Black Diamonds New York jewelry is designed to be worn and enjoyed. Different metals and finishes naturally wear differently over time, and proper care can significantly help preserve the beauty and appearance of your jewelry.
Please review the information below when selecting your metal and finish, especially for jewelry intended for frequent or daily wear.
DO NOT PURCHASE SILVER WITH BLACK OR COLORED PLATING if you are looking for a finish that will last forever. The metal finish will fade and will not qualify for a refund. While we use high-quality and stronger black rhodium and other colored platings, we cannot guarantee how long the plating will last because every wearer’s skin acidity level is different, which is a major factor in plating issues. Black plating and other colored platings naturally fade or chip, even black plating on real gold pieces. Plating may last anywhere from a few days to weeks, months, or even years, depending on wear and individual skin chemistry. To save your money and help us reduce our material waste, please consider choosing non-plated silver or real gold without black plating for a longer-lasting finish. Please note that plating wear is a normal characteristic and is not eligible for refunds.
PLATINUM: Our platinum pieces are known for their durability, rarity, substantial weight, and suitability for many people with metal sensitivities. Platinum is naturally white, eliminating the need for rhodium plating to maintain a white appearance. Platinum is a popular choice for engagement and wedding rings because of its durability and timeless beauty. Like all precious metals, platinum can develop scratches, surface wear, and a natural patina over time.
Platinum Marking: Pt950, Pt900
SOLID GOLD: Our solid gold pieces are designed for long term wear and are available in a variety of karats and finishes. The underlying gold itself is solid rather than a plated base metal. However, if solid gold jewelry has an additional black, colored, or rhodium plated finish, that surface finish may still wear over time. Like all precious metals, solid gold can scratch, bend, dent, or show signs of wear depending on the karat, design, thickness, use, and care.
Gold Marking: 9K, 10K, 14K, 18K, 24K where available
925 STERLING SILVER: Our sterling silver jewelry may be electroplated or finished with rhodium, gold plating, colored plating, or protective e coating to enhance its appearance and provide additional surface protection. These surface finishes are not permanent and may gradually wear with normal use. For engagement rings, wedding rings, and jewelry intended for frequent wear, consider sterling silver without colored plating when longevity of the original color is important. Rose gold, yellow gold, black rhodium, and other colored finishes may show wear sooner depending on use, care, and individual skin chemistry. The term 925 + White Gold refers to 925 Sterling Silver with a white gold plated finish. It does not mean the piece is made of solid white gold.
Silver Marking and Label: S925 (Sterling Silver), 925RG (Silver + Rose Gold), 925YG (Silver + Yellow Gold), 925WG (Silver + White Gold), S700 (Silver + Platinum), 925 + White Gold (Sterling Silver with white gold plating)
BLACK PLATED JEWELRY: Black rhodium and other black plated finishes create a distinctive dark grey to black appearance. Because plating is a surface treatment, the finish is temporary and may gradually wear, fade, or chip with use. Plating longevity varies greatly by wearer. Water, soaps, lotions, natural skin oils, chemicals, friction, environmental conditions, frequency of wear, and individual skin chemistry can all affect how quickly the finish changes. We have seen black plating last anywhere from days or weeks to months or even years. Because these factors are outside our control, we cannot guarantee a specific lifespan for black or colored plating.
TUNGSTEN CARBIDE: Known for its exceptional hardness and durability. Highly resistant to scratches and dents, making it a popular choice for rings and other jewelry. However, it's important to remember that no metal is completely scratch-proof. Often has a polished, brushed, or matte finish. These finishes are typically permanent and won't wear off easily. However, certain finishes, such as coatings, might wear off over time with heavy use.
TITANIUM: Exceptionally durable and lightweight and is suitable for many people with metal sensitivities. It may be offered in polished, brushed, or coated finishes. While titanium itself is highly durable and scratch resistant, no jewelry material is completely scratch proof. Applied coatings and surface finishes may gradually wear with frequent or heavy use.
STAINLESS STEEL: Resistance to corrosion and tarnish makes it an ideal choice for jewelry, especially rings. Generally more budget-friendly than precious metals. The durability of these finishes can vary. For example, a polished finish might show scratches more easily than a brushed finish.
BRASS/COPPER: Brass and copper jewelry provide beautiful and distinctive looks at an accessible price. These metals may naturally change color, oxidize, tarnish, or develop a patina with wear and exposure to moisture, skin, and the environment. Plated or coated finishes on brass and copper are not permanent. These pieces may require additional care and are not our recommended option for continuous daily wear.
IMPORTANCE OF PREVENTIVE CARE
Check here to learn more or ask our jewelry specialists for more details.
IMPORTANCE OF PREVENTIVE CARE
To keep your Black Diamonds New York jewelry looking its best, we recommend following a few simple care instructions. By incorporating these practices into your daily routine, you can ensure that your jewelry maintains its brilliance and remains an everlasting symbol of your individuality.
MAINTENANCE TIPS FOR LONG-LASTING BEAUTY
Avoid exposing your jewelry to harsh chemicals, such as household cleaners or chlorine, as these can damage the finish and gemstones.
Remove your jewelry before engaging in any physical activities, like sports or household chores, as this can prevent unnecessary wear and tear.
Store your jewelry in a soft cloth or jewelry box to prevent scratches and tangles.
Clean your jewelry regularly using a mild soap and warm water. Gently scrub the pieces with a soft brush and rinse thoroughly.
Schedule regular check-ups with our jewelry specialists who can inspect and clean your jewelry professionally.
To ensure the longevity of your jewelry, invest in solid gold or silver without any colored finish. Avoid pieces with overlay or plating. With proper care, your jewelry will last you a lifetime.
FREE BLACK PLATING MAINTENANCE
Black rhodium silver or gold is dark grey to black in color plating. It is a very intricate process and varies each time. Plating longevity is very much dependent on the individual and the environmental conditions it is exposed to (e.g., water, soaps, natural skin oils, chemicals, etc.). Black rhodium is a temporary finish only; we have seen plating last anywhere from days, months to even years. We offer free re-plating up to 3 months.