Care + Materials

JEWELRY CARE 
TIPS

A little care goes a long way! Each piece is handcrafted with delicate chains and pendants that can tarnish or get tangled if not handled properly.

To keep your jewelry in top shape, remove it before applying sprays, perfumes, or lotions. It’s also a good idea to take it off when you’re showering, exercising, or swimming, as these activities can accelerate wear and tear.

To maintain its shine, gently polish the surface with a cloth after each use (avoid using cleaning solutions). When you’re not wearing your jewelry, store it in the pouch it came in, a jewelry box, or a plastic bag. Keeping it away from light and air helps prevent tarnishing and oxidation.

Please remember that everyone’s skin reacts differently to metals and plating. We are not responsible for individual reactions to our metals. Over time, gold-plated, gold-filled, silver-plated, and rhodium jewelry will naturally change. Following our care tips can help extend the life of your Orka Gems pieces.

Lastly, we want to assure you that all our jewelry is 100% Nickel and Lead free!

 

JEWELRY MATERIALS

We partner with our fantastic manufacturers to ensure the highest quality. Once we receive the materials, our owner Kara in Crofton, BC assembles each piece. Most of our jewelry is crafted from 14K Gold Filled, Sterling Silver, and Rhodium.

**GOLD FILLED:**
This involves bonding a layer of gold onto a base of Sterling Silver, Rhodium, or White Brass. It’s ideal for everyday wear and is hypoallergenic. We mainly offer 14K Gold Filled pieces.

*Average lifespan:* With proper care, it can last for many years.

**SOLID GOLD:**
Our solid gold pieces are made from 14K Yellow Gold. These are durable and won’t oxidize or discolor, making them perfect for daily wear.

*Average lifespan:* Can last for generations with proper care.

**RHODIUM:**
Rhodium is applied over a White Brass base. It’s best to remove Rhodium pieces before showering, exercising, or sleeping. Rhodium is hypoallergenic and a good choice if you have metal allergies.

*Average lifespan:* Ideal for occasional wear, as it’s not suited for daily use.

**STERLING SILVER:**
Our jewelry made from 925 Sterling Silver is great for daily wear and is hypoallergenic, much like our Gold Filled pieces. It’s a solid option if you have sensitivities to metals.

*Average lifespan:* Can last for many years with proper care.

**HERRINGBONE CHAINS:**
Our Spencer Herringbone Chains, including the Spencer Luxe and Mini Spencer versions, require extra attention. Store them flat at all times and be careful not to bend the chain. Remove them before sleeping or engaging in strenuous activities to avoid kinks and dents.

**RINGS:**
It’s best to remove your rings when using sanitizer, or applying sprays, perfumes, and lotions. Also, take them off before exercising, or swimming to avoid damage and prolong their lifespan.

*Please note:* We do not offer re-plating services.