Why do you offer bronze?
Bronze allows me to create handcrafted, solid cast impression jewellery at a more accessible price point, without compromising on craftsmanship. Every bronze piece is made using exactly the same lost wax casting process, care and attention as my sterling silver and solid gold pieces, the only difference is the metal you choose.
When freshly polished, bronze has a beautiful warm golden tone that's very similar in colour to solid 14k yellow gold. It offers the look and warmth of yellow gold while providing another option for those with a different budget or personal preference.
Will my bronze piece definitely turn my skin green?
Not necessarily. Bronze contains a high amount of copper, which can react with the natural acids, sweat and oils on your skin. Some people may never notice a thing, while others may see a temporary green mark within hours. It all comes down to your individual body chemistry. If it does happen, it's completely harmless, washes off easily with soap and water and isn't a sign of poor quality or an allergic reaction.
Is tarnish a sign my piece is faulty or low quality?
Not at all. Tarnish is simply a natural reaction between bronze, oxygen and moisture. Every bronze piece will develop some tarnish over time, regardless of how well it's made. It's a normal characteristic of the metal and can be easily removed with regular care.
Can you prevent tarnish?
To help slow tarnishing and reduce the chance of the metal reacting with your skin, I seal every bronze piece with a clear protective coating. How long the coating lasts depends on how you wear your jewellery, however, as a general guide:
- Rings: approximately 1 to 2 years, depending on daily wear and your individual body chemistry.
- Pendants, charms and earrings: typically 1 to 5 years, depending on wear and exposure.
Rings naturally wear through the coating more quickly because they're constantly exposed to hand washing, lotions, friction and everyday activities. Once the coating gradually wears away, the bronze underneath will continue to wear beautifully and can simply be polished when needed.
Do you offer recoating?
Yes. I offer complimentary recoating for the lifetime of your jewellery.
If you notice the protective coating has worn away and you'd like it reapplied, simply get in touch and I'll happily recoat your piece free of charge. You'll only need to cover the cost of shipping your jewellery to and from my studio.
Can I speed up the tarnish removal process?
Usually all it takes is a little patience. A few gentle passes with the included polishing cloth, or a wash in warm water with mild soap, will remove most tarnish. There's no need for harsh cleaners, polishing pastes or abrasive products.
Will polishing damage the print detail?
No. Your fingerprint, handprint, footprint, paw print or nose print is permanently cast into solid bronze, so gentle polishing won't affect the detail. Simply avoid abrasive products or vigorous scrubbing directly over the impression.
Can I wear my bronze piece every day?
Absolutely. Bronze is a durable metal that's designed to be worn and enjoyed every day. Following the care instructions, avoiding unnecessary exposure to water where possible and giving your piece an occasional polish will help keep it looking beautiful for years to come.