Frequently Asked Questions

Welcome to The House of Almaari - where heirloom feeling meets modern ease. If you don’t find your answer here, speak with The House at info@thehouseofalmaari.com or Instagram @thehouseofalmaari.

What are our pieces made of?

Our jewels are built on hallmarked 925 Sterling Silver, finished with 22K Gold plating, and set with Moissanite Polki alongside natural semi-precious gemstones. Each collection honours Indian artistry with a refined, contemporary touch.

Are our jewels hypoallergenic?

Yes. Our pieces are nickel and lead free. If your skin is very sensitive, we suggest a brief patch test (wear the piece for a short time on a small area) to confirm comfort.

What is 925 Sterling Silver?

925 Sterling Silver is 92.5% Pure Silver alloyed for strength. It keeps silver’s shine with everyday durability; light tarnish is normal - polish gently and store dry. Our jewels use a 925 core finished with 22K Gold plating.

What does the “925” hallmark mean?

“925” is a purity mark confirming 92.5% Sterling Silver and its authenticity. It certifies the silver core (not the gold layer); the plating karat (e.g., 22K) is listed separately in the product details.

Why choose demi-fine over imitation/costume?

Core: Hallmarked 925 Sterling Silver with 22K Gold plating (not brass/base metals).
Longevity: Repairable, cleanable, re-platable. (Imitation/Costume Jewellery is mostly wear-and-replace)
Skin comfort: Nickel/lead-free and hypoallergenic. (Does not irritate skin generally nor does it leave green marks)
Credibility: “925” hallmark + clear materials = trust, serviceability, and perceived resale value.
Beauty: Moissanite polki & natural semi-precious stones outshine glass/plastic simulants.
Demi-fine jewellery delivers heirloom-worthy jewels - without solid-gold pricing.

925 Sterling Silver vs Solid Gold: What’s the Price Difference?

Solid gold commands a dramatically higher material cost. Our demi-fine approach - 925 Sterling Silver with 22K Gold plating - delivers the fine-jewellery look and feel at a far more accessible price.

What is Moissanite?

A lab-grown gemstone (silicon carbide) known for high brilliance and rainbow fire, with ~9.25 Mohs hardness (diamond is 10). It’s ethically produced, consistent in quality, and offers exceptional value for demi-fine heirlooms.

Moissanite polki vs. Real polki (diamond)

Look: Both use the flat, organic “polki” silhouette. Moissanite polki is brighter with lively fire; real polki has an antique, softly glowing character.

Material: Moissanite polki = lab-grown moissanite; real polki = natural, uncut diamond.

Durability: ~9.25 Mohs (moissanite) vs 10 Mohs (diamond) - both excellent for wear.

Consistency & Price: Moissanite polki is more uniform and more accessible; real polki varies naturally and is premium-priced.

Moissanite polki is hand-cut to emphasise vintage-style sparkle and impressive fire. It delivers diamond-like brilliance with an ethical, more attainable profile - ideal for demi-fine, heirloom-feeling pieces.

Will my jewels look exactly like the photos?

Minor shifts in stone colour and tone, texture, or pattern are normal in handcrafted jewellery and natural semi-precious gemstones. Lighting and screens can influence how colour appears. Use the measurements and details on each product page as your most accurate guide.

Can you customise a design?

Yes. We accept bespoke designs and customisations. Typical creation time for custom work is 6-9 weeks before dispatch. If you have a special date, tell us early so we can advise feasibility.

What is the customisation process like?

We start with a concise consult where you share sketches, inspiration images, or heirloom references. Our design team obtains a formal quote from our artisans in India. Upon your approval, full payment is required to begin. Crafting usually takes 6-9 weeks, during which we’ll share progress where possible (for example, CAD designs or work-in-progress photos). Because each jewel is made by hand, subtle variations in proportion, stone colour and tone, or finish may occur - these reflect true artisanal making and are not defects. Please note that there may be a slight variation in cost once the artisan starts production, any changes will be communicated with you and may be chargeable.

How do I place an order?

Choose your piece and check out through our secure Shopify store. You’ll receive an order confirmation, then a tracking link once your parcel departs.

What payment methods do you accept?

We accept major cards and PayPal. Prices are shown in NZD by default; your bank may apply its own exchange rate and fees for other currencies.

Is checkout secure?

Yes. Payments are processed via encrypted gateways. We only receive the order and shipping details needed to fulfil your purchase.

Where do you ship from and to?

We ship worldwide from Auckland, New Zealand.

How long will delivery take?

New Zealand: 1-3 business days
Australia: 2-6 business days*
International: 3-9 business days*

*Local customs processing can add time beyond our control.

Do you require a signature? Can I request express?

Yes - signature on delivery is standard. Express and/or fully insured options are available on request.

Will I need to pay duties or taxes?

Orders delivered outside New Zealand may attract local duties or import VAT/GST, payable by the recipient. Your country’s customs website can provide estimates.

Refer to our Shipping & Delivery for more detailed information

What is your return policy?

To protect craftsmanship and hygiene, all sales are final unless the item arrives damaged or incorrect. Email info@thehouseofalmaari.com within 24 hours of delivery with your order number and clear photos and videos. If a return is approved, please send the unused item in its original packaging via signature-required courier; we must receive it within 5-9 days of approval for assessment. Parcels sent without signature/insurance travel at the sender’s risk.

What’s covered under after-care or warranty?

If you suspect a manufacturing issue, contact us within 24 hours for review. Normal wear (fine scratches, softening of plating) isn’t a defect. We offer professional replating, and repairs at service rates - email us for a quote.

My parcel arrived damaged - what should I do?

Retain all packaging, photograph and video the parcel and item, and contact us within 24 hours so we can help promptly.

Refer to our Returns & Refund for more detailed information

How should I look after 22K Gold-plated 925 Sterling Silver jewellery?

Jewels are the final flourish: Let fragrance and lotions absorb, then add your jewellery; remove first after wear.

Keep it dry: Avoid showers, pools, saunas, and high humidity.

After each wear: Wipe gently with a soft, lint-free cloth.

Store thoughtfully: Separate pieces in a pouch or travel case, away from damp air and temperature extremes (an airtight container is ideal).

How long does 22K Gold plating last?

Longevity depends on how the piece is worn and stored. Keep it away from moisture, fragrance, lotions, and abrasives; follow our care guide and the finish will remain beautiful. A gentle, natural softening over time is normal and not considered a defect.

Do you recommend a patch test?

Our jewels are hypoallergenic (nickel/lead-free), but skin sensitivities vary individually. If your skin is sensitive, yes - wear the piece briefly on a small area first.

Refer to our Jewellery Care Guide for more info

Can I change or cancel my order?

We begin preparing orders quickly, so changes may be possible before dispatch - please email us immediately with your order number. Custom/bespoke pieces cannot be cancelled once production starts.

How do I track my parcel?

We’ll email a tracking link as soon as your jewel leaves The House.

Refer to our Shipping & Delivery for more info

Can you help me choose? Do you offer previews?

Absolutely. We’re happy to recommend styling tips and jewellery for your special event or occasion. Additionally, we can also arrange for private previews (virtual or in-person where available).