Materials guide
A simple guide to the metals and gemstones used in Gems & Flowers jewelry.
Everything here is chosen with intention, not volume.
Natural Gemstones
Each gemstone used in the studio is individually selected for color, character, clarity, and personality. Natural stones are never identical. They carry tiny variations that make them feel alive.
What makes natural gemstones special
- Unique tones and patterns
- Natural inclusions that show true origin
- Variations that give each piece a quiet identity
- A depth of color not found in lab-made stones
How I choose stones
I look for stones that feel vibrant, balanced, and expressive. I don't like completely flawless gemstones since they always remind me of a lab grown alternatives. Unique patterns and inclusions make natural stones alive!
Each stone is matched to a design by hand.
Types of stones you may see
- Moonstone
- Aquamarine
- Garnet
- Peridot
- Citrine
- Topaz
- Tourmaline
- Sapphire
- Opal
- Herkimer diamond
- Prehnite
- Moissanite
- Moss agate
- Tanzanite
- Morganite
- Emerald
- Pearl
- Amethyst
- Ruby
- Spinel
- Other types...
Every listing will tell you exactly which stone is used.
Solid Gold
We craft exclusively with 100%
recycled metals. Solid gold above 14K is long lasting, low maintenance, and safe for daily wear.
It does not tarnish and holds its value over time. Please note that we don't use 9K or 10K solid gold since it does tarnish with time and has very low amount of gold in the composition.
Why I use solid gold
- It stays beautiful for a lifetime
- It handles daily wear with ease
- It protects delicate stones well
- It can be polished or repaired endlessly
Gold colors you may see
- Yellow gold
- Rose gold
- White gold
Each one brings a different depth to the design.
Sterling Silver
Sterling silver is a classic metal with a soft natural glow.
It naturally darkens over time due to oxidation. This is normal and can be polished away or allowed to deepen for a more organic look.
Why I love silver
- It pairs beautifully with natural stones
- It has a gentle, understated shine
- It can be worn every day
- It ages gracefully and can always be restored
Silver is a living metal. It changes with you.
Gold Plating Over Sterling Silver
We use three different types of platings over solid 925 sterling silver:
- Gold vermeil uses a thick layer of 18K gold over sterling silver, creating a durable and premium finish. This is the most wear friendly gold finish on solid silver.
- Gold plating in one color - this is a traditional plating over sterling silver.
- Two tone plating with white or black rhodium and gold accents around stones or on leaves. This plating is our specialty since it highlights the organic designs we create.
Plating is a thin layer of gold applied to the surface. It will fade with wear and is natural and not considered to be a defect.
How to extend the life of plating
- Keep away from lotions, soaps, and perfume
- Remove before swimming or showering
- Store pieces individually
- Clean very gently with a lukewarm water with mild baby soap.
What happens when plating fades
You have two choices, both simple:
-
Replate the piece
Most jewelry repair shops can replate it. You can also contact us for guidance. -
Polish to bare silver
Once the plated layer wears down, the silver beneath can be polished bright or allowed to darken for more visible texture.
This finish is permanent and ages beautifully but unfortunately, there is no way to make it with gold accents since gold won't bond to oxidized silver. That's why we use two tone platings to create a dramatic look of our organic jewelry: black rhodium with gold accents make them unforgettable!
Where materials come from
Materials are sourced only from trusted suppliers that provide:
- Solid precious metals
- Genuine natural gemstones
- Responsible sourcing whenever available
- We find very small family owned businesses that source and cut gemstones in their small studios, this way we know that people are benefiting directly from their work and not damaging the environment by unfruitful practices.
Every piece is made in small quantities with careful attention to detail.
Why material quality matters
High-quality metals and natural stones make handmade jewelry:
- safer for daily wear
- longer lasting
- more comfortable on the skin
- easier to repair
- more meaningful over time
When a piece is made by hand, the materials become part of the story.