Safe & Durable Metals Statement

Hand displaying handmade rings made by Wild Blue Yonder Jewelry

In every Wild Blue Yonder piece, metal findings are always nickel-free & lead-free. Silver components are always solid 925 sterling silver (never plated). We also opt for 14kt gold-fill, rather than gold-plated, in all earrings, rings, and necklace chains, because it is both hypoallergenic and really durable. Perfect for sensitive ears and skin, and with a little care, will last for years to come.

More about Gold-fill

Gold-fill is an industry standard that legally requires 1/20th, or 5% pure gold by weight. It is a carefully regulated process that involves pressure bonding multiple layers of solid 14k gold with extreme heat over a core of high quality jeweller's brass resulting in a durable, quality real gold product.

Gold plate versus 14k Gold-fill components - diagram for Wild Blue Yonder fine jewelry

Gold-filled jewelry typically has 100x more gold alloy than gold plated and because that layer is so much thicker, it means gold-filled jewelry lasts longer and stands up to wear and tear better than gold plated metals.

More about Gold Plating

Gold-plating can also be designed to last, by ensuring the plating is thick enough. Most costume (cheap) jewelry that is gold-plated will be less than 0.1 microns thick - but you can plate 2.5 microns or more, which is considered heavy gold-plating. "Gold vermeil" is the term used for high-quality gold plated sterling silver, with a minimum gold plating of 2.5 microns. In all our custom-made gold Encased designs, our gold vermeil pieces are made with a gold plating of 3 microns thick, with additional treatments of protective coatings for even better longevity. Because Encased pendant frames are created by gold/silver casting, it is not possible to fabricate them from gold-fill. That's why we have put a lot of time and effort into sourcing the right supplier with excellent quality to make these special pieces.

Care tips for your WBY piece:

as much as possible, avoid getting your jewellery wet
store your silver and gold jewellery separately
remove tarnish from metal surfaces with a jewellery polishing cloth
wipe resin surfaces gently with a clean microfiber cloth
wear everywhere and soak up the compliments!

We aim to know and understand every component of our jewelry, whether made by us or not. Feel free to get in touch with any questions.