Metals & Materials
Precious Metals
I only use precious metals in my jewellery.
This includes sterling silver, 9ct gold, and 18ct gold.
Every product on the website clearly tells you what it is made from. I believe you should always know exactly what you are buying.
Hallmarking and Quality
In the UK, hallmarking is the law. It helps you trust the quality of precious metals.
I work with the Assay Office, and I follow all UK hallmarking rules. These rules are set out in the Hallmarking Act 1973.
Most precious metals are not used in their pure form. That is why hallmarks are important. They show the metal quality and give peace of mind.
Some smaller pieces are legally exempt from full hallmarking. This depends on weight.
Hallmarking Weight Exemptions
Some pieces do not need full hallmarks if they are under these weights:
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Silver under 7.78g
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Gold under 1.0g
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Platinum under 0.5g
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Palladium under 1.0g
These weights do not include stones. They apply to each individual piece, such as one earring without its back.
Even when items are exempt, silver pieces are still usually marked 925, SIL, or SILVER.
What Is Sterling Silver
Sterling silver is real silver.
It is made from 92.5 percent pure silver mixed with other metals like copper. This makes it strong enough for jewellery.
You may see the number 925 stamped on the piece. This shows the silver quality.
Real silver, sterling silver, and 925 silver are all the same thing. Just different names.
What Is Oxidised Silver
Oxidised silver is still sterling silver.
Only the surface is darkened on purpose. This gives a soft, antique look with a deep grey or black tone.
This finish is created through a controlled process. It is a faster version of natural tarnish and is part of the design.
Understanding Gold
Gold comes in different strengths, called carats.
24ct gold is almost pure gold. It is very soft and not practical for most jewellery.
22ct gold is high in gold content but still quite soft. It suits plain jewellery like wedding bands.
18ct gold contains 75 percent gold. It is rich in colour and very beautiful. It is stronger than higher carats but still luxurious.
14ct gold is more affordable and durable, with a warm yellow tone.
9ct gold contains 37.5 percent gold. It is the most durable and affordable choice and works very well for everyday jewellery.
Gold Plated Jewellery
Gold plated jewellery has a layer of gold over sterling silver.
The gold can be yellow or rose in colour. The carat and thickness are always listed in the product description.
Plating thickness varies. Rings and bangles are plated more heavily as they wear more. Earrings usually need less plating.
All gold plated items are correctly marked as silver.
|
Gold Plating |
Plating Thickness |
|
Heavy Gold Plated |
> 100 micro-inch (>2.5 micron) |
|
Gold Plated |
> 20 micro-inch (> 0.5 micron) |
|
Gold Electro-Plated |
> 7 micro-inch (> 0.175 micron) |
|
Gold Wash/Flashed |
< 7 micro-inch (< 0.175 micron) |
Rhodium Plating
Rhodium is a rare and precious metal. It is brighter than silver and does not tarnish.
Some pieces are rhodium plated. This gives a clean, light grey finish and helps protect the jewellery.
Rhodium is very durable but also very expensive.
Protective Coatings
Some pieces have extra protection to help them last longer.
E-coating adds a clear layer that protects colour and shine.
Anti-tarnish coating helps slow down tarnishing.
Nano coatings and passivation coatings are advanced protective layers used on selected pieces.
These coatings help your jewellery stay beautiful for longer.
Stones and Materials
Marcasite
Marcasite jewellery uses small pieces of pyrite set into silver.
It has a soft metallic sparkle and a vintage feel.
Freshwater Pearls
I use natural freshwater pearls in many designs.
They are formed in mussels and have a natural white tone.
Some pieces use cultivated pearls for a rounder shape.
Affordable pieces may use imitation pearls, and this is always stated.
Amber
I use only natural amber.
It comes from fossilised tree resin millions of years old.
Colours include cognac, green, and yellow.
Natural Stones
Many pieces include natural stones like amethyst, blue topaz, onyx, and agate.
If a stone is natural, it is clearly stated.
Synthetic Stones
Some designs use synthetic stones like lab-made rubies or sapphires.
This is always clearly written in the description.
Cubic Zirconia
Cubic zirconia is a man-made stone that looks like a diamond.
It sparkles beautifully and is more affordable.
CZ comes in many colours and quality levels.
Diamonds
Some pieces include small natural diamonds.
They are sourced from trusted suppliers and are genuine.
Turquoise
Most turquoise pieces use reconstituted turquoise.
This keeps the look of turquoise while keeping prices fair.
Leather and Rubber
A small number of pieces include leather or rubber.
This is always clearly stated.
A Final Word
I choose materials with care.
I believe honesty matters.
I want you to feel confident in every piece you wear.
Thank you for trusting Navya London.
It truly means a lot.