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
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.
We also 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 Filled
Gold filled is a very durable alternative to solid gold. It is a layer of 14KT gold that has been pressure bonded to an underlying base metal (brass alloy). It won't turn or flake off like a gold plated item, and there is a much thicker layer of gold. It looks like solid 14KT gold, and is very durable with proper care.
Our gold filled bars and cuffs are double clad, meaning there is gold on the front and back. The edges are not covered in gold because they've been cut. The brass alloy underneath looks like gold to the eye, but sometimes the edges could need to be polished before the rest of the piece.
Wear with care since scratches on gold filled can't be buffed out like solid gold or solid sterling silver. Abrasive, harsh polishing will remove gold. Over time, the base metal could be exposed. It is suggested to avoid perfumes, chemicals, and water to ensure a long life.
Gold Plated/Gold Vermeil
These items have to be worn with care. They have a layer of gold plating over a base metal or sterling silver. Only use a soft polishing cloth if needed. Do not get them wet and avoid perfumes, sprays, etc. Definitely avoid pools, hot tubs, & the ocean. Heavy wear or polishing can wear off the layer of gold.
18K Gold PVD Plated Stainless Steel
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.
Pearls on silk are supposed to be restrung every few years, but it depends on how often you wear them and how well you take care of them.
"Last thing on, first thing off" is good advice.