Jewellery Care & Gemstone FAQs — Dubai & UAE

The Luna Dura Answer Desk · Dubai

From "will it survive a Dubai summer?" to "my skin turned green — am I cursed?" (you're not, and we'll explain) — practical answers about 925 silver tarnishing, jewellery cleaning, gold-plated care, gemstones, sizing, gifting and everyday jewellery in Dubai and the UAE.

Answered by Elie A — Graduate Gemologist (IGI) and holder of Master Class in jewellery history with Christie's Education, London. Can't find your question? Ask the gemologist on WhatsApp →

925 Silver: Tarnish, Water & Storage

The high-intent questions UAE shoppers ask about 925 sterling silver — does it tarnish, why it turns black, green or brownish and how to keep it bright in Dubai's climate.

Does 925 sterling silver tarnish?

Yes — all sterling silver can tarnish, slowly. The 7.5% copper in the 925 alloy reacts with moisture and sulphur in the air and dulls over time. The good news for the UAE: Dubai's humidity, sweat and coastal air can accelerate tarnishing, while dry indoor storage can slow it drastically, and rhodium-plated pieces strongly resist it. Full routine in our does 925 silver tarnish in Dubai guide, or browse the 925 silver collection.

Why does silver jewellery tarnish?

It's a surface reaction, not decay. The copper mixed into sterling silver reacts with sulphur compounds and moisture in the air to form a thin, dark layer. It doesn't harm the silver underneath — it sits on top, which is exactly why it cleans off. Humidity, sweat, perfume and pollution all speed the reaction up. More on spotting quality in our why jewellery tarnishes guide.

Why did my 925 silver turn black — and so quickly?

If a piece went dark fast, something accelerated it: high humidity, sweat, perfume, lotion, chlorine, or even your own skin chemistry (some people's skin naturally tarnishes silver faster). It's harmless and reversible — see how to clean it below. A rhodium-plated piece rarely blackens; a bright un-plated one needs a wipe more often. It is not a sign your silver is fake — here's what you're actually buying when you buy silver.

Does Dubai / UAE humidity make silver tarnish faster?

It can — humidity and salty coastal air are two of the biggest accelerators of tarnish, so a piece worn near the beach or kept in a steamy bathroom will dull faster than one kept dry. The upside: most of the year you live in dry, air-conditioned air, which actually slows tarnish. Keep pieces out of humidity and you'll rarely see it.

How do I prevent my 925 silver from tarnishing?

Five habits cover it: wear it normally, keep it dry, and avoid prolonged exposure to moisture and chemicals, keep it away from perfume, lotion, chlorine and the sea, dry it after any contact with water, store it dry and airtight, and choose rhodium-plated pieces for the least upkeep. Prevention beats cleaning every time — see Care & Cleaning for the rest.

Does wearing silver every day prevent tarnishing?

Regular wear can sometimes leave a piece looking brighter, but it is not a reliable anti-tarnish treatment. Sweat, cosmetics and humidity can accelerate tarnishing, so wipe the piece after heavy perspiration and store it dry. Our everyday silver is made for exactly this.

What does 925 mean, and is it real silver?

It's the sterling standard: 92.5% pure silver and 7.5% other metals (usually copper) for strength — pure silver alone is too soft to wear. It's real, solid silver, not plated base metal, and every Luna Dura piece is stamped 925.

What is rhodium plating, and does it stop tarnish?

Rhodium is a bright, white precious metal in the platinum family. A thin layer over 925 silver makes it whiter and strongly tarnish-resistant, and it's nickel-free — kind to sensitive skin. Honestly, it's a surface layer that wears over time, and it can be re-plated to look new again.

Is your silver nickel-free and hypoallergenic?

Our 925 is nickel-free or very low-nickel, and rhodium plating adds a further nickel-free barrier — which is why it suits sensitive skin. It reduces the risk of irritation rather than guaranteeing none; if you have a diagnosed metal allergy, patch-test first. See our hypoallergenic earrings or read the sensitive-ears guide.

Can I shower with 925 silver jewellery?

Forgetting once won't ruin it — and yes, water and mild soap can touch 925 silver safely now and then. But daily showering turns a slow reaction into a chore, because shampoo and body-wash residue speed up tarnish. Take it off, and if it gets wet, rinse with clean water and dry it, especially around clasps.

Can I swim while wearing 925 silver jewellery?

Best not to. Chlorine and salt water are the two fastest ways to dull silver and wear down rhodium plating. Slip it off before the pool, the beach and the hammam — a few minutes of caution saves the shine.

Can I wear 925 silver every day?

Yes. 925 silver is suitable for everyday wear, but daily wear does not make it immune to tarnish. Remove it for prolonged soaking, swimming and exposure to harsh chemicals, and dry it after handwashing or accidental water contact.

Can perfume or lotion make silver jewellery tarnish?

Yes. Perfume, lotion and sunscreen can leave residues and may accelerate tarnishing, particularly with frequent exposure. The practical rule is simple: apply cosmetics first, let them dry, then put jewellery on last and remove it first.

Does sweat make silver jewellery tarnish?

Yes — sweat is salty and slightly acidic, so a hot, sweaty day (or a workout) can dull silver faster, especially near the skin. It's nothing a wipe won't fix. If you sweat heavily, take pieces off for the gym and clean them down afterwards.

How should I store silver jewellery to prevent tarnishing?

Dry, sealed and separate. Keep pieces in their box or an airtight pouch, store items apart so they don't scratch each other, and tuck an anti-tarnish strip in for anything you won't wear for a while. A closed box or pouch reduces exposure to moisture and contaminants; an anti-tarnish insert can add protection for longer storage.

Should I store silver jewellery in the bathroom?

It is better not to. Repeated steam and humidity increase exposure to the conditions that accelerate tarnishing. Store silver in a dry room, preferably in a closed box or pouch, rather than on a bathroom shelf.

Why is my silver jewellery tarnishing so quickly?

Rapid tarnishing usually means the piece is seeing more moisture, sweat, sulphur compounds, cosmetics or chemicals than usual. Dubai and the wider Gulf can add heat, humidity and perspiration to the mix. Reduce exposure, dry the piece after wear and store it in a dry closed pouch or box.

Does chlorine damage silver jewellery?

It can accelerate surface deterioration and tarnishing, and it can also affect some finishes and plating. The safest habit is to remove silver jewellery before swimming in a chlorinated pool and rinse and dry it if accidental exposure occurs.

Does salt water damage silver jewellery?

Salt water and prolonged moisture can accelerate tarnishing and can be especially hard on plated finishes. Remove silver jewellery before swimming in the sea, then dry it thoroughly if it gets wet.

Can soap damage 925 silver?

Occasional contact with mild soap is unlikely to damage solid 925 silver, but repeated exposure can leave residue and contribute to dulling or tarnishing. Remove jewellery for long showers, rinse accidental exposure with clean water and dry it thoroughly.

Gemstones & Authenticity

The honest answers from behind the counter — on real vs lab-grown, treatments, and the tests that end every argument. Cross-checked against GIA, AGTA and SSEF. Browse the gemstone jewellery collection or source a certified loose stone from our loose gemstone desk.

Lab-grown or natural gemstones — which should I buy?

Both serve the purpose — the deciding factor is usually your budget. A lab-grown stone is chemically the real thing at a friendlier price; a natural stone carries rarity and resale value. Neither is "fake." The only rule that matters: know which one you're buying, and buy it from someone who tells you plainly. See both set in silver in our gemstone collection.

How do I know if my gemstone is treated?

Treatment is the roller-coaster of the gemstone world, and your seatbelt is the lab report. Always read the disclaimer on the certificate; if it's abbreviated or buried in technical code, check the report's index to see what a term really means — that's often where a treatment hides. One reassurance: reputable institutes won't certify stones with unacceptable treatments, so no report is itself a red flag. GIA distinguishes treatment from enhancement, and AGTA publishes the disclosure codes the trade uses.

Is my stone real, or is it glass?

Gemology 101, and it isn't guesswork. A stone's refractive index — how it bends light — is measured on basic lab equipment and settles it in seconds; glass and simulants read completely differently from the real thing.

CZ, moissanite, zircon, white sapphire — what's the difference?

They're all legitimate diamond alternatives, and the list is longer than most people think: cubic zirconia (CZ), moissanite, natural zircon, white topaz and white sapphire each look similar to the eye but differ in hardness, brilliance and price. All are acceptable — what's available depends on your market — and knowing exactly which one you're buying is non-negotiable.

What is an opal doublet or triplet?

A thin slice of real opal backed (and sometimes capped) to look like a larger solid stone. It offers a beautiful illusion to the eye — and there's nothing wrong with that if you know the value and the seller shares the trick. We never sell a doublet or triplet without telling you exactly what it is — more in our opal guide.

Do you certify your gemstones, and can I choose the lab?

Yes — we arrange independent certification, typically 7 to 14 days depending on public holidays, and you're welcome to pick your preferred lab (GIA, IGI, SSEF, AIGS and others). A stone worth certifying is a stone worth waiting for. Ask our gemologist to set it up.

Peridot vs emerald — aren't they both just green?

Both green, completely different characters. Peridot is a warm, olive, yellow-green — the "evening emerald" — as in our peridot Eye of Horus pendant. Emerald leans the opposite way, a cooler bluish-green, and sits far higher in rarity and price. Compare the two in the peridot and emerald guides.

Is citrine just heated amethyst?

Most citrine on the market is exactly that — amethyst gently heated to a golden colour — and it's an accepted worldwide standard, not a trick, as long as it's disclosed. GIA confirms the same in its note on whether citrine is treated; our citrine guide explains natural vs heated.

Is blue topaz treated? Is it radioactive?

Almost all blue topaz is irradiated then heated to reach that blue — again, an accepted industry standard, and disclosure to the customer is a must. It's safe to wear: certified material is tested and released to strict limits, as GIA explains on blue topaz and radioactivity. See it set in our blue topaz stackable ring, or read the topaz guide.

Is tanzanite treated?

Practically all tanzanite is heat-treated to bring out its blue-violet — that's well known and universally accepted in the trade. It doesn't make the stone any less genuine; it's simply how tanzanite reaches the colour you fell for. See our tanzanite hamsa necklace or the tanzanite guide.

Why does the same gemstone vary so much in price?

Link it to your morning coffee — same cup, very different prices depending on where and when you buy it. Sometimes a stone costs more for the obvious reasons: rarity, cut, colour, treatment. Other times it's pure logistics — a supply-chain hiccup pushes up shipping and insurance, and competition and access to the source do the rest. Two "identical" stones can be honestly priced worlds apart.

Can you source a specific loose gemstone for me?

Yes — that's our bread and butter. Tell us the stone, the colour, the budget and the certificate you want, and we'll source it and set it. See the working inventory on our certified loose gemstone desk, or message the gemologist with what you have in mind.

What is Mohs hardness, and does it tell me if a stone will scratch?

Mohs is the basic scratch scale — diamond sits at 10, the hardest — and it's a useful everyday guideline for which stones handle daily wear. Honestly, though, real labs don't identify stones by scratching them; we use advanced tools like refractive index and specific gravity. Treat Mohs as a care guide, not a test: softer stones (opal, pearl, emerald) want gentler handling — see Care & Cleaning.

Are your gemstones ethically sourced?

Yes — every one. Honestly, a small minority abuse the system and tarnish the reputation of an entire trade (a bit like shark films: no shark is anywhere near your beach, yet you still hesitate to swim). Governments set clear standards for shipping and company registration to protect you; your job is simply to stay curious — spread your tentacles, do your homework, and if a deal feels suspicious, don't bite the bait. That's exactly why we buy from documented sources and certify on request.

Care, Cleaning & Gold-Plated

The most useful thing a jeweller can tell you: most damage happens during cleaning, not wear. Here's how to clean safely — and when to keep your hands off and let us do it.

How do I clean silver jewellery at home?

Gently, and rarely. For a light clean, warm water, a drop of mild soap and a soft cloth is plenty — then dry thoroughly. Honestly, though, returning a piece to its original box after wear protects it better than any cleaning routine, so store well and you'll seldom need to clean at all. See our full jewellery care guide.

How do I clean tarnished or blackened 925 silver?

A dedicated silver polishing cloth lifts light tarnish beautifully and safely — work gently and stop when it's bright. For heavy tarnish, stones, or a valuable piece, don't force it at home: bring it to us. Never scrub with abrasives, which leave micro-scratches you can't undo.

Can I use baking soda, toothpaste or champagne to clean silver?

Please don't. These "hacks" are all abrasive or acidic: toothpaste and baking soda scratch the surface and strip plating; the champagne soak looks amazing for a few minutes but you'll regret it within weeks as residue works on the metal and settings. A soft polishing cloth does the job without the damage. When in doubt, skip the internet tricks.

How often should I clean silver — and can over-cleaning damage it?

Only when it needs it. Over-polishing is a real risk — repeated abrasive cleaning slowly wears away plating and softens fine detail and engraving. A gentle wipe after wear and proper storage means a deep clean is rarely necessary.

When in doubt, should I clean it myself?

No — when in doubt, don't. A DIY clean can strip plating, loosen a prong or dull enamel in seconds. Use a professional cleaning or polishing service, and a good seller should warn you of the risks specific to your piece. Ask us first — it's free advice and it's cheaper than a repair.

Can I use an ultrasonic cleaner at home?

Never at home. Household ultrasonic units aren't calibrated per stone, and the wrong setting will shatter or loosen fragile gems (opal, emerald, pearl and more). Ultrasonic and steam are lab tools for the right stones only — not a bathroom-shelf gadget.

When should I NOT use a silver dip?

On anything with an oxidised or antiqued finish — the deliberate darkening in the recesses is part of the design, and a dip strips it right out, leaving the piece flat and lifeless. Avoid dips on plated pieces too, as they can eat through the plating. Dips are only for plain, bright, un-plated silver — and even then, briefly.

How do I clean opal, pearl and emerald?

Gently, and never with machines. These soft or porous stones must never see ultrasonic or steam cleaning, harsh chemicals, or sudden temperature changes. Wipe with a soft, barely-damp cloth and dry immediately. Pearls in particular go on last and get wiped after every wear. Full detail in our gemstone care guide.

How do I clean and care for gold-plated jewellery?

With the gentlest touch. Wipe gold-plated pieces with a soft, dry or barely-damp cloth; avoid dips, abrasives and ultrasonic cleaning unless the maker or a qualified jeweller confirms the method is suitable. Keep plating away from prolonged water, perfume, sweat and chemicals, and store it dry and separate — see our gold-plated & silver-plated care guide.

Can I shower or swim with gold-plated jewellery?

For maximum longevity, remove gold-plated pieces before long showers, swimming, the sea and heavy exercise. Water, chlorine, salt, sweat and friction can accelerate wear of the plating.

Does perfume or sweat damage gold plating?

Yes, both. Alcohols in perfume and the salt in sweat wear a thin plated layer down over time and can cause patchy fading. Same golden rule as silver: jewellery on last, off first, and wipe it down after a hot day.

How long does gold plating last, and why is mine fading?

It depends entirely on thickness, measured in microns: a flash at ~0.5 micron wears fastest, 1 micron lasts longer, 3 micron longer still, and vermeil is a thick gold layer (2.5 microns or more) over solid silver — as used in our gold vermeil sets. Fading isn't a fault — it's the natural life of a plated finish, and the thinner the layer, the sooner it shows. High-friction pieces like rings fade before earrings.

Can gold-plated jewellery tarnish?

The gold layer itself does not behave like solid gold, and the finish can wear or fade with friction, water, sweat, perfume and chemicals. Once the underlying metal becomes exposed, discoloration or tarnishing can become visible. Gentle care and limited exposure extend the life of the finish.

Can faded gold or rhodium plating be re-plated?

Yes — re-plating restores a piece to new. When the shine dulls or a warmer tone shows through, it's simply time to refresh it. Message us and we'll arrange re-plating for your gold or rhodium pieces.

Does every piece need the same care?

No — and that's the honest heart of it. Every product has its own routine depending on its stones, enamel, prongs and plating thickness. A rhodium-plated hoop, an oxidised ring and a pearl pendant want three different approaches. When you buy from us, we tell you exactly how to care for that piece.

Can I travel with my jewellery?

Honestly, our advice is to leave your statement pieces safe at home and travel in fashion accessories — that's exactly what they're for: the look, the peace of mind, and no headaches at border control. If you must bring the good pieces, use a small padded pouch that fits your handbag, with fabric folding pockets so nothing grinds against anything else.

How do I care for a specific gemstone?

Most stones are happy with the same gentle routine — a soft, barely-damp cloth and dry storage — but some have special rules (full detail in our gemstone care guide). Quick A–Z reference:

Sizing, Fit & the Safe Gift

Buying jewellery when you don't know a size is the most common worry we hear — and the most solvable. Here's how to get it right, and the fail-safe pieces that fit everyone.

How do I find my ring size?

Two easy ways. Use our full ring size guide to measure at home in a minute, or simply visit the studio and we'll size your finger properly in seconds — no guessing, no returns.

I want to buy a gift but I don't know her ring size — help?

You're in the safest situation there is: pick a piece that needs no size at all. A pair of earrings or a necklace fits anyone, every time. If your heart is set on a ring, come in and we'll help you choose — or gift it and we'll happily exchange the size later.

What's the safest jewellery gift if I'm really not sure?

Studs. A pair of 925 silver stud earrings is the ultimate safe gift — they suit every face shape, every age, and every outfit, and there's no size to get wrong. A fine necklace is just as foolproof. When in doubt, one of those two never misses.

Do stud earrings suit all face shapes?

Yes — that's exactly why studs are the classic. Unlike drops or hoops that flatter some faces more than others, a stud sits neatly on the lobe and complements round, oval, square and heart-shaped faces alike. It's the one earring you can gift with total confidence — more in our earrings for your face shape guide.

What necklace length should I choose?

A 40–45cm chain sits at the collarbone and suits almost everyone, which is why it's the safe gift length. For layering or a longer drop, our size guide shows every length on the neck so you can picture it before you buy.

Do fingers change size in Dubai's heat?

A little — fingers can swell slightly in summer heat and shrink in strong air-conditioning, so measure at a normal temperature, not straight after a hot walk or the gym. If you're between sizes, size up for comfort. Unsure? Pop into the studio and we'll settle it.

Can you resize or exchange if the size is wrong?

Don't stress about it. Message us on WhatsApp and we'll sort a size exchange within our returns window — the details are on our returns & exchange policy. Getting the fit right is our job, not your worry.

Can I get sized and see the pieces in person?

Absolutely, and it's the best way to buy. We're a real Dubai boutique, not an online-only page — come try pieces on, get sized, and see the silver and stones in daylight before you decide.

Delivery & Returns

Fast, local, and honest — here's exactly how ordering, delivery and returns work. Full terms live on our policy pages; the short answers are below.

Do you deliver the same day in Dubai?

Yes — order an in-stock piece before 5 PM and we deliver same-day across Dubai. Browse ready-to-ship pieces, message us on WhatsApp to confirm your slot, and see full terms on our shipping policy.

Do you deliver to Abu Dhabi and Sharjah?

Yes. Same-day delivery to Abu Dhabi is available on orders of AED 2,800 and above; smaller orders arrive in 2–3 working days. Sharjah and the other Emirates are covered too — see the shipping policy for areas and timings.

How much is delivery, and is it free?

Delivery is free across the UAE on orders over AED 200. Below that, it's a flat AED 15 nationwide. Simple as that.

Do you ship across the GCC?

Yes — we ship to the wider GCC, typically in 3–5 working days depending on destination and customs. Message us for a quote to your country.

What payment methods do you accept?

All major cards, Apple Pay for one-tap checkout, and Tabby and Tamara for split payments — plus cash on collection at the studio. Whatever's easiest for you.

Can I pay in instalments with Tabby or Tamara?

Yes — both Tabby and Tamara let you split your order into interest-free instalments at checkout, subject to their approval. A lovely way to spread the cost of a special piece.

What is your return and exchange policy?

Unworn pieces in new condition with tags can be returned within 14 days for an exchange or a refund to your original payment method. The full details, including a few sensible exclusions, are on our returns & exchange policy.

Can I return earrings?

For hygiene reasons, pierced earrings are final sale and can't be returned or exchanged — this is standard practice across the jewellery industry. Do reach out if a piece arrives faulty and we'll always make it right.

How do returns work for gemstone pieces?

Returned gemstone pieces are inspected and authenticated by our in-house Graduate Gemologist. Any item showing signs of stone substitution or tampering will be refused — it protects both you and every honest customer. Full wording on the returns policy.

Do your pieces come with a warranty?

Yes — we stand behind our craftsmanship with a manufacturing warranty, and plated finishes carry their own care window. Full terms are on the policy page; anything unclear, just ask.

Gifting & Occasions

Jewellery is the gift that never really goes wrong — but a little guidance helps. Here are the safe bets by person and occasion.

What's a safe jewellery gift if I don't know her taste?

Stick to the classics that suit everyone: a pair of silver studs or a fine necklace. Neither needs a size, both flatter every style, and they're impossible to get wrong.

What should I gift my wife or girlfriend?

A heart pendant is the fail-safe romantic gift — timeless, sentimental, and available in silver or a warm rose-gold finish. Matching studs make it a set.

What's a good gift for my mum, or a mother-and-daughter pair?

A delicate pendant or a matching mother-and-daughter set is always well received. Message us and we can help you put a coordinated pair together.

What's a nice gift for a close friend?

An adjustable cord-and-charm bracelet is the perfect friendship gift — clasp-free, one-size, and meaningful, from AED 112.

What can I gift a newborn or new baby?

A little evil eye piece is the traditional gift of protection for a newborn across the region — a thoughtful, culturally-loved choice.

Do you offer gift wrapping?

Yes — every piece comes beautifully boxed, and we're happy to add gift wrap and a handwritten note. Just let us know it's a gift before you order.

I need a last-minute gift — can you help?

Absolutely. Order an in-stock piece from our ready-to-ship collection before 5 PM and we'll deliver it the same day across Dubai. A last-minute gift, beautifully saved.

Can I order a personalised or bespoke gift from the Luna Dura collection?

Yes — names, initials and birthstones, made to order. Message us with your idea; bespoke pieces are crafted to request, so allow a little lead time.

What are good gifts for Eid, National Day, Valentine's or an anniversary?

Hearts and personalised pieces for Valentine's and anniversaries; elegant everyday silver and evil-eye pieces for Eid and National Day. Browse our gift collection (from AED 55), or read our meaningful jewellery gifts guide.

Evil Eye, Hamsa & Meaning

The most-loved symbols in the region — and the questions people whisper about them. Here's the culture and folklore, honestly told (no promises about magic). Shop the evil eye & hamsa collection.

What's the difference between the evil eye and the hamsa?

The evil eye (nazar) is the blue eye-shaped bead believed to deflect envy; the hamsa is the open-hand symbol (also called the Hand of Fatima) often set with an eye at its centre. One is the eye, the other the protecting hand — they're frequently worn together. Full background in our evil eye, hamsa & Eye of Horus guide.

What does the evil eye actually mean?

Across the Mediterranean, Middle East and beyond, the nazar is a centuries-old symbol worn to guard against the "evil eye" — envious or ill-wishing looks. It's a cultural talisman and a beautiful one; we share the tradition, not a guarantee. More in our evil eye necklace meaning article.

Which way should the evil eye face?

Tradition says the eye should face outward, away from the wearer, so it can "look back" at any envy directed your way. On a bracelet or necklace, simply wear it so the eye is visible.

What do the colours of the evil eye mean?

Classic cobalt blue is the traditional protective colour, but each shade carries folklore — light blue for calm, white for focus, and so on. Choose the colour you're drawn to; the meaning is part of the charm.

Can I buy an evil eye for myself, or must it be gifted?

A common myth says it must be a gift — but there's no rule. You're very welcome to buy your own nazar, and many people do. Gift or self-gift, the tradition holds either way.

Is the evil eye religious or cultural?

Mostly cultural. The symbol crosses many cultures and faiths across the region and the Mediterranean, worn by people of all backgrounds. It's a folk tradition rather than a religious requirement.

What does it mean if my evil eye cracks or breaks?

Folklore holds that a nazar which cracks or breaks has done its job — absorbing the negativity meant for you — and should simply be replaced with a new one. A lovely story, whatever you believe.

Should the hamsa point up or down?

Both are traditional: hand up is seen as protection and warding off negativity, while hand down is said to invite blessings, abundance and good fortune. Wear it whichever way speaks to you — more in our hamsa meaning & gift guide.

Is evil eye jewellery a good gift for a newborn?

Yes — it's one of the most traditional gifts of protection for a new baby across the region, which is why it's such a heartfelt choice. See our evil eye & hamsa collection.

Pearls

Timeless, delicate, and surrounded by myths. Here's how to tell real from faux, and how to keep pearls beautiful for a lifetime. Browse the pearl jewellery collection.

Are your pearls real, cultured or faux?

We tell you plainly on each piece. Most fine pearls sold today are cultured — genuinely grown in an oyster with a little help — while faux or shell pearls are man-made. Both have their place; honesty about which is which is the point. See our freshwater pearl pieces.

What's the difference between natural, cultured and freshwater pearls?

Natural pearls form without any human help and are rare and costly; cultured pearls are real pearls grown with a seeded start; freshwater pearls are cultured in mussels in freshwater and are more affordable. GIA has an excellent primer on natural vs cultured pearls, and our pearl guide covers real vs fake.

How can I tell if a pearl is real?

The old "tooth test" helps: real and cultured pearls feel slightly gritty against the tooth, while faux pearls feel glassy-smooth. Real pearls also feel cool at first and warm slowly to the touch. For certainty, though, only a gemological test is definitive — bring it to us.

How do I care for pearls?

Pearls are soft and porous, so treat them gently: put them on last, keep them away from perfume, hairspray and chemicals, and wipe them with a soft cloth after every wear. Never ultrasonic, never steam.

How should I store pearls?

Unlike silver, pearls should not be sealed in an airtight bag — they need a little air, or they can dry out and crack over years. Keep them in a soft pouch, separate from harder pieces that could scratch them.

Can pearls be restrung?

Yes — strung pearls should be restrung every few years, especially if worn often, as silk thread stretches and weakens over time. We can arrange it.

Are pearls a birthstone?

Yes — the pearl is a traditional birthstone for June, which makes pearl jewellery a lovely, meaningful June-birthday gift. See the June pearl guide.

Are pearls a good choice for a bride?

Timelessly so. Pearls are the classic bridal choice — elegant, understated and photographic. Studs or a single strand suit almost every neckline and dress — see our bridal earrings guide.

Birthstones

A birthstone turns a piece of jewellery into something personal. Here's the month-by-month guide — and the honest facts behind the stones. For loose certified stones and the ancient vs modern charts, see our full birthstone guide.

What is my birthstone by month?

January garnet · February amethyst · March aquamarine · April diamond · May emerald · June pearl or moonstone · July ruby · August peridot · September sapphire · October opal or tourmaline · November topaz or citrine · December turquoise, tanzanite or zircon.

Are your birthstones natural or lab-grown?

We offer both, and we always tell you which. Natural stones carry rarity; lab-grown offer the same look for less. Neither is "fake" — the honesty about which one you're buying is what matters, as we explain in Gemstones & Authenticity.

Can you source a specific birthstone for me?

Yes — sourcing loose stones is our speciality. Tell us the birthstone, colour and budget, and we'll find it and set it in a piece you'll keep for life. See the working inventory on our loose gemstone desk, or message the gemologist.

What do birthstones mean?

Each stone carries centuries of symbolism — garnet for friendship, amethyst for calm, emerald for renewal, and so on. It's cultural folklore worn close, not a medical or magical claim; wear the meaning you love.

Are some birthstones treated?

Yes, and it's completely standard when disclosed: most blue topaz (December) is irradiated, and most citrine (November) is heated amethyst. We're always transparent about treatment — details in Gemstones & Authenticity.

Can I get a family piece with several birthstones?

Yes — a pendant or ring set with the birthstones of your children or family is one of our most-loved bespoke pieces, made to order. Browse ready-to-wear options in the gift collection; allow a little lead time for bespoke.

Which birthstones are durable enough for daily wear?

Harder stones like sapphire, ruby and diamond shrug off daily wear; softer ones like opal, pearl and emerald want gentler handling and are better for occasion pieces. See Care & Cleaning for the specifics.