Keepsake Jewellery
Lifecast Booking Terms & Conditions
1. Deposits & Booking
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All lifecast bookings require a $100 deposit, which will be deducted from your final invoice.
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Deposits are non-refundable, but can be transferred to another person, service, or appointment date, or issued as a gift voucher for online purchases.
2. Cancellations & Rescheduling
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I know what life is like with a newborn, so I do not charge a rebooking fee if cancellation or rescheduling is communicated prior to your appointment.
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The best way to contact me urgently is via text to 027 333 4069, as I do not answer calls while working in the studio, but I will respond to texts quickly.
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If you let me know before your scheduled start time, we can reschedule at no cost and without requiring a new deposit.
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No-shows without communication will forfeit the deposit and require a new $100 deposit to rebook.
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Gift vouchers can be rescheduled at no cost if notice is given, but a no-show will require a $100 deposit in addition to the voucher to rebook.
3. Lateness
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A 20 minute grace period applies from your scheduled appointment start time.
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Arrivals later than this without notice will be considered a no-show, and the deposit will be forfeited.
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If you contact me before the grace period ends, I will work with you to reschedule.
4. Payments
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The $100 deposit is deducted from your final invoice.
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Balances are payable over the 12 week creation period, with payment in full required before collection.
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I accept cash, bank transfer, credit card, online eftpos (not available in studio), and Afterpay.
5. Turnaround Times & Priority Service
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Standard turnaround time is approximately 12 weeks, depending on the complexity and size of your casting.
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A priority service is available for completion within 4 to 6 weeks for a $150 fee. Choosing a priority service will not delay other customers’ orders. It simply means I work extra hours to meet your timeframe, hence the additional charge.
6. Collection & Storage
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You will be notified when your keepsake is ready for collection and I ask that you collect within 2 weeks.
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If you require storage, I can hold your piece for up to 4 weeks free of charge by arrangement.
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After 4 weeks, a storage fee of 10 percent of the item’s value per month will apply.
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If uncollected after 12 months, the item becomes the property of Hamilton Lifecasting Studio and all payments made will be forfeited.
7. Aftercare
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Keep frames out of direct sunlight, away from moisture, and away from extreme temperature changes.
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Always hang frames using a sawtooth picture hanger. Do not hang using adhesive hooks such as 3M strips.
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Dust frames regularly and wipe frame moulding with a damp cloth. Use quality glass cleaner on the outside of the glass only.
8. Repairs
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We understand accidents happen, so we are happy to assist with repairs.
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Repairs for damage caused by manufacturing faults will be carried out at our expense.
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Breakages, chips, or paint wear from excessive handling will incur a repair fee based on time, skill, and materials required.
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A recast fee may apply where pose changes are outside my control.
9. Returns, Irregularities & Multiple Moulds
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Each keepsake is handmade, meaning minor imperfections are normal and not considered faults.
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In the case of significant defects, I will offer a redo where possible or an alternative solution.
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During your session I may take multiple moulds of the same hand or foot. This is done to give me the best possible chance of creating a perfect final cast, and I will only use the moulds I consider to be the best. Any extra moulds taken are not additional casts for the client.
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Your satisfaction is important to us. If you have any concerns with your finished lifecast, please contact us promptly so we can discuss a solution. Due to the custom nature of our work, returns for change of mind are not accepted, but we will always work with you to address genuine issues and ensure you can enjoy your keepsake for years to come.
10. Health & Safety
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I use medical grade Hygedent alginate, derived from seaweed, which is safe for skin contact and even oral use.
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No plaster, stone, chemicals, or paints are used in your presence. Only moisturiser, alginate, and warm water are used for cleaning the skin afterwards.
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Appointments are held in my home studio, where normal household risks apply, such as power outlets, trip hazards, and stairs. Please keep children in sight at all times.
If you would like to discuss any part of these terms before booking, please get in touch. I am always happy to answer questions and make sure you feel comfortable with the process.
Keepsake Jewellery - Order Placement
Order Placement
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Order Confirmation: Upon placing an order with Hamilton Lifecasting Studio, you will receive a personal confirmation email from Jen detailing your purchase. This email serves as acknowledgment of your order and outlines the next steps, including how to prepare and send your inclusions.
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Customisation and Personalisation: Each order is unique and will be crafted according to the specifications provided at the time of order. Jen's email to you will confirm design and embellishment preferences, and give you opportunity to make adjustments or discuss ideas before your piece is crafted. We encourage you to double-check your order details for accuracy and reach out immediately if any adjustments are needed.
Inclusion Submission:
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Preparation of Inclusions: Specific instructions for preparing and sending your inclusions (such as breastmilk, cremation ashes, hair, or embryos) will be provided via email following your purchase. It is crucial to follow these instructions carefully to ensure the safety and integrity of the materials during transit.
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Sending Inclusions: A secure, tracked shipping method is recommended for sending your inclusions to our studio. Hamilton Lifecasting Studio is not responsible for inclusions lost or damaged during shipping. Please retain your tracking information and notify us once the inclusions have been sent.
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Receipt of Inclusions: You will be notified upon the safe receipt of your inclusions. At this point, we will confirm the estimated completion time for your bespoke piece.
Responsibility and Care of Inclusions:
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Handling With Care: We understand the sentimental value of each inclusion sent to us. Our team handles every inclusion with the utmost respect and care, employing specialised techniques to incorporate them into your jewellery.
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Excess Inclusions: Any excess material not used in the creation of your piece will be returned to you.
Cremation Ashes & Hair - all unused inclusions will be returned with your finished jewellery.
Breastmilk - half the remaining preserved breastmilk will be returned, and the other half held in studio incase future pieces or repairs are needed at a later date.
Fingerprints - all original moulds or ink prints will be returned to you. A copy of the prints will be held on file incase future pieces or repairs/replacement is required.
Aftercare: Following the care instructions provided with your finished piece and in our Terms and Conditions agreed to on our website is critical for preserving its condition and the integrity of the inclusions.
Changes and Cancellations:
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Cancellation Policy: Orders can be canceled within 48hours after placement, prior to the start of production. Once production has commenced, cancellations cannot be accepted.
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Changes to Order: Any requests for changes to your order must be made within the same timeframe as cancellations and are subject to approval based on the nature of the request and the production stage.
Completion and Delivery:
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Completion Times: Estimated completion times are provided upon order confirmation and may vary depending on the complexity of the piece and current workload. We strive to complete each piece within the estimated timeframe but will communicate any unforeseen delays.
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Upon completing your piece, proof photos will be emailed to ensure you're happy with the piece. This gives you an opportunity to make any changes needed before it is couriered or collected.
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Delivery: Once completed, your keepsake jewellery will be shipped to you using a secure, tracked delivery service. You will be provided with tracking information to monitor the delivery of your precious piece.
By placing an order with Hamilton Lifecasting Studio, you agree to these Terms & Conditions. We are honoured to create a keepsake that holds significant emotional value and promise to treat every piece with the care and respect it deserves. Thank you for entrusting us with your precious memories x Jen
Keepsake Jewellery - General Terms and Conditions
At Hamilton Lifecasting Studio, we craft each piece of jewellery with the utmost care, using high-quality materials to ensure durability and longevity. However, the nature of bespoke keepsake jewellery—much like the care required for precious stones such as pearls or opals—demands meticulous attention and proper maintenance to preserve its beauty and structural integrity.
Jewellery Care and Responsibility
We emphasise that while our jewellery is crafted with care and high-quality materials, no piece is indestructible. It is essential that you follow our care instructions to preserve the appearance and integrity of your jewellery. Proper maintenance is key to extending its lifespan and luster.
Proper Maintenance and Handling
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Chemicals & Oils: Avoid exposing your jewellery to harsh chemicals found in household cleaners and toiletries, including perfume and hand sanitisers, as these can damage or discolour the resin and tarnish the metal.
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Heat & Sunlight: Protect your piece from prolonged exposure to extreme heat or direct sunlight, & artificial UV light.
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Water Exposure: While resin is water-resistant, repeated exposure to hot water can compromise the jewellery's quality. Avoid submerging your piece in hot water.
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Physical Activities: Remove your jewellery during strenuous activities or when engaging in tasks that might lead to hard knocks or damage.
Cleaning and Storage
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Cleaning: Clean your jewellery with a soft cloth and, for metal parts, a silver polishing cloth. For a deeper clean, gently wash with warm water and mild dish soap using a soft toothbrush, and polish as recommended.
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Storage: Store your jewellery in a plastic ziplock bag to minimize tarnishing, rather than the gift box provided, especially for sterling silver items.
Accidental Damage and Repairs
Accidents can happen, and we are here to assist with repairs. Contact us with details of the incident for guidance on repair solutions. We offer services such as cleaning, polishing, reglazing of inclusion stones, and resetting of pave stones. Remember, frequent adjustments or improper handling can weaken the jewellery and compromise stone settings. Please see our Repairs & Returns Policy for more information.
Maintenance Services
Over time, your jewellery may require maintenance to restore its original shine and beauty. We offer cleaning, polishing, reglazing of inclusion stones, and resetting of pave stones to ensure your piece continues to sparkle and delight.
Handcrafted Nature and Design Adjustments
Each piece of jewellery is handcrafted with attention to detail, resulting in unique characteristics such as maker's marks, air bubbles, mold lines, and evidence of hand shaping. These are not flaws but are indicative of the personalised, artisanal process. If you believe an irregularity significantly detracts from your piece's beauty, please reach out to discuss your concerns.
Design Adjustments and Website Imagery
We reserve the right to make minor adjustments to our designs as necessary. Please note that while our website showcases examples of our work, each piece is bespoke and made to order, meaning exact replicas of images shown may not be possible. By accepting our terms and conditions upon purchase, you acknowledge and agree to receive a personalised, handmade item.
Inclusion Stones and Resin Aging
Our inclusion pieces are crafted using a jewellery-grade crystal resin, which may develop an amber hue over years. This aging process can be accelerated if the care instructions are not followed. If your piece changes color in a way that you find unsatisfactory, we are ready to refresh and reglaze it. Our unique creation technique allows for easy repairs and adjustments to color changes.
Loose or Missing Stones
Care has been taken to secure stones, yet damage to the metal or accidental impacts can loosen settings. We can replace lost stones or reset them if provided. Note that rings with pave settings or CZ accents are not intended for everyday wear or active lifestyles.
Responsibility for Inclusions and Personalised Orders
Upon placing an order, clients are responsible for safely sending their inclusions to us. Accepting our terms and conditions signifies agreement to receive a personalised, handcrafted item, and acknowledges the importance of following the provided care instructions to ensure the piece's preservation.
Feedback, Returns, and Satisfaction
Your satisfaction is paramount. Should any issues arise, please reach out promptly. While returns based on change of heart cannot be accepted due to the custom nature of our work, we are dedicated to addressing concerns and ensuring the enduring value and joy of your keepsake jewellery. Please see our Returns Policy for more information.
Thank you for entrusting Hamilton Lifecasting Studio with the creation of your special piece. As a small family business, your support is invaluable to us. Be assured that your order was crafted with the utmost respect, love, and soul, in the hope that it will bring you comfort and cherished memories for many years.
Gold & Rose Gold Plated Jewellery
To ensure that your cherished piece remains beautiful and vibrant, please follow these care instructions diligently. Plated jewelry is delicate and requires gentle handling and proper care to maintain its luster and prolong its life.
Understanding Plated Jewelry
Your jewelry features a fine layer of gold or rose gold plated over a base metal. This plating process adds a lustrous finish to your keepsake piece, making it both beautiful and meaningful. However, the gold layer is thin, typically ranging from 0.5 to 5 microns, and can be susceptible to wear and damage if not cared for properly.
General Care:
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Avoid Contact with Chemicals: Keep your jewelry away from harsh chemicals found in cleaning products, chlorine in swimming pools, and beauty products like perfumes, hairspray, and lotions, as they can tarnish the plating.
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Remove During Physical Activities: To prevent scratches and impacts, remove your jewelry during exercise, cleaning, or any activities that may lead to physical damage.
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Store Properly: When not in use, store your jewelry in a soft-lined box or pouch, keeping each piece separate to avoid scratches.
Cleaning Your Jewelry:
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Gentle Cleaning: Clean your jewelry regularly with a soft, dry cloth to remove any oils or dust. For a deeper clean, use warm water, mild dish soap, and a soft brush, but be gentle to avoid damaging the plating.
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Avoid Ultrasonic Cleaners: Do not use ultrasonic cleaners or steamers, as they can be too harsh for plated jewelry and may cause the gold layer to wear away.
Wear and Tear Expectations:
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With good care, gold plated jewelry can last several years before showing signs of wear. However, the longevity of the plating depends on factors such as the thickness of the plating, skin acidity, and how often the jewelry is worn and cleaned.
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Over time, it is normal for the gold plating to gradually wear off, revealing the base metal underneath. This wear can occur more quickly in areas that come into frequent contact with skin or hard surfaces.
Replating Your Jewelry:
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If your jewelry does eventually show signs of wear, it can be replated at a professional jeweler. Replating restores the piece to its original appearance, extending its life and allowing you to enjoy your keepsake for many more years.
Special Note for Keepsake Jewelry
Given the unique and irreplaceable nature of keepsake jewelry, such as those containing cremation ashes or breastmilk, extra caution should be taken to follow these care instructions meticulously. These items not only hold aesthetic value but immense emotional significance.
By adhering to these care guidelines, you will help preserve the beauty and integrity of your keepsake jewelry, ensuring it lasts as a cherished symbol for as long as possible.
Adjustable Ring Settings
Adjustable rings are designed for versatility and comfort, allowing for slight size adjustments to achieve a perfect fit. However, to ensure the longevity and beauty of your adjustable ring, it's crucial to handle it with care. Please follow these guidelines to maintain the quality and appearance of your ring.
Understanding Adjustable Ring
Adjustable rings feature a sliding band that can be gently expanded or contracted to fit various finger sizes. While this design offers flexibility, frequent or improper adjustments can lead to damage. It's important to treat your ring with the utmost care to preserve its shape, the security of the stone settings, and the integrity of the plating.
Proper Adjustment and Handling
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Limit Adjustments: Regularly adjusting the ring's size can weaken the band and lead to a misshapen ring. Adjust the size only when absolutely necessary and do so with gentle, even pressure to avoid deforming the band.
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If you know your ring size, please advise us before your ring is finished so that we can preset the size for you. This reduces the need to make further adjustments at home.
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Avoid Overextending: When resizing, ensure not to overextend or overly compress the band, especially for small, petite sizes. Excessive manipulation can stress the metal, causing it to weaken or distort over time.
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Be Mindful of Stones: If your ring features CZ stones or other embellishments, be aware that adjusting the band too frequently or improperly can loosen the claws or settings holding the stones. This could result in losing stones.
Caring for the Plating
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Wear with Care: Frequent adjustments can also wear down the gold or rose gold plating faster than normal wear. To extend the lifespan of the plating, adjust the ring as infrequently as possible and handle it gently when doing so.
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Follow General Care Instructions: As with all plated jewelry, avoid exposure to chemicals, remove your ring during physical activities, and clean it gently with a soft cloth. Refer to our general care instructions for plated jewellery for more details.
If Damage Occurs
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If your ring becomes misshapen, the stones become loose, or the plating shows significant wear, we recommend taking it to a professional jeweler for assessment. They can advise on the best course of action, whether it be reshaping the band, securing the stones, or replating the ring.
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At our discretion, Hamilton Lifecasting Studio may choose to repair or replace your piece within the first 6 month warranty window. After this period a small fee to cover labour and materials for repair/replacement may be payable.
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Damage from mistreatment or neglect is not covered under our 6 months warranty.
Special Considerations for Keepsake Jewelry: Adjustable rings that serve as keepsakes, containing elements like cremation ashes or breastmilk, hold irreplaceable sentimental value. Treat these pieces with extra care and consideration to ensure they remain intact and beautiful for years to come.
By adhering to these care instructions, you can enjoy the flexibility of your adjustable ring while ensuring its durability and preserving its sentimental and aesthetic value.
Keepsake Jewellery - Returns & Repairs
At Hamilton Lifecasting Studio, we pride ourselves on the quality and craftsmanship of our unique jewelry pieces. We understand the importance of your keepsake and are dedicated to ensuring its lasting beauty and significance. Below, we have extended our terms and conditions to provide clear guidelines on returns and repairs, in addition to the detailed care instructions and the artisanal nature of our work.
Returns Policy:
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Change of Heart: Due to the personalised nature of our jewelry, we cannot accept returns based on change of heart or personal preference. We encourage you to contact us before ordering if you have any questions or concerns about your piece.
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Defective or Damaged Items: In the rare event that your item arrives defective or damaged, please contact us within 7 days of receipt with photographic evidence of the issue. We will work with you to repair, replace, or refund the item, depending on the specific circumstances and in line with your statutory rights.
Repair Policy:
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Warranty Period: Our jewelry comes with a 6-month warranty covering manufacturing defects. This does not cover damages caused by accidents, broken necklace chains, improper care, or normal wear and tear.
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Outside Warranty Repairs: For repairs needed after the warranty period or for damages not covered by the warranty (such as accidents or improper care), we offer repair services at a reasonable cost. Please contact us for a quote and shipping instructions.
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Handling Repairs: When sending an item back for repair, please use the provided tracked returns label and ensure the piece is securely packaged. Include a detailed note explaining the repair needed and any relevant communication you've had with us regarding the issue.
Terms of Repairs and Returns:
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Assessment: Upon receiving your item, we will assess the damage and determine the best course of action. We reserve the right to refuse repairs if the jewellery has been altered or damaged significantly beyond our capacity to repair.
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Repair Time: Repair times can vary depending on the complexity of the work required. We will provide an estimated turnaround time once we assess the item.
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Shipping Costs: The customer is responsible for shipping costs to send the item back for repair. For items within the warranty period and confirmed as defective or damaged due to our craftsmanship, we will cover the return shipping costs.
General Terms and Conditions:
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Agreement to Terms: By purchasing from Hamilton Lifecasting Studio, you agree to these terms and conditions. We reserve the right to update or modify these terms at any time without prior notice.
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Care and Maintenance: The customer acknowledges their responsibility to follow the care instructions provided with their jewellery and outlined below. Failure to adhere to these guidelines may void the warranty and limit the availability of repairs.
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Personalisation and Variability: Each piece is handcrafted and may have slight variations, which are to be cherished as part of the unique character of the jewelry. We strive to accurately represent our products on our website, but slight differences in color, shape, and size are to be expected.
At Hamilton Lifecasting Studio are passionate about creating jewellery and keepsakes that holds special meaning. We stand behind the quality of our work and are committed to providing excellent customer service. If you have any questions or concerns about our products, returns, or repair policies, please do not hesitate to contact us. Your satisfaction and the lasting beauty of your piece are our top priorities.
Thank you for choosing Hamilton Lifecasting Studio for your cherished keepsakes. We are honored to be a part of your life's most significant moments.
Shipping Policy
Shipping Policy:
We ship within New Zealand, nation wide. Your order is important to us, which is why we want to make sure that your items arrive on time and in excellent condition.
In stock items are usually shipped same day, but please allow 1-2 working days processing time.
If the items you have selected are to be custom made, we will give you an expected shipping time on the individual product page, at checkout, or by a follow-up email immediately after purchase.
General Shipping Information:
*DIY Casting Kits – in stock ready to ship
All DIY Casting Kits are held in stock and are usually processed and dispatched from our studio within 1-2 working days.
*DIY Frames – made to order
Made to order frames have a longer lead time, particularly if including engraved plate. These are usually assembled and shipped within 7-10 working days.
*DNA and Fingerprint Jewellery – custom made to order
Custom jewellery time frames vary and depend on when we receive your inclusions/prints, our suppliers lead time and shipping if a setting is customised, and quantity of pieces ordered. We will often need to quote the timeframe after an order is placed and all information is received. In most cases, Fingerprint Pendants can be completed in 2-4 weeks, and DNA Jewellery is usually ready in 4-6 weeks, unless a specific component is out of stock or required from overseas. You will be advised if this is the case.
*Framed and Freestanding Casts
Custom made casts and frames usually have a turn around time of 12 weeks depending on the nature of your order. This will be discussed with you at your casting appointment. In most cases, casts and frames are considered too fragile to courier. Some smaller framed or freestanding casts may be shipped on request and if agreed by both parties, however Hamilton Lifecasting Studio will not take responsibility for loss or damage by courier. We instead recommend pick up from our Hamilton studio for all stone casts and framed items.
Delivery Timeframes
We are partnered with third-party courier companies in New Zealand to deliver all goods via Track and Trace. Items will normally be delivered during working hours only. The delivery timeframe starts after the courier collects your order from our studio and are subject to standard courier delivery targets.
The couriers’ delivery timeframes are usually:
Overnight within Hamilton
1-2 working days to North Island
2-3 working days to South Island
Up to 7 working days for rural or out-of-the-way areas
Track your orders
When your order has been processed and shipped, you will receive an e-mail notification from us which will include the shipping details and the tracking number.
Lost or damaged items
Please notify us immediately of any loss or damage of your couriered package. Any loss or damage needs to be advised to both Hamilton Lifecasting Studio and the courier company responsible within 14 days of sending. After this time we are unable to lodge an insurance claim with the courier company so cannot replace or refund the lost or damaged item.
Authority to leave / non-signature required delivery
For any authority to leave (ATL) and (or) non-signature required delivery request, meaning you have agreed that our courier companies will not be liable for any damages or losses to a package left in accordance with the instructions provided.
*Custom orders, such as custom casts and keepsake jewellery, or orders of high value are sent with 'Signature Required'.
*DIY Casting Kits and Shadow Box Frames (not custom) are sent without signature required. Please advise if you would prefer signature required.
Non-Refundable Shipping
Original shipping fees are non-refundable. Shipping fees cover the services provided by the carrier and will not be refunded if an item is returned for any reason.
Shipping to Rural Areas
Please note: all rural freight delivery addresses will attract a Rural Delivery surcharge.
Our freight estimates on our website are to the registered freight company depot address, closest to the customer's delivery address, and to most metropolitan addresses. For rural area addresses, freight companies reserve the right to charge a surcharge where they deem necessary. In this case, if the original shipping fee charged is not sufficient to cover the Rural Delivery Surcharge to deliver to the customer’s provided address, your order will be delivered to the nearest freight company depot address. From that point, it’s the customer’s responsibility to arrange delivery at your cost. When your order is ready for collection depot staff will give you a call to let you know.
Highly Fragile Items
We are not able to ship any custom items that are considered by us to be 'highly fragile', such as large frames and heavy freestanding casts. You can choose to personally collect these items or arrange for your own trusted courier to pick up the item(s) from our Hamilton studio. Any 'highly fragile items' that are authorised by you to be shipped by Hamilton Lifecasting Studio will be at the customer’s risk and will make all damage claims and warranties void. We are not liable to pay any compensation to you for any loss or damage, or any delay in delivery of, those products/ goods that Hamilton Lifecasting Studio considers to be 'highly fragile'.