FAQ

What earring back options are available?

Ear wires are hypoallergenic, lead-free and nickel-free .925 sterling silver when earring pendants are antiqued silver finish, or 14K gold fill (GF) for antiqued gold.

Earrings have the option of simple French loop ear wires or hinged lever backs. See just below for adjustable clip-on option for non-pierced ears.

Lever backs are great if you’re always losing your earrings, but simple French loops arrive with clear rubber clutches to prevent them from loss, too.

French loops add a 1/4″ drop to each pendant; lever backs add a 1/2″ drop.

Read more about the French loop earring backs used at minusOne.

Does minusOne make earrings for non-pierced ears?

Yes! For most earring designs, I offer gold- or silver-plated screw-back adjustable clip-on earrings for non-pierced ears. If the option isn’t provided in the drop-down menu, please take a moment to contact me to see what’s possible and update the item.

Is 14K gold fill real gold?

Gold filled jewelry is a beautiful, affordable alternative to solid gold and contains 100 times more gold than gold-plated pieces. Gold fill jewelry can be worn by people with sensitive skin. Gold-filled jewelry is durable, and the gold won’t wear off like with gold-plated pieces. It is also tarnish resistant and usually won’t darken like brass or sterling silver. Chemicals like hair spray, perfume, and sweat can react with the exposed interior of the chain links or clasp in the long-term, so consider removing your gold fill chains before extensive exercise.

How do I clean gold fill jewelry?

Chains can be cleaned if needed with mild soap and water and a soft, non-abrasive cloth. Avoid chemical cleaners unless designed for gold filled jewelry.

Can I wear gold fill jewelry in the shower?

Water won’t harm gold-fill jewelry, but be sure to rinse off all soap or shampoo.

Can I shop for minusOne jewelry in person?

minusOne can be found in person at Sundrees on Main Street in Trumansburg NY. Come visit!

How do I care for unfinished brass?

Unfinished or “raw” brass will darken with time and use. Brass doesn’t respond well to water left to dry on its own or to chemicals like hair spray or perfume, but can be buffed again to a bright shine with a polishing cloth, simple soap and water, or a cleanser like Comet or Bon Ami. A small sample polishing cloth and a small ziplock storage bag are included with all natural brass items from minusOne. Use both for care and safe-keeping.

Read more on the minusOne jewelry blog about how to care for your brass jewelry.

Are minusOne ear wires hypoallergenic?

Earrings are shown worn for proportion, but ear wires are always new. Your earrings will arrive new and unworn, and always on .925 sterling silver or 14K gold fill ear wires. Both metals are considered to be generally hypoallergenic, high quality materials even for the most sensitive ears.

Can I return it if I don’t like it?

Yes! minusOne accepts returns. Review minusOne return policies here.

What if it breaks?

Things happen, including turtleneck sweaters, toddlers, and late nights. Contact me using the contact form and let me know if you need a fix, whether it’s one week or two years after you’ve purchased from minusOne. Although I can’t offer a lifetime guarantee, I am always willing to fix, adjust, or replace a clasp.

What length necklace should I get?

Gift for him? I recommend a 20″ chain or longer, unless this is a young man or a very lean one. For a chain that will fall naturally around his neck, add 2″-2.5″ to his shirt collar size.