Material
The choice of materials is central to KAPÆRNA. For us, it is about more than just the appearance of a piece of jewelry; it is about sustainability, quality, and the feeling of wearing something genuine. Jewelry should withstand daily wear, age beautifully, and retain its value over time.
In the jewelry industry, it is common for products to be made of brass or steel with very thin plating that quickly wears off, despite being priced as if they were made of precious metals. We have chosen not to follow this practice. Instead, all our jewelry is crafted from precious materials selected for their durability, value, and enduring quality.
KAPÆRNA’s jewelry is designed to be worn often and to feel as thoughtfully crafted in its materials as it is in its form.
925 Sterling Silver
All KAPÆRNA jewelry is crafted from 925 sterling silver, a classic and time-tested material in jewelry making.
Sterling silver consists of 92.5% pure silver combined with other metals to enhance durability and strength. This makes the material resilient enough for everyday wear while retaining its natural luster and premium feel.
Silver is a precious metal that holds its value over time, making 925 sterling silver a reliable, long-lasting choice for jewelry intended for frequent and enduring use.
18K Gold Plating
Our gold-toned jewelry is crafted from 925 sterling silver with 18-karat gold plating.
We use a thicker gold plating than is standard in the industry to minimize wear and extend the piece's lifespan. Thin plating can wear off after just a few weeks of use—something we have found frustrating with jewelry we’ve purchased ourselves—so it was a given for us that KAPÆRNA pieces should be built to last.
18K gold provides a warm, soft, high-quality hue that closely resembles solid gold, while ensuring the jewelry remains durable, affordable and practical for everyday wear.
Rhodium Plating
Our silver-colored jewelry is rhodium-plated. Rhodium is a precious metal in the platinum group and is frequently used to protect silver jewelry. Rhodium plating helps to:
- reduce silver oxidation
- provide a smooth and durable surface
- extend the jewelry's lifespan.
This makes rhodium-plated jewelry an excellent choice if you want a silver-colored piece that retains its finish longer and requires less maintenance. Unplated silver jewelry oxidizes and quickly turns gray, requiring maintenance—such as polishing and cleaning—to keep its shine. With rhodium plating, you don't have to worry about this and can enjoy a maintenance-free shine for a long time.
Natural Crystals
All crystals used in KAPÆRNA’s jewelry are natural stones, selected for both their symbolism and their physical properties.
The durability of the crystals is assessed using the Mohs scale of mineral hardness, which measures a mineral's resistance to scratching and wear. The crystals we use possess a level of hardness that makes them suitable for jewelry and everyday wear, provided they are handled with care.
As crystals are natural materials, they vary in color, texture, and appearance; we view this as part of their character and unique beauty. Your piece of jewelry is truly your own—in both its meaning and its crystal.
Cubic Zirconia
Cubic zirconia is a synthetic gemstone simulant often used in jewelry as an alternative to diamond. The material consists of zirconium dioxide (ZrO₂) and is designed to mimic the luster, clarity, and light reflection of a diamond.
On the Mohs scale of mineral hardness, cubic zirconia rates approximately 8–8.5, making it highly durable and well-suited for everyday jewelry. Its high hardness ensures the stone is resistant to scratches and retains its brilliance over time when cared for properly.
Cubic zirconia is characterized by its intense luster and distinct play of light. Unlike many natural stones, it is free from natural inclusions, resulting in a very clear and uniform appearance. This makes cubic zirconia a popular choice for jewelry intended to have an elegant, sparkling look.
The Method of Plating
Plating is a method in which a thin layer of a precious metal is applied to the surface of a piece of jewelry to provide the desired appearance, color, and protection. In jewelry making, plating is primarily used to give sterling silver jewelry a finish of, for example, gold or rhodium.
Plating makes it possible to combine durability, aesthetics, and functionality, while allowing the jewelry to retain the feel of a precious metal.
What Is the Process of Plating?
Plating is carried out through a process known as electroplating. The piece of jewelry is placed in an electrolyte bath containing the metal to be applied—such as gold or rhodium. An electric current causes metal particles to bond evenly to the surface of the jewelry.
The result is a thin, continuous layer of metal that gives the piece its color and surface finish. Plating thickness is typically measured in microns; a greater thickness results in a more durable layer.
What Affects the Durability of a Plating?
The lifespan of the plating is influenced by several factors:
- the thickness of the plating
- the type of metal used
- how the jewelry is worn and stored
Thin plating can wear off relatively quickly with daily use, especially upon contact with water, skincare products, perfume, and friction. Thicker plating offers greater durability and allows the jewelry to retain its appearance for longer.
Regardless of the plating type, proper care is essential for longevity. Jewelry stays in the best condition when removed before contact with water or chemicals and during physical activity. Proper storage and mindful use make a significant difference in how long the plating lasts. Read our care instructions to learn how to best look after your jewelry so it lasts for a long time.
