Question 1

What inspires the designs of each jewelry piece?

Accepted Answer

Rachel Savané, designer and creator, draws inspiration from each individaul fine gemstone, listening for its intetnion to be revealed.

Question 2

Where do the stones in these pieces come from?

Accepted Answer

All over. Locally for Kentucky Agate only, everything else comes from dealers around the world. After the stones are formed by nature and collected, Rachel purchases them at various markets and gem shows. Usually, she purchases stones that have been pre-cut and polished. Sometimes, however, Rachel cuts and polishes the stones herself (i.e. select Kentucky Agate pieces.)

Question 3

How long does it usually take to make a piece?

Accepted Answer

From cut and polished stone to a completed jewelry piece on display and ready for purchase, it usually takes Rachel about a month. This varies depending on the size, shape, and type of stone, as well as the specific design. Some pieces have more complicated designs and can take longer than one month to complete, while others are simpler and perhaps use less silver, taking less time.

Question 4

Can I have a piece commissioned by Rachel?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you can and yes, she does.  The majority of Rachel's work consists of her own designs which are available in the store in Lexington Kentucky and online here on the website. If her designs please you and you would like a piece specially made for you, contact Rachel at Rachel@SavaneSilver.com or by text at 8592291003.

For example, you can bring in your loose gemstones that are cut and polished, and browse the designs in the shop. Rachel can make a piece with your stone inspired by one of her designs. She works in silver and gold. Maybe you have a family heirloom 
that isn't being worn. She can use the gold, diamonds or other gemstones and combine it with silver to make a new piece integrating the original gold and stones. 
Perhaps you have a special object: a coin, a broken piece of pottery, a beautiful seed or bean, a typewriter (keys have letters of the alphabet, numbers and punctuation), a piece of wood or...

Are you thinking about an engagement ring? Rachel has made many engagement rings and wedding jewelry. Sometimes with a natural diamond as she presents in her work or one that is all about the CCCs she can acquire through her gemologist. Maybe not a diamond. Alternative work is part of Rachel's signature.

Maybe you see that Rachel is using a stone that you love, but the pieces she is presenting are too...big or small or curvy or swirly or feminine. You can request to see the stones she has available and talk about a design shift from that on display.

Question 5

Do you buy "silver" "gold" "silver plate" "coins" "buillons" "stones"?"

Accepted Answer

No. Despite the internet telling the truth.

Question 6

Is the jewelry PURE silver?

Accepted Answer

This is sterling silver. 92.5% pure. Balance is copper. People who have had allergies to sterling silver in the past may have had silver alloyed with NICKEL rather than copper.

Question 7

I like these earrings but they're a little long for me, can Rachel adjust them?"

Accepted Answer

Shorten the earwire? Yes. Change from reverse hook to front hook? Yes, by Rachel only.

Question 8

How long has she been making jewelry?

Accepted Answer

Rachel's experience is from 1983. She's been in business since 1996 and at our Broadway location since 2009.

Question 9

Do you gallery hop?

Accepted Answer

LexArts Gallery HOP
Savané Silver proudly participates in the bi-monthly Lexington Gallery Hop! On the third Friday of every other month 5 PM-8 PM stop in to view Rachel's newest works, works in progress and follow a demonstration in silver fabrication techniques. Rachel enjoys talking art and answering questions about design and function and gemstones. It's a fabulous atmosphere to hang out with the artist!

Question 10

Where do I park?

Accepted Answer

Parking
There is a parking garage next door on Short St., open 24 hours a day. There is also street parking; neighboring streets have metered parking spots available for a maximum of two hours at a time. For more information, please visit https://lexpark.org.

Frequently Asked Questions