At the heart of every piece of jewellery is a story — a tale of creativity, sustainability, and ethical craftsmanship. Here, at Hazel's Jewellery Shop, I'm not just creating accessories; I'm crafting wearable art with a conscience. Let's dive into the materials that make this eco-conscious silver jewellery not just beautiful but meaningful.
The Magic of Silver Clay: Pure and Recycled
Our primary medium, silver clay, is truly remarkable. Composed of .999 fine silver (often referred to as "pure silver"), this innovative material starts its life as recycled silver. By reimagining silver from old photography materials and medical instruments, we give what was once discarded a new lease on life. When this clay is fired, it transforms into solid silver, a process that not only fascinates but offers creative freedom. Imagine starting with a simple ball of clay and ending with a fine silver masterpiece—that's the journey of every piece I create.
Sterling Silver: Strength and Shine
For elements requiring a bit more resilience, such as ring bands and earring hooks, I turn to sterling silver (.925). This alloy includes a small fraction of another metal, typically copper, making it slightly harder than fine silver. All our sterling silver components are made from recycled materials, ensuring that our creations are as sustainable as they are stunning.
Gems with a Conscience
The sparkle in Hazel's Jewellery Shop jewellery isn't just from any gemstones; it's from ethically sourced gemstones. I meticulously source gems from mines operating with the utmost responsibility towards their workers and the environment. Each stone, chosen to suit our designs and your preferences, carries with it a commitment to ethical practices and a deep respect for the earth.
Cubic Zirconias: Consistency and Brilliance
For those who love the sparkle of gemstones with an eco-friendly twist, cubic zirconias offer a dazzling alternative. These man-made gems provide the brilliance of diamonds in a rainbow of colours, with consistent quality and even colouring that natural stones can't always guarantee.
A Touch of Patina: Highlighting Beauty
To accentuate the intricate details of our designs, I use liver of sulfur to oxidise the silver. This age-old technique darkens the recesses of the designs, allowing the raised areas to shine even brighter. Notably, liver of sulfur is also used in Japan as a skin care solution for its therapeutic properties, ensuring that our patina process is free from harsh chemicals.
My Promise to You
Each piece of jewellery from Hazel's Jewellery Shop is a testament to ethical beauty and craftsmanship. By choosing recycled silver, ethically sourced gemstones, and eco-friendly processes, I promise you jewelrley that not only looks good but does good too.
I invite you to explore my collections, discover your next favourite piece and wear your values with pride