Studio Tour + Tools
gold fill
What is gold fill?
- High quality, affordable alternative to solid gold
- Despite its name, gold fill is actually a layer of solid gold bonded to high quality jeweler's brass
- 5% gold by weight - 100x more gold than gold plating. Gold plating will wear through and tarnish fairly quickly.
- Compared to gold vermeil, gold fill has a thicker layer of gold that is pressure and heat bonded versus gold vermeil's electroplating process. It will last longer and is waterproof, where vermeil is not.
- With proper care, gold-filled jewelry can last for many years without discloring or signs of wear
gold fill care
General Care
Although gold filled jewelry is waterproof and durable, we want to give realistic care expectations and give you the information you need to help your jewelry live its longest possible life. So while you can wear your jewelry at all times, greater attention to care can increase its longevity.
- While waterproof, showering/washing your jewelry can impact long-term lifespan
- Avoid chlorine and saltwater
- Avoid harsh chemicals, cleaning products, perfumes, sunscreen, hairspray
- You can store in an airtight bag or container, and avoid rubbing any of your jewelry together as this could cause dulling or scratching over time
- Keep up with regular cleanings as your jewelry will gather oils, dirt, and products with general wear
How to Clean
- Clean regularly with warm water & pat dry with a soft cloth
- You can use a polishing cloth for cleaning and to restore shine
To Deep Clean:
1. Fill bowl with warm water, and little bit of soap (I like natural soaps like Mrs. Meyers or Dr. Bronners)
2. Let soak for about a minute
3. Use soft toothbrush to scrub, especially spots where dirt and oils can collect
4. Rinse thoroughly and pat dry
sterling silver
What is sterling silver?
- A hypoallergenic silver alloy containing 92.5% silver, and 7.5% other metals, usually copper
- In order to be considered high quality, it must have this exact ratio of silver to alloy (ours is!)
- Sterling silver was created becuase on its own, silver is too soft & malleable to be used practically
- Due to its combination with other metals, sterling silver does tarnish over time
- Tarnishing does not mean that your jewelry will ever flake off or turn your skin green, it is simply the gradual darkening/dulling of metal over time, but polishing and proper care can slow this process
sterling silver care
General Care
While sterling silver tarnishes more quickly than gold fill, it is easier to polish and clean.
It has similar care to gold fill and avoiding the following will slow the rate of tarnishing:
-Avoid water, particularly chlorine and saltwater
- Avoid harsh chemicals, cleaning products, perfumes, sunscreen, hairspray
-Storing in an airtight container or bag can slow the tarnishing process
How to Clean:
- Clean regularly with warm water & pat dry with a soft cloth
- You can use a polishing cloth for cleaning and to restore shine
To Deep Clean:
1. Fill bowl with warm water, and little bit of soap (I like natural soaps like Mrs. Meyers or Dr. Bronners)
2. Let soak for about a minute
3. Use soft toothbrush to scrub, especially spots where dirt and oils can collect
4. Rinse thoroughly and pat dry
FRESHWATER PEARLS
- Freshwater pearls are natural gemstones
- Pearls are meant to be worn! They thrive off of your skin's natural oils, and will actually disintegrate if they're stored away
- Therefore you should not store in an airtight container as pearls need moisture
- Store separately from other jewelry with a soft cloth or pouch to avoid scratching
-Avoid bleach, hydrogen peroxide, vinegar, ammonia, hairspray, and cosmetics
-Wipe down gently to remove sweat, perfumes, excess oils, and dirt before putting away
- To clean, mix lukewarm water and mild dish soap, dip a soft cloth in the miscutre and wipe pearls. Do not submerge