FAQ
Q: Are your hooks functional?
A: Absolutely. However, I consider them ornamental works of art intended to be passed down through generations. They are not replacements for a standard crochet hook. They should only be used on special occasions and with extreme care and stored properly when not in use.
Which leads to the second most commonly asked question…
Q: Is silver too soft to be a functional hook?
A: If you’re simply using a hook to crochet with soft yarn there is no reason for it to bend or break. I use thick silver rod and work harden the metal by aggressively hammering it on a steel anvil. Thinner gauges are more prone to bends, which is why I don’t offer them in sizes that are easily compromised.
Always use with caution and care if you choose to do so.
Q: What hook sizes do you offer?
A: My most common size is G/6. I occasionally offer different sizes when I have the right supplies, ranging from C-K. Because of the inflation of silver prices it may be a while before I offer sizes above 5mm. (Hook sizes may vary slightly up to .3mm due to the nature of handmaking)
Q: Are your hooks tapered or inline?
A: The most functional design I came up with features somewhat of a hybrid style, The head is in-line with the body but has a tapered neck just below the tip, to allow yarn to slide over easier.
Q: is opal too soft for a crochet hook?
A: The Short answer is NO it’s not too soft to be put in an ornamental crochet hook.
Opal on the Mohs scale is 5.5-6.5 hardness. Glass is a 6. many traditional jewelers don’t like working with opal because it’s more difficult to set than diamonds or sapphires (9-10+ Mohs), and shouldnt be used in everyday jewelry. that’s where a lot of the controversy lies.
I use genuine Australian opal because is it considered the most durable opal on the market. It is non-porous so it’s a bit harder and doesn’t lose or absorb water unlike the more common Ethiopian opal.
Q: Where do you get your materials?
A: I go through the most reputable refineries and gem dealers based in the US, the same as your local jewelers. The silver is recycled through refineries and many of the gems I use are pre-loved from estate sales!
Q: How are your engravings and settings done?
A: All by hand. My engravings are extremely small, pictures on the internet really can’t show you the scale until you're looking at it with your own eyes. I use a hand engraver with an air compressor. I sketch out a design and chisel away metal. It’s all freehanded under a microscope. I will never use stamps or lasers or any of the things that can make art feel impersonal. And I will never turn to mass production. My stone settings are custom made in a similar fashion by hand as well, this often takes longer than the engravings. When I engrave a name on the back, that’s my own cursive handwriting. This is a dying skill few jeweler’s practice anymore.
Every piece that leaves my bench is focused on individually, one at a time. It’s very slow work and a single hook can take several days to finish.
Q: Will yarn snag on the engravings / stones?
A: My engravings / settings are small and superficial; and I do snag tests when I’m finished with any piece of jewelry (including hooks) to assure nothing grabs fibers. If you do notice any snagging please let me know and I can take care of it for you.
Q: Can you create a customized piece for me?
A: I have moved away from taking customized engraving requests. In my hook listings I offer an “artist’s choice” option which will get you a surprise engraving. It may be similar to engravings I have already done, but there’s also a chance it will be a one of a kind.
Q: How long are the crochet hooks?
A: They sit between 5 - 5.5 inches long. This may vary a bit due to the nature of handmaking.
NOTE for those who own my older hooks pre-2023:
Some of my older hooks are longer, sometimes much longer, than the hooks I produce today. I didn’t use to measure when I first started experimenting with this concept. Nowadays I’ve been more uniform in having all sizes sit between at least 5-5.5 inches long. I don’t use any fancy crochet hook making machines, just my hands and hand tools, so there’s always going to be some variance no matter what.
Things you should never do to your Jeweled crochet hook
Bend, use any chemical cleaners or abrasives, drop, chew on, or generally mistreat. If you wouldn’t do it to your great grandma’s wedding ring, don’t do it to your hook.
Caring for your hook the same way you would care for any silver or gold jewelry will help keep it in tip top shape through the years.
This is a functional ornamental item, and although it is made of fine materials, I encourage -mindful- use.
Not a toy. Not for children. Not a replacement for standard crochet hooks.
Jewelry / Crochet Hook Care
Q: How do I store/clean my jewelry or crochet hook at home? -
A: Store jewelry in a soft moisture free area, like a jewelry box. I highly recommend using anti-tarnish strips wherever you keep your precious metals/jewelry. Silver should be cleaned periodically, especially if not being worn or used, to prevent tarnish. Dry jewelry wipes like sunshine cloths are very effective for regular cleaning and mild tarnish buildup.
A soft bristle toothbrush, warm water, and plain dawn dish soap are also great for at home cleaning.