The FAQs

We’re Jenn and Kelsy, the long-distance bestie duo behind Headed West. We share a deep love of delicate, understated jewelry that pairs well with anything and we’re constantly on the hunt for quality jewelry at an accessible price that can also withstand our active lifestyles. Spoiler alert, it’s harder to find than you think, so we decided to create our own.

What started as a passion project quickly manifested into so much more-a purpose. Our vision is to create something meaningful, creative, and fun. We truly hope our jewelry will evoke happiness and be part of your special moments.

Permanent Jewelry:

We carry 14K Solid Gold, 14K Gold-Filled and Sterling Silver chains in a variety of styles that are custom fit to your body and delicately welded for permanent necklaces, bracelets, anklets, and rings*.

*Rings can be removed by rolling your chain up the finger

We believe in quality over quantity, so we intentionally curated a capsule collection of hand-selected 14K Solid Gold, 14K Gold-Filled + Sterling Silver chains. These are the best metals to use for permanent jewelry for their;

• Hypoallergenic properties

• Durability to withstand everyday wear

• Sweat, water & tarnish resistance

• Scratch resistance

Take your permanent jewelry for a swim in the ocean, a sudsy lather in the shower, the sweatiest hot yoga or even a vacation-ready spray tan.

Fall in love with our Permanent Jewelry Collection.

Charm Bar:

We also have a Charm Bar where you can create your own Charmscape with 18K Gold-Filled Necklaces, 18K Gold-Filled Bracelets + 24K Gold-Filled Keychains.

It’s as simple as selecting your chain, designing your charm layout (AKA Charmscape), and letting us bring together your vision in a custom, one-of-a-kind piece.

• Necklaces are pre-made in an 18” or 16” length.

• Bracelets are custom fit to your wrist size.

• Keychains are availble in pre-made short-medium-long lengths.

• Charms are all 14k-24k Gold Filled.

• Our entire Charm Bar is Nickel and Lead Free.

Fall in love with our Charm Bar Collection.

• Custom fit permanent jewelry available in rings, bracelets, anklets + necklaces

• Charm Bar necklaces, bracelets + keychains designed by you, handcrafted by us

• Pop Ups at parties, events, farmer’s markets, artisan fairs & businesses

• Contact us for more information

Permanent Jewelry

Rings: $15-$30

Bracelets: $65-$100

Anklets: $75-$150

Necklaces: $90-$225

The Charm Bar

16” + 18” Necklace- $30 Each

Bracelet- $20

Keychain- $15

Mini Keychain- $10

Charms- $7 Each

E-Gift Cards Available via our Square links

We want your Headed West experience to feel personalized, memorable, and most importantly fun!

Start By Selecting Your Chain- Easily the hardest part of your appointment is deciding which one(s) to get!

Next, Select Your Jewelry Style- We custom fit permanent necklaces, bracelets, anklets, and rings.

A Quick Sidebar for Housekeeping- Sign Our Appointment Consent Form (Online or scan our QR Code In-Person)

Confirm Your Fit + Get Welded- We ensure you love the look and feel of your chain before delicately hand-welding your jewelry.

14K Solid Yellow Gold is a high-quality gold alloy composed of 58.3%pure gold and 41.7% other metals, typically a mix of copper and silver.

This blend enhances its strength and durability while maintaining the rich, warm appearance of yellow gold. Unlike 24K Gold, which is pure but very soft and prone to scratches, 14K gold is significantly more resistant to wear and tear, making it ideal for everyday jewelry, including rings, bracelets, and necklaces.

SKIN SENSITIVITY & TARNISHING:

One of the benefits of 14K yellow gold is its hypoallergenic properties. Since it contains a lower percentage of alloys like nickel (a common irritant found in white gold), it's generally well-tolerated by those with sensitive skin. However, individuals with extreme metal allergies should confirm the exact alloy composition to ensure no irritation occurs. Unlike lower-karat gold alloys (such as 10K), 14K yellow gold resists tarnishing better, though it can still develop a slight patina over time, especially if exposed to lotions, perfumes, or harsh chemicals. Regular gentle cleaning with warm water and mild soap can help maintain its shine.

Why Choose 14K Yellow Gold?:

• Balanced purity & durability: More durable than 18K or 24K gold while still maintaining a rich gold color.Ideal for daily wear: Resistant to scratches, making it a practical choice for permanent jewelry.

• Low risk of skin irritation: A great option for sensitive skin compared to nickel-heavy alloys.

• Classic & Timeless Appearance: Retains its warm, golden hue without the need for frequent polishing.

Overall, 14K solid yellow gold is a long-lasting, skin-friendly, and durable choice.

What is 14K Gold-Filled?:

14K gold-filled jewelry is a high-quality and durable alternative to solid gold. It consists of a thick layer of 14-karat gold that is heat-and pressure-bonded to a core metal, usually jeweler's brass. Unlike gold plating, which has a very thin layer of gold that can wear off quickly, gold-filled jewelry contains 100 times more gold by weight, making it significantly more long-lasting.

How Long Does 14K Gold-Filled Jewelry Last?:

With proper care, 14K gold-filled jewelry can last 10 to 30 years or even longer. Because the gold layer is thick and permanently bonded, it does not flake, chip, or rub off like gold-plated jewelry. It can withstand daily wear, exposure to water, and even some friction without losing its appearance. However, harsh chemicals, excessive moisture, and improper storage can accelerate tarnishing or wear over time.

Is 14K Gold-Filled Safe for Sensitive Skin?

Yes! 14K gold-filled jewelry is hypoallergenic for most people, making it an excellent choice for those with sensitive skin. Since the outer layer is solid 14K gold, it does not cause irritation for individuals who can wear solid gold. However, people with extreme metal sensitivities (such as reactions to even small amounts of copper or brass) should test it before prolonged wear.

Does 14K Gold-Filled Tarnish?

Gold itself does not tarnish, but the small amount of other metals in 14K gold (such as copper) can react with oxygen, sweat, or chemicals over time. While gold-filled jewelry is much more resistant to tarnishing than gold-plated or base metal jewelry, it can darken slightly in extreme conditions, such as high humidity or exposure to harsh chemicals like chlorine or sulfur. Regular gentle cleaning helps maintain its shine.

Why Choose 14K Gold-Filled?

14K gold-filled jewelry offers the beauty and luxury of solid gold at a lower price, while still being far more durable and long-lasting than gold-plated options. It is an excellent choice for everyday wear, permanent jewelry, and those seeking high-quality, skin-friendly pieces without the cost of solid gold.

.925 sterling silver is a high-quality silver alloy commonly used in jewelry and fine accessories. The ".925" stamp indicates that the metal is composed of 92.5% pure silver, with the remaining 7.5% typically consisting of copper or other metals. This alloying process strengthens the silver, as pure silver (99.9%) is too soft for durable wear.

Durability & Longevity:

Sterling Silver is known for its long-lasting nature, especially when properly cared for. With regular wear and maintenance, sterling silver jewelry can last a lifetime or even generations. However, because of its copper content, Sterling Silver is prone to tarnishing over time when exposed to air, moisture, and sulfur-containing substances. Fortunately, tarnish can be easily removed with silver polish or a soft cloth, and wearing your jewelry regularly can actually help keep it shiny, as natural oils on the skin slow down the oxidation process. This makes Sterling Silver an excellent choice for permanent jewelry.

Is Sterling Silver A Skin Irritant?:

Sterling Silver is hypoallergenic for most people, especially when compared to lower-quality metals like nickel or brass.

Does Sterling Silver Tarnish?

Yes, Sterling Silver naturally tarnishes due to exposure to oxygen, humidity, and chemicals like perfumes or lotions. Tarnishing results in a dark or yellowish layer on the surface, however this does not mean the silver is damaged. Regular wear and cleaning with a jewelry polishing cloth can help maintain and restore its shine.

You might be asking yourself, how do I know which necklace length is right for me?

This guide will help you understand where each of our lengths sit on the body.

Choker = 14”-16”: These lengths fit snugly around the neck, often hitting just above the collarbone.

Princess = 18”: This is a classic length that rests comfortably on the collarbone, making it versatile and suitable for various necklines.

• Please note, we do not offer any length shorter than 14” or any length longer than 18”. These lengths are not recommended for Permanent Jewelry.

Literally anyone can wear Headed West Permanent Jewelry! We strongly believe every BODY deserves quality jewelry at an accessible price that makes them look and feel their true self while also imprinting core memories.

We do have one caveat, while we would love for our Permanent Jewelry to be an all ages experience, we do require our Permanent Jewelry clients to be 13+.

We require all Permanent Jewelry clients to sign our Permanent Jewelry Consent Form prior to their appointment.

If you are a minor, between the ages of 13 and 17, you will need a parent or legal guardian present to fill out our Permanent Jewelry Consent Form.

For anyone 12 and younger, you can design your own Charmscape at our Charm Bar!

We require all of our Permanent Jewelry clients to sign our Permanent Jewelry Consent Form as understanding and agreement of our welding process and policies. We want to ensure you are comfortable and answer any questions you might have.

If you are a minor, between the ages of 13 and 17, you will need a parent or legal guardian present to fill out our Permanent Jewelry Consent Form.

Review and sign our Permanent Jewelry Consent Form prior to your appointment.

Forgot to fill out our online Consent Form ahead of time? No problem, scan our QR code in person.

We hope you love your new Permanent Jewelry and are excited to say it offers low maintenance care. When you're looking to give your jewelry a little TLC we recommend these cleaning options;

• Use a mild soap on a soft bristle brush, gently scrub, and rinse with warm water.

• Or, use a jewelry cloth for a quick + gentle polish.

Headed West uses high quality 14k Gold, Sterling Silver, and Gold-Filled materials; however normal wear and tear may occur over time*.

*Every person’s skin sensitivity, body chemistry, and exposure to corrosive materials will vary. We cannot anticipate the use, frequency, exposure to, or exact ingredients found in but not limited to body care products, skincare products, hair care products, perfumes, laundry products, cleaning agents, swimming pools, etc that could potentially effect the integrity of your jewelry.

In order to protect the longevity of your jewelry please follow all recommended care instructions and avoid activities, materials and products that could pull, stretch, corrode, hinder the integrity of, or potentially break your jewelry.

Please feel free to contact us with any questions or consult your doctor/dermatologist if you have any concerns.

We want your Headed West experience to feel personalized, memorable, and most importantly fun!

Grab A Tray + Tongs- Use the tray as your workspace and the tongs to select your charms.

Select Your Chain + Jewelry Style- Choose between 18K Gold Filled Necklaces available in 16” + 18” lengths, a custom fit 18K Gold Filled Bracelet, or a 24k Gold Filled Keychain.

Design Your Charmscape- Hand pick as many charms as you like + design your layout. Pro Tip: We recommend an odd number of charms for better balance. All charms are individually priced.

Confirm Your Fit + Get Charmed- We ensure you love the look and feel of your necklace or bracelet before delicately assembling your jewelry.

We hope you love your new charm necklace, bracelet, or keychain and have some tips to help keep your jewelry looking it’s best.

• Use a jewelry cloth to gently polish your chain and charms between wears

• Avoid prolonged contact with lotions, perfumes, sweat, dyes, chemicals, or cleaning products as these could damage your chain and charms

• Remove charm jewelry while swimming, showering, or working out to avoid breaking or causing damage to your chain and charms

• Charm Bar jewelry is not intended for permanent wear. Please store individual from other jewelry pieces between wears.

In order to protect the longevity of your jewelry please follow all recommended care instructions and avoid activities, materials and products that could pull, stretch, corrode, hinder the integrity of, or potentially break your jewelry.

Please contact us if you have any questions or consult with your doctor/dermatologist if you have any concerns.

Popping up in local farmers markets, artisan fairs, special occasion events, private parties, and collaborations with local businesses in and around San Diego, CA, Roswell, NM + TBA cities/dates in Colorado.

Make sure to subscribe to our monthly newsletter where we list all of our upcoming pop ups or you can view our events any time under the Pop Ups page.

Please contact us directly via email to inquire about hosting a pop up/special occasion party or business collaboration.

San Diego: headedwest.kelsy@gmail.com

Roswell + Colorado: headedwest.jenn@gmail.com

• All Debit/Credit Cards

• Headed West Gift Cards

  * We do not accept Cash payments.

  * Payments are required in full at the time of service.

  * Gift Cards do not expire

  *Please mention during your appointment if you are a first responder, active-duty military or a teacher to receive a special “thank you” discount.

Permanent Jewelry:

All Permanent Jewelry Sales are Final-

It is my responsibility to approve the chain selection and sizing of my jewelry prior to welding.  

Once cut, the size of jewelry cannot be adjusted without re-cutting and/or re-welding the chain, which may incur an additional fee.

No Refunds or Exchanges after the piece is welded.

Clients agree to voluntarily assume all risks associated with the welding process and the wearing of permanent jewelry. By receiving our services, Headed West is released from any liability related to the jewelry application or removal process including injury, damage to clothing, accessories, or other personal items resulting from the welding process.

If your jewelry breaks within 14 days due to a welding issue, we will re-weld it at no cost. Repairs or re-welding after 14 days may incur a small fee.

All repairs require an appointment. Please contact us with questions or concerns.

In order to protect the longevity of your Headed West Jewelry please follow all recommended care instructions and avoid activities, materials, and products that could pull, stretch, corrode, hinder the integrity of, or potentially break your jewelry. 

Headed West uses high-quality 14K Gold, Sterling Silver, and Gold-Filled materials: however, normal wear and tear may occur over time*. Headed West shall not be liable for any allergic reactions or skin irritation that may occur.

*Every person’s skin sensitivity, body chemistry, exposure to corrosive materials, and daily activities will vary. We cannot anticipate the use, frequency, exposure, and exact ingredients found in, but not limited to body care products, skincare products, hair care products, perfumes, laundry products, cleaning agents, swimming pools, etc.

Headed West is not liable for defective or misrepresented products, including claims regarding descriptions such as "hypoallergenic," "gold," or "won’t tarnish."

Headed West is not responsible for damage caused from improper care, misplaced jewelry, mishandled jewelry, broken chains, or external forces (e.g., snagging on objects).

Please feel free to contact us with any questions or consult your doctor/dermatologist if you have any concerns.

Charm Bar:

All Charm Bar Sales are Final-

As this is a custom designed piece we do not offer returns or exchanges.

If your jewelry breaks within 14 days due to a connection error (i.e the clasp or the jump ring), we will repair your jewelry at no cost. Any repairs after 14 days may incur a small fee. All repairs require an appointment. Please contact us with questions or concerns.

Headed West is not responsible for misplaced jewelry, mishandled jewelry, broken chains, allergic reactions, skin irritation, or external forces (e.g., snagging on objects) that may occur from wearing our jewelry.

Headed West is not liable for defective or misrepresented products, including claims regarding descriptions such as "hypoallergenic," "gold," or "won’t tarnish."

In order to protect the longevity of your jewelry please follow all recommended care instructions and avoid activities, materials and products that could pull, stretch, corrode, hinder the integrity of, or potentially break your jewelry.

If you have any questions or concerns please contact us as soon as possible.

We hand-weld each jewelry piece by using a jump-ring to connect your chain ends together and then closing the jump-ring with Pulse Arc Welding.

Pulse Arc Welding refers to a specialized technique that uses high frequency bursts of energy to melt and fuse metals together. The welder sends a measured pulse of energy from the tungsten electrode to the metal being joined. The electrode temporarily retracts, creating an arc between the tungsten and metals.

This generates a quick rise in temperature, instantaneously melting the metals to bind them together into a strong weld joint.