Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Find answers to common questions about our handcrafted gemstone jewelry, healing crystals, WuXing Five Elements philosophy, and more.

What crystals are good for anxiety and stress relief?

The best crystals for anxiety include Amethyst (calming and protective), Blue Lace Agate (soothing), Lepidolite (contains natural lithium), Amazonite, and Black Tourmaline (grounding). In the WuXing Five Elements system, Water element crystals like Aquamarine are especially supportive as they promote flow and release of tension.

How does WuXing determine which crystal I need?

WuXing (五行) is the Traditional Chinese philosophy of Five Elements — Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal, and Water. Your dominant element is determined by your birth year and season. Each element corresponds to specific crystals: Wood (Jade, Malachite), Fire (Garnet, Carnelian), Earth (Citrine, Tiger's Eye), Metal (Clear Quartz, White Topaz), Water (Labradorite, Black Tourmaline). Use our WuXing Finder tool to discover your element.

What is the difference between labradorite and moonstone?

Both are feldspar minerals but differ in appearance. Labradorite displays labradorescence — a bold metallic blue, green, or gold flash. Moonstone shows adularescence — a soft, floating glow. Labradorite is associated with protection and psychic awareness; moonstone with intuition and feminine energy.

Are your gemstones ethically sourced?

Yes. LBV Crafts partners with suppliers who provide ethically sourced gemstones. We prioritize transparency in our supply chain. Many of our rare specimens, including Sichuan Garden Crystals and Enhydro Crystals, are sourced directly from specific regions known for quality and ethical practices.

How long does shipping take?

Orders ship within 1–2 business days. Domestic (US) delivery takes 3–5 business days after shipping. International times vary. You'll receive a tracking number by email once your order ships. For urgent orders, contact us at [email protected] before purchasing.

What is your return policy?

We offer a 7-day return window for items in original, unused condition in original packaging. Return shipping is a flat $7 fee. Customized pieces are final sale. Contact [email protected] within 7 days of receiving your order. We also offer a lifetime warranty on all gold and silver-plated components against manufacturing defects.

What is an enhydro crystal?

An enhydro crystal contains ancient water trapped inside a cavity during formation millions of years ago. This water is completely sealed within the crystal and often visible as a moving bubble. Enhydro crystals are extremely rare and prized for their connection to ancient, preserved water energy, symbolizing purity, flow, and emotional depth.

What is a Sichuan Garden Crystal?

A Sichuan Garden Crystal (also called Garden Quartz or Lodolite) is clear quartz from Sichuan province, China, containing inclusions that create a miniature landscape inside the stone. Common inclusions include chlorite (green), hematite (red/orange), and clay minerals. Each one is completely unique and prized as a meditation stone.

Do you offer custom jewelry designs?

Yes, we offer custom jewelry design consultations. We can create bespoke pieces using your preferred gemstones, settings, and chain styles. Contact us at [email protected] to discuss your vision with our founder Flora.

How do I care for my gemstone jewelry?

Store pieces dry and separately. Remove before swimming, showering, or exercising — water and sweat accelerate tarnishing on plated pieces. Avoid perfumes, lotions, and cleaning chemicals. Clean gently with a soft dry cloth. For crystal cleansing, use sound, moonlight, or selenite — avoid salt water or extended sun exposure.

What does Japanese minimalist jewelry mean?

Japanese minimalist jewelry embodies wabi-sabi (beauty in imperfection) and ma (negative space). It features clean lines, delicate proportions, and lets the natural gemstone speak without excessive ornamentation. Our pieces typically feature a single stone in a simple bezel or wire setting on a fine chain.

Do you offer workshops?

Yes, LBV Crafts offers workshops on crystal healing, WuXing Five Elements philosophy, and gemstone jewelry. Workshops are led by our founders Flora and Christine at our San Francisco atelier. Visit our Book Workshop page to view upcoming sessions.