• Sterling Silver: Sterling silver is 92.5% silver and 7.5% copper. All wire, earring hooks, clasps, and findings that I use are sterling silver. I choose to use silver plated crimps and bead tips (used to conceal crimps and connect the strand to the clasp) because I find their strength to be more reliable than that of sterling silver. On copper pieces I use the same silver plated bead tips which I patina in order to give them a more pleasing tonal quality when paired with copper.
• Hill Tribes, Bali, and Rajasthani Silver: Hill Tribes silver is .925 sterling silver or higher and made completely by hand using traditional methods that are centuries-old. They have a very distinct styling and are made in remote mountain regions in Thailand. There may be slight variations in size and pattern due to their hand made quality. Bali silver is a specialized type of sterling silver that is handmade and typically imported from Bali, India, or Turkey. Bali silver is ornate with many flourishes and bas-relief design. There may be slight variations in size, form, or oxidation. Rajasthani silver comes from Rajasthan, India. These beads are sterling silver and handmade as well, so there may be slight variations.
• Gemstone beads: I feel that natural stones and gemstones showcase beautifully the Earth’s palette, and this is why I use them in my designs. I generally use more organic-shaped stones, although that is not always the case. Some of the stones I use are enhanced or heated to bring out their brilliant colors. Most of the turquoise I use is stabilized for added durability and for less reaction with the body’s natural oils or perfumes. The only exception in my use of natural stones and gemstones is that I have recently began using manmade corals. As much as I love creating jewelry I do not want it to be at the expense of the ocean’s ecosystem. The pieces I created prior to becoming aware of this effect do have natural branch coral and sponge coral beads.
• Freshwater Pearls: These pearls are cultivated in mussels rather than oysters. They come from freshwater lakes and rivers in Japan, China, and the U.S. Since their cultivation is easier, they are more affordable when compared to the saltwater pearl. A pearl is a natural object. Like most natural objects, it is not designed to be in contact with most man-made compounds like perfume, make-up, hair spray, or skin care products. Contact with these compounds may alter the luster or color of a pearl or natural stone (ie: turquoise). While this is not a guarantee that your jewelry will be effected, I do recommend that you treat it with care while wearing it around these chemical compounds.
• 49 strand Accu-flex® Platinum Quality beading wire: This is the quality, flexible beading wire that I use in my pieces. It is made of very fine threads of stainless steel with a smooth nylon coating. It is kink resistant, has a test strength of 26lbs, and is known for its quality and flexibility.
      
  

 JEWELRY  CARE:    

• Agate slices, as well as other natural stones, are fragile. Agate slices in particular should be treated like glass. If they are dropped on a hard surface it is very possible they will break. I advise wrapping the agate slice in a padding like a tissue or cloth when you are not wearing it, and avoid allowing the piece to move freely against other surfaces. Treat all your jewelry with care and it will last you for years to come.
• Sterling silver can tarnish. It is a natural process caused by oxidation, does not damage the silver, and can be removed. You can remove tarnish by simply using a treated polishing cloth that can be found at various stores like Target, Walmart, or a jewelry store. Tarnish-removing cleaners and creams are not recommended since they may remove the decorative oxidation on some beads or findings. When storing sterling silver I recommend keeping it in the recloseable plastic bag it is shipped in to lessen the chance for oxidation.
• Freshwater pearls and natural stones should never be cleaned with cleaners. This may effect their luster or color. Avoid wearing your jewelry while swimming or allowing it to come in contact with chemicals, cleaners, or abrasive soaps.