What does "hand-knotted" mean?

Silk thread is used to create a small, tight knot between each pearl in our designs. This protects the pearls from rubbing against one another, holds the piece together, and adds a punch of color. Most commercial pearl jewelry is made with machined knots (if there are any knots at all) and white nylon these days. We think you deserve better.

How do I decide what length I want?

We offer all our designs in several lengths to suit different physiologies and styles. If you're unsure how a given piece will look on you, we suggest measuring a piece of string to the listed length and trying that on! Additionally, most styles come with a 2" chain extender so you can adjust the fit.

How long will it take for you to make my order?

Consult the current turnaround time listed on the website banner. We'll ship on that timeline or faster! Cara typically starts on your order as soon as you place it.

Who makes your jewelry?

Owner Cara Tucker knots every piece with a small wooden tool.

Why are all the pearls slightly different shapes?

This is part of what makes freshwater pearls special! We love the organic variation, and they add texture and depth to our designs. 

My pearls are draping unevenly right out of the package. What gives?

We knot our necklaces tightly, and silk is a slightly stretchy material. As a result, sometimes a new piece doesn't drape perfectly evenly right away. As you wear your piece, the silk will warm and relax, and the drape will even out. If you're impatient, you can tug gently on the pearls on either side of the spot that hangs differently to stretch it manually.

Are you slow fashion?

Cara will spend at least 90 minutes with her hands on your piece. We handtie all our pearls in our studio in Brooklyn, NY to order, and we place a big emphasis on selling well-made goods crafted of natural materials. In this sense, yes, we are!

 But the term "slow fashion" gets thrown around casually a lot, so it's important to us to be clear. We're currently too small to dictate the working conditions and sustainability practices of our raw material suppliers, though we choose them with care, and as we grow it will be top priority. If you have any questions about the origin of your piece, please reach out!

 

How do I take care of my new pearls?

Cara's Gramma knew best: pearls should be the last touch you put on, and the first one you take off. The delicate outer shell that gives pearls their luster can be destroyed by harsh chemicals like chlorine, commercial jewelry cleaner, or those in perfume and lotions.

If you need to clean your pearls or gold-filled accents, simply use a soft, dry cloth and rub gently. Use a damp cloth for more stubborn spots. If your silver accents tarnish over time, we recommend using a silver-specific dry polishing cloth (we like Goddard's) to restore their shine while still protecting the nearby pearls.