Jewellery Care and FAQs......

Published on December 2, 2010 by admin


Q What is Sterling Silver?

A Sterling silver is an alloy of silver containing 92.5% by weight of silver and 7.5% by weight of other metals, usually copper. The sterling silver standard has to be a minimum of 925. Pure Silver (99.9% pure) is generally too soft for producing jewellery, therefore silver is usually alloyed with copper to give it strength, while at the same time preserving the flexibility and beauty of the precious metal.



Q: What is Gold Vermeil?

A: Gold vermeil, which is pronounced "vehrmay," is sterling silver plated with gold.

In order to qualify as gold vermeil and not merely gold-plated silver, a piece of jewelry must meet certain requirements. The base must be pure sterling silver. It may not be coated with any other metal prior to having the layer of gold applied. Finally, the gold layer with which the silver is plated must be at least 10-karat gold.

Gold vermeil has many benefits. Primarily that it's comparable to pure gold in appearance and artisanship. Due to it’s primary composition of sterling silver, gold vermeil is more affordable than pure gold. Also since gold vermeil by definition cannot contain other metals, people with nickel allergies or sensitivity to other metals can wear gold vermeil jewellery comfortably and safely. Lastly, gold vermeil will last for many years without tarnishing and without the gold plate wearing away if you care for it properly.




Q How to care for jewellery?

A: Rule Perfume first, jewellery afterwards!
Avoid spraying the jewellery with perfume, hairspray, body lotions and oils, sun tan lotion and deodorant as these often contain harmful chemicals or abrasive materials and may cause discolouration.

Do not swim or shower while wearing gold-plated or silver jewellery and remove rings when washing your hand as chlorine, salt water and fresh water can damage precious metals and gemstones by dulling or eroding them. Soap can also leave a thin film which makes the metal seem dull.




Q: How to store jewellery?

A: Do not keep jewellery in direct sunlight as prolonged exposure to sunlight can cause many gemstones to fade and lose their colour. Always store your jewellery pieces individually, in the pouches or boxes provided when you purchased them to avoid breakage or the jewellery pieces scratching each other. Also, remember to keep your chains fastened so they don’t become all tangled. Keep your gold-vermeil and silver jewellery in a cool, dry place.




Q: How to clean jewellery?

A: Clean your jewellery carefully with a soft, non-abrasive and lint-free cloth. You can also clean tarnished jewellery with a soft toothbrush using mild soap and water and dry using a soft felt cloth. Avoid using ‘dip’ polishes often, as these contain harsh chemicals and can destroy your jewellery over time. A soft jewellery polishing cloth with tarnish preventive will help you keep gold pieces lustrous and shining. Some gemstones will require special cleaning procedures.




Q: What's the difference between a Necklace and a Pendant?

A: A pendant is a hanging ornament whilst a necklace is a piece of jewellery consisting of a chain, string of stones, beads etc. For example, a locket is a pendant that can be worn by hanging on a simple necklace. To view a pendant example from Joots Jewellery click: http://www.joots.co.uk/monica-vinader-silver-marie-necklace.html


To view a necklace example from Joots Jewellery click:http://www.joots.co.uk/silver-pearl-necklace.html
To view more styles click here:http://www.joots.co.uk/necklaces.html?limit=all






Q: How to Choose Cufflinks?

A: There are several factors to consider on how to choose cufflinks that depend on style and taste. Firstly, consider the colour scheme and style of wardrobe. This is one of the best ways on how to choose cufflinks that will match your attire. For example, if there are mostly plain shirts you can be adventurous with bright colours and patterned style cufflinks. If shirts are patterned then single block colours and simple styles work best.


Remember cufflinks can be used to reflect the personality and style of the person in mind. Choose novelty cufflinks if you're looking for something fun, perhaps relating to a hobby.
View all our Cufflinks here: http://www.joots.co.uk/cufflinks.html?limit=all



This post was published in FAQs and was tagged with Cufflinks, jewellery care, choose cufflinks, storing jewellery, jewellery faqs