How should I care for and clean my jewelry?

Most of the jewelry pieces created by Past the Birch Tree have metal elements. With time and exposure to moisture, these metal elements will tarnish.

It is recommended that you do not expose any of the pieces to excessive moisture such as showering or swimming while wearing.

We  also highly recommend that when you clean the pieces you use a jewelry polishing cloth. This will allow you to clean the metal elements without damaging the gemstones.


How should I care for my gemstones?

Each gemstone is unique and requires different types of care.

One of the things to be aware of are levels of sunlight your gemstones are exposed to. Many gemstones, especially crystals, will fade in direct sunlight.

Another factor to consider is exposure to water, including high humidity and moisture. Some gemstones and minerals will dissolve if exposed to water.

When it comes to storing your gemstones it is not recommended to place them together as they can damage each other, such as scratching or chipping.

Finally, if you desire to take any extra step for cleansing your gemstones the smoke of white sage and or palo santo are commonly used.

Please keep these tips in mind as you are choosing the placement and storage of gemstones around your home.


Have my gemstones been cleansed?

All of the raw and polished gemstones have been cleaned with soap and warm water. We do not do any type of energy purification with the gemstones. We do not want to put any of our energy into the gems and want to allow you to complete any purification process for yourself and your gemstones.


What events will you be at?

We participate in a number of local events. We would love to meet you in person, please look at the event tab on the home page or click the link www.pastthebirchtree.com/new-events/ to find an event near you!


What is Palo Santo and how do I use it?

Palo Santo is sacred wood that comes from a Bursera Graveolens/Palo Santo tree that grows on the coast of South America. Palo Santo translates to “Holy Wood” and it is related to Frankincense, Myrrh and Copal. It is part of the citrus family of trees and its aroma has been described as a mixture of mint, pine and lemon.

Smoke cleansing is the clearing of a space with herbal smoke. The practice of smoke cleansing has been around for centuries, with its origins in antiquity and has been practiced by many cultures. Burning herbs can be used for aroma, cleansing and mediation purposes. There are many different herbs that can be used to smoke cleanse. . Palo santo is also believed to inspire creativity as well as bringing forth love, good fortune and blessings.

How to Apply Palo Santo: Use a candle to ignite the palo santo stick. Hold the stick at a 45-degree angle and allow to burn for 30 seconds to 1 minute then blow out the flame. Hold the palo santo over a fire safe dish to catch any falling ashes. Move about the space that you would like to cleanse and allow the smoke from the palo santo to fill the space. During this time, you may also recite a prayer or personal mantra of intention. It’s recommended to work through your space from back to front and bottom to top focusing on entry ways such as windows and doors. When you have finished be sure to place the palo santo stick in a fire safe dish. The palo santo stick will eventually extinguish and can be relit for future use.

Please use caution when using this product and do not leave unattended or in an environment where it could cause a fire or injury.


What is Sage and how do I use it?

Smoke cleansing is the clearing of a space with herbal smoke. The practice of smoke cleansing has been around for centuries, with its origins in antiquity and has been practiced by many cultures. Burning herbs can be used for aroma, cleansing and mediation purposes. There are many different herbs that can be used to smoke cleanse. White sage is believed to cleanse the aura, release negative energies, purify environments, reduce stress and improve sleep.

How to Apply Sage: Use a candle to ignite the sage stick then blow out the flame. Hold the sage over a fire safe dish to catch any falling ashes. Move about the space that you would like to cleanse and allow the smoke from the sage to fill the space. During this time, you may recite a prayer or personal mantra of intention.  It’s recommended to work through your space from back to front and bottom to top focusing on entry ways such as windows and doors, leaving a window or outside doorway open in the last room to all the negative energy to leave. When you have finished be sure to place the sage in a fire safe dish. The stick will eventually extinguish and can be relit for future use. 

Please use caution when using this product and do not leave unattended or in an environment where it could cause a fire or injury.


When will I receive my order?

Your purchase will be processed and shipped within 1 to 3 business days after payment has been received.

Processing time will be on a case by case bases for any custom orders.

Once your order has shipped you will be supplied a tracking number via email, that way you can keep an eye on your package’s progress.

We will do our very best to have your purchase arrive to you quickly, but Past the Birch Tree is not responsible for any postage or customs delays.

You, as the buyer, are responsible for any customs and import taxes that may apply.


What if I want to return my purchase?

We will gladly accept returns within 14 days of delivery.

In order to return an item, please contact us within 7 days of the delivery of your item to inform us of your intent to return the item.

You are responsible for the return shipping costs and the item must be returned in its original condition or you will be responsible for any loss of value.

Due to the nature of the items, Past the Birch Tree will not accept returns and all sales are final on custom orders, sale items or purchases made at an event.

We want you to be satisfied with your purchase; please contact us via email if you have any issues or concerns with your purchase and we will do our very best to resolve any problems.


Can I recycle the packaging that my purchase came in?

We love Mother Nature and want to do everything in our power to keep her healthy. With that in mind, please recycle any paper and cardboard packing that comes with your order. The packing peanuts included for the safety of your item during shipping are also biodegradable.


How can I stay up to date with the happenings at Past the Birch Tree?

You can follow along on Instagram or Facebook. There is also a mailing list if you would like insider information on sales, special promos and shop events. See the bottom of the page to sign up!


Additional Questions?

Still have another question that we haven’t covered? Feel free to contact us with any additional questions. The best way to reach us is through email at info@pastthebirchtree.com