OUR AMBER
Is your amber genuine?
Yes. All the amber we use at Ravgaard is genuine amber. It is Baltic amber, formed around 40 million years ago, and it is also sometimes referred to as Nordic amber.
We do not use pressed amber, plastic, or other amber imitations. The amber may be worked through grinding, polishing, and heat treatment, and some individual pieces may have a black surface on the back.
Heat treatment does not mean the amber has been melted or pressed. It is still the original piece of genuine amber, and the treatment can be used to enhance its color and natural character.
You can read more about amber, its origins, and the different ways it can be worked on our About Amber page.
Where does your amber come from?
Most of the amber you find at Ravgaard comes from Denmark. Since the 1970s, we have purchased amber from Danish fishermen, private amber collectors, farmers who find amber in their fields, and sand dredging operators. Much of it comes from the west coast of Jutland, Laeso, and the Limfjord.
The amber is what is known as Baltic amber. It occurs across a larger region around the Baltic Sea and the North Sea and washes ashore along the Danish coast, among other places. You can read more about amber and our family's work with the material on the About Amber page.
How old is your amber?
The amber found in Denmark is what is known as Baltic amber and is around 40-45 million years old. It formed during the Eocene from resin produced by trees in large forested areas of what was then Northern Europe.
Over millions of years, the amber was transported over great distances by rivers, ocean currents, and glaciers before ending up in the area we now call Denmark. You can read more about how amber formed on the About Amber page.
Are the colors in your amber natural?
Yes. All the colors in our amber are colors found in genuine amber. The different colors and shades can develop in several ways. Some form naturally because of inclusions, microscopic air bubbles, and other factors, while other color effects can be created or enhanced when amber is heat-treated. You can read more about how amber gets its colors and how it can be worked on the About Amber page.
Do you have amber with insects?
Yes. We have amber with insects and other natural inclusions. Not every piece is listed online, so you are always welcome to contact us if you are looking for something specific. You can also see our current selection in our amber-with-insects collection.
Do you buy amber?
As a general rule, we are not currently buying amber. As part of the generational transition in our family business, we are streamlining our inventory and are therefore not purchasing ordinary pieces or lots of amber. We also do not buy finished jewelry.
If, however, you have something truly exceptional or particularly interesting, you are welcome to visit Ravgården or email us. Please include photos and the weight of the amber so we can determine whether it may be of interest to us.
Do you find all of your amber yourselves?
No. The amber you find at Ravgaard is not only amber we have found ourselves. Since the 1970s, our family has purchased amber over many years from Danish fishermen, private amber collectors, farmers, and sand dredging operators. Much of the amber comes from the west coast of Jutland, Laeso, and the Limfjord.
Is the website all the amber you have?
No. We have much more amber than what you see on the website. The website shows only part of our selection, so if you are looking for a particular color, size, shape, or something truly special, you are always welcome to contact us. You can also visit Ravgården, where you can see a larger selection.
JEWELRY, MATERIALS, AND CRAFTSMANSHIP
Is all your jewelry handmade at Ravgården?
The vast majority of our jewelry is made from the ground up in our own workshop at Ravgården, while other pieces are assembled or finished here using carefully selected materials and components.
We also carry jewelry and components from trusted suppliers and partners, such as silver and gold chains.
Each product page tells you more about the specific piece and the materials used.
How can I see what materials a piece of jewelry is made from?
Each product page includes information about the materials used in that piece. We work with genuine amber, 925 sterling silver, 999 fine silver, solid 14k and 18k gold, and gold-plated materials. If a piece is gold plated, this will be clearly stated in the product description.
Is your gold jewelry solid gold or gold plated?
We offer both solid gold jewelry and gold-plated jewelry. Our solid gold pieces are made in materials including 14k and 18k gold and carry clear fineness hallmarks. On other pieces, the gold-colored surface may be gold-plated sterling silver or another gold-plated material. The product page will always state which material the piece is made from.
What do 925 and 999 silver and 14k and 18k gold mean?
925 sterling silver contains 92.5% pure silver, with the remainder made up of other metals that make the silver better suited for jewelry. Our hand-knitted chains are made from 999 fine silver. 14k gold contains 58.5% pure gold and is also known as 585 gold. 18k gold contains 75% pure gold and is also known as 750 gold. When a piece is gold plated, it means another metal has been coated with a layer of gold. It is therefore not the same as solid gold.
I have a nickel allergy. Can I wear your jewelry?
Yes. Our jewelry is 100% nickel-free and complies with current EU legal requirements. Amber itself is naturally nickel-free.
Is your jewelry waterproof?
Waterproof jewelry is a newer trend that is very common right now. The term is generally used for jewelry designed to be worn in the shower, during workouts, and while swimming without discoloring or losing its surface finish. Our jewelry is made from classic jewelry materials such as genuine amber, silver, and solid gold. Solid gold and silver do not have a coating that peels off when they come into contact with water. Silver can tarnish, however, and amber is best protected from soap, chlorine, and chemicals. Regardless of material, we recommend removing your jewelry before showering, swimming, and exercising. It is simply the best way to care for a piece you want to enjoy for many years.
Does a chain come with a pendant?
It depends on the individual pendant. If a chain is included, this will be stated in the product description. Many of our pendants are sold without a chain so you can choose the length and chain style that suits you. On many product pages, you can also see our recommendations for chains that work with that particular pendant.
How do I know which chain will fit my pendant?
For most of our pendants, we recommend specific chains that fit the piece directly on the product page. The main things to consider are the size of the pendant's bail and the thickness of the chain. We provide measurements on the product page when relevant. If you are unsure, you are always welcome to contact us and we will help you find a chain that fits.
Can I get a different length for a chain or amber necklace?
For many of our chains and amber necklaces, you can choose from several lengths directly on the product page. If the length you want is not available as an option, please contact us. In many cases, we can help with a different length or a custom adjustment depending on the design and materials.
Will I receive the exact piece shown in the photos?
It depends on the type of jewelry you choose. If you buy a piece from our One of a Kind collection, you will receive the exact piece shown in the photos. There is only one. For designs made in multiple pieces, the amber's color, structure, and natural details may vary from the photos. The design and overall look will be the same, but no two pieces of amber are exactly alike. If it is important to you to see the exact piece before purchasing, you are always welcome to contact us.
What is the difference between Signature Design, One of a Kind, Ravgaard Essentials, and Curated by Ravgaard?
Signature Design includes designs that are characteristic of Ravgaard and may be made in multiple pieces. One of a Kind consists of completely one-off pieces - there is only one of each. Ravgaard Essentials are our simpler, versatile designs made in multiple pieces for everyday life. Curated by Ravgaard includes jewelry and accessories not made by us but carefully selected for their quality and materials. The individual product page will show which category a product belongs to.
Can you repair a piece of jewelry that has broken?
In many cases, yes. The options depend on what has broken and what the piece is made from. Please send us photos of the jewelry along with a brief description of the damage. We will assess whether it can be repaired and give you a price estimate before we begin. You are also welcome to bring the piece to Ravgården.
Can you make a piece of jewelry especially for me?
Yes, in many cases we can. If you have a particular idea, preferences for the amber's color or shape, a specific material, or a piece you have seen from us before, you are welcome to contact us. Please send a description and any reference photos you may have.
Can you make jewelry from my own amber?
Yes. In many cases, we can help grind and polish your own amber and turn it into a personal piece of jewelry. Not every piece of amber is suitable for every type of work, so we first assess its size, shape, and quality. You are welcome to bring the amber to Ravgården or contact us beforehand. If you email us, please include photos as well as the size and weight of the amber.
CARE
How should I care for my amber jewelry?
Amber is a natural, lightweight, and relatively soft material. It can remain beautiful for generations, but it does not tolerate hard impacts well. A piece of amber can become scratched, crack, or break if the jewelry is dropped on a hard floor, for example. We therefore recommend removing amber jewelry during sports, hands-on work, and other activities where it may be knocked or struck. Also avoid strong heat, prolonged direct sunlight, perfume, hairspray, and strong chemicals. Store the jewelry in a soft pouch or box if possible so the amber does not rub against harder jewelry.
How do I clean amber?
For everyday cleaning, a soft, slightly damp cloth is usually enough. If the amber has become greasy or dirty, you can gently clean it with lukewarm water and a small amount of mild soap. Rinse away any soap residue and dry the amber thoroughly afterward. Do not soak amber jewelry, and avoid alcohol, solvents, strong cleaning products, ultrasonic cleaners, and steam cleaning.
Can I use silver cleaner on jewelry with amber?
We do not recommend liquid silver cleaner or other strong cleaning products on jewelry that contains amber. The silver parts can instead be polished gently with a silver polishing cloth. It is fine if the cloth lightly touches the amber, but avoid rubbing the amber itself hard because amber is much softer than silver.
Why does my silver turn dark?
It is completely normal for genuine silver to darken or tarnish over time. Silver reacts with substances in its surroundings and can be affected by air, moisture, skin, perfume, and cosmetics. How quickly this happens varies from person to person and from one piece of jewelry to another. It does not mean the silver is poor quality. In most cases, the shine can easily be restored with a soft silver polishing cloth.
How do I care for solid gold jewelry?
Solid 14k and 18k gold has no plating that can wear away and can remain beautiful for many years. With normal wear, however, gold can gradually develop small scratches and signs of use. We therefore recommend removing gold jewelry before exercise, showering, and swimming and avoiding contact with chlorine and strong chemicals in particular. Gold can be gently wiped and polished with a soft cloth intended for gold jewelry. If the piece contains amber, always take the amber into account when cleaning it.
How do I care for gold-plated jewelry?
Gold plating is a layer of gold over another metal and will naturally wear over time. We have very good experience with the quality and durability of our gold plating, but how long it lasts also depends on how the jewelry is worn. To preserve the surface for as long as possible, we recommend removing the jewelry before showering, swimming, and exercising and avoiding direct contact with perfume, creams, cleaning products, and other chemicals. Gently wipe the jewelry with a soft cloth after wear if needed.
What is the best way to store my jewelry?
Store your jewelry in a soft pouch or box, preferably with individual pieces kept separate from one another. Amber is softer than many other jewelry materials and can be scratched if it rubs against other pieces. Also avoid prolonged storage in strong direct sunlight or close to powerful heat sources. This is especially important for jewelry containing amber.
Can amber change color or appearance over time?
Yes. Amber is a natural material that can slowly change over time. Polished amber can gradually oxidize at the surface and become darker. Light and heat can speed up this natural aging process. Small signs of wear and gradual changes to the surface are therefore not necessarily signs that anything is wrong with the amber.
Can dull or scratched amber be made beautiful again?
Yes, in many cases. Because amber is relatively soft, minor scratches and a dull surface can often be improved by repolishing the amber. We do not recommend trying to grind or polish amber yourself with toothpaste or other abrasives, as it is easy to change the shape or surface more than intended. You are welcome to contact us or bring the jewelry to Ravgården so we can assess whether the amber can be repolished. Contact us
Can you restring my amber necklace?
Yes. In many cases, we can restring older amber necklaces if the cord has become worn, loose, or broken. You are welcome to bring the necklace to Ravgården or contact us and send photos so we can assess what needs to be done. Contact us
RAVGÅRDEN AND THE FAMILY
What is Ravgården?
Ravgården is our physical store and workshop in Sønderlev in Northern Jutland, Denmark. Margit and Erik opened Ravgården in 1980, and much of our work with amber, jewelry, and wood still takes place here today.
Who is behind Ravgaard?
Ravgaard is a family business now being carried forward by the third and fourth generations. Erik and Margit are the third generation, and Christine is the fourth generation.
How long has your family worked with amber?
It all began on the Danish island of Laeso in 1925, when the first generation of our family began working with amber. Erik has worked with and ground amber since 1974, and today the family's work is being carried forward by the third and fourth generations.
Where is Ravgården, and when are you open?
Ravgården is located at Skallerupvej 525 in Sønderlev, 9800 Hjørring, Denmark, between Hjørring and Lønstrup. We are open Monday through Friday from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. and are generally closed on weekends and public holidays. We are often open later than 1:00 p.m. If the flags are out and the door is open, you are welcome to come in. If you are traveling a long way to visit us, you are always welcome to call ahead.
Can I visit the workshop?
Yes. The workshop is part of Ravgården, and you are welcome to look in when you visit the store. We work with amber grinding, jewelry, woodturning, and more. What we are working on changes from day to day, so we cannot promise that a particular process will be underway when you visit.
What can I experience at Ravgården?
Ravgården is more than a store. You can visit our open workshop, explore amber and jewelry, see our small amber museum, and experience our 12,000-liter freshwater aquarium. In the museum, you can see amber with insects, different types of amber, and examples of fake amber. In summer, you are also welcome to take a walk through the garden.
Do I need an appointment to visit Ravgården?
No. You do not need an appointment if you visit during our regular opening hours. If you are traveling a long way or would like to visit after 1:00 p.m., we recommend calling ahead.
Are Ravgaard and Ravgården the same thing?
Yes and no. Ravgården is our physical store and workshop in Sønderlev, opened by Margit and Erik in 1980. Ravgaard is the name we use for our online store and the overall brand built around our family's jewelry, craftsmanship, and work with amber. It all comes from the same family and the same story.
ORDERING AND PAYMENT
What payment methods can I use?
You can pay using the payment methods shown at checkout. Available payment options may vary depending on the country you are ordering from.
Can I change or cancel my order after placing it?
Yes. If you would like to cancel your purchase, you can use the Cancel Your Purchase option on the website. If you would like to change something in your order, such as the size, delivery address, or product, please contact us as soon as possible. If the order has not yet shipped, we will do our best to help.
Can I buy a gift card?
Yes. You can purchase a digital Ravgaard gift card in the amounts shown on the gift card page. If you would like a gift card for a specific amount that is not available as an option, please contact us. The gift card is sent by email and can be used both at ravgaard.com and at Ravgården.
Can I have my order gift-wrapped?
Yes. You can select gift wrapping using the option in your cart when you order. We will then make sure your order is wrapped as a gift.
What happens if a piece of jewelry is sold out?
It depends on the piece. If it is a One of a Kind piece, there is only one exact piece, so that particular piece will not return. You are still welcome to contact us if you have fallen in love with a sold piece. In our Archive, you can see previous One of a Kind pieces. If something inspires you, you are always welcome to contact us. We cannot make an identical piece, but we can see whether we have amber or other possibilities for creating something with a similar feel. Other designs are made in multiple pieces and may come back in stock.
Can I reserve a piece of jewelry?
In some cases, we can reserve a piece for a short period of time. Contact us if you would like us to set something aside, and we will let you know whether it is possible.
SHIPPING AND PICKUP
How quickly will you ship my order?
We normally ship in-stock items within 1–3 business days.
Transit time is additional and depends on the destination. Custom orders and items that need to be adjusted or made may require more time.
How much does shipping cost?
In Denmark, shipping starts at DKK 49. For orders over DKK 800, we offer free delivery to a parcel pickup point. Other shipping rates are shown at checkout before you complete your purchase.
Which countries do you ship to?
We currently ship to Denmark, Germany, the Netherlands, Sweden, the United Kingdom, and the United States. Special conditions and minimum order amounts apply to deliveries to the United Kingdom and the United States, as explained below.
Do you ship to the United Kingdom?
Yes. We ship to the United Kingdom on orders over GBP 150. Shipments are sent with UPS and require a signature upon delivery. Because the United Kingdom is outside the EU, UK import VAT, customs duties, and possible customs clearance fees may be added to the purchase price. UPS handles customs clearance and collects any applicable charges directly from the recipient.
Do you ship to the United States?
Yes. We ship to the United States on orders over USD 200. Shipments are sent with UPS and require a signature upon delivery. When importing into the United States, customs duties, import charges, and customs clearance or brokerage fees may apply. UPS handles customs clearance and collects any applicable charges directly from the recipient.
Can I track my package?
Yes. Once your order has shipped, you will receive tracking information so you can follow the package in transit. If you are unsure where your package is, you are always welcome to contact us.
Can I have my package delivered to my home address?
Yes. You can choose home delivery at checkout. You can also select any other available delivery options when placing your order.
Can I pick up my order at Ravgården?
Yes. You can choose pickup at Ravgården in Sønderlev. Please wait until you have received confirmation that your order is ready for pickup.
Will I have to pay customs duties or import charges?
If you order to a country within the EU, there are no customs duties or import charges due upon delivery. For deliveries to the United Kingdom and the United States, local customs duties, import charges, and customs clearance fees may apply. These are not collected by Ravgaard but are handled as part of the import process in the destination country.
What should I do if my package is delayed or does not arrive?
First, check the tracking information for your shipment. If the package appears to be stuck or has not arrived as expected, contact us with your order number. We will help investigate the shipment.
RETURNS, EXCHANGES AND CLAIMS
Can I return or exchange an item?
Yes. As a general rule, purchases made through our online store have a 14-day right of withdrawal beginning on the day you receive the item. For a standard return because you changed your mind, you are responsible for the return shipping cost. You can find the full terms in our return policy.
How do I return my purchase?
If you would like to cancel a purchase made through our online store, please use Cancel Your Purchase on the website. This is where you register your withdrawal. Information about sending the item back and the return address can be found in our return policy.
Can I return a custom-made or personalized item?
Items made specifically to your instructions or clearly personalized may be exempt from the standard right of withdrawal. If you are unsure about a particular custom order, you are always welcome to contact us.
Can I return an online purchase at Ravgården?
Yes. If you purchased the item at ravgaard.com, you are welcome to return it in person at Ravgården during store opening hours. Your standard right of withdrawal for an online purchase also applies if you originally chose to pick up the order at Ravgården.
I bought the item at Ravgården. Can I return or exchange it?
When you purchase an item in our physical store at Ravgården, the 14-day right of withdrawal for online purchases does not apply. You are welcome to exchange the item, but we do not offer refunds for purchases made in the physical store. If the item needs to be shipped to us for an exchange, you are responsible for the shipping cost.
What should I do if I receive the wrong item or an item arrives damaged?
Contact us as soon as possible and, if you can, send photos of the item and packaging along with your order number. We will help you find the right solution.
What should I do if my jewelry breaks?
Please contact us and send photos of the jewelry along with your order number, if you have it. If there is a defect or fault in the item, we will assess it as a claim. If the jewelry has been damaged through use, we may still be able to help with a repair in many cases.
What is the difference between the right of withdrawal and a claim?
The right of withdrawal means you can change your mind about your purchase within the withdrawal period even if there is nothing wrong with the item. A claim concerns a defect or fault in the item. You can find the full terms in our return and claims policy.