Jewelry Care & Materials Guide
Everything you need to know about your Lia Atelier jewelry — how it's made, how to care for it, and how to make it last for years.
About Our Materials
1. What is 18K Gold Vermeil?
Gold vermeil (pronounced "ver-may") is 18K gold, at least 2.5 microns thick applied over a 925 sterling silver base. Under US jewelry standards, all three criteria must be met to qualify as vermeil: sterling silver base, 10K+ gold, and 2.5+ micron thickness.
At Lia Atelier, we use 18K gold at a minimum of 2.5 microns. That's our floor, not our ceiling. The result is jewelry that holds its color significantly longer than standard gold-plated pieces, which often use as little as 0.5 microns over brass or copper.
2. How is gold vermeil different from gold-plated jewelry?
Gold-plated jewelry uses a thinner gold layer (often 0.5–1 micron) over a base metal that is usually brass, copper, or zinc alloy. These base metals react with skin and moisture over time, causing discoloration and potential irritation.
Gold vermeil uses sterling silver as its base, a genuine precious metal that is hypoallergenic and durable. The gold layer is also significantly thicker. The difference in wear life is substantial: months vs. years.
3. Are your pieces hypoallergenic?
Yes. All Lia Atelier jewelry is built on a 925 sterling silver base. We do not use nickel, lead, or brass in our core collections. If you have sensitive ears or reactive skin, our pieces are designed with you in mind.
4. What are AAA freshwater pearls?
AAA is the highest commercially available grade for freshwater pearls. It indicates high luster (the glow from within the pearl), minimal surface blemishes, and a well-rounded shape. We hand-select each pearl individually; no two are identical, but every one meets our luster and surface quality standard.
5. What gemstones do you use?
Our spiritual jewelry collection includes: lapis lazuli, amazonite, moss agate, agate, rhodochrosite, Transvaal jade, mother-of-pearl, and tiger's eye. Each is a natural stone, hand-selected for color consistency and surface quality. Many carry significance in the Chinese Feng Shui tradition — see our gemstone guide below.
Gemstone Meanings
- Lapis Lazuli: Clarity, truth, and intuition. Associated with wisdom and inner vision in both Eastern and Western traditions.
- Transvaal Jade: Harmony, emotional balance, and prosperity. Recognized in Chinese Feng Shui for attracting good fortune and calm.
- Amazonite: Calm, communication, and confidence. Often called the stone of courage and truth.
- Moss Agate: Grounding, nature, and new beginnings. Associated with abundance and connection to the natural world.
- Rhodochrosite: Love, compassion, and emotional healing. Recognized for its warm rose tones and gentle energy.
- Tiger's Eye: Strength, focus, and protection. Traditionally carried for clarity of intention and grounded confidence.
- Mother-of-Pearl: Purity, intuition, and calm. A natural iridescent shell material prized across cultures for centuries.
Caring for Your Gold Vermeil Jewelry
Gold vermeil is durable when cared for properly. These habits will keep your pieces looking their best for years:
- Last on, first off. Put your jewelry on after applying perfume, lotion, and makeup. Chemicals in these products accelerate surface wear.
- Remove before water. Take pieces off before swimming, showering, or exercising. Chlorine, salt water, and sweat are the main causes of premature tarnishing.
- Store dry. Keep jewelry in the pouch or box it arrived in. Humidity and air exposure both affect the surface over time.
- Wipe after wearing. A soft, dry cloth removes skin oils before they build up. Takes five seconds and extends the life of your piece significantly.
- Avoid ultrasonic cleaners. These can damage both the gold layer and any gemstones or pearls. Gentle hand-cleaning only.
Caring for Pearl Jewelry
Pearls are organic gemstones — they need slightly different care than metal or stone pieces.
- Wipe after every wear. Skin oils and perfume residue are the primary cause of pearl yellowing over time. A soft, damp cloth after each wear prevents buildup.
- Store separately. Pearls can scratch against harder materials. Keep them in their own pouch or compartment.
- Avoid chemicals entirely. Perfume, hairspray, and cosmetics should never come into contact with pearls. Put your pearl jewelry on last.
- Keep away from prolonged sunlight. Extended UV exposure can cause pearls to dry out and lose their luster.
- Re-stringing. If you have a knotted pearl strand, have it re-strung by a jeweler every few years depending on wear frequency.
How do I find my ring size?
Our rings are available in sizes 4–17 (US sizing). If you're between sizes, we recommend going up. See our Ring Size Chart for a printable guide and measurement instructions.
What length necklace should I choose?
- 35–40 cm: Sits at or just below the collarbone. Works well with crew necks and high necklines.
- 45 cm: Falls just below the collarbone. The most versatile length works with most necklines.
- 50–60 cm: Falls toward the chest. Best for layering or lower necklines.
Most of our necklaces are adjustable. Check individual product listings for exact length options.
Shipping & Returns
Where do you ship?
We ship worldwide. Free shipping on all orders over $90. No tariff charges, what you see at checkout is what you pay, with no surprise customs fees on delivery.
How long does shipping take?
Standard international shipping: 7–14 business days. Expedited options available at checkout for select regions.
What is your return policy?
We accept returns within 30 days of delivery for unworn items in original packaging. Personalized or engraved pieces are final sale. Contact us at info@liaatelier.com to initiate a return.
Still Have Questions?
Reach us at info@liaatelier.com — we respond within 1–2 business days.
You may also find what you need in our material deep-dive: Gold Vermeil vs. Gold Plated: What's the Difference? — our full guide to understanding jewelry materials before you buy.
