Jewellery Info

925 Plated Over Brass refers to jewellery where a thin layer of 925 sterling silver is plated over a base metal, which in this case is brass. Here's what each part means:

1. 925 Sterling Silver

• 925 sterling silver means that the metal is composed of 92.5% pure silver and 7.5% other metals, typically copper, to improve its strength and durability.
• Sterling silver is known for its bright, reflective finish, but on its own, it can be relatively soft, which is why it's often plated over a stronger metal like brass for structure.

2. Brass Base

• Brass is an alloy made primarily of copper and zinc. It's commonly used in jewellery because it is:
  • Affordable: Brass is cheaper than precious metals like silver or gold.
  • Durable: It provides a strong, sturdy base for plated jewellery.
• Brass can tarnish and turn green over time when exposed to moisture or air, but this is prevented by the protective silver plating.

3. The Plating Process

• 925 sterling silver plating involves applying a thin layer of sterling silver to the brass base through a process called electroplating. This creates the look of solid sterling silver while using the brass for cost efficiency and strength.
• The thickness of the plating can vary. Thicker plating is more durable and resistant to wear, while thinner plating may wear off more quickly.

Benefits of 925 Sterling Silver Plated Over Brass

• Affordable: You get the look and feel of sterling silver at a lower price since the core metal is brass.
• Shiny Appearance: Sterling silver has a brilliant, reflective shine that mimics the look of solid silver.
• Durable: Brass provides structural integrity, making the jewellery less prone to bending or breaking compared to pure sterling silver, which can be softer.

Considerations

• Plating can wear off: Over time, with frequent wear or exposure to moisture and chemicals, the silver plating can fade or wear off, revealing the brass underneath.
• Care is required: To preserve the silver plating, avoid exposing the jewellery to water, chemicals, and rough wear.
• Replating is possible: If the plating wears off, the piece can often be replated to restore its original appearance.

In summary, 925 Plated Over Brass is an affordable and attractive option for jewellery, combining the elegant look of sterling silver with the durability and affordability of brass as a base metal.

 

 

What is Cubric Zirconia?

Cubic Zirconia (CZ) is a synthetic gemstone that is used as a more affordable alternative to diamonds. It is created in laboratories and is made from zirconium dioxide (ZrO₂), a colorless material that closely resembles the sparkle and brilliance of a diamond. Here’s a detailed look at what Cubic Zirconia is and why it’s popular:

1. Appearance

• Diamond-like Sparkle: Cubic Zirconia is known for its brilliance and clarity, often mimicking the look of a flawless diamond. It can be cut into various shapes, just like diamonds, including round, princess, and cushion cuts.
• Clarity and Color: Unlike natural diamonds, which may have inclusions or slight color variations, CZ is typically flawless and colorless unless it’s intentionally created in different colors.

2. Creation Process

• Lab-created: Cubic Zirconia is synthesized in laboratories through a process that involves heating zirconium dioxide to extremely high temperatures, where it crystallizes to form the gemstone.
• Controlled properties: Because it's created in a controlled environment, CZ gemstones are free from the natural flaws found in diamonds, making them more affordable while retaining visual appeal.

3. Differences Between Cubic Zirconia and Diamond

• Hardness: While diamonds are the hardest known substance, with a Mohs hardness rating of 10, Cubic Zirconia ranks around 8 to 8.5 on the Mohs scale, making it slightly less durable but still strong enough for everyday wear.
• Brilliance: Although CZ sparkles like a diamond, it disperses light differently. CZ tends to exhibit more fire (colored flashes of light) than diamonds, which can sometimes make it appear more “artificial” to a trained eye.
• Weight: Cubic Zirconia is denser than diamonds, so a CZ stone will weigh more than a diamond of the same size.
• Cost: One of the biggest differences is price. Cubic Zirconia is significantly cheaper than diamonds, making it a popular choice for fashion jewellery or engagement rings for those on a budget.

4. Uses of Cubic Zirconia

• Jewellery: CZ is widely used in rings, necklaces, earrings, and bracelets. It’s especially popular in fashion jewellery or as a diamond substitute in more affordable engagement rings.
• Customizable Colors: CZ can be made in various colors to mimic gemstones like sapphires, rubies, and emeralds, adding to its versatility.

5. Care and Maintenance

• Durable but requires care: While CZ is relatively durable, it can scratch or lose its shine over time with exposure to chemicals or rough surfaces. To keep it sparkling, it should be cleaned regularly with mild soap and water or a jewellery cleaning cloth.

6. Popularity

• Affordability: Cubic Zirconia’s affordability, combined with its diamond-like appearance, makes it a popular choice for people looking for high-quality, sparkling jewellery without the price tag of diamonds.

In summary, Cubic Zirconia is a beautiful, cost-effective, and durable gemstone that provides an excellent alternative to diamonds. Its flawless appearance, versatility, and affordability make it a go-to option for fashion jewellery and engagement rings.