Ecological Representations

While greenKarat makes every effort to source materials and make our jewelry with ecological integrity, there is no independently set standard for ‘green’ jewelry.  It therefore falls to you to evaluate your proposed purchase through the lens of your knowledge and values. 

We pledge to you that the primary metal in every greenKarat design is recycled, and that every gem is either created or recycled.  We provide Green Assay disclosures for every component of every product, and openly share our practices with you, whether they’re good, or short of ideal.   These disclosures are your tools for comparing us to other jewelers. 

If you don’t see the information you need at greenKarat, please ask us.  If you don’t see the information you need at another jeweler, ask them.  That’s one important way you can effect change.

Precious Metal Fineness

Because precious metals tend to be somewhat soft, a strengthening agent, or alloy, is usually added when making jewelry. This makes the jewelry stronger, so it lasts longer. Because different amounts of alloy can be used, jewelry is labeled to reflect the amount of precious metal it contains.

The purity of metal is described in terms of either its fineness, or by the carat. Pure gold is 24 karat (the term carat is used outside the United States). Pure platinum is 1000 fine. 18k gold is therefore comprised of 75% gold and 25% alloy. Similarly, 900 platinum is 90% platinum and 10% alloy.

The gold jewelry at greenKarat will be 18k, unless noted differently. Our platinum, unless otherwise noted, is 900.

Shipping

How Long Do Orders Usually Take to Ship?

The typical time elapsed from order placement until shipping varies by product, as indicated on each product page. This is, however, only an estimate. If you have a deadline, it’s very important that you tell us when you order. Also, we do our best to accommodate more urgent needs, so please don’t hesitate to ask if you have a tighter deadline. Just be sure to mark “Urgent” in the subject line of your email.

Shipping Options

We offer two shipping options within the 48 contiguous United States: 2 Day and Next Afternoon.  Please note that shipping selections do not impact the time to make your jewelry.

Delivery to international destinations

At this time, we routinely ship only to the US, UK, Ireland, Canada, Australia, New Zealand and the Netherlands.  Please contact us if your needs involve another destination.  Also, please see the Tax section at the bottom of this page for important tax information regarding international shipments.

Sizing

Sizing is normally designated in half-size increments, but is also available in quarter sizes.  To order a quarter size, simply select the nearest half size from the drop down menu.  During the purchasing process, you will have an opportunity to type in special requests and comments.  Just tell us what size you need.  This is not considered a custom request.

We would be pleased to send you a free ring sizing tool to help ensure that you choose the right size. Simply Contact Us and provide your name and address.

Tax

Sales tax is automatically applied to your greenKarat.com order, including shipping charges, in accordance with Texas state regulations if your shipping address is in Texas.

Non-US customers will likely incur the same taxes on their purchase as they pay when buying from a local jeweler.  These taxes are included in the invoice total at check-out, and remitted on your behalf.  No payment is required upon delivery.  Third party fees for this payment service are included with the shipping charges. 

Tax and shipping amount is dependent upon product price.  If you would like us to estimate taxes and shipping for you, just send us your address and potential purchase information.

Voluntary Carbon Offset Tax

There is no denying that energy is expended at every stage of making jewelry. That energy consumption has the unfortunate side effect of generating greenhouse gases, believed to be contributors to global warming. Consistent with the overall objective of minimizing our impact on the Earth, greenKarat offers you a means to offset the CO₂ emissions which occurred in the process of making your jewelry.

We have calculated the carbon emissions associated with energy usage from mining gold through making jewelry, and offer you an opportunity to buy credits to make your purchase carbon neutral. We then forward your contribution to a project which adheres to The Gold Standard. That assures that the emission reduction project is a good investment, and makes a genuine reduction in CO2 emissions. The conduit we currently use for contributions is Sustainable Travel. The name’s a bit of a red herring, but their work meets our carbon offset objectives. (By the way. we use renewable energy.  greenKarat's offices are operated using 100% wind generated power).

We are calling it a 'tax', but it's really a contribution, and it's your choice. If you prefer not to participate, simply check "No Carbon Tax" on the Voluntary Carbon Offset Tax when selecting your product.