Sterling Silver
Sterling silver is a precious metal often used in fine jewelry. At Charismatic, we use 925 sterling silver, which is composed of 92.5% pure silver and 7.5% other metals (usually copper). This addition of other metals strengthens the silver, making it more durable for everyday wear, without compromising its beauty! Silver does develop a patina over time, but this is generally desirable as it gives more dimension to the jewelry.
Sterling silver is hypoallergenic.
CARING FOR STERLING SILVER JEWELRY
⬪ Store it in a dry, air-tight container when not being worn.
⬪ Clean it with a soft cloth for light cleaning between wears.
⬪ For a deeper clean, polish it with a polishing cloth or wash
with mild soap and water, then dry it completely with a soft cloth.
If you want the dark patina to develop or stay intact, do not deep clean it!
14k Gold Filled
Gold filled metal is made by bonding a thick layer of genuine gold onto a base metal, often jewelers brass. Unlike gold plating, gold filled metal contains 100x more gold and is much more durable - it also won't flake or tarnish easily. Gold filled metal is a much more affordable alternative for those that prefer gold jewelry. At Charismatic, we use 14k gold-filled metal.
Gold filled metal is safe for most people with metal sensitivities.
CARING FOR GOLD FILLED JEWELRY
⬪ Store it in a dry, air-tight container when not being worn.
⬪ Clean it with a soft cloth for light cleaning between wears.
⬪ For a deeper clean, polish with a polishing cloth or wash with
mild soap and water, then dry it completely with a soft cloth.
Copper, Brass & Bronze
These 3 metals are referred to as 'red metals' due to their shared base composition of copper. While copper is a pure element (orangish-red in appearance), brass is copper + zinc (bright yellow), and bronze is copper + tin (brownish-gold). All of these metals have a distinct, beautiful appearance. However, most people experience a green skin discoloration from wearing copper or copper alloys directly on the skin - because of this, we use them as a component of the design, accenting it with either silver or gold and using a silver or gold ear wire so that they do not rest on the skin. Over time, copper and bronze will develop a brown/greenish patina, while brass will dull and darken slightly. Though, this is generally enjoyed by wearers, as it accentuates and deepens the overall appearance of the design.
CARING FOR COPPER JEWELRY
⬪ Store it in a dry, air-tight container when not being worn.
⬪ Clean it with a soft cloth for light cleaning between wears.
⬪ For a deeper clean, polish with a polishing cloth or wash with a lemon
juice and salt paste or copper cleaner, then dry it completely with a soft cloth.
If you want the dark patina that was applied or has naturally developed, do not deep clean!
Stainless Steel or PVD Plated Stainless Steel
Stainless steel is incredibly strong and is resistant to rust, tarnish, and corrosion, making it an ideal choice for low-maintenance, long-lasting jewelry. Its grayish hue is similar to the cool tone of sterling silver. It is an affordable option that still provides quality and longevity.
We also carry PVD gold plated stainless steel. PVD is a method of plating which bonds real gold onto the stainless steel. PVD plating lasts 10x longer than standard plating methods. It may wear down over time, but it is sturdy, waterproof, and made for daily wear. It is a great choice for those that want a gold feel, while also being sturdy and affordable.
Stainless steel is hypoallergenic and is a great choice for those with metal sensitivities.
CARING FOR STAINLESS STEEL JEWELRY
⬪ Store it in a dry, air-tight container when not being worn.
⬪ Clean it with a soft cloth for light cleaning between wears.
⬪ For a deeper clean, polish with a polishing cloth or wash with mild
soap and water, then dry it completely with a soft cloth.
Silver or Gold Plated Brass
Plated metal is made by applying a thin layer of genuine silver or gold over a base metal, often brass or stainless steel. This gives the look and feel of solid precious metals at a much more affordable price. Plating is delicate and can wear down to the base metal over time. It is best to wear plated jewelry occasionally to preserve the finish.
Plated brass is not ideal for those with metal sensitivities.
CARING FOR PLATED JEWELRY
⬪ Avoid exposure to perfumes and lotions.
⬪ Remove before showering, swimming, or exercising.
⬪ Store it in a dry, air-tight container when not being worn.
⬪ Clean it with a soft cloth for light cleaning between wears.
⬪ For a deeper clean, polish with a polishing cloth or wash gently
with mild soap and water, then dry it completely with a soft cloth.
