I get this question a lot and the answer is relatively simple so let’s dig in. Copper is the prime suspect when it comes to your skin turning green. Copper is present in a lot of jewelry either in pure or alloy form. Brass and bronze are two main culprits, while sterling silver and lower karat gold can also cause green skin. The reason this occurs is because chemicals and...

I will start off by saying that while there are a few groups who verify sustainable practices, there’s no single major organization that determines whether jewelry companies are legitimately sustainable or not. That’s why understanding what sustainable jewelry is will help you to make informed and environmentally friendly decisions in the future. Responsibly mined/conflict free gemstones are another aspect of sustainability I didn’t mention because I personally feel as though...

  Sterling silver is a popular jewelry metal due to many reasons such as durability, cost, and personal style choices.  Sterling silver sometimes gets a bad rap because it tarnishes but the reality is that all metals tarnish over time.  Sterling will turn towards a coppery tinge or become dark with oxidation but either is easily removed with a simple polishing cloth.  Museum wax is also a way to stave...

  Unfortunately in today's world, fraud happens. Glass and synthetic gems are sold as real stones or natural stones. If you aren't a lapidarist then you might not know how to tell whether the stone you have is real or fake. As a general rule of thumb, real gemstones no matter what kind they are have inclusions. You may not be able to see the inclusions without a loupe or...

If you have metal sensitivity then you know it.  It's uncomfortable, irritating, and downright annoying.  It often rears its ugly head as an allergic reaction or dermatitis.  As a person who has incredibly sensitive skin, I've experienced the rashes, swelling, and itchiness; it's not any fun.  Jewelry shopping is also difficult because it's hard to discern whether a metal you're sensitive to is present or not.  So for all those...

What are gemstones? What's a semi-precious gem compared to a precious gemstone? How are gemstones measured/graded? What's a good gemstone? How are gemstones cut? Ever wondered about any of those questions?  I'll be striving to answer them and provide background on gemstones in honor of my new line of rings being slowly rolled out and added to the site. What are gemstones? Gemstones all began as minerals. Minerals occur when...