FAQs

We are committed to maintaining high standards of ethical sourcing and responsible production throughout our jewelry collections. The precious metals used in our pieces are sourced from recycled materials or responsibly obtained suppliers, and all diamonds are acquired through channels that meet conflict-free sourcing standards. Our jewelry is manufactured in New York with a strong focus on quality craftsmanship, sustainability, and long-term durability. When comparing ten-karat and fourteen-karat gold, the primary distinction is the percentage of pure gold contained within each alloy. Ten-karat gold contains 41.7% pure gold, while fourteen-karat gold contains 58.3%. This difference influences both color and performance characteristics, with fourteen-karat gold displaying a richer tone and ten-karat gold offering enhanced resistance to daily wear. All gold jewelry is crafted from solid gold rather than plated materials, helping ensure lasting appearance and resistance to tarnishing.

Many of the diamonds incorporated into our designs are recycled stones recovered from previously owned jewelry. These gemstones provide a more sustainable alternative because they do not require additional mining activity or the environmental impact associated with new extraction. For engagement jewelry and pieces intended for frequent wear, durability is an important consideration. Diamonds rank highest on the Mohs hardness scale, making them particularly suitable for long-term everyday use. Rubies and sapphires are also highly durable choices. Softer gemstones such as opals, pearls, and emeralds may require additional care and are generally less suited to jewelry that experiences constant wear. Although our pieces are designed for longevity, accidental damage can occur. If a chain breaks or a stone becomes loose, customers are encouraged to contact our team for assistance. All repair requests are reviewed and approved before service arrangements are made.

Proper jewelry care plays an important role in preserving appearance and longevity. We provide guidance on recommended cleaning methods to help maintain the condition of each piece. In some cases, solid gold jewelry may develop temporary discoloration due to reactions with skin chemistry, cosmetics, lotions, or environmental conditions. This is generally not permanent and can often be removed with a polishing cloth designed for precious metals. Black diamonds present a unique situation because many undergo treatments to achieve their distinctive color. As a result, certain standard diamond-testing devices may not accurately identify them. Professional jewelers can typically verify authenticity using specialized equipment and examination techniques.

At this time, we do not offer custom jewelry production or setting services for stones supplied by customers. Individuals with metal sensitivities should be aware that jewelry alloys may contain trace amounts of various metals due to manufacturing processes and shared production environments. While nickel is not intentionally used as a primary component in our gold alloys, minimal traces may occasionally be present. Customers with severe metal allergies are encouraged to contact us before purchasing so that additional information can be provided.

Many of our limited-release items are produced in small quantities as part of a thoughtful and sustainable manufacturing approach. When sold-out designs become available again, it is often because additional materials or production capacity have been secured. However, certain pieces may not return due to limited gemstone availability or production constraints. For personalized products, detailed customization guidelines, including character limits and available font selections, can be found on individual product pages. Requests involving non-English characters, customer handwriting samples, or content that is offensive, discriminatory, or inappropriate cannot be accommodated. If you have questions regarding materials, repairs, personalization, or any other jewelry-related topic, please contact our support team at (408) 800-5702 or email catbirdnycusa@outlook.com for assistance.