Decoding Jewelry Materials

Choosing sustainable jewelry involves more than aesthetics; it's about being kind to our planet. Let's break down the materials we use: sterling silver, 3-micron 18k gold vermeil and 14k solid gold – smart and Earth-friendly premium materials choices.

SILVER
Our recycled sterling silver isn't just for looks; it's a statement about being eco-friendly. Sterling silver is an alloy composed of 92.5% pure silver and 7.5% copper. It is commonly used in jewelry making due to its durability, recycling abilities, and versatility. The alloy enhances the strength of silver, making it suitable for crafting intricate designs. While sterling silver may tarnish over time, proper storage and occasional cleaning helps maintain its shine. Read more on how to clean your sterling silver jewelry here to keep your silver hoop earrings, silver rings and other silver jewelry silver.

GOLD VERMEIL / GOLD PLATED
Gold vermeil is a jewelry finish where a layer of gold, usually at least 2.5 microns thick and in our case 3 micron, is applied to a sterling silver or other base metal piece. This process creates a gold-plated look, resembling solid gold but at a more affordable price. Gold vermeil combines the durability of sterling silver with the visual look of gold. To maintain its appearance, it's important to handle gold vermeil jewelry with care, avoiding exposure to harsh chemicals and moisture. To read more on how to take care of your gold earrings and gold rings that are gold vermeil, read here.

SOLID GOLD
14k gold in jewelry refers to gold that is 14 parts pure gold and 10 parts other metals, forming an alloy. The "k" stands for karat, a unit of purity for gold, and 14k gold is considered a standard in many jewelry applications. This alloy is chosen for its durability and strength, making it suitable for various types of jewelry like gold rings, gold earrings, and golden necklaces. The addition of other metals like copper and silver gives 14k gold its characteristic strength and color. The result is a piece that contains 58.3% pure gold, making it more affordable compared to higher karat options while maintaining a good balance between durability and luxurious appearance.

To take good care of your solid 14k golden jewelry; rinse in warm soapy water, dry with a soft cloth, or get it professionally cleaned occasionally.

Using recycled materials isn't just a trend; it's a smart move for the future. By opting for recycled metals, you contribute to a greener planet. This eco-friendly decision reduces the need for harmful mining practices, conserves energy, cuts down on waste, preserves precious resources, promotes ethical practices, and meets the demands for sustainable living. So, when you wear our jewelry crafted from recycled materials, you're making a conscious statement for a better, more environmentally-friendly world.