KNOW YOUR METALS
When it comes to jewelry, knowing your metals is pretty important, especially if you have allergies to certain materials. At Sweet Charm Elegance, we try our best to keep this in mind and offer options to our customers.
stainless steel
A more cost-effective alternative to other precious metals, stainless steel is resistant to rust, tarnish, oxidation, and corrosion even in tropical or humid environments. It also has a thin layer chromium that prevents oxidation. Unlike other metals, there is no real need to polish it every day.
Even though we have had no instances of adverse skin reactions from our customers, some stainless steel may contain small traces of nickel, so be cautious when purchasing if you do have a nickel allergy.
sterling silver
Because pure silver is no good for jewelry production as it is too soft, sterling silver is mixed with 92.5% of pure silver and 7.5% copper. Nickel is rarely used in bonding with pure silver, however, it can be used overseas. This metal is apt to tarnish, however, it can be easily cleaned. We include a jewelry care card with every purchase.
Our jewelry backing is coated with an anti-tarnish coating and is .925 sterling silver
12-14kt gold-filled
14kt gold-filled is the next best thing to pure 14kt gold without the high price. Jewelry that is gold-filled means there is a good layer of gold that has been pressure-bonded to sterling silver. This means no tarnishing, flaking, or turning color.
Our pieces are labeled either 12kt or 14kt gold-filled typically bonded to stainless steel.
a note about brass...
There's a reason why brass is not used by jewelry artisans. Brass contains a mixture of zinc and copper which leads to oxidation and tarnish. Unfortunately, this is why your finger or ear lobe turns green after exposing it to long wear. Your skin's natural oils and exposure to air causes reactions.
If you have an allergy to nickel, brass is not good for your skin as it can cause severe reactions. Because of the tarnishing, you do have to clean it more than you would other precious metals
Brass is used in mass-produced jewelry, which is why if you buy your pieces that are cheaply priced and made overseas, you will end up either not wearing it or it will break. Brass jewelry also easily scratches after a few wears.
Invest in a few beautiful pieces and do your research prior to purchasing any jewelry.