MATERIALS + JEWELRY CARE
Your Of Great Value treasures are made with 14K Gold-Filled and Sterling Silver This makes them resistant to tarnishing and able to stand up to the wear and tear of your daily life while you're climbing mountains and running meetings.
While they are resistant to tarnishing, it can happen if they are not taken care of. Below are some recommendations for caring for our different metals.
14K Gold-Filled:
14K gold-filled material is a type of metal alloy widely used in jewelry and other decorative items. Comprising a thick layer of 14-karat gold mechanically bonded to a core of base metal, it offers a more affordable alternative to solid gold while maintaining a luxurious appearance. The "14K" denotes the gold's purity, indicating that it contains 58.3% pure gold. This layering process results in a durable and tarnish-resistant product, ensuring a longer lifespan compared to gold-plated items. Although not solid gold, 14K gold-filled jewelry provides an attractive compromise between quality and cost, making it a popular choice for those seeking elegance on a budget. See below for how to best care for your 14K Gold-Filled Pieces.
1. **Avoid Harsh Chemicals:** Keep gold-filled items away from harsh chemicals, including household cleaners and chlorine, as they can damage the gold layer.
2. **Remove Before Activities:** Remove gold-filled jewelry before engaging in activities that might cause physical damage or expose it to chemicals, such as swimming or heavy exercise.
3. **Store Properly:** Store gold-filled pieces in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight. Use jewelry boxes or pouches to prevent scratches and tarnish.
4. **Clean Gently:** Clean gold-filled items with mild soap and water, using a soft cloth. Avoid abrasive materials or harsh cleaners that may scratch or damage the surface.
5. **Polish Regularly:** Use a jewelry polishing cloth to gently polish the gold-filled pieces, maintaining their shine and reducing the risk of tarnish.
6. **Avoid Abrasive Surfaces:** Be cautious when wearing gold-filled jewelry alongside other pieces, as metal-on-metal contact can lead to scratches.
7. **Check for Wear:** Periodically inspect your gold-filled jewelry for signs of wear, such as thinning of the gold layer or any loose components. If necessary, consult a jeweler for repairs.
Sterling Silver Care:
Sterling silver is a classic and popular metal alloy widely employed in jewelry and various decorative pieces. Composed of 92.5% pure silver and 7.5% of another metal, often copper, sterling silver is renowned for its lustrous appearance and durability. The hallmark "925" signifies its silver content. While pure silver is soft and prone to tarnishing, the addition of copper enhances the metal's strength and durability, making it suitable for everyday wear. Sterling silver jewelry exudes a timeless elegance, and its versatility allows for a broad range of designs. Regular care, such as polishing and proper storage, helps maintain its shine, making sterling silver a cherished choice for those who appreciate both quality and aesthetic appeal.
Caring for sterling silver materials is essential to preserve their appearance and longevity. Here are some tips:
1. **Regular Cleaning:** Clean your sterling silver regularly with a mild soap and water solution. Gently rub the surface with a soft cloth or sponge, and then rinse and pat dry thoroughly.
2. **Polishing:** Use a silver polishing cloth to remove tarnish and restore shine. Avoid using tissues or paper towels, as they can scratch the silver.
3. **Avoid Harsh Chemicals:** Keep sterling silver away from harsh chemicals, such as household cleaners, perfumes, and hair sprays. These substances can accelerate tarnishing.
4. **Remove Before Activities:** Take off your sterling silver jewelry before engaging in activities that could expose it to harsh conditions, such as swimming, exercising, or using cleaning products.
5. **Proper Storage:** Store sterling silver items in a cool, dry place. Consider using anti-tarnish strips or pouches to minimize exposure to air and moisture.
6. **Wear Regularly:** Believe it or not, wearing your sterling silver jewelry can help prevent tarnish. The natural oils in your skin can provide a protective barrier.
7. **Inspect for Damage:** Periodically check your sterling silver pieces for any signs of damage, loose stones, or weakened clasps. Address any issues promptly to prevent further damage.
By following these care tips, you can maintain the beauty and quality of your sterling silver materials for years to come.
What is a cultured opal?
You may have noticed that all of our pieces featuring opals are described as "cultured opal." Cultured opals are lab-grown opals. We choose to create with these stones because they offer a more affordable option for opal-lovers. In addition, they are stronger than naturally occurring opals and therefore a better fit to stand up to the wear and tear of your daily life.