Ariel Gordon Jewelry specializes in creating modern heirloom pieces, including delicate birthstone necklaces. These necklaces, crafted in Los Angeles from fine metals and conflict-free stones, represent a contemporary approach to personalized jewelry. The brand, founded in 2009, has expanded to include a curated collection of vintage pieces, known as the Heritage by Ariel Gordon range, offering a blend of historical charm and modern design. While the sources do not detail specific birthstone properties or traditional lore, they highlight the brand’s commitment to quality, ethical sourcing, and creating pieces meant to be cherished for generations. This article will explore the origins of Ariel Gordon Jewelry, the sourcing and craftsmanship behind their birthstone necklaces, the return and repair policies associated with these pieces, and the overall philosophy of creating lasting jewelry.
The Genesis of Ariel Gordon Jewelry
Ariel Gordon Maffei launched Ariel Gordon Jewelry in 2009 as a creative outlet, a departure from her previous career as a Hollywood publicist. Recognizing a desire for timeless, versatile jewelry, she pursued formal training in metalwork and stone-setting at the Revere Academy in San Francisco. This education laid the foundation for her design philosophy: crafting pieces intended for daily wear and long-term enjoyment. The brand’s commitment to quality is evident in its Los Angeles-based studio, where all pieces are handmade. The focus is on creating jewelry that becomes an integral part of the wearer’s life, rather than a fleeting trend.
Heritage by Ariel Gordon: Vintage and Modern Collide
In 2019, Ariel Gordon debuted the Heritage by Ariel Gordon collection, a curated selection of over 200 vintage pieces sourced from local estates, Hollywood costume departments, and flea markets. This collection complements the brand’s contemporary designs, offering customers a unique opportunity to own a piece of history. The Heritage collection is released in thematic series, such as Lucy in the Sky (celestial-themed), Flora and Fauna, Golden Girls (personalized classics), Tokens of Affection (romantic pieces), Charm School (talismans), and On the Lanai (featuring coral, turquoise, pearls, diamonds, and cameos). The inclusion of vintage pieces, particularly those featuring gemstones like coral and turquoise, expands the brand’s birthstone offerings beyond traditional options.
Craftsmanship and Ethical Sourcing
Ariel Gordon Jewelry prioritizes the use of fine metals and conflict-free stones. This commitment to ethical sourcing is a core value of the brand, ensuring that materials are obtained responsibly. The necklaces are handmade in the Los Angeles studio, reflecting a dedication to craftsmanship and attention to detail. The brand’s pieces are designed to be worn daily, emphasizing durability and timelessness. The process of creating each piece, whether contemporary or vintage-inspired, is carefully considered to ensure lasting quality.
Birthstone Necklaces: Personalization and Meaning
While the sources do not provide specific details about the gemstones used in the birthstone necklaces, the brand’s overall aesthetic suggests a focus on delicate, personalized designs. The ability to create custom or personalized pieces, including birthstone necklaces, is a key feature of Ariel Gordon Jewelry. This allows customers to create a unique piece that reflects their individual style and holds personal significance. The brand’s emphasis on creating “modern family heirlooms” suggests that these necklaces are intended to be passed down through generations, carrying sentimental value alongside their aesthetic appeal.
Return and Repair Policies: Ensuring Customer Satisfaction
Ariel Gordon Jewelry offers a return policy designed to balance customer satisfaction with the realities of being a small business. Eligible items can be returned within 45 days of purchase, with a $20 processing fee. However, custom items, final sale items, and pieces from the Heritage collection (within 5 days of receipt and with a $25 restocking fee) are nonrefundable. Packages originating from Hawaii or Alaska may incur additional shipping fees.
The brand also provides repair services. Jewelry purchased within the last year is eligible for a complimentary one-time repair for manufacturer defects. Repairs due to normal wear and tear can also be performed within the first year, but the customer is responsible for round-trip shipping costs. Repairs needed after one year or deemed to be caused by misuse will incur a charge, typically around $25 plus $15 for shipping. International orders are final sale and generally not eligible for repairs, though the brand may offer guidance on local solutions.
Ordering and Delivery
Currently, Ariel Gordon Jewelry estimates a production time of 4-6 weeks for items not in stock, with some customizable pieces ready in 1-3 weeks. Orders are processed weekly, excluding weekends and national holidays. Customers who need to rush an order are encouraged to contact the brand via their concierge portal to confirm availability. Expedited shipping does not guarantee immediate shipment, as all pieces are handmade. Tracking information is provided via email once an order has shipped.
Customer Service and Support
Ariel Gordon Jewelry offers multiple channels for customer support. Customers can initiate returns or repairs through the brand’s online portal, send a message via the chat bubble on the website, or contact the concierge team via email at [email protected]. Phone support is also available Monday through Friday from 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM at 213.488.2618. The Berkeley showroom is appointment-only and not open to the public. Press and stylist inquiries should also be directed to the concierge email address.
Payment Options
Ariel Gordon Jewelry accepts a variety of payment methods, including major credit and debit cards, store credits, gift cards purchased from the website, Affirm (a payment plan option), PayPal, Amazon Pay, and Apple Pay. The brand employs strong fraud filters to protect customer information. Outside gift cards are not accepted as a form of payment. Refunds are typically issued to the original form of payment, including gift cards.
Jewelry Care
The sources emphasize the importance of jewelry care, noting that while Ariel Gordon Jewelry pieces are designed for daily wear, jewelry is inherently delicate. Customers are encouraged to consult the brand’s Jewelry Care Instructions for tips on maintaining the condition of their pieces. Proper care can help prolong the life and beauty of the jewelry, ensuring it remains a cherished heirloom for years to come.
Lost or Damaged Packages
If a package is marked as delivered but not received, customers are advised to contact [email protected] immediately. The brand does not assume responsibility for lost or stolen packages that show successful delivery. If a package arrives damaged or tampered with, customers should save all packaging materials and photograph them for claim purposes. Ariel Gordon Jewelry will file a claim with UPS, which typically takes 4-8 weeks to process. Refunds or remakes will be issued upon resolution of the claim.
Conclusion
Ariel Gordon Jewelry represents a modern approach to fine jewelry, blending timeless designs with ethical sourcing and handcrafted quality. The brand’s birthstone necklaces, while not detailed in terms of specific gemstone lore within these sources, embody the philosophy of creating personalized, lasting pieces. The commitment to customer satisfaction, evident in the comprehensive return and repair policies, further reinforces the brand’s dedication to building long-term relationships with its clientele. The combination of contemporary designs and curated vintage pieces positions Ariel Gordon Jewelry as a unique destination for those seeking meaningful and enduring jewelry.