Metals in our Jewelry

Yellow gold jewellery is still the most popular colour, but today gold is available in a diverse palette. The process of alloying mixing other metals with pure 24 carat gold gives malleable gold more durability, but can also be used to change its colour. ‘Caratage’ is the measurement of purity of gold alloyed with other metals. 24 carat is pure gold with no other metals. Lower caratages contain less gold; 18 carat gold contains 75 per cent gold and 25 per cent other metals, often copper or silver. The minimum caratage for an item to be called gold varies by country but most commonly is 10 carat. How to clean: Warm water and Liquid dish soap.

Is an alloy of silver containing 92.5% silver and 7.5% other metals, usually copper. The sterling silver standard has a minimum fineness of 92.5. Fine silver, for example 99.9% pure silver, is generally too soft for producing functional objects. For this reason, the silver is usually alloyed with copper to give it strength while preserving the ductility and appearance of the precious metal. How to clean: Polishing cloth, toothpaste, or baking soda.

Is composed of a solid layer of gold, which must constitute at least 5% of the item’s total weight, and is mechanically bonded to sterling silver or a base metal. Some high quality gold-filled pieces have the same appearance as 14 karat (58%) gold. Gold-filled items, even with daily wear, can last 1 to 5 years but will eventually wear through. Gold-filled items are 5 to 10 times thicker than regular gold plating, and 15 to 25 times thicker than gold electroplate. How to clean: Polishing cloth

Is an alternative way to say silver-gilt or silver-plated. Vermeil pieces appear to be gold in colour, are generally more affordable and lighter than solid gold. Vermeil is a combination of sterling silver, gold, and other precious metals. A typical example is sterling silver coated with 14 karat (58%) gold. Note: Plated pieces will change colour exposing the base metal over time. Depending on your body's chemistry, time frames for plated pieces can last from years to days. We do not advise using plated pieces in the water to help with the longevity of the piece. How to clean: Polishing cloth or toothpaste (when back to silver)

Stainless steel is a popular material for jewellery because it’s affordable and durable. Unlike other softer materials, it can withstand most daily activities without sustaining corrosion and scratches. Plus, stainless steel jewellery doesn’t tarnish so it looks good even with minimal maintenance. It's also excellent for those who are allergic to certain metals or prefer to avoid silver and gold. How to clean: Maintaining stainless steel jewellery is also a lot easier as you won't have to have special cleaning solution to care for your jewellery. Just use warm water, liquid soap, and your stainless steel pieces will be good as new.

Is a method of depositing a thin layer of gold or silver onto the surface of another metal, most often copper or silver (to make silver-gilt) by chemical or electrochemical plating. Note: Plated pieces will change colour exposing the base metal over time. Depending on your body's chemistry, time frames for plated pieces can last from years to days. We do not advise wearing plated pieces in the water to help with the longevity of the piece. How to clean: Polishing cloth

Is a metal alloy made of copper and zinc; the proportions of zinc and copper can be varied to create a range of brasses with varying properties. At the time of purchase, Antique Brass will have been oxidized (look darker / have a patina) and can not be polished. Raw Brass is a lighter gold colouring and can be polished. How to clean: Polishing Cloth, light soap and water (dry thoroughly), lemon juice or hot sauce.