Care of Pieces
Couvillion jewelry is crafted to tell its story for a lifetime.
The passage of time is a common thread in the concept of my work, but it carries through to the aging of the pieces and the richness of the patina.
I believe everything I make should look better with age and wear. The natural oxidation process will add depth and character to the piece, as the patina of time is an anticipated and desired effect in the design. I celebrate the unique interaction between the wearer and the piece resulting in surface changes.
Personal body chemistry and amount of wear determine how rich and distinct a piece will become as it becomes your own. Wear will reveal the shiny metal surface, further connecting the piece to the wearer. The texture of the etching is as much a protective and decorative part of the patina and it accentuates design imagery.Exposure to the elements will accelerate the process and exposure to chemicals (such as in cosmetics, sunscreen, pools, cleaning agents, etc.) will drastically change the patina.
As intended, the hand-painted blue patina will lighten, as well, and represent the changes in the environment’s ever-changing waterscapes.
Jewelry cleaners and polishing compounds are not advised for the etched portions of the pieces that are patinated, as it will remove the patina around the etching. I personally like the yellow and/or blue Sunshine jewelry cleaning cloths.
I suggest wiping the pieces with a soft cotton cloth after each wear. A stiff jeweler-grade polishing paper can be used lightly on the top of the etching, if needed, being careful not to polish into the etching.
Materials
14k Gold-Filled and Rose Gold-filled:
14k gold fill is a jewelry-making technique that bonds a layer of solid 14-carat gold to a core of brass. This creates a jewelry piece with a higher gold content than gold plating, which is simply a thin layer of gold applied to a base metal. The brass core makes the jewelry piece stronger and more durable, and the gold layer gives it a luxurious appearance.
With proper care, 14k gold fill jewelry can last for many years without showing signs of wear. If the jewelry is ever nicked or damaged, the color of the brass core is similar to the color of the gold, so the damage may not be noticeable.
Abrasive cleaners are not advised, but it can be cleaned with a mild dishwashing liquid.
Sterling Silver:
Sterling silver is the most durable of all silver alloys, combining both beauty and strength. However, it is susceptible to tarnishing, especially when exposed to sunlight, salt, and sulfur (found in some shampoos and cleansers). To prevent tarnishing, it is best to store sterling silver in a cool, dry place and avoid contact with these substances. If sterling silver is worn regularly, the natural oils from the skin will help to protect it from tarnishing.
Copper & Brass:
Copper is a warm and inviting metal with a rich patina that develops over time. The patina begins as a rosy hue, but it deepens and shifts color over the years, eventually taking on a verdigris green. This transformation is part of what makes copper so special. It is a metal that tells a story, a journey of time and wear.
Brass is similar to copper in tone, but it has a more affordable price point. When brass develops a patina, it becomes even more beautiful. The patina deepens the color and gives the metal a richer appearance.
If you have any additional questions, please reach out at info@bcouvillion.com. I’d love to hear from you!