In this article we look at some of the metalsa and stones used in (replica) jewelry, and how to take care of your jewelry. This page may be updated regularly with new questions and answers. if you have a question that is not listed, please use the contact form.

What is .925 Sterling Silver?
Answer: Fine silver (99.9% pure) is generally too soft for producing large functional objects; therefore, the silver is usually alloyed with copper to give it strength, while at the same time preserving the ductility and beauty of the precious metal. Sterling silver is an alloy of silver containing 92.5% by weight of silver and 7.5% by weight of other metals, usually copper. The sterling silver standard has a minimum millesimal fineness of 925.

What is Rhodium and Rhodium finish?
Answer: Rhodium is a metal that is a member of the platinum family and is one of the most expensive precious metals. Rhodium is used in coating sterling silver in order to strengthen the metal from tarnish, as a result from the copper compound found in sterling silver.

What are the stones of replica jewelry made of?
Answer: Most replica jewelry uses Cubic Zirconia (CZ) stones to maximize your sparkle.

What is Cubic Zirconia (CZ)?
Answer: Undoubtedly the best diamond imitation substitute available today, Cubic Zirconia has been established as an affordable diamond replacement as well as an important fashion staple in costume jewelry. Cubic Zirconia (CZ) is the cubic crystalline form of zirconium dioxide (ZrO2). The synthesized material is hard, optically flawless and usually colorless, but may be made in a variety of different colors. CZ has slightly less brilliance (sparkle) than diamond, while having more fire (flashes of rainbow colors). The overall effect is so similar to diamond that trained gemologists often require special equipment to tell them apart. With a hardness rating of 8.5, CZ comes closer to matching diamond's perfect 10.

How do I care for my Cubic Zirconia Jewelry?
Answer: 1.Cubic Zirconia that's set in Karat-gold or sterling silver, without rhodium plating, can be worn everyday. Please see our section entitled What is Rhodium? to get a better idea of how to take care of jewelry with CZ gems as well as rhodium electroplating.

2. While almost as hard as diamond, CZ is more brittle. Take precautions against this, such as removing CZ jewelry when doing heavy work. Even a diamond can chip if it's hit the right way.

3. It's best to remove your CZ jewelry before showering or cleaning your jewelry, as soap can leave a sparkle-dimming film. Similarly, remove jewelry when applying makeup and face or body powder, as these products can dull a gem's shine.

How do I clean my .925 sterling silver jewelry?
Answer: We recommend using a silver polishing cloth. We do NOT recommend cleaning the items with liquid sterling silver cleaner or silver polish. If the items are exposed to these cleaning products the rhodium finish will be damaged.

Can I wear my item while coming in contact with water?
Answer: Yes you may wear the item while coming in contact with water, but it's not recommended. Soap and other detergents can cause the Rhodium finish to be worn away. Remove jewelry before doing any task that involves chemicals such as chlorine. A good common rule to follow with jewelry is: Last thing to put on before you leave and the first thing to take off when you get home.