We try to our best to use quality and unique stones that we source from a wide variety of venders. We mainly use Gold Filled, Gold Plated or Vermeil findings and spacer beads. Gold-filled, gold-plated, and vermeil are three different methods of applying a layer of gold to a base metal, each varying in gold content, durability, and care requirements: 1. **Gold Filled**: - **Composition**: Gold-filled jewelry consists of a thick layer of gold (at least 5% of the total weight) mechanically bonded to a base metal, typically brass. The gold layer is much thicker than gold plating. - **Durability**: Very durable and long-lasting, with proper care, it can last many years without wearing off. - **Care**: Avoid exposing gold-filled jewelry to harsh chemicals, such as chlorine and bleach. Clean gently with a soft cloth and mild soapy water, then rinse and dry thoroughly. 2. **Gold Plated**: - **Composition**: Gold-plated jewelry has a very thin layer of gold (microns thick) electroplated onto a base metal, such as brass or copper. - **Durability**: Less durable than gold-filled; the gold layer can wear off more quickly, especially with frequent use. - **Care**: Handle with extra care to avoid scratches and exposure to chemicals. Clean with a soft cloth and mild soapy water, and avoid abrasive cleaning methods. 3. **Vermeil**: - **Composition**: Vermeil jewelry involves a thicker layer of gold (at least 2.5 microns thick) electroplated over sterling silver. It requires a higher standard of gold thickness compared to regular gold plating. - **Durability**: More durable than regular gold plating but less so than gold-filled. The underlying silver also adds value and quality. - **Care**: Similar to gold-filled, avoid harsh chemicals and abrasive materials. Clean with a soft cloth and mild soap, and store in a dry place to prevent tarnishing of the silver beneath the gold. In general, keeping jewelry dry, cleaning it regularly with gentle methods, and storing it properly can extend the lifespan of gold-filled, gold-plated, and vermeil pieces