Care + Materials Info

QUICK GUIDE

Gold Plating is a process using liquid & electric current to coat an item in gold; sometimes called gold-dipped.

Gold Vermeil is gold plating over sterling silver (also called gold-dipped).

Gold Filled is a much thicker layer of gold than gold plating, and it has been pressure bonded to the underlying base metal (the amount of gold is 1/20 or 5% of the total weight).

Sterling Silver is an alloy of 92.5% silver and 7.5% copper.

Pearls - Ours are cultured pearls from Asia and French Polynesia. Most are freshwater pearls; Tahitians are saltwater.

Sometimes we use silk & wood elements - avoid getting these wet.

We recommend storing your jewelry in separate, sealable plastic baggies when not being worn (except pearls which need some moisture from the air).

Sterling Silver

Sterling silver naturally oxidizes, so you will need to polish your piece eventually. The more you wear it, the less it will oxidize (the oils on your skin provide a barrier against the oxidation). If you leave it sitting out, it will turn black quicker. Some people will find that their silver oxidizes quickly. This can be the result of certain shampoos, their body's pH, the content of their water, or other products used. Water with a high sulphur content, for example, will cause oxidation. Sterling silver is pretty durable, but its still best to avoid harsh chemicals.

The black oxidation can be removed with a treated polishing cloth/pad, or dipped in a cleaning solution made specifically for silver.  Dry the item thoroughly if you dip it in liquid cleaner, and do this sparingly. We use ProPolish pads and yellow Sunshine cloths. (If you want to keep your jewelry super sparkling clean at home, you could invest in a small ultrasonic cleaner.)

Gold Plated & Gold Vermeil

Gold plated metal is a base metal with a thin layer of gold deposited on top. It can eventually wear off and lose its pretty gold color. To prolong the life of gold plated items, any jewelry that contains plated components should be kept dry. Remove when showering, swimming, or exercising. Avoid harsh chemicals and only clean with a soft cloth. Never put plated items in an ultrasonic cleaner. Store separately from other jewelry to avoid scratches.

Gold Filled

Gold filled is a layer of 14KT gold that has been pressure bonded to an underlying base metal (brass). It won't turn or flake off like a gold plated item, and there is a much thicker layer of gold. To the eye, it looks like solid 14KT gold and is very durable with proper care. We use 14/20 GF which means the purity of the gold is 14K and the amount of gold is 1/20th of the overall weight (or 5%).

Although gold filled is durable, its still best to avoid harsh chemicals, chlorine, ocean water, etc. You can clean gold filled with dish soap and water or use an ultrasonic machine. For a quick shine, use a soft polishing cloth. Wear with care and store separately from other jewelry to avoid scratches. The front and back of the bars are covered in gold, but the edges expose the inner brass layer. This looks just like gold to the eye but could need to be polished sooner than the rest of the piece.

Things like chain, closures, wire, and some diecut stampings (like our St. Christopher charm) can then be made with gold filled metal. You will see many cast 3D charms and pendants being marketed as gold filled, but its not possible due to the way it is manufactured. Those are plated items being sold under the wrong name. Our gold filled items aren't stamped but we purchase them from reputable US manufacturers and we are knowledgeable about what we're selling because we care. ♥︎

Gold PVD

Gold "PVD" is a layer of gold deposited on stainless steel using an innovated process called physical vapor deposition. It is tarnish-proof, waterproof, and hypo-allergenic. It's safe to swim and shower in your pieces and there is no need to worry about perfumes and lotions damaging them. To ensure an extra long life, it's best to avoid harsh chemicals and abrasives. Gold PVD is extremely durable but not indestructible. A soft polishing cloth will work to lightly clean and shine your PVD pieces.

Pearls

Don't let your pearls come into contact with chemicals such as perfume, sunblock, or hairspray. The surface nacre can be damaged & the luster will become dull. Remove before entering the water. If they're strung on silk, it will break down from moisture because it's a natural fiber. Water could also cause the glue on the end knots to release.

Wipe your pearls with a soft cloth after wearing to remove body oils & perspiration. They are not suitable for an ultrasonic cleaner. Pearls are relatively soft and can get scratched. Store them in a safe, breathable place. If they become too dry, they could crack. Extreme heat can also cause them to discolor or crack.

"Last thing on, first thing off" is good advice.