What things are made of
Materials & care
Every product lists its materials. Here is what those words mean, and how to keep each piece looking its best.
01What the words mean
- Gold-toneA gold-coloured finish on a base-metal alloy or on stainless steel. Contains no gold. We do not describe these pieces as gold-plated.
- Silver-toneA silver-coloured finish on a base-metal alloy. Contains no silver.
- Stainless steelA steel alloy that resists rust better than ordinary steel. Silver-coloured unless listed as gold-tone.
- Glass stoneCut and faceted glass. Not a gemstone, not a diamond, not a crystal of any named brand.
- Simulated glass pearlA glass bead made to look like a pearl. Not a natural or cultured pearl.
- SiliconeA soft, flexible rubber-like material used for sport straps.
- NylonA woven synthetic fabric used for single-pass and two-piece straps.
- Polyurethane (PU)A synthetic material with a leather-like finish. Used for leather-look straps and for the outside of some jewellery cases. No animal leather.
- Velvet-look polyesterA soft polyester fabric with a velvet feel, used for pouches, trays and linings.
About skin. We do not make hypoallergenic, nickel-free or tarnish-proof claims. If you have a known metal allergy, check the materials before ordering. Stop wearing any piece that irritates your skin.
02Caring for jewellery
- Put jewellery on last, after perfume, hairspray and lotion.
- Take it off before swimming, bathing, exercise, cleaning and sleep.
- Wipe it with a soft, dry cloth after wearing. Do not use polish, dips or abrasive cloths on gold-tone or silver-tone finishes.
- Store each piece separately, in a pouch or a box compartment, so pieces do not scratch or tangle.
- Coloured finishes on fashion jewellery wear with use over time. Gentle care slows this down.
03Caring for straps
- Silicone and nylon: rinse with fresh water after sea or pool water, and let them dry naturally.
- Leather-look PU: wipe with a damp cloth; avoid long soaks and direct heat.
- Check spring bars regularly and replace any that feel loose.
04Caring for storage
Brush velvet-look linings with a soft dry brush. Wipe PU surfaces with a slightly damp cloth. Keep boxes away from direct sunlight to protect the colour.