Jewellery Odyssey:
Solitaire, derived from the latin words 'solus' and later 'solitarius', meaning to be: alone, sole or lonely. In jewellery terminology, the word solitaire refers to settings of ring, earrings or pendants that are set with a single gemstone. The setting is generally associated with diamond engagement rings and can be dated back to the Ancient Roman times. When single uncut diamonds were set in gold bands. Variations of the design, are sometimes seen with other gemstones and can be accented with diamonds, set on the shoulders of the ring.
Gem Lore:
Pearls - the gemstone of the sea, dates back to the 5th Century BC whereby, ancient Romans and Egyptians would use the gemstone for adornment. In Greek mythology, it has been said that pearls were the tears of joy, shed from the Goddess Aphrodite. The gemstone was famously crushed by Cleopatra in a glass of wine, to prove to Marc Antony, that she could serve the most expensive dinner in history. Currently, pearls are thought to symbolise wisdom and serenity.
Ring Resizing Service - How To Request Your Size:
If the current ring size listed under the details section, does not match your requirements. Please complete the enquiry form: including the reference code of the ring, which is located above the price, along with the ring size you need.
We will assess the feasibility of your request and provide you with a quotation for the bespoke alteration. If you decide to proceed, we will email you a link to review and process your customised order.
*Please Note: our resizing service typically requires a timeframe of 10 to 14 working days to complete. Rings that have been resized, cannot be returned for an exchange or refund.
Can Any Ring Be Resized?
No, depending on the design and setting, some rings cannot be resized. Whilst other rings can be safely resized up or down, by one to four sizes.
Are There Limitations To Resizing Rings?
Yes, it is important to appreciate that rings are made to fit their current size. When a request is made to significantly reduce the current size, it can result in the band developing an oval shape. Equally, increasing the size beyond a certain point, can alter the curvature of the band. Such modifications can potentially compromise the stability of settings, that hold gemstones securely in place.
As a result, there are limitations on how much a ring can be resized without compromising its structural integrity. If a requested size change impedes the durability of the ring, alternative solutions such as incorporating a half shank or soldered beads, if appropriate can be suggested.
Remember there is only about a 1mm difference between each whole ring size. For more information on what to consider when finding your size, read our blog: "The Factors Affecting Ring Size”.
Jewellery Care Precautions:
Avoid direct contact with: perfume, lotions, skincare, hairspray / other chemicals. Remove, your jewellery: when showering, swimming (as both chlorine and saltwater will react with metals), washing your hands / using hand sanitisers, before going to bed or when participating in physical activities (going to the gym, exercising, gardening, housework etc….).
Beware, metals may tarnish over time due to oxygen contact and natural body oils. Prevent items from being exposed to moisture and direct sunlight, for long periods. Store jewellery in a dry place away from humidity, in a pouch/jewellery box and keep each piece separated from each other. Care, for your jewellery by cleaning with a soft dry cloth.
White Gold:
White gold is not an element and does not occur naturally in a pure form. Pure yellow gold is mixed with alloys of white metals (such as palladium) to produce, a silver coloured alloy, known as white gold. It is further coated in a precious metal called rhodium (an element that derives from the same metal family as platinum), to increase its lustrous sheen and protect it from tarnishing and scratching.
Over time with exposure to oxygen and moisture, the rhodium coating will naturally wear and you will begin to see the natural yellow colour of gold. Rings will experience this more than other types of jewellery. The general guide for re-applying rhodium coating to your rings is between 1-2 years. However, the rate of wear depends on the pH level of your skin, exposure and contact to chemicals. For professional cleaning and rhodium coating, our workshop will provide the TLC your jewellery needs.
Pearl:
Hardness: 3.5-4 | Toughness: Fair | Stability: Poor
Extreme Caution, Avoid: Sudden Impact (pressure, knocks), Cosmetics (hair sprays, lotions, perfumes, make-up), Chemicals (acids, detergents, solvents, nail polish remover), Heat, Extreme Temperature Change (thermal shock), Porosity, Jewellery Cleaners (dip, ultrasonic, steam cleaners).
Gemmological Observation: Clean using water and cotton wool, dry with a soft cloth. If strung, lay flat to dry to avoid stretching the thread. Regular, careful cleaning and restringing is advisable. Pearls may be damaged by: household cleaners, mild acids such as the natural acid secretion from the wearers skin, exposure to mild heat will cause dehydration - which will lead to cracking and powdering of the surface. Nacre can be scratched easily, avoid wearing whilst doing any activity which can cause abrasion. Avoid dry/hot storage conditions. Do not soak in jewellery cleaners.
Remember, when dressing or undressing, pearls should be last on and first off.
