GOLD
Gold is, quite literally, the result of stars colliding. Forged in the immense pressure and heat of stellar explosions, it is one of the oldest elements in the universe, scattered through space long before the Earth was formed. When our planet took shape, traces of this cosmic metal became embedded deep within its crust. Over geological time, movements of heat, water, and rock, through volcanic activity, hydrothermal fluids, and erosion, carried gold toward the surface, where it could be found, mined, and shaped by human hands.
Because all the gold that exists on Earth was created in those ancient stellar events, it is a finite resource - rare, precious, and non-renewable. Each fragment carries within it the story of deep time: a material link between the cosmos and our human lives.
Since ancient times, gold has been cherished for its rarity, warmth, and enduring lustre. Pure gold does not tarnish or corrode and retains its soft, radiant glow indefinitely, a symbol of permanence in an ever-changing world. For these reasons, it has long been used for engagement rings, wedding bands, and heirloom jewellery: emblems of devotion, continuity, and love.
In my studio, I often melt down heirloom gold to create new pieces imbued with both memory and renewal. Reusing gold is not only a sustainable and cost-effective choice but also deeply symbolic, a transformation through fire that honours the past while beginning anew.
I work with 9ct and 18ct Yellow, Rose, and White Gold, each chosen for its unique tone, durability, and character.
CARE
Solid gold is naturally resilient and requires very little maintenance. Regular wear helps to keep its surface bright, while occasional gentle cleaning will restore its natural lustre. Use warm water, mild soap, and a soft cloth to remove any residue or build-up, then dry thoroughly with a lint-free cloth.
Avoid harsh or abrasive cleaners, ultrasonic machines, and chemical solutions, as these can damage the surface of the metal or loosen gemstones. When not being worn, store your gold pieces separately in a soft pouch or lined box to prevent scratching.
Although gold itself does not tarnish or corrode, alloys such as 9ct and 18ct may develop a soft patina over time — a subtle surface change that reflects the life of the piece and can easily be polished away if desired.
STERLING SILVER
Sterling silver is an alloy composed of 92.5% pure silver and 7.5% copper, a balance that enhances silver’s natural strength while retaining its luminous beauty. Pure silver on its own is too soft for most jewellery applications, but when combined with copper, it becomes more durable and wearable, a bright, enduring metal that still carries the softness and glow of its pure form.
Over time, silver can react with traces of sulphur in the air, forming a gentle surface tarnish that appears as a darkening or soft patina. This natural process is part of silver’s character and can be easily removed to restore its brilliant sheen. The slow transformation and renewal of silver echo its symbolic connection to the Moon - reflective, cyclical, and ever-changing. In many cultures, silver has long been associated with purity, clarity, and intuitive wisdom, complementing gold’s solar warmth with a cooler, more introspective light.
In the studio, I use solid sterling silver for its versatility and durability, a metal that wears beautifully over time, developing a surface story unique to its wearer.
CARE
Sterling silver benefits from regular wear, as the gentle friction of daily use helps to prevent tarnish. When not being worn, store it in a soft pouch or sealed container to slow oxidation.
If tarnish appears, clean silver gently with warm water, mild soap, and a soft polishing cloth. Avoid chemical dips or abrasive cleaners, as these can remove the fine surface finish or damage gemstones.
Each silver piece will naturally evolve with time, gaining a subtle patina that speaks to its journey, a quality to be appreciated as part of its beauty.
OXIDISED STERLING SILVER
Oxidised Sterling Silver begins as bright Sterling Silver, which is then treated to create a rich, darkened surface, a finish that evokes depth and timeworn beauty. This effect is achieved through a controlled chemical process that accelerates the natural oxidation of silver, producing tones that range from deep grey to near black.
Over time, the oxidised layer may soften or wear on raised areas, gradually revealing highlights of silver beneath. This gentle transformation adds to each piece’s individuality, recording the rhythm of daily wear and the life it shares with you.
CARE
The oxidised surface of silver is a delicate, intentional finish that will naturally evolve with wear. To preserve its patina, avoid polishing cloths, chemical dips, or abrasive cleaners, as these can remove the darkened layer. Instead, clean gently with a soft, damp cloth and dry thoroughly.
If the finish lightens more than you prefer, your piece can be easily refinished in the studio, allowing it to begin again, refreshed yet still carrying its history.
GOLD-FILLED
Gold-filled metal is created by bonding a thick layer of 14 carat gold to a base metal core using heat and pressure - a process that produces a far more durable and lasting surface than traditional gold plating. By law, Gold-filled material must contain at least 5% of its total weight in gold, resulting in a rich, long-wearing finish that closely resembles solid gold.
Unlike plating, which can wear away over time, the bonded layer of gold-filled jewellery is mechanically fused and will not rub off with normal wear. It is nickel-free, suitable for sensitive skin, and ideal for everyday use.
CARE
Gold-filled jewellery requires little maintenance. To keep its surface bright, clean gently with warm water, mild soap, and a soft cloth. Avoid abrasive cleaners, chemical dips, or ultrasonic machines, as these can damage the gold layer. With care, Gold-Filled pieces will retain their warm lustre and beauty for many years.
BONDED METAL
Bonded metal is a composite material made by mechanically fusing two metals together. I use 9ct Gold bonded to Sterling Silver, creating a single, durable piece made from the two distinct metals. This technique produces a naturally striking two-tone effect: one side shines with the warm radiance of gold, while the other glows with the cool, reflective quality of silver.
This combination allows jewellery to celebrate the beauty of contrast and harmony in a single piece, while maintaining the durability and wearability of both metals.
CARE
Bonded metal is low-maintenance, but like all precious metals, it benefits from gentle care. Clean with warm water, mild soap, and a soft cloth, avoiding abrasive cleaners or chemical dips that could affect the surface. Over time, the piece may develop a patina on the Sterling Silver side, enhancing the visual depth and individuality of the two-tone design. This can be polished back to the original bright silver.
BRASS AND COPPER
Brass and Copper are versatile metals that offer rich possibilities for design and expression. Brass, an alloy of Copper and Zinc, is prized for its malleability and warm golden tones. Copper, a pure element, brings a deep red-brown glow that develops character over time, adding warmth and depth to any piece.
Both metals naturally oxidise and develop a patina with age - a surface transformation that reflects the life of the jewellery and its wearer. This natural process is part of their charm, enhancing the unique story of each piece. On selected items, I apply a tarnish-resistant seal, helping to maintain shine and vibrancy for longer while still allowing the metal to age gracefully if desired.
CARE
Brass and copper jewellery will benefit from gentle cleaning to maintain their lustre. Use warm water, bi-carb soda, and a soft cloth to remove surface dirt. Over time, the natural patina may develop - some wearers treasure this as part of the metal’s evolving beauty. Pieces with a protective seal can be wiped clean and stored away from moisture to preserve their polished finish.