in each part and to provide some product knowledge on some items that may require more care.

Note that thinner metals require more care than thicker metals. Precious and demi-precious metal are softer than base metals like stainless steel. Solid gold is softer than sterling silver and sterling silver is softer than gold filled, which has a brass core. 

Although we source from the top of the line manufacturers, their will alweays be the occasional manufactures defect. If you would like to inquire about replacing an item that may be quality, please send us a photo. We refund or replace all manufacturers defects. 

Example of a Manufactures Defect: the loop of your connector snapped of at the soldered point)

Remember, jewellery making parts are not made specifically for one style of jewellery, not every part is right for every project. If you have any questions, we are happy to answer them! It is the responsibility of the jewelry designer to request more information if they are unsure if a product is right for their jewelry designs.

Please send all all inquiries to Sales@stonesandfindings.com. Our staff would love to help you!

 

We guarantee that all our sterling silver components and chains are at least .925. All our sterling silver is nickel and cadmium free.

Sterling silver must be at least 92.5% silver. The 7.5% alloy in sterling silver is made up largely of copper.   There might be a bit of another proprietary metal formula that the manufacturer uses to make it stronger, but we are not privy to the formula.   It does not contain nickel in the 7.5% alloy that makes up 925 silver.

There are so many types of metal sensitivities. There are people who are simply allergic to Sterling Silver. Often these people can only wear high carat gold (smaller percentage of base metals in the mix). If your customer is very sensitive to copper, they may have a problem with sterling silver. If your customer is very sensitive to brass, they may have a strong reaction to gold filed (the core is brass).

Yes, sterling silver will tarnish.
 
Part of the beauty of sterling silver is that it ages with wear and exposure.
 
There are many situations that can cause silver to tarnish.  Unless the designer fully coats the piece with lacquer. (which is rarely done in handmade pieces)
 
  • Storage and packaging is important to keep your silver brighter longer. Some dyes from strings and gift bags can cause tarnish. We used to use dyed brown wool for tags for labeling products, all the silver touching the wool would tarnish but nothing else.
  • Leaving jewelry in gift boxes, without sealing the silver in a bag, will leave the sterling exposed to air and any chemical that can be in the puffy filling or dye from the box.
  • Mixing silver with other metals may also accelerate darkening.
  • Exposure to fluorescent lights can also accelerate tarnish. 
  • Certain things, like dampness and sun exposure can accelerate oxidation.
  • Certain environments, like a salon/spa (chemicals in the air) will also cause your silver to darken faster.
  • At the home, near/in a bathroom or a window. Dampness is the very worst for sterling. Simple things, such as a hot day and slightly sweating hands, can also accelerate tarnish.
When your pieces are not being shown, keep sealed in acid free bags and in a dark, dry area. All your supplies should be stored as such as well. If your pieces are on display, cover them overnight. 
 There are many ways to clean sterling. The most popular is a dip or a silver cleaning cloth. If you use the dip, make sure your silver is super dry before storing. Also, to avoid dipping unless absolutely necessary. Each dip removes a slight layer of silver and will tarnish a bit quicker after every dip.
Sterling silver is perfect for Permanent bracelet and jewelry!
 
Yes, sterling silver does tarnish as this is the nature of the metal. It will darken lightly with wear and time but remains a beautiful metal and option for your jewelry.
 
Many people will still wear their jewellery in water. In cases of permanent bracelets, where they cannot be removed, it is best to rinse it very well after any contact with soaps and salt or chlorinated water.
 
Testing your pieces in different environments, is the best way to share your experience with your clients.

We guarantee that all our Gold Filled components and chains are all American standard . All components and chains are 1/20th gold with a brass core. All our gold filled is nickel and cadmium free.

Gold Filled is an American metal manufacturing process and legal standard of quality. GF is two sheets of solid karat gold. Most popular being 14kt gold. These sheets are  bonded over (or for wire, rolled in tube) a core of brass. A piece of jewelry to be legally stamped with the telltale ‘GF’ marking, its weight must be at least 1/20th gold. This explains the typical stamp you would expect to see on gold filled articles: “1/20 14K GF”, which means that 5 percent of the piece is 14 karat gold. Due to the surface layer of gold-filled jewelry being about 100 times thicker than any plating, gold-filled pieces tend to last much longer, and are considered ‘lifetime jewelry’

Watch our video on the differences of gold filled and other gold products.

There are so many types of metal sensitivities. There are people who are simply allergic to Sterling Silver. Often these people can only wear high carat gold (smaller percentage of base metals in the mix). If your customer is very sensitive to copper, they may have a problem with sterling silver. If your customer is very sensitive to brass, they may have a strong reaction to gold filed (the core is brass)

Not always. 

With each batch of manufactured gold filled, you will find that the color will vary. Even from the same manufacturer. This is an industry norm and you will notice this with all your suppliers. You will notice that this happened with sterling silver as well, but it is much less noticeable in silver on silver vs gold on gold. 
 
Although there can be a slight color difference in each piece, you will see that once the jewelry is put together, it is much less noticeable.
 
The color difference does bother some. If you are unsure, please limit your order to samples. Review our return policy before ordering as cut chains and wire are final sale. 
Gold-filled jewelry is made by bonding a layer of gold to a base metal (brass).The gold layer in gold-filled jewelry is thicker and more durable compared to gold-plated jewelry. American standard is 1/20th gold.  However, it is still possible for gold-filled jewelry to leave a dark mark on the skin and/or have the metal oxide under certain circumstances.
Gold Filled is a very durable metal and it is a popular choice for many designers including those offering permanent jewelry.
The dark mark or discoloration that can occur with gold-filled jewelry is often a result of abrasion or the base metal reacting with substances present on the skin. Here are a few reasons why this may happen:
1. Body Chemistry: Every individual’s body chemistry is unique, and some people’s skin chemistry can react with metals differently. Factors like pH levels, sweat composition, and skin acidity can influence the reaction between the base metal and the skin, leading to discoloration.
2. Friction and Moisture: When gold-filled jewelry comes into contact with moisture, such as sweat or water, it can accelerate the reaction between the base metal and the skin. Additionally, friction caused by the movement of the jewelry against the skin can contribute to the dark mark.
3. Chemicals and Cosmetics: Contact with chemicals found in cosmetics, lotions, perfumes, hairsprays, or household cleaning products can cause gold-filled jewelry to darken. Some chemicals can react with the metal components, leading to discolouration.
4. Environmental Factors: Exposure to certain environmental elements, such as air pollution, sulfur, or high humidity, can accelerate the tarnishing process of gold-filled jewelry.
 

You have probably noticed that Gold Filled discs tend to be thinner than their silver counterparts. This is due to the higher costs of the metal. Each American standard gold filled component has to be 1/20th gold, so the thicker it gets, the more gold is in it and higher the costs. Most are 0.3mm, but can be up to 0.8mm. The thickness will be listed in the description section of the product code. 

When stamping thinner discs, you need use less strength when hammering.

You can view our video on stamping gold filled components.

Gold filled is an excellent choice for Permanent Bracelets and jewelry.
 
Although, in general, we recommend that jewellery be removed prior to showering it won’t hurt the metal. 
 
Many people will still wear their jewellery in water. In cases of permanent bracelets, where they cannot be removed, it is best to rinse it very well after any contact with soaps and salt or chlorinated water.
 
Testing your pieces in different environments, is the best way to share your experience with your clients.

Any metal can be electroplated with sterling silver or gold. The precious metal plating is often quite thin and does require gentler handling to preserver the plating. 

We cary many items that are gold or silver plated.

Example #1: We carry hand cut semiprecious stone pendants that have a base plate of copper and then further electroplated with gold or silver.

Example #2: We carry a selection of gold plated sterling silver. These items are casted in sterling and then electroplated with gold. One of our most popular items are our 6mm round bezel set stone charms.

Example #3: We carry a selection of gold plated sterling silver that has a clear protective coating baked on. The coating is much like a ceramic glaze which is baked on – making it highly durable against wear and tear, and will prevent future tarnish. Here is an example of this style of plating.

No, the size may have a tolerance of -0 +1/4.

From the Manufacturers:

“We try to hold a tolerance on the rings of -0 + 1/4 ring size, about the best we can hold depending on the style. Some of the handmade can be more. But in general ¼ is the best we can do.”

No, they may include a factory break. 

What is a factory break?

There is no way for our factories to produce continuous lengths for the quantities we order. Their machines have length limitations and they will attach lengths together with wire. This is an industry norm in large orders. 

We do guarantee that there will be no factory break in length under 5 meters. However, in spools 6-10 there may be one included. in spools 20+ there may be one every 10 meters. 

We choose to keep our prices super low and include the factory breaks instead of increasing the prices to cover the huge losses if we had to cut chains around them.

We do our best. We try to provide multiple images and detailed descriptions to help you have a better experience shopping online. However, we are not able to guarantee that colours from screen to screen will be accurate.

If you are purchasing strands of stones or pearls: These are natural products and will vary from strand to strand. The photo will be an average of what you will expect. If you wish for further images of our most current stock, please email us at : Sales@stonesandfindings.com

All dimensions are approximate.

For strands, since there is variation from bead to bead. We try our best to provide dimension information as precise as possible, however, in many cases there is variation in the stones themselves and we do make mistakes.

  • Not exactly. It is just an estimate. We count a few of the strands to get the best average.
  • All prices are based on a single strand as it is, NOT on any specific length or any specific number of pieces in a strand.
  • Buy a little more than you need. The actual count always varies due to variations in the individual items. In addition there are always some pieces not suitable for your use for various reasons. Therefore, after you figure out the quantity you need, you should add extra depending on your own tolerance for quality.
  • All dimensions are approximate. 
  • Strands: The measurement of a bead will the the overall average from the strands purchased. The size may vary from strand to strand
    • Some strands are strung in a graduated pattern with the smallest size at either end gradually getting larger towards the middle. In this case we measure the largest bead. 
    • The weight is is average based on multiple strands
  • Chains: The length of the chain is in mm. For example, chains sold by the meter will be 1000 mm. An 18 inch chain will be 457mm.
  • Findings: We try to be as detailed as possible, if you do not see the information you are looking for please email us at Sales@stonesandfindings.com

 

  • Please review the photos. These are natural products. There are variations depending on the mine, dye lot, etc. Inevitably there is variation, dips, inclusions and irregularities. 
  • We do our best to pick out the best quality available so that our quality is better than other suppliers. However, we do not grade our strands.
  • You should expect some Irregularities. We do not guarantee that each bead on a strand has no chips, irregular drills, pits (pearls) or inclusions. This is already accounted for in the price. Order slightly more than you need to account for your quality preferences. (Delicate stone beads tend to have more breakage and chips than standard shapes. (Waved Square, Waved Triangle shapes have more broken pieces than round.)
  • You should expect variance in pattern. As stone is mined it goes through various veins that produce different patterns in the beads. Not all the beads on a strand contain the same pattern, and the pattern of the strand may not necessarily match the pattern in the picture. This is especially true for highly patterned stones like feldspath and snake skin jasper. If you require a specific pattern then please email us for further images.
  • If you are worried about quality start with a small test order.
  • If you really need 100% guarantee on the quality of the stones on a strand, please ask for more photos and we will gladly send them. Email us at Sales@stonesandfindings.com
  • No. We have not noticed any significant fading.
  • Some suppliers use jade that has been treated with surface dye. These tend to fade. Our jade is treated in such a way that the dye goes all the way through.
  • The color of the stones vary from one dye lot to the next. You should expect some variation in the colours of the stones but this is not necessarily due to fading.
FAQ

Simply place your new order online and choose the shipping option “Forgot Something?” and will combine your orders for you. If your add on order has the $15 fee applied, we will automatically refund when we receive your add on. 

Yes, we do. As long as you meet our minimum of $150 before tax. A $15 handling fee will be applied to all orders below $150. 

If you’re a registered Canadian customer, your prices will be displayed in CAD. If you’re an international customer, your prices will be displayed in USD(to see the current USD conversion )

Yes. We can ship to just about anywhere. You will be responsible for figuring out and arranging for any duties or cross-border shipping issues. Having said that we are very familiar with shipping to the US.

No, we will not break up a strand. On occasion strands do break and we are left with partial strands or loose beads. If you are looking for just a few loose beads, please contact your local bead shop for help.

No, we don’t. Please browse through this website for all information.

No. Strictly first come first served. Availability is based on ship date. If you place an order for future delivery, we do our best to fill the order at time of shipping not when it is ordered.

If you can’t find a particular item that you had seen before in this web site, that means it is either temporarily out of stock or discontinued.

  • Minimum Order: $150.00 for assorted items.
  • Handling Charge: $15.00 A handling charge will be added to orders less than $150.00.
  • Items sold per piece: For items sold per piece, the minimum quantities are based on the wholesale price of the item.

No, we do not provide terms to customers. We will only ship or hold orders that have been paid for.

  • We accept VisaMasterCard, and American Express through PayPal 
  • We accept VisaMasterCard directly on our checkout page.
  • We accept $CAD Canadian E-Transfers.
  • We do not accept personal, company, or COD checks.
Here are some of the reasons a credit card will not process on our Credit Card option at check out:
1. Using a credit card that is a Visa/Debit. US Visa debits will not process on the CC payment system. please process through PayPal.
2. This payment method only accepts Visa or MC, if you are using another card type, like AMEX, it will not process.
3. Outside Canada: Your credit card is protecting you. Our address is Canadian, so your credit card may be declining the payment knowing you are not in Canada. You may need to contact the credit card company to confirm that yes, you are indeed making this payment and try processing again.
4. Daily spend limit. Sometimes the daily limits are lower than you’d expect based on funds available. 
 
You may also want to try processing your payment through the Paypal payment option. You don’t need an account, you can process as a guest. This option allows you to use other CC options besides a regular Visa and MC.
  • Stones and Findings is located in Toronto, Ontario. We charge Provincial Sales Tax on all orders fulfilled to customers in Ontario. Sales made and shipped to customers in other provinces are exempt from Ontario sales tax but expected to comply with their province’s current laws regarding out-of-province purchases.
  • The federal General Sales Tax is charged on all sales to customers in Canada, except for Maritime customers (excluding PEI) who are expected to pay Harmonized Sales Tax instead of PST/GST. Orders shipped to customers in other countries, including the USA, are exempt from both the PST and GST taxes. Some customs fees may apply.
  • No. It really depends on the market demand and material supply. We try to carry popular and regular items all the time. However, we can not guarantee the availability of any particular item at any time
  • Check your receipt. Once we have received your order we pack it and only at that time are the quantities and availability known.
  • Large quantities. For some items it takes 2 months to receive a new shipment. Give us as much lead time as possible and we will do our best to make sure you have the items you need.
  • Reserve the Right to substitute. When you sell the items make sure you reserve the right to substitute beads so that you do not get caught in an awkward situation.
  • We do not make money on shipping! We charge you what we have to pay. We do our best to get the best rates and the most convenient service.
  • Canada Post: Canadians: These options will calculate at cart level
  • Purolator: Canadians and USA: These options will calculate at cart level
  • DHL: For customers in the USA and some International, DHL options are calculated at cart level. For other international orders, please contact us for quotes.
  • Chit Chats USPS and International Tracked: USA and International: These options will be calculated at cart level.
  • Insurance. Will always be applied. (except for USPS) The maximum amount of insurance for any parcel is $5000. If you need more insurance we will ship it as 2 parcels.
  • We will provide you with a tracking number. 
  • Back order shipment is considered a separate shipment from original order. Freight charges will be added to every back order shipment.
  • Exchange is considered a return of shipped order followed by a separate new order. Customer need to pay both return freight and new order’s outgoing freight.
  • International Shipping (outside USA). We currently use DHL Express Worldwide and Chitchats International tracked orders. The DHL rate for your individual order will be calculated once it has been received, and you will be asked for confirmation before payment.
  • EU Countries require an EORI or TAX ID umber to ship you package, please include this is the Notes section of your order.

Shipping costs usually depend on the shipping company chosen, the weight of the package, and destination. Addresses within Canada can expect a lower shipping rate than international destinations. Also keep in mind any extra customs or taxes you might have to pay on top of the shipping from us.

Within Canada, we offer Purolator and Canada Post as our shipping companies.

To the United States we use DHL, Purolator and USPS.

Please note that if you choose DHL, but your location is considered a “remote location” by the carrier, your order will be shipped using Purolator. We will refund the difference for Deferred/Ground (Purolator is cheaper) and we will match the cost for Express.(Purolator is more costly)

For international destinations we use DHL and Asendia/Chitchats International.

By choosing to have your order shipped you are agreeing to the terms and conditions of that carrier.

All our packages are fully insured up until confirmed delivery. Once it is delivered the contract we have with the carrier has been completed.

CANADA POST, PUROLATOR and DHL all require signature upon delivery. 

If you wish for us to ship DHL or Purolator without required signature, please provide an email with this request as written confirmation. Our packages are insured up until confirmed delivery. We do not insure for localized theft. By agreeing to removing “signature required” you agree to these terms. 

 

 

The delivery times listed are estimates and are not guaranteed. However, if your package was very late, we can contact the courier and attempt to get a full or partial refund. The most likely candidate for a refund is CanadaPost for late deliveries.

  • Cut chains are all final sale. No Exceptions.
  • Permanent Jewelry Chain Kits are final sale. No Exceptions.
  • Cut wire is final sale. No Exceptions.

Orion Micro Welders, Scopes and Sunstone Upgrades: There is a 10% restocking charge for un-used welders, 20% restocking charge for Used welders within 20 days of receipt, and no refund after 20 days.

  • Sale and Last Call Items can be returned with 7 calendar days of receiving the product. Sales and Last Call items cannot be returned after this period. Sale and Last Call items can be returned for credit only. No refunds
  • No returns for trade show purchases or custom orders.
  • If the return drops the order total below the $150 minimum, the $15 handling will apply
  • If you have purchased a kit, that does NOT have cut chains, you can return the kits as a whole, but not in part. For example, if you bought a kit of all the birthstone month charms as a kit, you can return the whole (100%) of the kit, but you cannot just return the June charms. The kits are prices not a one SKU and cannot be broken up. 
  • All returns need an authorization number. Please email us to get one. (if you do not get a reply in 1 business day, please call us.)
  • Customer need to pay the return freight and any applicable duties or taxes incurred in the return.
  • We reserve the right to change the quantity discount if the return drops you out of a quantity discount bracket.
  • If a return is improperly packaged or damaged in shipping we will not accept it.
  • Items must be returned in their original format. (No broken strands will be accepted.)
  •  
  • Our Return address is:
     
    Stones and Findings
    Att: Lori French
    9 Adelaide Place
    Toronto ON
    M5V 2N7
    Canada
     
    Our location only has a secure mailbox with a slot measuring

    28cm x 1cm.  If your parcel is bigger than these dimensions, please send it to us with “Signature Required”. Insuring the return is the responsibly of the sender.

  • We will handle refunds as laid out in the following table. (Days refers to calendar days not business days.)
Days after receiving shipment Online Return Policy
7 days or less Full Refund for bead items and findings purchased.
30 days or less 15% restocking fee
60 days or less 30% restocking fee
More than 60 days No returns will be accepted

It is common to have some beads or pearls in a strand not suitable for your use for various reasons. We do NOT issue credit for those beads or pearls because the price always reflects the general quality of the entire strand, not every single piece . Therefore, if the overall quality of the entire strand doesn’t meet your requirements, you can return the whole strand in its original condition. Please refer to our return policy. We do not issue refunds for returns of partial strands or used strands.

All you need to do is fill our our registration form HERE

The email may have been intercepted by your Spam Filter. Check through your spam and see if there is an email from us.

This means that you probably have HTML emails turned off. You can turn it on and follow the instructions on the email. If you don’t want to turn it on, you can have a temporary password sent to you in plain format. Send Password page.

Yes, you can pick up your order at our Toronto Office.

Please wait until you received your pickup notification before stopping by.

Average processing time is 24-48 business hours.

Our Address:
9 Adelaide Place
Toronto, Ontario
M5V2N7
Canada

Open Monday to Saturday 10-4

Yes, we do.

When placing your order, please choose the shipping option:

Local Courier Pick-up

In the NOTES section, please let us know the company that you will send for the pick up.

Example: “I will be sending UBER to pick up my order”

Unless you purchase insurance with your courier, your package will not be insured through us, for this type of delivery method. 

Order processing time is 24-48 business hours. Please wait until you receive your pickup notification before sending your courier. We process order in a first in first out method. We will not prioritize your order if you send your courier before we send you the pick-up confirmation. 

Your courier must come directly to our office for pick-up. The driver must have a copy of the invoice or Your Invoice Number and full name(s) for security. If they do not have a copy of your invoice and cannot confirm your address or order number, we cannot hand over the parcel to the courier.

If your courier requires it, our office phone number is:

416-628-8550

Once you receive your confirmation that your order is ready for pick-up, please confirm that the courier is on the way, once you have ordered their service. 

Please provide us with the drivers license plate number.  If a courier is able to provide us with your invoice, we will release the parcel and consider it delivered.  We will not be responsible for non-deliveries thereafter.

The purchaser must arrange for the courier pick-up. Stones and Findings will not arrange for this service.

By choosing Local Courier Pick-up at checkout, you agree to these terms and conditions.