Our Materials
We want you to feel confident about what you’re buying. This page explains the common materials used across our collection, what they mean for wear, and how to keep your pieces looking their best.
Stainless Steel
Stainless steel is one of our favorite everyday materials because it’s known for being durable, resistant to rust, and more tarnish-resistant than typical fashion metals.
Why we use it
- Strong and long-lasting
- Holds up well for everyday wear
- Lower maintenance compared to many plated fashion metals
- Great base metal for personalized pieces
Good to know
Stainless steel is tough, but like any metal, it can scratch with heavy contact. Storing pieces separately helps keep them looking clean.
18K Gold Plated Stainless Steel
Many of our gold-tone pieces use stainless steel as the base with an 18K gold plated finish. This gives you the rich look of gold with a more durable core.
What to expect
- Beautiful gold tone
- Designed for longer wear than typical fashion jewelry
- Over time, plating can naturally fade depending on wear and exposure
What affects plating longevity
- Water and humidity
- Sweat and body chemistry
- Perfume, lotions, hair products
- Cleaning chemicals and chlorine
- Daily friction (rings tend to wear faster than necklaces)
If you want your gold finish to last as long as possible, keep it dry and store it properly.
Brass (Plated)
Some items may be made with brass as the main metal, often with plating applied for the final finish.
Why brass is used
- Great for detailed designs
- Allows for certain styles and shapes
- Common in fashion jewelry when paired with quality plating
Care note
Brass is more reactive than stainless steel, so it benefits from gentle care and keeping it away from moisture and chemicals.
Cubic Zirconia (CZ)
Cubic zirconia is a clear, sparkly stone often used as a diamond-like accent.
Why we use it
- Bright, clean shine
- Durable for daily wear
- Adds sparkle without being too flashy
Care note
Avoid harsh cleaners. A soft cloth wipe is usually enough.
Lead and Nickel Free
Many items are labeled lead and nickel free on the product page. Always refer to the specific product listing for the most accurate details, since materials can vary by design.
If you have sensitivities, check the product description or email us before ordering and we’ll help confirm.
Jewelry Care (simple rules that help a lot)
To keep your jewelry looking fresh:
- Put jewelry on after perfume, lotion, and hair products
- Remove before showering, swimming, or cleaning
- Store in a dry place, ideally in a pouch or separate compartment
- Wipe gently with a soft cloth after wearing
- Keep pieces separated to reduce scratching
Questions about a specific item?
If you want to confirm the material on a product before ordering, email us:
hello@graceandgritjewelry.com or call 905-348-9777