Metals
Sterling silver can be worn in water, the pool, the ocean, or wherever your adventures take you. Sterling silver can tarnish over time, but can easily be cleaned and restored. Tarnishing is a natural oxidisation process that does not damage the silver itself and is not permanent. Sterling silver tarnishes due to the added alloys for strength: typically copper or brass. Clean sterling silver with the included polishing cloth. Severe tarnishing can be remedied with vinegar and baking soda, but be careful it's not too harsh, especially for your stones.
Fine silver will never tarnish. Fine silver is 99.9% pure silver, with no added alloys for strength. It will remain pale and shiny forever!
Solid gold can be worn in water. It may tarnish very mildly over a very long period (I'm talking years). Wear it often, and keep it clean and polished.
Bronze typically reacts with our skin and water, causing tarnishing and a light greenish hue. SoaC's gold bronze pendants are sealed using Protectaclear, and industrial grade waterproofing sealant. This makes them waterproof and hypoallergenic. The sealant should last many years. Please contact me if you are having issues with your sealant.
Stones/Pearls
Cubic zirconia are a hardy, lab-created stone. I only use high-quality cubic zirconia that will last a lifetime. They can be worn in water, and will last through tough activities. Avoid excessive exposure to chlorine or harsh chemicals.
Pearls are not waterproof. Despite coming from the ocean, when pearls are exposed to water, it can cause them to swell or become moist inside. This moisture can cause them to crumble easily. The surface of pearls is more easily scratched than stones, and they are more susceptible to damage.
Lab grown and nano gemstones are tough. They can be worn in water (salt/natural/chlorine) and will withstand general wear and tear. They will sparkle for many years to come. Avoid excessive exposure to chlorine or harsh chemicals.
Natural gemstones all have different properties. Their hardness (or durability) is measured using the Mohs Scale. The most durable are sapphires, rubies, and diamonds. Avoid excessive exposure to chlorine or harsh chemicals.
Cairns, Australia
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