Short answers to the questions we hear most. Anything else? Write to us at info@atelierte.com.

About Atelier Té

Who is behind Atelier Té?

Atelier Té is an independent jewellery brand from Zürich, Switzerland, founded by Umar Hallawi. We design architectural, genderfluid jewellery inspired by geology, biology and the ocean.

Where is your atelier, and can I visit?

Our atelier is at Stationsstrasse 36, 8003 Zürich (Kreis 3). Visits are by appointment. Contact us to book a time.

Where can I read about you?

Atelier Té has been featured in Vogue Italia, NZZ and annabelle. See our Press page.

Materials

Is your silver recycled?

Yes. Every silver piece is made from recycled .925 sterling silver. Recycled silver is just as pure as newly mined silver, with far less impact on the environment.

Is it real silver, or plated steel?

It is real sterling silver all the way through: 92.5% pure silver. We never use steel or brass coated to look like silver.

What is gold vermeil?

Gold vermeil is a thick layer of gold over a sterling silver base. Our vermeil is plated with 18k gold in Zug, Switzerland: 8 microns on rings and bangles, and 3 to 5 microns on earrings, which see less friction. That is well above the 1.5-micron industry standard. The silver base is recycled; the gold is not.

Do you use pearls?

Some designs are set with white or Tahiti pearls. On selected pieces, pearls can be added on request. Just get in touch.

How our jewellery is made

Is your jewellery handmade?

Yes. Each piece is made by hand by our team of four jewellers in Bulgaria, in small batches of fewer than ten. Every piece is then finished in Switzerland: polishing, soldering and pearl setting in our Zürich atelier, and gold plating in Zug.

Where do your chains come from?

Our chains are made by a German chain maker with more than a hundred years of history, then assembled and finished by hand in Switzerland.

Can I order a custom piece?

Yes, we make custom chains and are happy to talk about other bespoke requests. Contact us to discuss your idea.

Ordering and delivery

Do you deliver across Switzerland?

Yes, we deliver to all of Switzerland, as well as internationally. See our shipping policy for costs and delivery times.

How long does a gold piece take?

Many gold vermeil pieces are made to order and ship in about one week. Silver pieces in stock ship sooner.

Can I return a piece?

Yes. Please see our refund policy for the details.

Care

My silver has darkened. Is that normal?

Yes. Real silver naturally tarnishes over time, which is a sign it is genuine. A soft polishing cloth brings back the shine in seconds.

How do I care for gold vermeil?

Take it off before showering, swimming or applying perfume and creams, and store it separately in its pouch. Wipe it gently with a soft, dry cloth. Thick vermeil like ours is made to be worn every day.