Caring For Jewelry

Caring for jewelry, regardless of the gemstone or metal, involves some universal practices to maintain its beauty and durability. Here's a comprehensive guide to caring for jewelry:

Cleaning Techniques

Gentle Cleaning: Use a mild soap and lukewarm water solution with a soft-bristled brush or cloth to clean most jewelry. This method effectively removes dirt and oils without causing damage.

Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Harsh chemicals, including bleach and ammonia-based cleaners, can damage metals and gemstones. Opt for mild solutions and avoid abrasive cleaners.

Professional Cleaning: Consider professional cleaning for intricate or delicate pieces, especially those with intricate designs or fragile settings. Professional jewelers have specialized tools to clean jewelry without causing harm.

Storage Guidelines

Separate Storage: Store each piece of jewelry separately to prevent scratches, tangles, or damage. Use individual compartments, jewelry boxes, or pouches to keep items organized.

Avoid Moisture and Sunlight: Moisture can cause metals to tarnish, while sunlight can fade gemstones. Store jewelry in a dry, cool place away from direct sunlight to maintain its quality.

Wearing Tips

Remove Before Activities: Take off jewelry before engaging in activities that might expose it to harsh conditions or impacts. This includes exercising, cleaning, or activities involving chemicals.

Consider Protective Coatings: For certain metals prone to tarnishing, like sterling silver, consider applying a protective coating to help maintain their shine and prevent tarnishing.

Maintenance and Inspections

Regular Inspections: Check your jewelry periodically for loose stones, damaged clasps, or worn-out prongs. Address these issues promptly to prevent further damage or loss.

Professional Appraisals: Get your valuable jewelry appraised periodically, especially if their value might have changed. It helps in determining insurance coverage and ensures accurate value assessment.

Specialized Care for Different Metals and Gemstones

Gold: Use a mild detergent and warm water to clean gold jewelry. Avoid abrasive materials that might scratch the surface.

Silver: Use a silver polishing cloth to remove tarnish gently. Avoid using abrasive materials or dips, as they can remove layers of silver.

Diamonds: Diamonds are durable but can still collect oils and dirt. Clean them using mild soapy water and a soft brush.

Pearls: Wipe pearls with a soft cloth after wearing to remove oils and sweat. Avoid exposure to harsh chemicals or prolonged immersion in water.

Insurance and Documentation

Consider insuring your valuable jewelry against loss, theft, or damage. Keep records, including receipts, appraisals, and photographs, for insurance purposes and to maintain a comprehensive inventory.

Conclusion

Caring for jewelry involves a combination of regular cleaning, proper storage, mindful wearing, and occasional professional maintenance. By following these guidelines, you can preserve the beauty and longevity of your precious jewelry pieces for years to come.

Cleaning Tips

Gentle Cleaning: Use a soft-bristled brush or cloth to remove dirt and oils that accumulate over time. A mild soap and lukewarm water solution can effectively clean Tanzanite without causing damage.

Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Tanzanite is sensitive to harsh chemicals. Avoid exposing it to household cleaners, bleach, or chemicals that may cause discoloration or erosion.

Drying Methods: After cleaning, gently pat the jewelry dry with a soft cloth. Ensure it's completely dry before storing to prevent moisture-related damage.

Storage Techniques

Separate Storage: Store Tanzanite jewelry separately from other gemstones and metals to prevent scratching or chipping. Individual compartments in a jewelry box or pouches are ideal.

Avoid Direct Sunlight: Prolonged exposure to direct sunlight can fade the color of Tanzanite. Store it in a dark, cool place to maintain its vibrant hue.

Regular Inspections

Professional Check-ups: Have your Tanzanite jewelry inspected by a professional jeweler annually. They can assess settings, prongs, and overall condition, ensuring any potential issues are addressed promptly.

Secure Settings: Tanzanite is relatively soft compared to other gemstones, making it susceptible to damage from impacts. Ensure the settings are secure to prevent accidental knocks or movements that may lead to chipping.

Wearing Guidelines

Handle with Care: Remove Tanzanite jewelry before engaging in vigorous activities, exercising, or performing tasks where it might come into contact with hard surfaces.

Avoid Chemical Exposure: Remove Tanzanite jewelry before applying lotions, perfumes, or hairsprays, as these substances can dull its luster over time.

Professional Cleaning

Consider professional cleaning for Tanzanite jewelry if you notice a buildup of dirt or if it has become dull. Professional jewelers have the expertise and tools to clean and polish Tanzanite safely, revitalizing its brilliance.

Insurance and Appraisal

Consider getting your Tanzanite jewelry appraised and insured. An appraisal helps determine its value, while insurance safeguards against loss, theft, or damage.

Conclusion

Caring for Tanzanite jewelry involves a delicate balance of gentle cleaning, proper storage, and mindful wearing. With regular maintenance and proper handling, your Tanzanite jewelry will continue to enchant for generations to come.

Remember, each piece of Tanzanite jewelry is unique, deserving of special care to maintain its exquisite allure.

Most rings are easily resized two sizes up or down. However, it is depends on design and there is no guarantee that every ring will be able to be resized. We would suggest you to take it to your local jeweller for more advice.

We do offer sizings when purchased in the shop. If you'd like us to resize a ring that was not purchased from us, please let us know and we will provide a quotation for you. There is no charge for items over N$15,000, and you can request a quote from us for all rings under N$15,000.

Sterling Silver

Sterling Silver is a mixture or alloy of silver and other metals, usually copper, to give it strength. Sterling silver contains at least 92.5% silver and is usually stamped with the word “Sterling” or .925.

Causes of Tarnishing

Several reasons why silver may eventually lose its sheen are:

• being in ocean or chlorine in swimming pools
• being in contact with perspiration
• being in contact with perfume, soap or hairspray

Most of our silver jewellery are Rhodium plated. Rhodium is a semi-precious metal that lends a White gold or platinum look to sterling silver jewellery. Rhodium plated silver doesn’t normally tarnish.

Karats is a measurement of the content of gold. Not to be confused with Carat (Ct) which is the unit of weight measurement for gemstones.

The most common karat gold used in Australia is 18K, 14K and 9K. 18K is more expensive than 14K and 9K as it has a higher gold content. Jewellery is rarely made from pure 24K gold as it is too expensive and it is too soft and therefore wears out faster and is easy to bend out of shape.

• 9K gold contains 37.5% pure gold (375 parts per thousand parts)
• 14K gold contains 58.5% pure gold (585 parts per thousand parts)
• 18K gold contains 75% pure gold (750 parts per thousand parts)

Karat gold is normally stamped to indicate with, for example, 9K gold would either be stamped 9K or 375, 18K gold would be stamped either 18K or 750.

Gold Plated Jewellery (GEP or GP)

Gold plated jewellery is jewellery that has a layer of gold applied to a base metal by an electrolytic process. This gives a look similar to karat gold. Gold plated jewellery is a cheap alternative and will wear off after time.

Gold Colour

The most common gold colour is yellow gold, followed by white gold and rose gold. The colour of the gold doesn’t make a difference to the gold content (karat rating). The gold is mixed with different metals to achieve different colours.

• Yellow gold can vary in colour. 18K yellow gold will have a brighter yellow colour compared to 9K gold.
• Rose gold is achieved normally by mixing pure gold with other metals such as copper into it.
• White gold is made by mixing pure gold with metals such as silver and palladium. It is often coated with a metal named “rhodium”. The rhodium gives jewellery a really white appearance. White gold jewellery normally needs to re-rhodium coated every 12-18 months. Ask your local jeweller.

When comparing metals of the same karat, white gold tends to be a little more expensive.

Gold Smudge

Normally gold rarely tarnish or corrode however gold can sometimes leave a black mark on your skin under the following conditions.

• Being contacted in perspiration containing certain chemicals which react with the molecules of other metals in the gold alloy. This can happen when changes occur in body chemistry, for example pregnancy or while on medication.
• Being contacted in cosmetics, hairsprays and perfumes
• Being exposed to air pollutants from industry
• The least likely cause may be an allergy to gold or one of the other metals in the alloy, such as nickel, which is commonly used in fashion jewellery and in some white gold.

Preserving the Beauty and Legacy: Caring for Ethnic African Jewelry

Ethnic African jewelry is not only a reflection of cultural heritage but also a testament to the natural resources and artistic traditions of the continent. Each piece, crafted from materials such as ebony wood, elephant hair, ostrich shell, Omba shell, lion claws, and ivory, carries with it a story of history, craftsmanship, and reverence for nature. In this essay, we explore the unique characteristics of these materials and provide essential guidelines for caring for and preserving ethnic African jewelry.

Materials Used in Ethnic African Jewelry

1. Ebony Wood:

• Characteristics: Ebony wood is prized for its deep black color and dense grain. It is often carved into intricate beads, pendants, and other jewelry components.
• Care: Wipe ebony wood jewelry with a soft cloth after wearing to remove oils and dirt. Avoid prolonged exposure to sunlight and moisture, as it can cause the wood to crack or fade.

2. Elephant Hair:

• Characteristics: Traditionally, elephant hair is braided into bracelets and necklaces. It symbolizes strength, courage, and protection in many African cultures.
• Care: Keep elephant hair jewelry away from water and chemicals to prevent damage. Gently clean with a soft cloth to remove dust and dirt. Moisten your hairs often with pure olive oil to keep them hydrated and flexible.

3. Ostrich Shell:

• Characteristics: Ostrich shell is used to create beads and ornaments. It has a unique pattern and iridescent sheen.
• Care: Clean ostrich shell jewelry with a soft, damp cloth. Avoid exposure to harsh chemicals and prolonged sunlight to preserve its luster.

4. Omba Shell:

• Characteristics: Omba shells are often polished and used as beads or inlay in jewelry. They exhibit natural variations in color and texture.
• Care: Wipe Omba shell jewelry gently with a soft cloth. Avoid soaking in water or exposing to extreme temperatures to prevent cracking.

5. Lion Claws:

• Characteristics: Lion claws are occasionally used in traditional African jewelry for their symbolism of strength and bravery.
• Care: Lion claw jewelry should be handled with care to avoid damage to the claws. Clean gently with a soft cloth and store separately to prevent scratching other jewelry pieces.

6. Ivory:

• Characteristics: Ivory has historically been used in African jewelry, although its use is now highly regulated due to conservation concerns.
• Care: If you own ivory jewelry, keep it away from water and excessive heat or cold. Clean with a soft cloth and avoid using harsh chemicals.

General Care Tips for Ethnic African Jewelry

• Storage: Store ethnic African jewelry in a dry, cool place away from direct sunlight to prevent fading and deterioration of natural materials.
• Avoid Chemicals: Keep jewelry away from perfumes, cosmetics, and household cleaners, as these can damage organic materials like wood, shell, and hair.
• Gentle Cleaning: Use a soft cloth or a small brush to gently clean jewelry after each wear to remove dirt and oils. Avoid abrasive cleaning methods that can scratch or damage delicate materials.

Professional Inspection: Periodically have ethnic African jewelry inspected by a professional jeweler to ensure settings are secure and any repairs or maintenance needs are addressed promptly.

Understanding Diamonds: Natural, Lab-Grown, and Moissanite

Diamonds, with their timeless allure and enduring brilliance, come in various forms that cater to different preferences and ethical considerations. In this essay, we explore the distinctions between natural diamonds, lab-grown diamonds, and moissanites, shedding light on their origins, characteristics, and unique qualities that make each a popular choice in the world of gemstones.

Natural Diamonds

Origins and Formation: Natural diamonds are formed deep within the Earth's mantle under intense pressure and temperature conditions over millions to billions of years. They are brought to the surface through volcanic eruptions or transported by geological processes, where they are mined from kimberlite pipes, alluvial deposits, or marine environments.

Characteristics: Natural diamonds are prized for their rarity, unique characteristics, and enduring beauty. They come in a range of colors, including colorless (most valuable), yellow, brown, and rare hues like pink, blue, and green. Each natural diamond is unique in its inclusion patterns, clarity, and color saturation, contributing to its individuality and value.

Ethical Considerations: The mining of natural diamonds has raised ethical concerns regarding environmental impact, labor practices, and conflict-free sourcing. Efforts such as the Kimberley Process Certification Scheme aim to ensure that diamonds are mined and traded ethically, minimizing environmental degradation and promoting fair labor practices.

Lab-Grown Diamonds

Origins and Production: Lab-grown diamonds, also known as synthetic or cultured diamonds, are created through technological processes that replicate the natural conditions under which diamonds form. These methods include High Pressure High Temperature (HPHT) and Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD). Lab-grown diamonds have the same chemical composition (carbon atoms arranged in a diamond crystal structure) and physical properties as natural diamonds.

Characteristics: Lab-grown diamonds exhibit identical optical and chemical properties to natural diamonds, including hardness (10 on the Mohs scale), brilliance, and fire. They are available in various colors and clarities, offering consumers a wide range of options to suit their preferences and budget.

Ethical Considerations: Lab-grown diamonds are often viewed as a more ethical and sustainable alternative to natural diamonds. They require less energy and have a lower environmental impact compared to mining. Additionally, lab-grown diamonds are guaranteed conflict-free, appealing to consumers seeking transparent and ethical choices in their jewelry purchases.

Moissanite

Origins and Properties: Moissanite is a naturally occurring mineral composed of silicon carbide, discovered in 1893 by Henri Moissan in a meteorite crater. While initially rare, moissanite is now produced as a gemstone through advanced technology. Moissanites exhibit exceptional brilliance and fire due to their high refractive index, surpassing that of diamonds and many other gemstones.

Characteristics: Moissanite is renowned for its optical properties, including its dispersion (fire), which refers to the rainbow flashes of color it emits. It is extremely durable (9.25 on the Mohs scale), making it suitable for everyday wear in jewelry. Moissanites are typically colorless or near-colorless, although green and yellow varieties also exist.

Comparison to Diamonds:

• Brilliance: Moissanites often exhibit greater brilliance and fire than diamonds due to their higher refractive index.
• Hardness: While moissanite is almost as hard as diamond, it is slightly lower on the Mohs scale, making diamonds marginally more resistant to scratching.
• Price: Moissanites are generally more affordable than natural and lab-grown diamonds of similar size and quality.

Choosing the Right Gemstone

When selecting between natural diamonds, lab-grown diamonds, and moissanites, several factors come into play:

• Budget: Natural diamonds tend to be the most expensive, while lab-grown diamonds offer a balance between cost and authenticity. Moissanites are typically the most affordable option.
• Ethical Considerations: Consumers concerned with environmental impact and ethical sourcing may prefer lab-grown diamonds or moissanites.
• Personal Preference: Each gemstone offers unique optical properties and visual appeal. Natural diamonds have a timeless allure, while lab-grown diamonds and moissanites provide modern alternatives with impressive brilliance.

In conclusion, whether you cherish the rarity and heritage of natural diamonds, value the sustainability of lab-grown diamonds, or admire the brilliance of moissanites, each gemstone offers a distinct allure and suitability for different preferences and ethical considerations. Understanding the differences between these gemstones allows consumers to make informed choices that align with their values and desired aesthetics in jewelry and beyond.