We’re proud to design MGG Studio jewelry to stand the test of time. When choosing the materials for our jewelry, we use reclaimed and fair-mined metals whenever we can (read more about our commitment to sustainability here).  The sterling silver, 14k gold and bronze in our jewelry is all at least partially recycled. Here is some additional information about the materials we use in our jewelry.

We use gold fill in some of our chains, clasps, and ear wires. Gold fill is made when a layer of gold is fused to a core of base metal. The gold in gold fill is 50 to 100,000 times thicker than regular gold plating, and it is at least 1/20 of the total metal weight.  The gold fill we use is nickel free. With proper care, 14k gold fill is both beautiful and long lasting.

Bronze and brass have a rich golden color that we love, at a much more affordable price than solid gold (which we also love).  Both bronze and brass are alloys of copper, which lends the warmth to their color. Some people find that the interaction between that copper and the moisture in their skin (usually in the case of a snug ring) leaves a harmless and temporary green mark on their skin.  If this happens to you and you’re finding it bothersome, there are a few ways to prevent it. First, choose a ring size that is not completely snug on the finger- this will let air flow between the ring and the finger and prevent moisture from getting trapped there. Second, take your ring off when washing your hands and dry your hands thoroughly before putting your ring back on.  Lastly, you can coat the inside of the ring with a clear nail polish- this will form a barrier between your skin and the ring.

We’re proud to design MGG Studio jewelry to stand the test of time.  Here are some tips on how you can keep your pieces looking their best.

Overall, it’s smart to take your jewelry off when you’re sleeping, showering or washing your hands. It’s also a good idea to remove it when you’re going to do strenuous activities (like lifting weights) or come into contact with salt water or chlorine (think ocean/ swimming pool/ hot tub) or household chemicals (like bleach).

Some of the metals we use when crafting our jewelry, like silver and bronze, can tarnish over time when exposed to moisture in the air.  The best way to prevent this from happening is to store your jewelry in an airtight container when you’re not wearing it (a Ziploc bag works great!).

Our favorite way to remove any tarnish on silver and bronze jewelry is with a Sunshine polishing cloth.  These yellow cloths work wonders, and will remove just about any tarnish with a little patience (and occasionally some elbow grease).  If you’d like to add one to your order, you can find them in the Extras section of the website. These cloths shouldn’t be used on oxidized (dark) silver, since they’ll remove that dark patina.

Designs with our signature cross-hatch finish (e.g., TALA, YAYOI, FAO, ELA) have been coated with a lacquer to protect the delicate surface. To clean these pieces, wipe gently with a soft cloth (don't use the Sunshine polishing cloth on these pieces since that cloth contains abrasives that will remove the lacquer). To best protect these pieces, keep them away from all moisture including lotions, perfumes, and oils, and handle them with clean, dry hands. 

The 14k gold fill that we use in some of our chains and findings doesn’t tarnish in the way that silver and bronze do, but it can start to look dull from an accumulation of dirt and oils. We recommend wiping down with a soft cloth or giving a gentle bath with warm water and a mild soap.  You can also use a Sunshine cloth on gold fill, but it’s best used gently and sparingly.

If you’re in need of a deeper clean, a refinishing of a matte or textured surface, or a repair on an MGG Studio piece, we’re happy to help! Just reach out via the contact form on the website and tell us about the kind of repair or refinishing you need.  We’ll get back to you and let you know if there’s a fee for that particular service.