Glossary

Bali Silver / Beads

Bali beads are handmade sterling silver beads often with granulated patterns. They are made in Bali.

Hill Tribe Silver / Beads

Hill Tribe silver consists of beads and charms, which are skilfully fabricated, by the Karen Hill Tribe in Thailand, using only hand tools; they are not cast.

Pearls -

Cultured Pearl

A cultured pearl is formed with a helping hand, when a nucleus is inserted into an oyster. The pearl oyster then forms layer upon layer of nacre, the pearly substance that gives the pearl its unique iridescence and beauty.

Fresh Water Pearl

Fresh water pearls are created the same way as cultured pearls but in freshwater mussels in lakes or rivers.

Lampwork Beads

Lampwork beads are made on metal rods called mandrels. Molten glass is wound on the rod and then designs with other colours are added to enhance the bead. After the handmade Lampwork Glass beads are made, they are then put into a kiln to heat all parts evenly and then allowed to cool slowly to reduce the stress in the bead. This is called annealing and it is a necessary part of bead making.

Natural Pearl

Fine gem quality pearls do occur completely naturally but this is a very rare occurrence.

Swarovski Crystal

Swarovski Austrian Crystals are made from glass with a high lead content and are the closest man-made stone to diamond, created by Daniel Swarovski. Some crystal are made with an AB coating (a metallic chemical coating inspired by the Auroa Borealis) that allows the light to refract a rainbow spectrum, making the crystal sparkle.

Tarnishing

Silver tarnishes when exposed to: the elements for a prolonged time, heat, base metals like copper & brass, and also some people find it reacts to their skin. Storing your jewellery in a jewellery box when not worn can greatly reduce the effects and a good polish every now and again will restore it back to full shine. You can use Brasso type products, a silver cloth or even a toothbrush and toothpaste.

Vermeil Gold

Vermeil is French for the earlier term silver gilt. Vermeil gold is sterling silver plated with 24 carat gold.