At Dahlia Jewel Co we believe in sustainability and to us this means when you buy a product you intend to keep and wear it for many years.

Like anything if you wish to keep something forever, you will need to look after it. Here are some our favourite tips to share for taking good care of your pieces.

Sterling Silver with Rhodium Plating

Made to last a lifetime, this precious metal is hypoallergenic, hardwearing and maintains its beauty throughout the ages. Though it has a character shine, the metal surface can oxidise when in contact with air, water or sulphur. Wearing it regularly will keep it from tarnishing so it makes a perfect staple material.

Should you not wear your sterling silver jewellery regularly, if the item does tarnish or darken, a light polish with a jewellery cloth can buff the colour out and return the shine to the piece. Always handle your piece with care. 

14k and 18k Gold Vermeil

Gold Plating over Sterling Silver is otherwise known as Gold Vermeil. To be considered true vermeil the layer of gold must be a minimum of 2.5 microns thick and it must be laid over sterling silver. True Gold Vermeil when taken care of can last a lifetime. However with variables such as full time wear, sweat, soaps and the bodies own level of acidity, you can have confidence that your piece will last up to 2 years with full colour. Eventually with these variables in play, the gold plating can slowly wear away and soften the colour, or return the piece to the silver tone beneath.

14k and 18k Gold Plating

Gold Plating is a fantastic option for those who adore the look of Gold, yet aren't ready to invest in Solid Gold pieces. Gold is often plated over materials such as brass or nickel as a cost effective measure to making a cheaper product. The gold plating is also often as little as 0.2 microns thick and has a very short lifespan.

At Dahlia Jewel Co we use a base metal of 925 Sterling Silver and plate using gold with a minimum layer of 1 micron thick. When taken proper care of our Gold Plated Jewellery can also last a lifetime. It is not advised to wear your Gold Plated jewellery full time however if you do, you can expect to eventually see the gold soften away and the piece turn more silver over time.

Solid Gold

14k Solid Gold is the perfect material for everyday wear. It's hypoallergenic, durable, hardwearing and completely tarnish free, not to mention its unmistakable golden shine. When looked after, pieces made from 14k Solid Gold can be passed down through generations.

Solid Gold Jewellery will not tarnish but it can get dirty. A clean every few months in some lightly soapy water and a polish with a polishing cloth will help maintain its shine. Always handle with care. 

Clasps, Latches and Scratches

To ensure the clasps and latches last and remain strong, do not play or fidget with them. Constantly clicking, clipping or pulling on your pieces could cause them to change shape and could unfortunately result in you breaking or losing your precious pieces. For the best outcome keep your hands off, unless removing or cleaning in which case always handle with care, be gentle and delicate.

Due to long term wear Solid Gold and Solid Sterling Silver can incur scratches over time. Some scratches can be buffed out with a hand polish and polishing cloth. To avoid scratching keep your pieces away from other hard materials, things like rings and bracelets should be taken off when doing hand heavy tasks such as washing dishes or gardening. 

If you have any specific questions regarding to how else you can care for your jewellery, please contact us via the 'Contact us' link below.

 

With Love 

Dahlia Jewel Co 

xx