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PRECIOUS METALS
What are the ‘stamp’ marks that I see on jewellery?
Jewellery is ‘hallmarked’ to show its precious metal composition is authentic,
and maker.
Markings Metal Purity
925 Sterling Silver 92.5%
375 9ct gold 37.5%
585 14ct gold 58.5%
750 18ct gold 75%
916 22ct gold 91.6%
950 Platinum 95%
More info on precious metal markings try: www.britishhallmarkingcouncil.gov.uk
What is rhodium plating?
Rhodium plating is different to gold plating. We give a Rhodium plate to white
gold jewellery to protect the surface and improve colour.
Why do we need to do this?
Pure Gold is yellow. By adding other metals we increase its working properties and
make it more durable. Depending which metals we use, we can also change the colour.
For example, adding palladium makes white gold. However the white colour achieved
is dark and is therefore rhodium plated to give a much more pleasing colour.
What is rhodium exactly?
Rhodium is a metal in the platinum group. Like Platinum it is very rare, so rare in fact
that we only ever use it as fine plating. Its properties include being harder than gold
and brighter and whiter than almost any other metal.
How long does it take?
We can rhodium plate your jewellery after polishing as part of a same day service.
How often should I re-plate my jewellery?
Pendants, earrings and chains should only ever have to be plated once in their lifetime,
although this would have to be reapplied after any repairs. Rings and bracelets which
are subject to more wear should be done more regularly. We recommend once a year
or for a special occasion. In between using Hagarty jewellery cleaner will keep your
jewellery looking spectacular.
DIAMONDS:
How can you tell if a diamond is real or not?
There are many different types of simulated diamonds on the market. Most become
easier to spot the older they are. The best advice is to get a stone checked out by
your local jeweller.
If a diamond is being offered for sale outside of the traditional jewellers shop,
beware what you save in money you also give up in consumer rights!
How do I keep my diamonds looking sparkling?
Just soak in Hagarty jewellery cleaner for 20 minutes, rinse and dry. Easy.
Wild Trout jewellers are qualified gemmologists & diamond graders
PEARLS:
What is the difference between freshwater pearls and South Sea Pearls?
Both varieties are cultured pearls, grown in an oyster shell with a little help from
mankind. Freshwater pearls are relatively cheap to produce in shallow water and
don't grow to the size or obtain the lustre of the South Sea Pearls.
South Sea Pearls are notoriously difficult to produce, because the oysters which
produce them are found in the deep pristine waters of Northern Australia, often
troubled by cyclones and tsunamis.
What’s the best way to care for Pearls?
Pearls are a gift of nature from the Sea. To ensure lasting pleasure and prevent
accidental damage, follow these guidelines:
n Store your Pearls separately.
n Try not to knock your Pearls against sharp or hard surfaces.
n Do not drop Pearls into handbags etc., without first placing them in their pouch.
n After each wear, wipe your Pearls with a soft damp cloth to remove any build
up of body oils or perspiration.
n Occasionally rinse your Pearls in warm water using a mild pure soap
–not detergent– rinse and pat dry thoroughly with a soft clean cloth before storing.
n Pearls should never have contact with detergents, bleach, cleaning solutions
or sonic cleaners.
n Try to avoid direct contact with perfume, makeup, shampoo and hairspray which
can all eat away the lustre of your pearls.
n Restring your Pearls every 1 or 2 years. Ensure they are knotted separately to
prevent scratching.
n Pearls thrive on moisture, so avoid this by storing in a very dry place or jewel purse.
n Do the right thing and your Pearls will become an heirloom, worn lovingly for
generations to come.
WATCHES:
How can you distinguish a fake watch?
Usually the 'fake' has been made a lot cheaper than the original, so look at the overall
quality of the watch and band. Are the links connected with cheap pins or machined
screws? What does the watch feel like to touch? Is it light or does it feel heavy?
The more real watches you see, the easier it is to spot a copy. If in doubt...
How long should watch & clock batteries last?
A good quality battery brand should last for at least 18 months to 2 years.
If your watch has features such as a stop watch, light or alarm and these are used
regularly, the battery will have a shorter life span.
Wild Trout offers a minimum 12 months guarantee.
How often should I get my watch serviced?
A watch can go for many years before it stops, just like a trusty car, however
sooner or later just like the car, if it's not serviced it will stop.
Servicing dismantles the movement and replaces worn parts and lubricates
vital parts.
A mechanical watch should be serviced regularly every 5 years. We only recommend
a service for a quartz movement if it starts to play up, or if water gets into the movement.
Water will destroy a movement in days, so at the first sign of moisture, bring it to a watch
maker or risk the worst.
Can I wear my watch in the shower?
The manufacturers of Swiss watches are all agree, if it’s a water resistant watch it’s
OK in a cold shower but the steam from hot water will break down the watch seal.
Always best to remove your watch and jewellery.
JEWELLERY CLEANING:
What should I use to clean my jewellery?
Over the years many people have come up with creative ways of cleaning their jewellery,
from toothpaste to Gin and some of these have had devastating effects.
Wild Trout recommends the Hagerty professional cleaning range. Time and again, Hagerty
proves to be the best. Buy the latest Hagerty range from Wild Trout online.
Need advice on jewellery design, restoration, repair, or professional appraisal?
Contact us: wildtrout@tpg.com.au or call 9388 3949 to talk to one of our friendly team.
Regards,
Wild Trout Team
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