FAQs
What materials do you work with?
I work in Sterling Silver (silver 925). This is the standard name for silver alloys containing 92.5% pure silver by weight and 7.5% other metals, usually copper.
I combine this with a variety of other materials including semi-precious stones and up-cycled resin and other materials from my friends at Savernake Knives.
How do I look after my silver jewellery?
Well made Stirling Silver jewellery will last a lifetime, but only if cared for correctly. Keep your pieces looking radiant and prevent excessive tarnish with these simple habits:
Avoid household chemicals, perfumes, body or sun creams coming into contact with your jewellery. These can cause the silver to tarnish and can cause other damage to resin and stones.
Take off jewellery when exercising or doing chores around the house to avoid scratches and other damage.
Take off jewellery when swimming or bathing as chlorine will tarnish your silver.
Use a silver polishing cloth regularly to keep your pieces bright, sparkling and tarnish free.
Store your jewellery in its box or jewellery bag to avoid scratching and other damage when not being worn.
Use warm soapy water and a soft toothbrush if it needs a clean. Remember to pat dry.
What is a hallmark?
It is a legal requirement that any jewellery containing over 7.78 grams of precious metal and sold as such must be hallmarked by one of the UK's Assay Offices. I am registered with the London Assay Office and have my jewellery discretely laser engraved.
I generally hallmark anything under 7.78g that can be sensibly and discretely hallmarked even though it's not a legal requirement.
The image, above, shows an example of the hallmarking on one of my pieces of jewellery and this video, produced by the London Assay office, provides an explanation of what the symbols mean. There is also a printable version.
How are your materials sourced?
I believe that the beauty of our jewellery should extend to the way it's made. I am deeply committed to ethical practices and environmental responsibility throughout my creation process, ensuring you can wear our pieces with confidence and pride.
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Sustainable Silver: I use recycled Sterling Silver (silver 925). This significantly reduces the environmental impact associated with mining new materials, conserving natural resources and energy.
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Recycled Packaging: My cardboard packaging is made from recycled paper and I also supply pouches and bags made from responsibly-sourced organic cotton. Unfortunately, some packaging materials - like the inserts for the boxes don't currently have sustainable alternatives available. If you don't want me to use these materials in your packaging then please let me know in a note at the checkout.
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Recycled Resin and Other Materials: I use resin and other material that my friends at Savernake Knives have left over once they've made their knife handles. This is material that would otherwise have gone to landfill.
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Traceable Gemstones: I source the majority of our gemstones through a single supplier who provides traceability back to the originating mine. This allows me greater transparency and assurance regarding the ethical journey of the stonesI use.
My goal is to create stunning, high-quality jewellery that not only looks beautiful, but also aligns with strong ethical values. I am continuously working to uphold and improve these practices, ensuring my business has a positive impact.