Materials Guide
Our Materials
This guide explains the metals, finishes, stones, and pearls used in Marlene Clarke Jewelry. Refer to each product description for details about a particular piece.
Metals
.925 Sterling Silver
Sterling silver contains 92.5% silver and 7.5% other metals, typically copper. The added metals make it harder than fine silver and well suited to jewelry. It can tarnish over time and can be polished gently to restore its shine.
.999 Pure Silver (Fine Silver)
Fine silver contains 99.9% silver. It is softer than sterling silver and needs protection from bending and scratches. It is generally less prone to tarnishing than sterling, but still benefits from gentle care.
Brass versus Sterling Silver
Brass is a copper-and-zinc alloy with a warm golden color; sterling is a silver alloy with a silvery-white color. Both can develop a patina. Brass is not gold, and sterling silver is not pure silver. Skin reactions vary with the person and the specific alloy or finish.
Finishes & Plating
Gold Filled
Gold filled jewelry has a layer of gold mechanically bonded to a base-metal core. This layer is generally thicker than conventional gold plating, so it typically lasts longer with appropriate care. It is not solid gold and can still wear over time.
Gold Plated
Gold plated jewelry has a thin layer of gold applied over another metal, such as brass or silver. The finish can gradually fade or wear through. Its lifespan depends on the plating thickness, friction, skin chemistry, and care.
What Is Plating?
Plating adds a surface layer of metal over another material. The finish and underlying metal are different parts of the piece; check the product description for the materials specified. Avoid abrasive cleaners, chemicals, and prolonged water exposure on plated jewelry.
Stones & Pearls
Our materials include amethyst, lapis lazuli, turquoise, onyx, pearls, and zirconia. These names do not by themselves confirm a particular piece's origin, treatments, or composition.
Natural Variation & Treatments
Natural stones can vary in color, pattern, inclusions, and texture. Treatments such as heat, dye, wax, resin impregnation, or stabilization may change color, appearance, or durability. Natural does not necessarily mean untreated. Appearance alone cannot establish authenticity or treatment status; consult the individual listing or ask about the specific piece.
Amethyst
A variety of quartz known for purple shades ranging from pale lilac to deep violet. Color and clarity can vary, and some amethyst is heat-treated.
Lapis Lazuli
A blue rock that may include gold-colored pyrite and white calcite. These features vary and are not proof of authenticity. Lapis may be dyed or treated with wax or resin.
Turquoise
Known for blue to green hues and varied matrix patterns. Turquoise can be porous and may be stabilized with resin or otherwise treated. The treatment status of a particular piece should be confirmed separately.
Onyx
Onyx is a variety of chalcedony associated with banded patterns. Black onyx used in jewelry is often dyed to achieve an even dark color. The name or color alone does not establish whether a particular stone is untreated.
Pearls
Pearls have a soft luster and may vary in shape, color, size, and surface markings. Natural pearls form without human intervention, while cultured pearls form with human assistance; imitation pearls are a different material. Refer to the individual listing for the pearl type rather than assuming an origin or treatment. Pearls may also be bleached, dyed, or otherwise treated.
Zirconia
Cubic zirconia, often called CZ, is a manufactured material used for its sparkle. It is not a diamond and is different from the natural gemstone zircon. Check the individual product description for the type of zirconia used; the term alone does not confirm a particular piece's specifications.
Caring for Your Jewelry
- Store pieces separately in a soft pouch or lined box to prevent scratching.
- Remove jewelry before swimming, bathing, exercising, or applying lotions and perfumes.
- Wipe pearls with a soft, slightly damp cloth after wearing. Avoid soaking pearls and keep them away from chemicals, ultrasonic cleaners, and steam.
- Use gentle care for stones and plated surfaces. Do not use silver polish on pearls, stones, or plating.
- For unplated silver, use an appropriate polishing cloth carefully, avoiding any stones or pearls.
Questions about a specific piece? Please contact us for available material and care details.