Frequently Asked Questions :)
Where do you source your materials?
All foraged flowers and mushrooms are sourced ethically, as I collect them on walks throughout North Texas and later press the flowers between pages of books. My goal is to collect fallen flowers, although I pick them too (especially if I know the area will be mowed soon). While foraging, I also pick up trash and recyclables along the way to leave the space cleaner than I found it. For other materials such as beads, wire, earring clasps, and UV resin, I primarily find everything at thrift stores, secondhand art supply stores, eBay, and/or other secondhand sources.
How is your jewelry eco-conscious?
I create unique jewelry from repurposed beads, secondhand materials, and flowers that I forage and press myself by hand. I rarely buy brand new materials unless absolutely necessary, as my business model revolves around creating eco-conscious jewelry and reusing items to reduce waste. I also have very minimal packaging - for example, when you order a pair of earrings, they'll arrive in a reusable mesh bag instead of a traditional cardstock earring holder since they are often thrown away immediately after purchase. This way, you may reuse the bag and/or have a cute way to store them for travel.
Why do you discuss political issues? I thought this was a business!
Business has always been political, as is everything in life. Even if we decide not to acknowledge it, companies often donate to political campaigns behind closed doors and are not as neutral as one would believe. Although I am a jewelry maker, I am a sociologist above all else. It is my duty to discuss the realities faced by Black and Brown people in the U.S., and to never to stay silent in the face of injustice. To me, it is a humanitarian issue of morality, and the least I can do is use my platform to spread awareness of the truth, even when it makes white people uncomfortable.
What makes your jewelry unique?
Each necklace, bracelet, and pair of earrings is one-of-a-kind, as I design each piece of jewelry into an individual work of wearable art. When I press flowers, there's no telling how they'll turn out until they've dried, leading to variable colors and shapes. As you'll see in the "Shop", every item is different from the next, including the upcycled necklaces and bracelets I crafted with reclaimed beads. I wait for inspirational ideas to arrive before creating jewelry, and I'm always seeking interesting beads and thrifted items to repurpose into my jewelry.
Can bracelets be adjusted to my wrist size?
Yes of course! Kindly reach out to me on the "Contact Me" page, select the bracelet you like, provide your wrist dimensions in inches, and I'll adjust the selected bracelet to fit your wrist. I do this by unlinking a bead from the bracelet or adding a bead(s) to make the bracelet bigger or smaller.
Where can I learn more about Apples & Oranges Jewelry and Apothecary?
Explore the "About" page and read the interviews I've done with Voyage Dallas, Shout Out DFW, and BoldJourney. You may also visit my business page on IG or FB (@apples777oranges) to learn more about my company, mission, and vision!
Do you offer free shipping?
Yes! All orders $49+ receive free shipping. In case your order doesn't qualify for free shipping, rest assured that I strive to offer low shipping rates ($4-$6) on smaller orders.
Do you offer local pickup?
Yes, I offer local pickup in Denton, Texas with no additional fee. Message me on the "Contact Me" page to reserve a pickup time & date.
How can I contact you?
If you have a question, special commission request, or just feel like saying hello, please send me an email through the "Contact Me" page above. Likewise, you may reach me on IG or FB (@apples777oranges). I am always happy to answer your questions, so please don't hesitate to reach out!
Is your jewelry durable & long-lasting?
Yes! I intentionally create each piece of jewelry to last a lifetime - I design each piece with tarnish-resistant stainless steel wire for added durability. I stress test each piece (i.e. try to break it) before adding it to my inventory. For example, I wrap my earrings with stainless steel wire in lieu of using jump rings, making it impossible for them to break during regular wear. For the necklaces and bracelets, I secure each bead or charm with stainless steel wire, forming beaded links that I connect together and tighten with pliers.