Frequently Asked Questions
CARING FOR YOUR JEWELLERY
Over time, jewellery may dull from contact with detergents, moisturisers and other chemicals – ideally you would take it off as needed to protect it from such substances. If it does dull then even a quick buff with a soft cloth or jewellery cloth should brighten it up.Use a soft toothbrush with jewellery cleaner or sunlight liquid and warm water to gently wash your jewellery pieces. Dry with a soft cloth. (Please be careful when cleaning porous and soft gemstones.)
BUYING A DIAMOND
We refer to the 4 C’s when looking to buy a diamond.
If you are in the market of investing in a diamond, you have most likely heard of the 4 C’s. A departure point for evaluating a diamond’s value lies within these 4 factors: Cut, Colour, Clarity and Carat-weight. All diamonds are sourced in accordance with the Kimberley Process, and therefore conflict free.
Cut:
The cut of a diamond determines its brilliance. Put simply, the better a diamond is cut, the more sparkle it will have. The cut can also refer to the shape of the diamond (refer to chart below).
Colour:
After cut, colour is generally considered the second most important characteristic when selecting a diamond. The whiter the diamond, the better the grade. A colour grade of D is the highest possible, while Z is the lowest. In rare cases diamonds may be graded as “fancy coloured”, meaning they are graded by the intensity of the hue (yellows, pinks and blues) and other than with white diamonds, the more colour, the rarer.
Clarity:
Clarity is a measure of the number and size of the tiny imperfections that occur in almost all diamonds. Generally the greater the number and size of inclusions the lower the clarity grade and the less rare the diamond. A diamond revealing no such inclusions is known as flawless and treasured for its rarity.
Carat:
The weight of a diamond is measured in carat, and by itself may not accurately reflect a diamond’s size. Diamonds of equal carat-weight may vary greatly in brilliance depending on their symmetry and cut, so carat-weight on its own is an unreliable guide for value.
Faceted Diamonds:
For the non-traditional client that prefers an organic and natural style there is also the option of acquiring a unique ‘faceted cut’ diamond.
Coloured Diamonds:
Cognac, Fancy brown, Champagne and Black diamonds are also great options for more non traditional rings.
BUYING A GEMSTONE
When choosing a gemstone for a piece of jewellery it is very important to know what function the jewellery piece will have. Popular gemstones include Sapphires, Rubies and Emeralds. Gemstones are available in a wide variety of different colours and shapes.
CHOOSING THE RIGHT METAL
Gold
TDV Gold is supplied in 9Ct & 18Ct, where 9Ct contains less pure gold (37,5%), than 18Ct gold which contains (75% pure gold), and is therefore more expensive. The difference in both are made up of metal alloys. Colours include Rose/Red Gold, Yellow Gold and White gold. White gold is more expensive than Yellow and Rose/Red Gold. Note that all White gold needs to be Rhodium plated to give it a whiter appearance.
Platinum
Platinum is stronger and more durable than gold. Other than White gold, Platinum does not need to be plated, as it has a natural white look. Platinum also does not cause any skin irritations.
Sterling silver
TDV uses 925 Sterling Silver.
ALLERGIES & REACTIONS
Some people may develop a rash like allergic reaction to a ring over time. This may be due to hormonal changes, weather changes (sweat) or the metal alloy ie. nickel. Rhodium or gold plating may help to alleviate allergies as it creates a protective layer between the alloy and skin. TDV uses nickel free gold.
RHODIUM & GOLD PLATING
Rhodium
White gold rings are traditionally plated with rhodium – to get the whitest possible appearance. The rhodium plating will wear off over time, but this should happen gradually and fairly evenly. If the ring becomes too yellow for your liking, you can send it back to us for re-plating.
Gold Plating
TDV makes use of Rose and Yellow gold plating for certain silver pieces. Plating is not permanent, as it is a thin layer of metal coating the sterling silver. It does wear off over time, depending on how often the piece is worn and can be affected by chemicals such as chlorine, detergents and general day to day wear. Plating can also be affected by skin acidity – shortening the life span of the coating. The piece will then go back to looking silver and can be re-plated anytime.
SIZES AND SIZING
Ring sizes and sizing
Visiting a local jeweller and having them measure your finger professionally is by far the best way to determine your ring size. If you are unable to do this however, refer to our sizing chart. Please note that this is merely a guide. We cannot be held responsible for any inaccuracies.
Pendant chain lengths
Small: 42cm
Medium: 45cm
Large: 55cm
Bracelet & Bangle sizes
Bracelet sizes are calculated in lenght:
Small: 16cm
Medium: 17cm
Large: 18cm
Bangle sizes are calculated in diameter
Small: 61mm
Medium: 63mm
Large: 65mm
Sizes can be altered or custom made on special request.
OTHER SERVICES OFFERED
- Re-polishing of your jewellery should you ever want to remove any particularly deep scratches.
- Re-sizing Gold and Platinum jewellery.
- Rhodium plating.
- Resetting of Diamonds.
Please be advised that all work is dependent on the state of the jewellery. Thérèse can advise you on the best way forward based on the condition of specific items.
ORDERING CUSTOM MADE PIECES
TDV specialises in custom designed and hand manufactured pieces. Please refer to the Bespoke Commissions page or contact Thérèse at therese@theresedevilliers.co.za to book an appointment.