Why the Choice of Brass?
First of all, it is important to remember that I create my collections with non-precious materials, preferring to use bronze, brass, colored enamels and cubic zirconia of all shades. This choice is motivated by the deep belief that even the most exclusive design should be made accessible to any woman.
Brass is an oxidizable alloy composed of a part of zinc (from 15 to 30%) and one of copper (from 70 to 85%). It is one of the materials chosen to create hypoallergenic costume jewelry because it is free of nickel and lead. Furthermore, compared to copper, it has a double advantage: greater hardness and better resistance.
In my work I can experiment with the use of cubic zirconia and enamels, using techniques normally used in jewelry, such as pre-setting of stones and all the soldering, which in costume jewelry are not commonly done. The thick 18kt gold plating further reduces allergy problems and prevents oxidation, which I also fight with online guidelines dedicated to "jewelry care".
So, we can say that the main differences between costume jewelry and high costume jewelry are three:
1. All stones are pre-set and not glued.
Pre-setting is a technique that allows you to create jewelry in lost wax microfusion, with stones set directly into the object. The advantages of this technique are many, but first of all is the homogeneity and finishing of the setting.
2. Welding the elements in RWA jewelry.
All the rings that connect the elements in the chain and in the RWA mechanisms are welded, ensuring greater safety in wearing them without the risk of losing them.
3. The thickness plating present on all RWA jewels is 2 / 2.5 microns.
Thick galvanizing not only protects the jewel, which wears less over time, but also gives it personality. For example, in the chameleon-shaped pendant, I played with the colors of the galvanizing: black rhodium under the stones, the tongue plated in rose gold and the rest plated in 18 kt yellow gold.
Brass is an alloy composed of a part of zinc (from 15 to 30%) and one of copper (from 70 to 85%). It is one of the materials chosen to create hypoallergenic costume jewelry without nickel or lead. Compared to copper, it has a double advantage: greater hardness and better resistance.
The main reasons why brass is the predominant metal in RWA Jewels are three:
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Economy and versatility. It is an inexpensive metal that allows you to experiment with the use of cubic zirconia and enamel, embellishing it with techniques normally used in jewelry, such as pre-setting the stones and soldering the rings, which are not commonly done in costume jewelry.
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Hypoallergenic. It is nickel-free and, thanks to the thick 18kt gold plating, does not cause problems for allergy sufferers.
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Resistance to oxidation. Oxidation is a natural process of metal that, if left exposed for a long time, tends to darken. However, to limit the oxidation of the jewel, it is possible to follow some guidelines:
- Avoid wearing the jewelry during physical activity, swimming and other situations that involve sweating.
- Apply perfume, body lotions and hair spray before putting on your jewelry.
- Protect your jewelry from impacts, high temperatures, direct heat and sunlight.
- Dry your jewelry immediately if it gets wet, as moisture can cause oxidation and weaken springs and clasps.
Clarifications on Brass
- Is brass a precious metal? NO
- Does brass contain nickel? NO
- Does brass oxidize? Yes, but no more than other metals commonly used in jewelry.
- Does the plating on top tend to come off? Over time, yes, but it is very resistant; following the guidelines for the care of the jewel will keep it beautiful over time.
Brass is a fantastic metal with which you can create truly unique jewels, a metal waiting to be discovered.
All RWA Jewels are made of brass alloy plated with yellow gold, rose gold, white and black rhodium. Other materials used are cubic zirconia, colored cold enamels and foam rubber. The jewels are made with hypoallergenic materials and with manufacturing methods in compliance with current Italian and international regulations. All jewels are made on the exclusive design and marketing of RWA Jewels by Roberta Albini. Imported and distributed by RWA Jewels.
It is recommended to follow the rules for the care of the jewel, present on the rwajewels.com website, in order to preserve its quality over time.
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