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Jewelry Material Glossary

Material Glossary

Our statement jewelry is handcrafted using a wide variety of high quality materials. Continue reading to learn more about the most common ones we use.

Chains

Hypoallergenic Stainless Steel: Stainless steel is an iron and chromium alloy that is often used in jewelry because of its durability, versatility, and brightness. While some grades have additional metals which can cause irritation, the stainless steel we use in our jewelry is hypoallergenic and safe for those with metal allergies. Stainless steel does not tarnish, but should be cleaned every so often.

Sterling Silver: Often stamped with a 925 to signify its composition, sterling silver is composed of 92.5% pure silver and 7.5% copper alloy. In comparison to pure silver, which is too soft to be used in jewelry, sterling silver is loved for its beauty and versatility. Sterling silver naturally tarnishes and needs to be regularly cleaned with a treated jewelry cloth.

Silver-Plated: Silver-plated chain is made from a thin coating of silver over a non-precious metal, such as stainless steel or brass. Silver plating does naturally wear over time, meaning that when the silver wears off, you'll notice the base metal underneath. Your skin's pH level can impact the lifespan of your silver plated jewelry. If you know your skin reacts adversely to plated jewelry, we recommend wearing hypoallergenic stainless steel or sterling silver.

Aluminum: Aluminum chain is lightweight, beautifully bright and easy to care for. Aluminum chain may dull over time, but it is not tarnished; it simply needs a little cleaning.

Pearls & Gemstones:

European crystal pearls: Considered the highest quality imitation pearl, European crystal pearls use an Austrian crystal at the center. They are lustrous, durable, and mimic the temperature of the wearer's skin.

Freshwater pearls: Freshwater pearls, natural or cultured, are formed when a mollusk produces layers of nacre (pronounced NAY-kur) around some type of irritant inside its shell. They come in a beautiful array of natural shapes and colours.

European crystal: European crystals are man-made gems manufactured in Austria.

Gemstones: Gemstones are semi-precious gems. We work with a wide variety of gemstones including, but not limited to, Topaz, Rhondonite, Onyx, Quartz, Ronzite, Smoky Quartz, Apatite, Aura Clear Quartz, and Lapis Lasuli. 

 

Regardless of the material used, it is imperative that you take good care of your jewelry. For our jewelry care tips, please click here.

 

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