Jewellery Odyssey:
Fred Bennett is a well-established men's jewellery brand. Crafted using a range of materials from sterling silver, stainless steel, genuine leather to genuine recycled leather. The entire Fred Bennett collection is covered by AnchorCert Protect and certified safe for skin. This means that all jewellery within the collection can be worn, even if you have pre-existing skin or metal allergies. As it does not contain any of the elements that would cause any kind of allergic reaction or skin irritation.
To be more environmentally conscious, French Bennett have introduced recycled leather, recycled silver and natural cork into their collections. In a selection of colours and finishes, these sustainable pieces are durable and high quality. Using ethical and sustainable practices, guarantees all materials have been sourced or made, from members of the Responsible Jewellery Council.
Gem Lore:
Tiger’s Eye - burns brightly with banded hues of yellow to deep golden brown. When cut en cabochon and observed under direct light, the gemstone displays the optical phenomenon of Chatoyancy (cats eye), a bright band of light that moves across the stone. The blue variety is called Hawk's-Eye. The ‘all seeing, all knowing eye’ was worn by the ancient Romans, to protect them in battle and deflect evil. The ancient Egyptians utilised the gemstone, as the eyes in the statutes of their gods, to symbolise divine vision. Today, Tiger’s Eye represents the Chinese Zodiac for the year of the tiger and is also thought to symbolise strength and courage.
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.
Leather:
Leather is a natural material and over time it will naturally biodegrade. However, exposure to certain environments or products, will cause the leather to deteriorate prematurely. Avoid water, as this will cause the cracking and splitting of leather as it dries out. Intense exposure to sunlight and moisture or cosmetics, fragrances, oil-based products or abrasive chemicals - can discolour and stain the leather. Applying a leather conditioner with a soft cloth and air drying the leather, will help restore its oils and keep it soft, supple and shiny. However, depending on the leather, using a conditioner can darken its appearance.
Stainless Steel:
Stainless Steel is hypoallergenic, it is an alloy of iron, chromium, carbon, nickel and titanium. It will not rust, oxidise, corrode or tarnish - if the protective surface layer of chromium, is maintained and not damaged. Hence, it is important to avoid abrasive chemicals (as these can also cause staining) such as: tooth paste, detergents, bleach, chlorine, salt water etc… If it is constantly exposed to environments, whereby these chemicals or elements are prevalent, then it will be prone to develop rust and you will begin to see discolouration and tarnishing. Stainless Steel is easily scratched and dented, so it is important to be mindful of sharp objects when wearing or storing. Clean using warm mild-soapy water, rinse and dry with a soft cloth. Or, gently rub parallel to the direction of the grain, using a microfibre cloth.
Tiger’s-Eye, Quartz & Silica Replacements, Polycrystalline Quartz:
Hardness: 6 | Toughness: Excellent | Stability: Good
Extreme Caution, Avoid: Light, Extreme Temperature Change (thermal shock), Jewellery Cleaners (ultrasonic, steam cleaners).
Mild Caution, Avoid: Chemicals (acids, detergents, solvents, nail polish remover), Heat.
Gemmological Observation: Quartz is pyroelectric, this means that when the gemstone experiences a change in temperature (for instance heat from the sun/lighting) it causes a low-level electrical attraction to fine dust particles. Therefore, you may experience that any quartz-set jewellery may need frequently cleaning.
Chalcedony, Polycrystalline Quartz:
Hardness: 6 | Toughness: Excellent | Stability: Good
Extreme Caution, Avoid: Light, Extreme Temperature Change (thermal shock), Jewellery Cleaners (steam cleaners).
Mild Caution, Avoid: Heat, Chemicals (acids, detergents, solvents, nail polish remover), Jewellery Cleaners (ultrasonic).
Gemmological Observation: Quartz is pyroelectric, this means that when the gemstone experiences a change in temperature (for instance heat from the sun/lighting) it causes a low-level electrical attraction to fine dust particles. Therefore, you may experience that any quartz-set jewellery may need frequently cleaning.
