Sterling Silver FAQ's
How can I tell if my jewellery is genuine sterling silver?
There are a few ways to check:
- Look for the hallmark – genuine sterling silver will have “925”, “.925”, “S925”, or “Sterling” discreetly stamped somewhere on the item (often on the clasp, the inside of a ring band, or the back of a pendant).
- Do the magnet test – silver is not magnetic, so if a strong magnet sticks to your piece, it’s not solid sterling silver.
- Check for natural tarnish – sterling silver develops a slight patina over time. If a piece never changes colour at all, it may be plated rather than solid.
Get it tested – jewelers can perform an acid test or use XRF analysis to confirm silver content with 100% certainty.
Does 925 silver tarnish?
Yes, Silver is a very reactive metal where tarnish is a natural reaction when silver comes into contact with oxygen, moisture, or certain chemicals in the air.
This doesn’t mean your jewellery is damaged though. It’s just that a thin layer of oxidation has formed. It can be easily polished away with a silver cleaning cloth or a gentle silver cleaner.
Is 925 silver hypoallergenic?
Most people with sensitive skin can wear sterling silver without irritation. However, if you have an extreme sensitivity to copper or nickel, it’s best to check with your jeweler or GP, as some sterling silver pieces may contain trace amounts of nickel in the alloy.
How should I care for my sterling silver jewellery?
- Store it properly – keep it in a dry, airtight container or a soft jewellery pouch to slow tarnishing.
- Avoid contact with chemicals – take it off before swimming, showering, using perfumes, lotions, or cleaning products.
- Polish it gently – use a soft silver cloth or a non-abrasive cleaner made for sterling silver.
- Wear it often – surprisingly, wearing your silver regularly actually helps prevent tarnish, as the natural oils in your skin keep it polished.
Why choose sterling silver over other metals?
- Beauty – it has a bright, elegant shine.
- Versatility – it suits casual and formal looks.
- Value – precious metal quality at an affordable price.
- Hypoallergenic qualities – gentle on most skin types.
- Longevity – lasts for decades with care.
Gold Plated PVD FAQ's
What does 18kt PVD gold-plated mean and why is it better?
“18kt PVD gold-plated” means the jewellery has a layer of real 18-karat gold applied using a process called PVD (Physical Vapour Deposition) over a stainless steel base.
Unlike traditional plating, PVD uses a vacuum coating technique that bonds gold particles to the surface at a molecular level making it harder, more durable, and more resistant to fading.
- Longer-lasting finish – more resistant to scratches and fading.
- Hypoallergenic – safer for sensitive skin.
- Eco-friendly – doesn’t use harsh chemicals like traditional electroplating.
- Rich colour – maintains the deep gold tone of 18kt without dulling quickly.
Why is stainless steel used as the base metal?
Stainless steel is chosen because it is:
- Extremely durable – resists bending, dents, and corrosion.
- Hypoallergenic – ideal for most skin types.
- Tarnish-resistant – unlike brass or copper bases, it won’t oxidise under the plating.
This means even if the gold layer eventually wears thin over many years, the jewellery will still look good and be safe to wear.
Is PVD gold plating waterproof?
PVD is more water-resistant than traditional plating, but “water-resistant” doesn’t mean “indestructible.”
While an occasional splash or short contact with water is fine, we still recommend removing your jewellery before swimming, showering, or working out—especially to avoid chemicals like chlorine or sweat salts that can dull the finish.
Will it tarnish or turn my skin green?
No because stainless steel does not oxidise and PVD coating forms a protective barrier, these pieces will not tarnish in the same way as silver or brass jewellery.
They also won’t turn your skin green, which can happen with cheaper base metals.
How To Care for Your 18kt PVD Gold-Plated Jewellery?
To keep your jewellery looking as brilliant as the day you got it, follow these simple tips:
- Remove it before showering, swimming, or exercising to protect the finish.
- Store it separately in a soft pouch or a lined jewellery box to prevent scratches.
- Gently wipe it with a soft, damp cloth to keep it clean and shiny.
- Avoid contact with perfumes, lotions, hairsprays, and other chemicals, as these can dull the gold plating over time.
With a little care, your piece will stay radiant for years to come.