Make & Material
Where is your jewelry made?
All of our Aegis Sterling Silver jewelry is crafted and hand finished in New York City by highly skilled silversmiths and local artisans. Our goal has always been to create stunningly unique and high quality products that our customers can proudly wear.
What materials do you use in your jewelry?
All of our silver jewelry uses our Aegis Sterling Silver.
Sterling silver as a standard contains 92.5% silver and other trace metals like copper. However, copper is the main culprit for tarnishing as traditional sterling comes in contact with moisture, sweat, and our everyday acidic environment.
That is why for our Aegis Sterling Silver, we work closely with our silversmiths to minimize the presence of copper and replace it with higher silver content or other resistant metals, hence we say it is "925+".
With Aegis Sterling Silver, you can expect a much slower tarnish and a brighter, longer-lasting shine when compared to conventional sterling silver.
Why does the "Mirror Finish" option cost more or require a Special Request?
All of our pieces are hand-finished down to their desired appearance. The Mirror Finish option takes more stages of polishing to achieve, so it's ultimately more demanding in time and labor.
When someone requests a piece in Mirror Finish, we take one of our in-stock Matte Finish pieces and send it back to the polisher to add that extra touch.
A word from our founding designer: "I personally think our pieces look better in a matte finish, so everything comes in that way by default. But who am I to tell you what you like? If you want a mirror finish, we'll make it happen.
If we start getting a lot of unique requests to do mirror finishes, we'd definitely consider stocking them as a standard offering. But as it is right now, people are asking for matte."
How do I know if my Atelier Aegis jewelry is genuine?
Every Atelier Aegis piece comes with a Certificate of Authenticity that is hallmarked by the founding designer himself. If you find that your Atelier Aegis piece is not accompanied by this Certificate of Authenticity marked with a silver stamp, then there is a possibility that your piece may not be genuine.
At this time, Atelier Aegis has chosen not to pursue any authorized resale partners. This means that any similar designs that appear to originate from different sources will not have the same level of care and attention to detail that our artisans place into our completely original designs. We can also promise that those pieces are not made from our exclusive 925+ Aegis Sterling Silver, and will likely experience all the shortcomings that are typical of regular sterling.
Product Care & Consideration
Will my silver pieces tarnish?
With time yes, but much more slowly than traditional Sterling Silver.
All our silver pieces use our Aegis Sterling Silver, which has significantly less copper content than traditional Sterling Silver. Because copper is primarily what makes tarnish and oxidation occur, reducing the copper in our Aegis Sterling Silver greatly enhances the tarnish resistance.
Please keep in mind that the sulfur in human sweat is a leading cause of tarnish for all sterling silver. Because we all have unique body chemistries, some of us might find that we tarnish jewelry a bit faster or slower than others.
A word from our founding designer: "Our pieces were initially designed to tarnish with time, to beautifully age and patina alongside the wearer. Because we didn't want this tarnish to show up super quickly, we had to make sure that the silver we used was heavily resistant, and that's how we came about our Aegis Sterling Silver.
That being said, I get that not everyone vibes with the aesthetic of tarnish and age, so I would recommend periodic maintenance to help keep that shine, as you would with all your high-end jewelry. Even something as simple as warm soap in the shower or a quick microfiber wipe before putting it away, can have a drastic impact on how long your piece stays shiny for."
Need more tips? Check out our Product Care Guide.
How should I care for and clean my jewelry?
A shower a day can really help keep the tarnish away.
Our Matte Finish pieces can be maintained with periodic removal of bodily oils via microfiber cloth or silver polishing cloth, as well as through very soft soap and water as you shower. But please take care to avoid any hard abrasives like loofahs and sponges. We know it's tempting to use a paper towel or the bottom of your shirt, but these can really scratch up the surface over time!
All of our Mirror Finish pieces can be maintained the exact same way, but please exercise even more care.
Please keep in mind that our Aegis Sterling Silver is already a tarnish-resistant alloy. Though we expect you can get away with a little more neglect when compared against traditional sterling silver, we all know too well that there is a limit to how much neglect anyone or anything can withstand. Please use your best discretion when cherishing your Atelier Aegis pieces.
For more information, please see our Product Care Guide.
How do I determine my necklace/bracelet/ring size?
Despite there being many sizing guides out there, we felt inclined to offer our own version as well. Click through to find our Size Guide.
A word from our founding designer: "I won't lie, this was probably the most difficult part of our website to create.
Our images and diagrams may not be the most accurate representation of your individual anatomy, so please take this into consideration as you use it as a point of reference.
As we strive to accommodate all shapes and sizes, we must acknowledge that there is a statistical distribution of what we can reasonably keep in stock. If you find that your size is not available on our page, but you maintain the enthusiasm to support our brand, please reach out to us and we will work together to create something that fits the very perfect you.
Please bear with us as we continue to improve the way we message how to find your best fit. As all of us are, we are a work in progress."
What measures are you taking to consider the sustainability of your products and processes?
Staying carbon neutral is neither easy nor free, or everyone would be doing it. Still, we are not believers in doing nothing.
As a small boutique brand based out of New York City, finding ways to be sustainable while also sustaining the business is still something we are actively working on. But for our launch and beyond, we realize that the least we could do is make an effort with our packaging.
That is why all Atelier Aegis products will be shipped in plastic-free packaging down to the shipping box itself. (Sadly, however, there is plastic in the tape we use to seal our boxes.)
As our brand continues to grow, we pledge to continue searching for ways to make the effort we all should've been making all along.
Why do my pieces look slightly different from the photo?
All our pieces are hand-finished by artisans, so you may see very slight variations from piece to piece.
We don't see this as an inconsistency in quality, but rather, an added layer of individuality that makes each piece unique to you.
A word from our founding designer: "We felt the need to add this question to our FAQ as more of a disclaimer than anything else. Realistically, you shouldn't see any unintentional variations from piece to piece.
We wouldn't allow anything with visual defects or poor polishing to go out the door."
Orders & Shipping
What are your shipping fees?
For all orders over $75 within the United States, free shipping is available.
We've done our best to simplify the shipping aspect for our lovely patrons. If you are purchasing a piece of jewelry directly from our site and are within the continental United States, we have essentially set it up so that shipping can be free.
Expedited shipping options are also available.
How long does it take to process and ship an order?
For all items in stock, we typically dispatch within 2-3 business days.
If the item is out of stock or on pre-order, expect a wait of around 2-4 weeks while we craft your piece. For stock inquiries on specific pieces, we welcome you to inquire with us via the Contact Form.
For Special Requests, processing time will vary depending on the type of ask. Once we've confirmed the request, we will communicate to you how long your order might take.
Can I track my order?
Of course! Once your order is ready to go, you will receive an email notification with a tracking number associated with your selected shipping provider. You can use this number to track your order and check its progress at any time.
Can I cancel or update my order?
For any order adjustments, cancellations, or shipping changes, please contact us within 24 hours of order placement.
Kindly note that our team works hard to get your order dispatched as quickly as possible, so we may not always be able to accommodate your cancellation or update request. Adjustments inside the 24-hour window will be honored.
All Special Requests are considered final sale and cannot be cancelled or refunded once the order is placed. If there is a specific change in the request, please reach out to us as quickly as you can. We will do our best to accommodate minor changes such as engraving text or finishes, but we reserve the right to reject update requests if the process is too far along. Additional fees may apply if the request exceeds the initial scope of the order.
What if I receive a damaged item?
As all of our pieces are inspected prior to shipping, this really shouldn't ever happen.
However, on the rare blue moon that this might occur, please reach out to us and follow our return guidelines at Returns & Exchanges so that we can get you a brand new piece as soon as possible.
Meanwhile, our team will mull about and be really sad while contemplating how this might've happened.
Returns & Exchanges
What is your return policy?
We at Atelier Aegis hope you cherish your purchases. However, if for any reason you're not completely satisfied, we offer returns within 30 days of purchase date with proof of purchase. All eligible return items must be in their original, unused condition and include all original packaging. Made-to-order sizes, products or variants marked as Special Request or final sale, complimentary gifts with purchase, gift cards, merchandise credits, and shipping fees are not eligible for return.
Please note, a restocking fee of 10% of the original product price will be deducted from your refund. This does not include any taxes, fees, or shipping costs paid. We aim to process all returns within 3-5 days of receipt. For any additional questions, please feel free to contact us.
Please see the Return guidelines listed below to see if purchased items are eligible for a return.
To qualify for a return:
- Items must be in their original condition without signs of wear, use, or damage.
- Items returned by mail must be in all original packaging (tags, box, card inserts, and pouch included).
- No individual item of a set can be returned for refund, and must be returned as a complete set.
The following items are not eligible for return:
- Products or variants marked as Special Request or final sale
- Mirror Finish pieces that required a Special Request
- Complimentary gifts with purchase
- Gift Cards, Gift Wrapping, Custom Packaging, or any other special services requests
- Merchandise credits, shipping fees, or other related order fees
To start a return, you can submit a request through returns@atelieraegis.com and provide your Order Number in the subject line with the email used to place your order. If your return is accepted, we’ll send you a return shipping label, as well as instructions on how and where to send your package. Atelier Aegis is not responsible for additional duties and taxes, orders lost in transit, or packages held by U.S. customs. We recommend obtaining a drop-off receipt. Items sent back to us without first requesting a return will not be accepted.
How long will it take to process my return?
Your return will be processed within 3-5 business days from the date we receive it.
Once a return is processed, the payment processor will be notified and it may take up to 5-10 business days for the funds to return to the original form of payment.
If more than 15 business days have passed since we’ve approved your return, please notify us immediately at returns@atelieraegis.com.
When will I receive my refund?
Your return will be processed within 3-5 business days from the date we receive it.
Once a return is processed, the payment processor will be notified and it may take up to 5-10 business days for the funds to return to the original form of payment.
If more than 15 business days have passed since we’ve approved your return, please notify us immediately at returns@atelieraegis.com.
What is your exchange policy?
At Atelier Aegis, we strive for your complete satisfaction. If you'd like to exchange an item, you may do so within 14 days of your purchase with proof of purchase. The item must be in its original, unused condition and accompanied by its original packaging.
Please note that for exchanges, customers are responsible for all return shipping costs. Once we receive your item, we'll process the exchange within 3-5 business days and ship the replacement to you free of charge.
Please see the Exchange guidelines listed below to see if purchased items are eligible for an exchange.
To qualify for an exchange:
- Items must be in their original condition without signs of wear, use, or damage.
- Items returned by mail must be in all original packaging (tags, box, card inserts, and pouch included).
- No individual item of a set can be exchanged, and must be exchanged as a complete set.
The following items are not eligible for exchange:
- Products or variants marked as Special Request or final sale
- Mirror Finish pieces that required a Special Request
- Complimentary gifts with purchase
- Gift Cards, Gift Wrapping, Custom Packaging, or any other special services requests
- Merchandise credits, shipping fees, or other related order fees
To start an exchange, you can submit a request through returns@atelieraegis.com and provide your Order Number in the subject line with the email used to place your order. If your exchange is accepted, we’ll notify you and provide instructions on how and where to send your package. Atelier Aegis is not responsible for additional duties and taxes, orders lost in transit, or packages held by U.S. customs. Items sent back to us without first requesting an exchange will not be accepted.
How long will it take to process my exchange?
Please note your exchange will be processed within 3-5 business days from the time we receive it.
Once an exchange is processed, we typically dispatch your replacement piece within 2-3 business days of the product's stock availability.
Because all our pieces are artisan-made and hand-finished, we may not always have the immediately desired piece in stock. In this situation, we will let you know as soon as possible what those timelines will be. However, in all likelihood, once you've expressed interest in moving forward with an exchange, we would pull a piece from our stock and hold it for you.
Can I track my exchange?
Of course! Once your order is ready to go, you will receive an email notification with a tracking number associated with your selected shipping provider. You can use this number to track your order and check its progress at any time.
Special Requests
Do you offer gift wrapping or custom packaging?
Not at this time, but we are actively working to make this service available to you, our beloved patrons.
As we develop and perfect this service option, some of our customers might receive experimental gift wrapping or custom packaging. This is, of course, in addition to our existing plastic-free packaging experience and comes at no cost.
A word from our founding designer: "Everyone does the big fancy bow and big branded gift bag. Sure we could've copied that, but I want to do something a little more unique, a little more memorable, and I don't want to offer it unless it's the right fit for us.
But I promise, we're working on it."
Do you offer engraving or customization options?
At the moment, almost all of our pieces have been heavily infused with our signature lattice pattern. Sadly, this does not give us much room to engrave your beautiful names or platitudes.
Still, we are not against exploring any and all ideas, and if you are seriously looking for a way to memorialize an inscription on your Atelier Aegis piece, please reach out to us.
A word from our founding designer: "Maybe we can put a monogram or logo on both ends of the Pendant of Defiance? Maybe we can smoothly slip something within the lattice pattern. I'm not entirely sure if it'd look good, so it's really something we'd have to explore on a case-by-case basis.
We do want to offer this eventually. It's just out of sight for now, but not out of mind."
Do you offer bulk orders or corporate gifts?
At this time, we do not intend to support resale or wholesale orders. Every Atelier Aegis piece is sold directly by us and comes with a Certificate of Authenticity that is hallmarked by the founding designer himself.
For corporate gift orders and customization, please reach out to us using our Special Requests form and indicate quantity, timeline, and customization preferences. Once we process your request, we will happily reach out to discuss what's possible!
A word from our founding designer: "It's not that we're looking to not work with some great potential partners, but it's more so that we're looking for the right potential partners. If you're convinced we'd work great together, I think you should still reach out to us!"
I'm an influencer who loves your brand. How do I get to work with you?
Atelier Aegis is always looking for the right partners to spread awareness of our brand. If you think you are the right fit and have the right audience that resonates with who we are, please reach out to us!