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Frequently Asked Questions

Shipping

Any piece that is featured on my website is typically ready to ship when you order it, as I rarely offer pieces on my site before they are finished. In the unlikely event a piece that has already been purchased is still showing as available, there is a chance I can recreate it, assuming I have the materials. If you would like to special order a piece, it can take longer for you to receive it, depending on the specifics of your order. Because I hand-make every piece, there is no specific timeline of how long any one project will take to complete. If you have a question about the amount of time a particular piece will require, I suggest you contact me at info@melissadudleydesigns.com and I will do my best to give you an estimate.

My preferred method of shipping is via USPS, fully insured with signature required. If you would like a different carrier, I also ship via UPS and FedEx, also with signature required. Regardless of shipper, I provide tracking information to you as soon as I get it. If you are unable to sign for your package at the time of delivery and it is returned to me, you will be responsible for any additional shipping fees that are incurred. For any questions regarding shipping, please click here.

If an item requires rush delivery, reach out as soon as possible via email at info@melissadudleydesigns.com with the specific information regarding your order. That way, we can work together to create an appropriate timeline.

Ordering

I accept Visa, MasterCard, Discover, and American Express. I also accept wire transfers, local (Nantucket-based bank) checks, Venmo, or cash (in person).

Your satisfaction is very important to me. If for any reason you need to return a purchase, please do so within 14 days of the shipment date. Please include your receipt and the original packaging, and ship via insured USPS. If you have any shipping issues, please email info@melissadudleydesigns.com; it is possible that I can create a return shipping label for you.

Returns should be sent to:
Melissa Dudley
PO Box 5137
Nantucket, MA 02554


Once I have received your return, we will refund your purchase price. Please allow up to 14 business days for your refund to appear on your credit card account.
Bear in mind that items that have been worn cannot be refunded or exchanged. However, if you feel that a piece you have purchased is somehow flawed, reach out to me immediately via email (with a photo, if possible) and I will work to rectify the situation.

For any special order, a 50% deposit is required to proceed with production. Given the nature of custom orders, the required time for production is longer, typically 6-8 weeks from the time of order.

All sales are final on special orders, and no returns or refunds are permitted. This includes, but is not limited to, those items with special engraving, personalization, or other customizations, including re-sizing, custom lengths, or fully custom pieces. If you have a question about a special-order item, please reach out before you order so as to avoid any confusion later on.

Please refer to our Sailor's Valentine size guide here.

Taking Care of Your Design

I absolutely stand behind every piece of jewelry that I make, but my creations are fragile. I recommend that you not wear you jewelry while engaging in any activity that might damage it. Do not shower, swim, work out, or participate in any other strenuous activity while wearing it. It is also best to avoid any contact with lotions, perfumes, cosmetics, or other chemicals that could damage it. Take your jewelry off before going to go bed, and make sure it is the last thing you put on when getting dressed. If you have any additional questions about how to care for your piece, please visit our Care & Maintenance page for more specifics.

I am happy to repair any piece that does get damaged. If the damage occurs within 60 days of the purchase date, email me and I will work with you to find a solution. If the damage occurs after 60 or more days after purchase, I will still be happy to help you, though there may be an additional charge, plus shipping and handling. If it appears that the damage to an item has occurred through intentional misuse or abuse, I reserve the right to refuse service.