Materials and Care
We use a range of high quality materials in all of our jewellery, and by taking the best of care you can ensure your pieces last a lifetime. Here are some of our top tips for looking after your Mary Elizabeth Jewellery.
Stainless Steel
Stainless steel is known for its durability and resistance to corrosion. Our gold stainless steel pieces are 14kt PVD plated. PVD-plated means they have gone through a process called Physical Vapor Deposition (PVD) to apply a durable gold coating to the surface.
To care for stainless steel and PVD-plated items, it is advisable to clean with a mild soap and water solution, avoiding abrasive cleaners that may scratch the surface. Additionally, storing these items separately from other jewellery can prevent scratches, ensuring they maintain their lustrous appearance over time.
Sterling Silver & Gold Vermeil
925 Sterling silver is an alloy made of 92.5% pure Silver and 7.5% Copper. Gold vermeil is where a thick gold layer (at least 2.5 microns (about 100 millionths of an inch) thick.) is plated over sterling silver. This is significantly thicker than the gold plating used in standard gold-plated items. The gold used in vermeil is typically 10 karats or higher as well, ensuring a higher gold content compared to lower-karat gold-plated items. Ours is 18 karats.
Clean silver jewellery using a silver cloth, or remove grease by gently washing in mild detergent with warm water. Wearing silver jewellery often keeps it clean as contact with skin reduces the oxidation of silver! Store in a soft pouch or M. Elizabeth box. Avoid harsh chemicals.
Gemstones
We use carefully selected natural gemstones chosen for their colour and quality, mined from ethical sources.
Caring for your gemstones:
To clean & remove grease from gemstones, gently wash with mild detergent in warm water using a soft toothbrush. Porous gemstones such as labradorite, moonstone & chalcedony may react badly to contact with chemical cleaners & perfumes. Store separately in lined pouches or M. Elizabeth Box.
Pearls
We use freshwater pearls of Japanese origin.
To clean pearls, gently buff with a soft cloth and occasionally clean with a soft damp cloth, ensuring they are dried thoroughly. Store in a soft pouch or lined box.