Every Material Wit piece begins in our Orcas Island studio, where metal, fire, and imagination meet. With reverence for the raw materials, we craft jewelry that honors nature while inviting everyday wear. Our work is both art and stewardship—most pieces are formed in-house using traditional metalsmithing techniques, while some are finished in collaboration with trusted U.S.–based artisans for casting and plating.
This guide reveals the materials behind our jewelry and offers our best advice on how to care for gold plated jewelry, sterling silver, and more—so your pieces last beautifully for years to come.
The Alchemy of Gold Plating
Gold plating is where science meets artistry. Our pieces are plated with 14K yellow gold at an industry-leading thickness of 80–120 mils (2–3 microns)—far more durable than standard plating.
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Rings & Bracelets (120 mils / 3 microns): Designed for durability, these pieces receive heavy plating to withstand everyday wear.
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Earrings & Pendants (80 mils / 2 microns): Lightweight yet luminous, these pieces balance comfort with resilience. Earrings feature a brass body with a sterling silver (vermeil) post, ideal for sensitive ears.
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Always Nickel-Free: Comfort and safety come first—our jewelry is crafted without nickel.
Other Materials We Use
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Solid .925 Sterling Silver: Classic, versatile, and designed to age with character.
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Solid 14K Yellow Gold: We use recycled gold whenever possible, keeping our process as regenerative as it is creative.
How to Care for Gold Plated Jewelry
Even the strongest metals need a little tenderness. To preserve the alchemy of your jewelry:
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Avoid exposure to stressors: Remove jewelry before swimming, exercising, showering, or gardening. Chlorine, sweat, and soil can all dull the finish.
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Store mindfully: Keep pieces away from moisture, chemicals, and rough surfaces that may scratch.
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Polish gently: Refresh your jewelry with a non-abrasive cloth (like SunShine) to restore its luster without harming the surface.
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Rotate your favorites: Give heavily worn pieces a rest now and then—this helps preserve plating over time.
With mindful care, your jewelry will hold its quiet strength and shine, becoming a companion through life’s transformations.
Closing Thought
Jewelry is more than adornment—it’s a story told in metal and light. When cared for well, it becomes part of your story too, carrying beauty and meaning into every season.
