Are all of your bracelets made of Sterling Silver?

All of our bracelets are made with .925 Sterling Silver beads, clasps and components, in addition to using genuine Swarovski® Crystal Beads and Pearls.

What are Swarovski® Crystal Beads?

Swarovski® crystal is designed and manufactured by the company founded by Daniel Swarovski from Austria at the end of the 19th century. Swarovski® crystals are considered exceptional throughout the world in terms of quality and precision. Their multi-faceted design creates crystal beads that sparkle with unmatched brilliance. They are manufactured in a wide array of colors, including birthstones. Swarovski® crystal beads are considered unmatched in terms of quality, elegance, brilliance and distinction.

What is a Swarovski® Crystal Pearl?

Swarovski® Crystal Pearls begin with a crystal core and are formed with iridescent pearl-like layers. They are weighted to closely resemble cultured pearls.

How should I clean my new bracelet?

We do not recommend using liquid jewelry cleaning solutions as many contain alcohol or ammonia which can have a damaging effect on Swarovski® crystal beads. Instead, use a solution of 2 cups warm water and 1/4 teaspoon of gentle non-detergent liquid soap (like Ivory). Do not use anti-bacteria soaps. If necessary, you can use a very old, soft toothbrush to remove dirt, but use it very gently as to not scratch your silver beads. Extra care should be taken if using a soft toothbrush on Stardust beads. Their shimmering texture can be damaged if they are brushed too harshly. Rinse thoroughly in clear water, pat dry and allow to air dry on a soft cloth. If not wearing the bracelet immediately thereafter, store it in an air-tight "zip-seal" bag and place in a cool, dry, dark place. Note: this cleaning method does not remove or eliminate tarnish. It is simply a guideline for removing dirt. See below for tips on removing tarnish. Additionally, some folks suggest using toothpaste to clean their jewelry. We discourage that ... do not use toothpaste to clean your bracelet as toothpaste contains tiny abrasive particles that can scratch and damage your beads.

Swarovski® Crystal Pearls - These pearls should not be washed. They can be buffed clean with a soft, chemical-free polishing cloth.

If you feel uncomfortable or unsure as to how to properly clean your bracelet, the best option is to take it to a professional jeweler for cleaning.

Do you have any tips as to how to avoid tarnish of my new Sterling Silver bracelet?

Tarnish is a naturally occurring process of sterling silver called oxidation. Tarnish begins to appear as a golden tone on the bead, then quickly gets darker. Simply wearing your sterling silver jewelry will reduce the rate of tarnish, as body oils slow the rate of tarnish. To reduce the rate of tarnish while not wearing your bracelets, we recommend storing them in an air-tight "zip-seal" bag and in a dark place like a jewelry box. Storing your bracelet in the open air will cause it to tarnish rapidly. Be sure to put your bracelet on after applying make-up, hairspray, perfumes and lotions. Reduce exposure to moisure, rubber and latex. Do not store your sterling silver jewelry with other metals; we recommend keeping each piece separately stored in its own zip-seal bag.

If my bracelet becomes tarnished, how do I bring back its original shine?

Mother's and Name Bracelets - Many of our bracelets contain sterling silver beads that have been purposefully oxidized. This type of oxidation is a tarnishing process that is applied to the letter portion of an alphabet bead and to the small crevices of Bali beads which gives richness and depth. We are concerned that liquid tarnish-removing solutions may reach these small crevices and remove this oxidation, thereby leaving a piece of jewelry that will look much different from when you purchased it from us. The result may be a very shiny alphabet or Bali bead that no longer has the contrasting darker color that contributes to its depth. With that in mind, we suggest a jewelry paste for silver. The paste will give you more control as to the areas you can apply it to. Additionally, a chemically-treated polishing cloth can be used to remove tarnish.

Stardust Beads - these beads are also sterling silver, but are textured and special care should be taken as to not damage them. If there is an exception to our reluctance to using liquid sterling silver cleaner, this would be it. If Stardust Beads are tarnished, liquid cleaner may be best at getting into the textured crevices. If gentle care is taken, you could use a very soft old toothbrush to help lift tarnish/dirt, but very very gently, please. Do not use any type of polishing cloth on these beads.

If trying to remove tarnish from a bracelet that also has Swarovski® Crystals or Pearls, please take care as to not allow any sterling silver cleaning paste or liquid onto the crystals/pearls as it will dull their luster.

If you feel uncomfortable or unsure as to how to properly remove tarnish from your bracelet, the best option is to take it to a professional jeweler for cleaning.

What is AB coating?

AB is an acronym for Aurora Borealis. In terms of Swarovski® crystal beads, AB is a coating that is applied to one side of the bead to reflect iridescent, rainbow-like colors. Some of the Swarovski® crystal pendants we offer have AB coating, which will be noted on the product description page.

How long will it take for me to receive my personalized jewelry?

Due to their being personalized, our jewelry and keepsakes boxes are made to order. Production and delivery may be delayed during high-volume ordering times, such as just prior to holidays. In the event that delivery of jewelry or keepsake boxes will take longer than 2 weeks, we will post a notice on our home page to notify you up front that your potential order may take a bit longer than normal.

What criteria do you use when selecting a charitable organization to whom you donate a portion of your Awareness Bracelets?

The charitable organizations that we donate to must be established as a 501(c)(3) non-profit, tax-exempt organization designated by the Internal Revenue Code. We aim to select organizations that spend approximately 80% or more of their donations to research and support/care programs. We frequently reference the Better Business Bureau's available reports on these organizations to ensure that they meet the BBB's Standards for Charity Accountability.

Are the products you use to make your infant keepsake boxes non-toxic?

All top-coat paints and finishes used to make our keepsake boxes are non-toxic and conform to ASTM D-4236.

Are there specific instructions for caring for my Keepsake Box?

Aqua Moon Keepsake Boxes are designed for you to enjoy for many years to come. Although we finish your box with a coating to help protect it from the elements, you can also play a part in preserving the quality of the box. Your keepsake box is intended for indoor use only. Do not place your keepsake box in direct sunlight as it will fade the image over time. Also avoid placing your keepsake box in areas of high humidity or dampness.

How do I clean my Keepsake Box?

Attempt to clean the box with a dry, clean cloth. If a stronger cleaning is required, mild soap and water can be used on a slightly dampened cloth and rub lightly.   Excessive harsh rubbing will scratch the label.   Do not use any chemicals or solutions to clean your keepsake box.   We recommend that you do not store liquid items in the box as they can permanently stain the box if the liquid leaks out of their containers.

Which forms of payment do you accept?

We accept Visa, Mastercard, Discover & American Express. We have chosen Pay Pal to process credit card orders via their secure site. Please be aware that Pay Pal no longer requires you to set up a Pay Pal account in order to process your payment. If you prefer, you can pay by mail with your credit card, money order or cashier's check. We do not accept personal checks.

What shipping methods do you offer?

We are currently shipping all orders via Federal Express. You can select 3-5 Business Day Ground Service or 2-Business Day Express.

How can I contact Aqua Moon Keepsakes?

You can contact us via our online Comments, Questions and Feedback Form, email, telephone or write to us.    Submissions that require a response will be answered in a timely manner.