Materials & Care Page
Why Materials Matter
When I started creating jewelry, I learned quickly that beautiful is not enough. Your pieces need to last. They need to feel good. They need to stay true to themselves, wear after wear, year after year.
That is why I am obsessive about materials.
I test every finish. I research every hook. I understand the chemistry behind resin and the durability standards for metals. I choose stainless steel hooks because they are safe for sensitive skin. I use lightweight construction so you forget you are wearing them. I apply finishes that resist tarnishing and hold up to real life.
You deserve jewelry that does not change color after a few wears. You deserve pieces made by someone who knows what they are doing.
Below, you will find exactly what goes into each piece, how to care for it, and why these materials were chosen. Because when you invest in handmade jewelry, you should know it is built to last.
Why Quality Matters
(And How to Keep Your Pieces Looking New)
The Materials I Use (And Why)
Every material is chosen for durability, safety, and beauty. Here's what goes into your jewelry.
METALS & HARDWARE
Stainless Steel Hooks
My go-to for earrings. Stainless steel is hypoallergenic, tarnish-resistant, and safe for sensitive skin. It holds up to daily wear without changing color or causing irritation.
925 Sterling Silver
Genuine sterling silver (92.5% pure silver) for pieces that need a classic, timeless finish. Naturally hypoallergenic and long-lasting when cared for properly.
Nickel-Free Hooks
For clients with nickel allergies, I use certified nickel-free, lead-free, and cadmium-free hardware. Your comfort and safety come first.
Gold-Plated Brass (18k & 24k)
A luxe look without the luxury price. Gold-plated brass gives you the warmth of gold with durability for everyday wear. I use high-quality plating that resists fading.
Alloy & Zinc Alloy
Used selectively for decorative elements like bezels and settings. Always lead-free and cadmium-free.
Rhinestones, Bezels & Glass Cabochons
High-quality glass and metal settings that add sparkle and dimension without the fragility of cheap plastic.
Note: Some of my earliest designs used different materials. If you're unsure about a specific piece, reach out and I'll confirm the exact materials for you.
RESIN
Magic Resin (Canadian-Made Epoxy Resin)
My primary resin for jewelry. It's crystal-clear, durable, and cures to a glass-like finish. This is the resin that makes my pieces feel substantial and polished.
UV Resin
For quick-cure pieces and delicate details. UV resin allows me to layer colors and effects with precision.
Eco Resin
A plant-based resin option for select pieces. I seal eco resin containers with a protective topcoat, making them safe for candle pouring and other uses.
Black Resin
For bold, dramatic pieces. I use specialty black epoxy resin that stays true black without fading to brown over time.
Sealants & Topcoats
Depending on the piece, I apply UV-resistant sealants to protect against yellowing and extend the life of your jewelry.
DECORATIVE ELEMENTS
Gold Flakes & Colored Foils
Real metal leaf in gold, silver, copper, and iridescent finishes. These catch the light and create that signature "compliment magnet" effect.
Mica Powders
Shimmering pigments that create depth and color-shifting effects. Think chameleon hues that change as you move.
Alcohol Inks
Vibrant, translucent inks that swirl and blend inside resin for one-of-a-kind color patterns. No two pieces are ever identical.
Glitter
High-quality, fade-resistant glitter in fine and chunky cuts. I use cosmetic-grade glitter that won't bleed or dull over time.
Pressed Flowers
Real flowers, carefully dried and sealed. Each bloom is preserved in resin to keep its color and shape for years.
Natural Elements
Shells, starfish, wood, and other organic materials. I seal porous materials before embedding them in resin to prevent moisture damage.
Stickers & Decals
Waterproof, high-quality decals for playful designs. Always sealed under multiple layers of resin for permanence.
PEARLS & FRESHWATER PEARLS
Freshwater Pearls
Natural freshwater pearls with organic luster and unique shapes. Each pearl is one of a kind, with subtle variations in color and surface texture. I hand-select pearls for quality and pair them with durable findings to ensure they stay secure.
Glass Pearls
For pieces that need a uniform look, I use high-quality glass pearls with a lustrous finish that mimics natural pearls. These are lightweight, durable, and perfect for everyday wear.
BEADS
Glass Beads, Seed Beads & Crystal Beads
High-quality glass and crystal beads in a range of sizes, finishes, and colors. I use Japanese seed beads for precision work and Czech glass beads for their brilliance and durability. Each bead is hand-selected for consistency and quality.
OTHER MATERIALS
Polymer Clay
Lightweight, durable, and endlessly customizable. I bake, sand, and seal each clay piece for a smooth, professional finish.
Wood
Sealed with resin or wood sealant before use. This prevents warping, cracking, or moisture absorption.
Gemstones
Natural and lab-created stones selected for colour, clarity, and durability.
Acrylic Shapes & Charms
Lightweight, colorful, and versatile. I use laser-cut acrylic pieces and pre-made acrylic charms for playful, bold designs. Acrylic is durable, fade-resistant, and perfect for statement pieces that won't weigh you down.
Leather, Fabric & Lace
Used for mixed-media pieces. Each material is treated and sealed to ensure it holds up to wear.
How to Care for Your Jewelry
Thank you for your purchase. To get the most out of your jewelry, please follow these recommendations. Handle your pieces with care.
WHAT RESIN CAN (AND CAN'T) HANDLE
Resin is water-resistant, not waterproof.
Your jewelry can handle a splash, but it's not meant for swimming, showering, or soaking. Prolonged water exposure can cause cloudiness or weaken the seal.
Avoid sharp objects.
Resin is durable, but it can scratch. Store your pieces separately or in a soft pouch to prevent surface damage.
Keep away from harsh chemicals.
Perfume, hairspray, lotions, and cleaning products can dull or damage the resin finish. Put your jewelry on last, after you've applied makeup and fragrance.
Avoid extreme temperatures.
Don't leave your jewelry in a hot car, near a heater, or in direct sunlight for extended periods. Heat can cause resin to warp or yellow over time.
Keep away from smoke and humidity.
Smoke residue and high humidity can cloud resin. Store your pieces in a clean, dry place away from kitchens, bathrooms, and smoking areas.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
UV exposure can cause yellowing over time. A jewelry box, drawer, or pouch is ideal.
WHEN TO REMOVE YOUR JEWELRY
Always remove your jewelry before:
1. Sleeping
Prevents tangling, snagging, and unnecessary pressure on delicate components.
2. Exercising
Sweat, friction, and impact can damage your pieces.
3. Entering water
Pools, hot tubs, lakes, and showers expose your jewelry to chemicals, salt, and prolonged moisture.
CLEANING YOUR JEWELRY
For resin pieces:
Wipe gently with a soft, dry cloth. If needed, use a slightly damp cloth with mild soap, then dry immediately.
For metal components:
Use a jewelry polishing cloth for sterling silver or gold-plated pieces. Avoid abrasive cleaners.
For pieces with flowers or natural elements:
Handle extra gently. Avoid getting these pieces wet, as moisture can seep behind the resin seal.
If Something Goes Wrong, Tell Me
I don't want your jewelry sitting in a drawer because something broke, tarnished, or didn't fit right.
Life happens. Clasps catch on sweaters. Hooks bend. Pieces get dropped. And sometimes, despite my best efforts, something just isn't right.
Here's what I need you to know:
I handcraft every piece in small batches. I source the best quality materials I can find at a price that's fair. I take my time with every creation because I want you to love it, wear it, and show it off—not hide it away.
But if something goes wrong, I want to make it right.
Maybe a hook needs replacing. Maybe the finish isn't what you expected. Maybe it broke and you're not sure if it can be fixed.
Contact me first. Don't assume it's ruined. Don't toss it in a drawer and forget about it.
Send me a message with a photo and a quick explanation of what happened. I'll tell you honestly if it can be repaired, replaced, or adjusted—and we'll figure out a solution together.
I stand behind my work. If there's a craftsmanship issue within 30 days, I'll repair or replace it at no charge. If it's accidental damage, I'll do my best to fix it for a fair price.
Your satisfaction matters more to me than a single sale. I want you to wear my jewelry with confidence, knowing that if something happens, I've got you.
My Promise to You
I don't make jewelry that falls apart. I don't use materials I wouldn't wear myself. And I don't expect you to guess how to care for your pieces.
If you follow these care instructions, your jewelry will stay beautiful for years. If you ever have questions about a specific piece, reach out. I'm here to help.
We hope you love your creations as much as we loved making them. ❤️