Good questions

Aubretta is designed and made by me, Alex Laverty, in my Minneapolis studio.

I first trained as a jeweler and goldsmith more than fifteen years ago, before life took me in another direction. Aubretta marks my return to the bench, and is named for my daughters, Aubrey and Loretta.

You can read the full story in Chapter 01.

Aubretta pieces are handcrafted using solid 14k gold, 14k gold-filled, sterling silver, and genuine natural stones. Materials vary from piece to piece, and every product page will clearly list exactly what was used.

Natural stones are just that: natural. Variations in color, pattern, shape, and texture are part of what makes each one unique.

Solid 14k gold is gold throughout. It's made to last for generations and won't wear through or flake like a plated finish. With time, it may develop fine scratches and a natural patina, part of a piece being worn and loved.

14k gold-filled has a substantial layer of 14k gold mechanically bonded to a base metal. It offers the look and feel of gold at a more accessible price and, with proper care, can wear beautifully for a long time.

Aubretta does not use traditional gold plating unless specifically noted.

Yes. Aubretta jewelry is designed and made by hand in my Minneapolis studio. Because of the handmade process and the natural materials I work with, subtle variations are expected, and celebrated.

No two stones are exactly alike, and many pieces will never be exactly duplicated.

Yes. Aubretta uses genuine natural stones selected for their color, character, and story.

Natural variations, inclusions, markings, and differences in color are not considered flaws. They're part of what makes your piece yours.

Any treatments or important stone-specific details will be noted on the individual product page when applicable.

Many are.

Because I work with individual natural stones and make in small batches, some pieces may only exist once. Other designs may return in different stones, metals, or variations.

If you fall in love with a one-of-a-kind piece, there may never be another exactly like it.

Sometimes, but not always in exactly the same form.

Natural stones and small-batch making mean each chapter evolves as it's created. A design may return with a different stone, metal, or detail, while some pieces truly are one of one.

Aubretta collections unfold in Chapters.

Each Chapter begins with a story, sometimes a place, a person, a memory, a material, or a moment, and becomes a collection of pieces inspired by it.

Some Chapters will be small. Some will grow over time. Each tells a different part of the Aubretta story.

Not right now.

For this first chapter, I'm focused on creating the collection and giving each piece the time it deserves. If custom work becomes available in the future, the email list will hear about it first.

For the best fit, I recommend having your finger professionally sized by a local jeweler before ordering, especially for wider bands.

Sizing information and any fit notes will also be included on individual product pages.

Because many Aubretta rings are one-of-a-kind, please double-check your size before purchasing.

It depends on the piece.

Some designs can be resized, while certain stones, settings, or construction methods make resizing difficult or impossible. Any sizing limitations will be noted on the product page.

If you're unsure, reach out before purchasing and I'll let you know what's possible.

A little care goes a long way.

Different metals and natural stones have different needs, so I've created a complete Jewelry Care Guide covering solid 14k gold, gold-filled, sterling silver, and natural stones.

For the longest life of your jewelry, I recommend removing it before swimming, bathing, exercising, or using household chemicals.

Solid 14k gold is highly durable, but natural stones and gold-filled pieces may require more care. Always follow the instructions for the specific materials in your piece.

Jewelry is made to be worn, and sometimes life happens.

If your Aubretta piece needs attention, please get in touch with photos and a brief description of what happened. I'll take a look and let you know whether it can be repaired and what the next steps are.

Repair availability and cost will depend on the piece and the nature of the damage.

The email list gets first notice of new Chapters, collection launches, limited releases, and studio updates.

Because many pieces are made in small quantities, and some only once, joining the list is the best way to know what's coming next.

Come along.