Our jewelry is made from natural materials like porcelain, fine metals, and select stones or wood. Unlike polymer clay (which is actually a type of plastic), porcelain is a true ceramic, durable and kiln-fired. We don’t use synthetic materials; authentic craftsmanship is at the heart of matte.

Porcelain is a fine ceramic material made from natural minerals including kaolin clay, feldspar, and quartz. Each piece is kiln-fired at very high temperatures, which gives porcelain its strength, durability, and timeless beauty. Known for its soft whiteness, subtle translucency, and lasting hardness, porcelain is far more durable than polymer clay or other synthetic materials. Its versatility and resistance to heat and everyday wear make it an ideal choice for artisan jewelry that is both lightweight and enduring.

We use Mason Stains, proprietary blends made from metal oxides, that fuse permanently into the porcelain during firing. This method delivers vibrant, long-lasting color without compromising the raw, matte texture that defines our aesthetic.

No. We honor the natural character of porcelain by leaving it unglazed. Our matte finish allows the raw texture of the porcelain to shine through, underscoring quiet elegance and organic imperfection.

Our pieces feature high-quality metals such as sterling silver (.925 or .940 Argentium) and 14k gold (both gold-filled and solid options).

As of 2024, we’ve upgraded our stud posts to surgical steel to reduce any nickel exposure. All our metals are nickel-free, lead-free, hypoallergenic, and chosen for their durability and skin safety.

14k solid gold options are available on select pieces. You may request and upgrade to solid gold for most pieces - simply email us!

Yes. We source our metals from reputable suppliers, so your jewelry is free from nickel, lead, and other harmful contaminants. While “hypoallergenic” isn’t a guarantee, our metals are selected to minimize allergic reactions. Please reach out if you have specific sensitivities.

Not at all. One of the unique qualities of porcelain is that it’s incredibly lightweight compared to glass, stone, or metal jewelry. Even our larger statement earrings are comfortable for all-day wear, making porcelain ideal for designs that feel substantial but never weigh you down.

Porcelain itself is non-porous and water-resistant once it’s been kiln-fired, so everyday contact with water isn’t harmful. However, we recommend removing your jewelry before swimming or showering. This helps protect the fine metals and prolong the life of your piece.

To clean porcelain jewelry, simply hand wash the surface with gentle soap and water. Avoid abrasive cleaners or ultrasonic machines, as they can damage both porcelain and fine metal components. For sterling silver pieces, a gentle silver polishing cloth can be used to restore shine without harming the porcelain.

Porcelain is a sturdy ceramic, but it is a ceramic. While it’s generally durable, it can chip or break if dropped onto a hard surface. We recommend handling with care: secure fastenings, use silicone backs for French hooks, and pack your pieces in padded cases when traveling. Each order comes with a care card. Just a little mindfulness goes a long way in preserving your matte jewelry for years.

Absolutely. With a doctorate in Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, Carrie built matte on principles of environmental care. We use only natural materials, partner with eco-conscious suppliers, minimize studio waste, and prioritize responsible packaging and shipping. Sustainability is at the core of everything we do.

Read more about our commitment to environment on our Sustainability page

In 2022, matte began its partnership with Planet, a Shopify program in which funds are used to purchase carbon removal credits. With each order, matte pays a premium that goes directly to funding carbon sequestration solutions like ocean-based removal and direct air capture.

We believe in a multifaceted approach to sustainability. Since 2021, we’ve partnered with One Tree Planted, a nonprofit dedicated to global reforestation. Each matte order plants one tree to help restore ecosystems and support a healthier planet.

Yes! We offer free domestic Ground Advantage shipping on orders over $50. You can also upgrade to USPS Priority or UPS Ground if desired. For urgent orders, please reach out before purchasing and we'll do our best to accommodate a quicker delivery.

We craft each piece by hand, so please allow 1–3 business days for processing and shipment. You’ll receive a tracking number as soon as your order is on its way.

Currently, we ship to the U.S. and Canada. Need something delivered to a different location? Please email us; we’ll see what we can do.

Because every piece is handmade to order, we don’t accept returns for a change of mind. However, your satisfaction matters to us. If something arrives damaged or isn’t as expected, please reach out within 7 days of receiving your order so we can make it right.

Certain types of items cannot be returned, for example, custom or personalized orders. Please get in touch if you have questions or concerns about your specific item.

Unfortunately, we cannot accept returns on clearance items or gift cards.

Yes, exchanges are considered on a case-by-case basis for unworn items. Please contact us within 7 days of delivery to discuss your options. The customer is responsible for return shipping unless the item arrived damaged or incorrect.

Porcelain is durable but, like all ceramics, can break under stress. If your piece is damaged with normal wear, please contact us; we can often repair or replace it for a small fee. For accidental damage, we’re happy to discuss repair or exchange options whenever possible.

Looking for another alternative? Email us to discuss.

Orders can be canceled within 24 hours of purchase, as long as they haven’t shipped yet. After that point, we’re already in production and can’t guarantee cancellation.

Yes! Because each piece of matte porcelain jewelry is hand-sculpted, custom orders are welcome when time allows. We love working with customers to create meaningful, one-of-a-kind designs for weddings, gifts, or personal collections. Please contact us to discuss your ideas.

Absolutely. matte porcelain design partners with select boutiques and retailers through both direct relationships and wholesale platforms like Faire.

We offer small-batch, handmade porcelain jewelry that aligns with stores focused on artisan, sustainable, and women-owned brands. For more information, email us or visit our Faire shop.

Email is preferred. Please reach out to hello@matteporcelaindesign.com