Frequently Asked Question (FAQ)
1. What is the difference between moissanite and a diamond?
Moissanite is a gemstone that offers a brilliant sparkle similar to diamonds, but it’s made of silicon carbide, while diamonds are made of carbon. Moissanite has a higher refractive index, meaning it can exhibit more brilliance and fire than diamonds. Additionally, moissanite is more affordable and an ethical alternative to mined diamonds.
2. How do I care for my jewelry?
To keep your jewelry looking its best:
- Avoid exposure to harsh chemicals (e.g., perfume, cleaning products) that can damage stones or metals.
- Clean your jewelry regularly with a soft cloth and mild soap solution.
- Store jewelry separately to avoid scratching and tangling.
- Take off jewelry before swimming, showering, or doing heavy physical activities.
3. What is sterling silver and why is it used in jewelry?
Sterling silver is an alloy made of 92.5% pure silver and 7.5% other metals (usually copper). It’s durable, hypoallergenic, and can be easily shaped into intricate designs. Sterling silver is a popular choice for its combination of beauty, strength, and affordability.
4. What is the best way to determine my ring size?
To find your correct ring size, you can use a ring sizing chart or visit a jeweler to measure your finger. Alternatively, you can wrap a piece of string or paper around your finger, mark the point where it overlaps, and measure the length to get an estimate of your size.
5. What does "14K" or "18K" mean in gold jewelry?
"14K" and "18K" refer to the purity of the gold in the piece. 14K gold is 58.3% pure gold, and 18K gold is 75% pure gold. The higher the karat number, the purer the gold, which affects the color, durability, and price of the jewelry.
6. Will my jewelry tarnish over time?
All metals and materials can tarnish with exposure to air and moisture over time. However, the rate of tarnishing depends on the metal used. Sterling silver, for example, can tarnish but can be easily cleaned. Gold and platinum are more resistant to tarnishing.
7. How do I know if my jewelry is real or fake?
To determine if jewelry is real, consider:
- The hallmark or stamp: Authentic gold, silver, and platinum jewelry will have a stamp showing the metal's purity (e.g., 14K, S925).
- The weight: Real gold or silver tends to be heavier than imitation metals.
- Conducting a test: Jewelers can perform tests to check authenticity, such as acid testing or using a magnet for gold.
8. What is moissanite's durability?
Moissanite is a durable gemstone with a hardness of 9.25 on the Mohs scale (just below a diamond’s 10). This makes it an excellent choice for everyday jewelry, as it resists scratches and damage.
9. Can I customize my jewelry?
Yes! Many jewelers offer customization options such as engraving, resizing, and designing bespoke pieces to suit your preferences and style.
10. What is the return and exchange policy?
Our return and exchange policy allows you to return or exchange jewelry within a specified period (e.g., 15 days) as long as the item is in its original, unworn condition. Please refer to our Returns and Exchanges page for more details.
11. How do I know if my jewelry is hypoallergenic?
Jewelry made with hypoallergenic metals like platinum, titanium, or high-quality sterling silver is less likely to cause skin reactions. Look for jewelry that is marketed as “hypoallergenic” or “nickel-free” to reduce the risk of irritation.
12. Can I wear my jewelry every day?
It depends on the type of jewelry and materials used. Jewelry made from durable materials like moissanite, gold, and platinum can generally be worn daily. However, more delicate pieces or jewelry with softer stones may need to be reserved for special occasions.
13. Is your jewelry ethically sourced?
Yes, at Chiara Di Lusso, we are committed to using ethically sourced materials. We offer lab-grown gemstones like moissanite, which are environmentally friendly and conflict-free. We also ensure that our metals are responsibly sourced.