Frequently Asked Questions
Your Questions Answered
Gallun Fine Jewelry is here to make your jewelry buying process a pleasure. Explore some of the most frequently asked questions that come our way and get all the
information you need to make the perfect purchase.
How do I place an order?
Place the product you would like to purchase in the shopping bag and then proceed to check out. Follow the instructions on the check-out page and choose your payment method.
What if I Purchase A Ring That Needs To Be Sized?
If your item needs to be sized, engraved etc., please add an additional 5 working days to shipping estimates. Antique jewelry requires skilled jewelers that are accustomed to working on fine antique jewelry, therefore we require all sizing and alterations be performed by our jewelers. Please understand some rings cannot be sized, such as eternity bands, enameled rings or rings that would have to be sized so much that the integrity of the mounting would be compromised. It is for that reason we ask, prior to purchase, that you ask if the ring can be sized to your specifications.
If a ring needs to be sized down, there is no charge. To size a ring up please message me for charges.
Are Any Of Your Gemstones Treated?
Many gemstones on the market are treated or enhanced in some way. It is estimated that up to 80-90% of gems have had some type of treatment. Gem treatments have occurred for hundreds of years. Heat treatment is one of the most common. Gemstone treatment is considered to be any process conducted by man beyond cutting and polishing a gem which can improve the appearance and durability. Please assume gemstones potentially have been treated unless the listing specifically notes otherwise. We always disclose all information to the best of our knowledge!
What Are Synthetic Stones vs Simulants?
Many gemstones on the market are treated or enhanced in some way. It is estimated that up to 80-90% of gems have had some type of treatment. Gem treatments have occurred for hundreds of years. Heat treatment is one of the most common. Gemstone treatment is considered to be any process conducted by man beyond cutting and polishing a gem which can improve the appearance and durability. Please assume gemstones potentially have been treated unless the listing specifically notes otherwise. We always disclose all information to the best of our knowledge!
Are Any Of Your Gemstones Treated?
Nine times out of ten the fancy shaped stones set into filigree mountings (i.e. sapphires, rubies, emeralds, etc.) are synthetic. Since these stones were a fancy shape (triangle, trapezoid etc) breakage was high when cutting. Therefore they used synthetics. Stones have been being synthesized since the mid-1800's. Synthetics are are NOT glass. Synthetic means a stone has the same physical, chemical and optical properties of the natural. The only difference is it was made by man and not mother nature. If a stone is a simulant then it could be glass or any other stone stying to imitate the genuine stone. They do NOT have the same physical, chemical or optical properties.
What Is Cultured Pearls vs Natural Pearls?
Unless specifically stated all pearls are considered cultured. In order to determine if a pearl is natural or cultured it would need to be sent to a laboratory. Microradiography is the only non-destructive way of separating natural from cultured pearl. Microradiography will "see through" the pearl and determine the internal structure of the pearl; thereby defining natural from cultured.
How Do I Care For My Antique Jewelry?
While antique and vintage jewelry has withstood the test of time, we ask that you treat it with respect. We recommend you remove jewelry before washing your hands, house cleaning and rigorous activity (working out, gardening, swimming, chlorine can have damaging effects, some arts and crafts projects and some careers can have damaging effects on jewelry as well, nurses, doctors.) Some chemicals can have adverse effects on the metal or stones in jewelry. Opals, pearls, coral, emeralds, and kunzite are a few of the stones that require extra care. If you have any questions about the care of jewelry, PLEASE contact us.
How do you Calculate Gemstone Weights?
I am a graduate of the Gemological Institute of America (GIA). I earned by Graduate Gemologist degree in residency and not by home study or online courses. While I am a graduate of GIA I am NOT GIA or a representative of GIA.
Are the stones original to the mounting?
Please know that no-one can know that for certain unless they were with the piece of jewelry since its creation OR if the item had stones missing when it was purchased, and the seller knows they replaced the stone(s).