FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions: Your product questions answered!

How long does Southern Gates shipping take?

Southern Gates orders are processed within 2–3 business days. Shipping times vary depending on the shipping method selected during checkout. Once your order has shipped, you'll receive a confirmation email with tracking information.

Where does Southern Gates Jewelry ship from?

Every Southern Gates order is carefully packed and shipped from Charleston, South Carolina, the city that inspires our handcrafted jewelry collections.

Can I track my Southern Gates order?

Yes! Once your order ships, you'll receive a shipping confirmation email with tracking information. Please allow up to 24 hours for tracking updates to appear.

Can I change or cancel my order?

We begin processing orders quickly so your jewelry arrives as soon as possible. If you need to update or cancel your order, please contact us immediately at info@southerngatesjewelry.com. We'll do our best to make changes before your order ships.

What is your return policy?

We gladly accept returns on unworn jewelry within 30 days of delivery, provided each item is returned in its original condition. Please visit our Returns Policy  page for complete details.

How do I care for sterling silver jewelry?

Sterling silver naturally tarnishes over time. Exposure to lotions, perfumes, humidity, water, and natural skin oils can accelerate the tarnishing process.

To keep your Southern Gates sterling silver jewelry looking its best, gently polish each piece with a soft silver polishing cloth. We do not recommend liquid silver dips or harsh cleaning chemicals, as they may damage the finish and natural beauty of your jewelry.

What is the best way to store sterling silver jewelry?

Store your jewelry in a dry, airtight pouch or soft-lined jewelry box when it's not being worn. To help preserve its finish, put your jewelry on after applying makeup, perfume, or lotion, and remove it before swimming, showering, or exercising.

With proper care, your Southern Gates jewelry is designed to be treasured for years to come.

What is 925 sterling silver?

925 sterling silver is made from 92.5% pure silver and 7.5% alloy metals, typically copper, to provide added strength and durability.

All Southern Gates sterling silver jewelry stamped 925 is genuine sterling silver.

Is Southern Gates Jewelry nickel-free?

Yes. All Southern Gates sterling silver jewelry is nickel-free, making it an excellent choice for most people with sensitive skin.

What is rhodium-plated sterling silver?

Rhodium plating is a thin protective layer applied over sterling silver to help reduce tarnishing and enhance durability.

Rhodium is a precious metal in the platinum family that provides a bright, long-lasting finish. Depending on the design, it may create a slightly cooler tone than untreated sterling silver.

All rhodium-plated jewelry is clearly identified in the product description. Over time, the plating may naturally wear with regular use, but the sterling silver underneath remains unchanged.

What is gold-plated sterling silver?

Gold-plated jewelry features a layer of 14kt gold (typically around 0.5 microns) applied over 925 sterling silver.

With proper care, gold-plated sterling silver jewelry can maintain its beautiful finish for years. Like all plated jewelry, the gold layer may naturally wear over time with frequent wear.

What is 14kt vermeil?

14kt vermeil is a premium form of gold-plated jewelry made with a thick layer of 14kt gold (typically 2 microns or more) over 925 sterling silver.

Compared to standard gold plating, vermeil offers a richer appearance and greater durability while maintaining the beauty of sterling silver.

What is gold-filled jewelry?

Gold-filled jewelry is made by permanently bonding a thick layer of real gold to a base metal core using heat and pressure.

Because it contains significantly more gold than traditional gold plating, gold-filled jewelry is highly durable, resistant to fading, and designed for long-lasting everyday wear.