Wednesday, October 26, 2016

What size necklace should I order?

What size necklace is right for your child, and why is length so important?

Baltic Amber jewelry works by being worn against the skin. Is NOT intended for children to chew on their Baltic amber and gemstone jewelry. It is important to determine the correct size necklace to order for your child, as the goal is to be sure that they cannot roll their necklace over their chin and into their mouth. Amber is soft and will break if chewed. Gemstones are hard and will break teeth if chewed. If your child is well past the putting-things-in-their-mouth phase, this is obviously less important and length becomes a matter of preference.




Using a soft measuring measuring tape, measure your child to determine what length will be best. If you do not have a soft measuring tape, you can use a string, shoe lace or piece of dental floss and measure using a hard tape or ruler. The key is not tight but not so long that your child can pass the necklace over his or her chin and put it into his or her mouth.

Keep in mind the stones themselves will add some "bulk" compared to the measuring tape. Most parents find taking the measurement of their child's neck and adding 1.5"-2" to determine what size to order. Once you have measured their neck, extend the tape 1.5"-2" and check that size to be sure you like that fit.

The most popular size necklace for very young children is 12", which should fit until age 2 to 2 1/2.

As always, we are here to help if you have questions! Simply send us a message and we can assist you in finding or designing the right size piece for your child.

Wednesday, October 19, 2016

Which clasp should I choose for my amber jewelry?

We offer three clasp options for your child or adult size jewelry! When you consider safety and functionality, which one is right for you and your kids? Keep reading to find out.





STERLING SILVER CLASP: Funky Birdie Amber jewelry comes standard with a sterling silver spring ring clasp. Yes, even on pieces for children! Why are these sterling silver closures our favorite? Not only are they made with .925 sterling silver (great for those with sensitive skin), each piece made with a silver clasp has multiple safety breakaway points - both at the spring ring clasp itself as well as the "clamshell" findings on either side. Durable enough for every day use, when the piece is pulled on hard or yanked with force, the clasp or the clamshells will give way - just as it's intended to do. Your sterling silver clasp piece will require repair if break-away is used. We love this type of clasp for ALL ages!

SCREW CLASP: We also offer plastic screw clasps in colors to coordinate with your amber jewelry. Screw type clasps are the most difficult to break-away, meaning it will require a LOT of force to give way in the unlikely case of an emergency situation. For this reason, we don't recommend them on necklaces for very young children. We like plastic screw clasps for child's bracelets and anklets, as well as adult jewelry. 

POP CLASP: These clasps have the same look as screw clasps, but breakaway MUCH more easily than screw, or even sterling silver clasps. On the plus side, utilizing the break-away feature won't result in actual breakage of the piece, but does mean it's more likely to be removed by your child or lost. We like this option best for very young children. 

With brand new made-to-order options in Funky Birdie Amber shop, and our endless custom jewelry design options, you'll now be able to choose the correct closure that works for you.

Got questions? Contact us!