Purchase Disclaimer!!
Read this ENTIRE page!
Please read this entire page before placing an order to ensure you understand our processes, policies, and the unique nature of our handmade jewelry. Our prices reflect the cost of materials, the time invested, and the risks associated with working with potential blood-borne pathogens in DNA pieces.
If these details do not align with your expectations, I may not be the ideal artisan for your needs. My goal is to provide complete transparency regarding my processes, enabling you to make an informed decision when choosing to purchase from me.
Returns, Refunds, Exchanges, and Cancellations
Due to the personalized nature of custom and DNA pieces, these items cannot be returned, refunded, or exchanged. Any issues will be assessed on a case-by-case basis, with exchanges only considered for the same item and only if an approved reason is provided.
Cancellations are accepted within 24 hours of placing the order. Invoices are valid for two weeks from the date of issue and are subject to change based on fluctuations in metal prices at the time of purchase.
Consumer Understanding and Client Agreement
As a client of Mind Over Matter, I acknowledge that I have thoroughly read and understood all the information provided by Mind Over Matter regarding the expectations for my items. I am fully informed about the process of sending and receiving my elements, as well as the long-term care required for the final product.
By submitting my elements, I confirm that these are not the last of their kind and do not contain any known illnesses or diseases to the best of my knowledge. I entrust the artistic interpretation and creation of my piece to the crafter, acknowledging and accepting the inherent imperfections that come with handmade items.
Liability Release
Katherine, of Mind Over Matter, along with her associates, cannot be held liable for acts of God, broken items, or any occurrences beyond our control while the items are in our care or after they have left. We are not responsible for lost packages or any postal issues, nor for damage resulting from unforeseen events such as fire or severe weather conditions. We reserve the right to discard improperly prepared materials.
I, Katherine Cundiff of Mind Over Matter (M.O.M.), assure that all information provided to clients is accurate to the best of my knowledge. This ensures clients are well-informed about the processes involved, and the elements used are those supplied by the client alone.
Warranty and Repairs6-Month Spotting/Rotting Guarantee: A six-month guarantee is provided for milk pieces to cover spotting or rotting.
DNA Gem Repairs: Damaged, loose, or fallen-out DNA gems can be repaired. Shipping costs are the responsibility of the client, and the warranty does not reset post-repair.
Non-Pronged Settings: Gems in settings without prongs are held by resin and may be more prone to falling out. A sealing layer is applied to help prevent movement, but regular inspections are recommended.
Storage and Repair Policy
Milk Storage: Milk is stored for roughly two years from the purchase date for potential future purchases or repairs.
Non-Covered Damages: Damages to metals or non-DNA stones are not covered as I do not create these settings and will need the proper craftmanship for such repairs.
Product Details
Hardware: Most necklaces do not include chains or additional hardware unless specified.
Handmade Imperfections: Jewelry may feature minor imperfections such as bubbles, pits, or uneven textures due to the handmade nature of the pieces. These are not flaws but part of the uniqueness of each item. Elements can float or sink, flecks and other add-ins can do the same. Some things are out of my control being handmade and working with such elements. The whole process from preserving, casting, sanding, and sealing is done all by hand. I do not have big, fancy machines or a gallery of people to help. Be proud to buy uniquely, handmade with love items.
Unique Craftsmanship
Custom Creations: Each piece is 100% unique and tailored to each client. Photos are examples and may not represent the exact appearance of every piece.
Artistic License: By choosing Mind Over Matter, clients agree to accept my artistic style and handmade processes, acknowledging that certain details are beyond my control.
Safety Precautions
Child and Pet Safety: Jewelry should be kept away from children and pets as it can pose choking or strangulation hazards. Regular inspections for loose parts are recommended.
Jewelry Care and Preservation
Daily Wear: Normal wear and tear are expected. Clients should follow care instructions and inspect their jewelry regularly.
Preservation Process: The breastmilk preservation method involves oxidation, leading to a final shade that reflects the milk’s fat content. Variations are natural and unique to each piece.
Long-Term Care: Proper care is essential to maintain the integrity and appearance of your piece. Factors like UV light, heat, chemicals, and daily use can impact the longevity and color of the resin.
Medications: Some medications can affect how the milk interacts with the preservation method.
Preparation Instructions: Following the preparation instructions accurately is crucial for optimal results in the preservation process.
Resin and Long-Term Changes
Resin Yellowing: Over time, all resin will yellow, even the highest quality. Artists who claim otherwise may not be truthful about their method and process. I use top jeweler-grade resin to ensure longevity and am constantly testing new brands and processing to improve the quality of my pieces.
Color Changes: Like most white items, resin can change color over time due to the nature of it being a light colored item.
Factors Affecting Jewelry Integrity
Environmental Factors: Exposure to UV light, extreme heat, chemicals, perfumes, lotions, smoking, and cooking oils can impact the color and integrity of the resin.
Jewelry Care: Proper care is necessary to maintain the piece's longevity, similar to any other heirloom item.
Cleaning Instructions
Jewelry Care
Cleaning Resin: Use a dry or lightly damp microfiber cloth to clean the resin parts of your keepsakes.
Sterling Silver: Sterling silver can tarnish due to its reaction with air and environmental factors like moisture, sunlight, and contaminants. Tarnish can be removed with a mild buffing cloth or anti-tarnish solution. This does NOT mean it turns your finger green. it just means it may need polishing in between wearing.
Storage: Protect your jewelry by storing it in a clear, airtight container with tarnish-resistant products (e.g., tarnish tabs or strips). Always store in a cool, dry place.
Hourglass Care
Handling: Handle with care, as the glass can shatter if used aggressively.
Opening: Do not open the hourglass; the sand can be harmful if inhaled. If broken, use proper PPE to clean up, place the sand in a ziplock, and discard the damaged glass.
Sunlight: Avoid displaying in sunlight.
Initial Use: For the first month or two, shake the sand to ensure it cures evenly.
DNA Globe/Crystal Ball Care
Handling: Handle with care to prevent shattering.
Opening: Do not open the globe or crystal ball.
Sunlight: Avoid storing in windows or direct sunlight due to fire hazard and discoloration.
Initial Use: Shake often during the first few months to ensure even curing of the DNA element.
Breakage: If broken, use proper PPE to clean up, place the DNA elements in a ziplock, and discard the damaged material.
Vitally Encased Heart Care
Handling: Handle with care and clean with a dry or lightly damp microfiber cloth.
Sunlight: Avoid displaying in sunlight.
Maintenance: Shake periodically to ensure the elements remain flowing and well combined.
Plated Décor Care
Cleaning: Bare-plated pieces can oxidize like copper and may require polishing and buffing to restore shine. Sealing can prevent oxidation.
Patina Colorings: Patina may change over time, especially if unsealed, and can be polished as needed. Avoid using chemicals to clean, as they can damage the piece.