OUR MOST COMMMON MATERIALS:
Solid gold
In terms of durability, solid gold is the most premium option since it is not plated or mixed with a base metal. It’s important to note that solid gold jewelry is not made of pure gold. Because pure gold is a soft material, it would not hold up to the wear and tear of jewelry. Our fine gold hoops and chains are 14K gold. In other words, it's composed of 14 parts gold and 10 parts alloy metals like copper, silver, and zinc, which increases the jewelry's durability. When you shop for rose gold, remember that rose gold alloys have a higher percentage of copper than yellow gold. That's what gives it the rosy color.
PVD plated steel
PVD stands for Physical Vapor Deposition. This newer revolutionary plating method creates an especially durable protective layer that resists damage from wear and tear much better than traditional plating methods. Additionally, it doesn't require harmful chemicals and generates less waste, making it more environmentally friendly than standard methods.
Gold filled
Gold filled does not imply that the item is filled with gold. Rather, it denotes a specific manufacturing technique and quality standard. Gold filled jewelry features a layer of gold that’s mechanically bonded to a base metal. This gold layer must constitute a minimum of 5% of the total weight of the item, which is the basis for the 1/20 designation. The process involves adhering genuine gold to a brass core, making it impossible to cast. Therefore, if a retailer claims that all their charms are gold filled and they do not appear to be cut from sheet metal, it is likely that they are merely plated.
Sterling silver
We offer 925 sterling silver at Mojo. This designation indicates that the alloy consists of 92.5% pure silver combined with 7.5% of other metals, primarily copper, and it is free from nickel. The incorporation of a metal alloy in silver is essential because pure silver is exceedingly soft. Adding metals like copper enhances its strength and mitigates the tarnishing that occurs when silver interacts with sulfur compounds present in the atmosphere.
Traditionally plated metals
Standard plating is the most affordable option, however, it's not the highest quality. Typically this is a thin coating that will wear and fade faster than other materials. The benefit is getting beautiful pieces that look similar to much more expensive pieces. With proper care, they can be long-lasting but require more care and maintenance than other materials.
EXPECTATIONS AND CARE TIPS:
Solid gold and stainless steel will not tarnish. In contrast, gold plated, gold filled, and sterling silver items are prone to oxidation and necessitate care and maintenance. Below are some important factors to consider by material:
Gold filled jewelry is composed of a significant amount of genuine gold and is manufactured through a specialized process; however, it can oxidize. Discoloration generally occurs when the underlying metal reacts with other substances. Several elements can influence this process: Firstly, individual body chemistry varies, and differences in skin acidity can result in diverse reactions with metals. Secondly, moisture—whether from perspiration, water exposure, or high humidity—can enhance the interaction between the base metal and the skin. Additionally, chemicals found in cosmetics, lotions, perfumes, hair products, and cleaning supplies can contribute to tarnishing. It is particularly important to note that saltwater and chlorine are especially harmful to all fashion jewelry as they are very corrosive.
Silver oxidizes when it comes into contact with air and certain compounds, notably sulfur. This interaction leads to the formation of a dark or dull layer on the surface of the silver. Factors that contribute to tarnishing include exposure to air, moisture, humidity, chemicals, and even the pH level of a person's skin. It is crucial to recognize that tarnish on sterling silver is merely superficial and can be easily removed. Regular cleaning and maintenance can maintain the luster of your sterling silver items.
Different methods can be utilized to restore the shine of your jewelry. Look into specialized gold and silver cleaning products, use polishing cloths, or apply home remedies like baking soda and aluminum foil. We find Tarnx to be especially effective for sterling silver and gold filled but it's for more advanced users and requires properly following the instructions to not damage your jewelry. Additionally, keeping your pieces in airtight containers and using anti-tarnish strips can greatly minimize tarnishing and slow its development.