Summer Jewellery Care

Hot summer days are the perfect time to show off your jewels: who doesn't love accessorizing a great sundress with a colorful statement necklace or highlighting a sun-kissed glow with layers of silver or gold chains? Unfortunately, summertime can also be a hazard to your jewellery. Read on for some tips on what to watch out for, and how to keep your favorite pieces sparkling this summer:

1. Sunscreen, sweat and bug spray, oh my!  All of these elements can be hard on your jewellery, causing metals to discolor and tarnish over time, and can dull and erode gemstones. Be sure to put your jewellery on post-sunscreen application and if it's going to be an especially sticky day in the sun, keep accessories to a minimum / at home, or opt for earrings, which reside away from slick skin.

2. Bathing beauty. Be sure to take off your jewels before hitting the ocean or pool. Chlorine and saltwater are big no-no's for your jewellery, so strip down (though leave your suit on, 'kay?) before taking a dip.

3. Summertime is travel time. When you're hitting the road on a holiday, keep these considerations in mind when packing your jewellery for a trip. Plus, check out my guide on what jewellery items to bring for a well-rounded accessories line-up for your vacation.

4. Maintenance is key. Post-wear, gently wipe clean your jewellery with a soft, damp cloth, before putting it away. This will help remove any build up or residue on your pieces, keeping them sparkling.

5. Cheap and chic. While I'm a big believer in investing in timeless and high quality jewellery designs, sometimes a girl needs accessories that can withstand a bit of wear and tear and that won't break your heart if they end up lost or ruined. Colorful woven friendship bracelets are a fun way to add a bright pop to your look, without the risk you run wearing fine jewellery.

Pinky swear you'll be good to your jewels this summer??
 

This Spring We're Loving Lapis

To The Moon & Back Earrings - $72

Today I wanted to give you the scoop on one of my favourite gemstones - lapis lazuli. If you have perused our Spring '14 Collection you'll have noticed that this gem is featured in a number of our new designs, and will certainly be making more appearances in the future. While lapis lazuli can of course be worn year-round (like any gemstone you love) and may not be as quintessentially "summer" as say, turquoise, it nonetheless always reminds me of time on the ocean or lake, blue skies and adventure!

Lapis lazuli details in "The Ascension" by Jacopo di Cione (1371)

Lapis lazuli is a gemstone that has been adored by people for millennia, having been mined in Afghanistan since 7,000 BC. It is one of the first gemstones to be worn as jewellery, and Cleopatra is said to have used powdered lapis lazuli as eye shadow (only slightly more glamorous than Cover Girl, right?). 

The brilliant "ultramarine" blue pigment created from ground lapis lazuli was also used by Baroque or Renaissance painters in their masterpieces - often to depict the robes of angels or The Virgin Mary, and some palaces and church walls from the Middle Ages have panels inlaid with lapis. It is in fact one of the most expensive pigments ever created and worth more than it's weight in gold!

While lapis lazuli is most commonly known for or associated with a deep, celestial blue, it can be found in varying shades of the color - from light to dark. Some lapis lazuli also contains white streaks of calcite, especially that which is mined in Russia or Chile. The brassy, golden veins that are often seen running through this gemstone? Pyrite, or fool's gold, as it's more commonly known and which lends a beautiful shimmer to this otherwise opaque stone. 
 

Lapis jewels in our SS'14 Look Book

Lapis lazuli is said to be a symbol of wisdom and truth, and the stone of friendship. Those who study healing gemstones say lapis lazuli can aid in the process of learning and enhance memory. It is even thought to possess visionary properties and is considered one of the most powerful gemstones for spiritual awareness.

Personally, I love the depth of color this gemstone can possess, especially when it is marbled with pyrite and in a shade of midnight blue.

How do you feel about lapis lazuli? Is it a beauty in your eyes too?

Gold-Filled vs. Gold-Plated - What's the Difference?

Hey friends! Today I've put together a simple guide to everything you need to know about gold-filled versus gold-plated jewellery. You know I like to keep you in the know, and since this is a question I get a lot from my customers, I thought I'd put together a little cheat sheet on what's what:


1.) What is it?

Gold fill is a solid layer of gold, bonded with heat and pressure, to another metal - typically brass. 

Gold plating (sometimes referred to as "gold dipped") involves a microscopic layer of gold being applied to base metal, usually through the process of electroplating.

2.) The amount of gold used

Gold fill must be at least 1/20 or 5% gold by weight, in accordance with government stands; the gold layer on gold-plated jewellery can vary broadly depending on the manufacturer and is not regulated.

3.)  Longevity

Gold-filled can be worn daily (some say, for 5-30 years) without wearing off, tarnishing or discoloring. Gold-plated jewellery varies in it's longevity, can scratch, wear off, and as a result, will last a much shorter period of time.

4.) Cleaning

Gold-filled jewellery can be polished and cleaned with jewellery cleaner (though I advise against using most cleaners - find out why in our Top Ten Jewellery Care Tips!). 

Gold plating can easily wear off if it's cleaned - at most, rub very gently with a soft cloth, and watch carefully in case you wipe off the plating.

5.)  Allergies & Skin Sensitivities

Gold-filled jewellery is in most cases fine for people with allergies to gold plating and base metals: as long as you can wear the type of gold that is used in gold fill (usually 14-karat), you shouldn't experience a reaction. Unfortunately gold plating can often cause a reaction in those with sensitive skin. 


Alright folks, there you have it. I'm proud to state that 99% of our own gold products are made using gold-fill, and the remaining minority use gold vermeil, which is a thicker type of gold-plating on top of a sterling silver core - not base metal).

Do you look for jewellery that is made from specific metals, or are you easy going on the matter? I'd love to hear what considerations come into play for you when you're shopping - you can leave a comment below to share your input!

How To Layer Necklaces

Cee, from Coco & Vera, shows us layering done right.

Happy Friday! I hope you are as excited for this long weekend as I am! Thanksgiving is one of my favorite holidays, and I'm looking forward to cooking up a turkey storm and enjoying some fun, r&r and adult beverages with friends and family this weekend. Plus, one of my good girlfriends is getting hitched on Saturday, so it's double the reason to celebrate in high style.

I've had a few customers ask me about the mystery of layering necklaces recently, so I thought I would share a few tips, to help clear up any question marks about how to go about this tricky business. Truth be told, there is no right or wrong way to layer your necklaces, however, there are a few things to keep in mind to help you answer the question, does this look alright?? before you walk out the door.

1.) Delicate pieces tend to layer best. That's not to say that chunky, statement making necklaces can't be worn together, but it's definitely a more challenging look to pull off. By sticking with simple, classic lines you can avoid overkill and keep your layered look subtle.

2.) Look for commonalities between pieces to help tie your look together. In other words, find a common element between the necklaces you're layering: maybe both pieces have a charm pendant, perhaps they share the same metal colour, have a similar silhouette, etc.

3.) Less is more. Okay, in fairness this is completely my own philosophy to abide by, but you know the saying that after getting dressed, you should always look in the mirror and take one accessory off? In the world of layering necklaces, if you've piled the pieces on and are feeling in doubt -- take one off. Ahh...that's better.

4.) Mix up the lengths. By varying the lengths of the necklaces you are layering, you can help avoid looking too "piled on" and really showcase the beauty of each individual piece.

And now, let's see some of these tips in action...

Mixed metals are anything but clashing when you tie the look together with complementary gemstones and in this case, two of the same design. The versatile length of our Satellite Necklace means these sparkly beauties can be worn as a perfect duo.

The delicate chain of our Celestial Necklace means you can wear two of these necklaces side by side. You could even add a third, longer gemstone necklace to this look.

One long necklace, one short -- complementary gemstone colors and delicate gold chain -- easy peasy.

Graduated layers and neutral gemstones allow this mixed metal, multi-coloured gemstone, trio of necklaces to be pulled off with ease.







And a final P.S. -- make your layered look the focal point of your style by keeping your outfit simple and chic. A basic black or white top is the perfect canvas for layered perfection.

So, can you pull off layered necklaces no problem? Be sure to leave a comment below with your own tips or thoughts on this style!

Tied Up In Knots

Hey there friends! 

Today I want to share my secrets on how to tackle one of the most common jewellery grievances - tangled, knotted jewellery. While a mess of earrings and necklaces in your jewellery box is one thing, trying to un-knot a delicate chain is another headache all together! Despite my own efforts to be careful with my designs, I still find myself faced with an "impossible knot" more often than I'd care to share.

Recently, I thought it would be a good idea to put not two, but four delicate necklaces that I had made, into the same bag -- just for the short-term. Of course, when I went to find them their own homes, they had somehow migrated into one giant, tangled mess - those suckers really have lives of their own, I tell ya! That problem solved itself after about 30 minutes and two sets of hands - both mine and the boyfriend's - in what devolved into a very special form of couple's therapy. Truly - if you want to test your relationship's patience, try doing something really pain-staking and tedious together. But anyways, I digress, and luckily, my guy is far more even-keeled than I am.

While there isn't a magic bullet that will solve all of your jewellery knot woes, here are a few of my own secrets, to ensure both your sanity - and of course, jewellery - remains unscathed, the next time your jewellery ends up in knots:

1.) Don't start when you're rushed. I know, I know - you reaaaallly wanted to wear that necklace to the dinner party you're due at in five minutes, but trust me - unless it's a simple job - you will work much more efficiently when you're not pressed for time.

2.) Easy does it. Despite the temptation to just tear the sucker apart, you are much less likely to damage your jewellery if you're careful not to pull or tug at the knot.

3.) Mind over matter. Yes, this will make me sound like a mother telling her kids that loading the dishwasher is a game, but think of untangling chain like solving a puzzle. There is a solution, as impossible as it may seem - it's sometimes just a matter of patience, and thinking through the problem a bit before just aimlessly going to town.

4.) The Pin Trick. This is my favorite of the bunch! If you have a super tricky knot that you can't un-work with your fingers alone, take a safety pin, or stick pin, and gently push it through the center of the knot. Be careful not to accidentally put the pin into a link in the chain, but rather, the knot itself. Then, gently wiggle the pin until you can create a big enough gap in the knot to pull it apart.

5.) Take a breather.  If all else fails, walk away, my friend. There's really no need to curse and stomp your feet over this one. Ask someone else to take a go at the knot, or go back to it when you're feeling fresh.

Finally, to hopefully reduce the number of horrible-tangled-knotted-messes in future, here are a few preventative tips:

1.) Store items separately from one another, either in different jewellery box compartments, or tiny plastic bags (psst! check out my post here on another reason why plastic bags are great for jewellery!)

2.) Never throw items haphazardly in your purse or bag. If you remove items at the gym or on the go, assign them their own pocket, or safe space.

3.) If you must leave your jewels out on a dresser or nightstand, lay them out nicely rather than dropping them in a pile. That way when you go to put them back on, you can be sure they won't be tangled up. 

Do you have any tricks for untangling jewellery or keeping your jewellery stored safely? Leave a comment below and tell me your tips - I'd love to hear them!

Amazing Amazonite

Seven Seas Necklace - $55

Hey, all you beautiful people! Today on the blog I wanted to share a bit about another one of my favorite gemstones: amazonite. Amazonite features heavily in my latest collection, and customers are loving it's gorgeous turquoise color! When I first spotted the beautiful amazonite I used in the Spring line, it was really the starting point for the whole collection - the bright and juicy gemstones reminded me of warm weather and days by the ocean, and I just knew this gem would be a focal point in the new line.   

Reef Bracelet - $85

Amazonite can range in color from pale blue, to the deep blue-green shade seen in the Keltie Leanne Spring line. This mineral can be found in the United States, Brazil, Zimbabwe, Australia and Namibia, while the gemstone used in our collection is Russian amazonite. 

Style blogger, Marion Berry, wearing the Refresh Necklace

The healing philosophy of gemstones tells us that amazonite enhances communication, especially when worn at the throat, and has powerful healing properties. Amazonite is said to get it's name from the Amazon River, where many deposits of this mineral have been found, and is sometimes referred to as the "Hope Stone" because it is thought to inspire confidence and hope. 

Which of these amazonite pieces is your favorite?

Presenting Carnelian...

Carnelian Marquis - $85

Today I thought I'd share a bit about another one of my favorite gemstones: carnelian. This powerful gemstone can range in color from reddish brown through orange, translucent to opaque. As you can tell, I lean towards using a juicy orange carnelian in my own designs - the color is so delicious I could almost eat these gemstones. Yah, I'm kind of a jewellery nerd sometimes. 

Carnelian comes from India and parts of South America, and in addition to ruby, is the birth stone for all of you July babies. It's also the zodiac stone for Taurus; to be honest, I didn't know zodiac signs had gemstones too, but maybe this explains my own attraction to the stone, as I just happen to be a Taurus!

Energy Necklace - $55

The metaphysical properties of gemstones say that carnelian can increase energy and provide personal power. Sound familiar? Our Energy Necklace just happens to be one of our best-sellers, so you Energy Necklace wearers tell me - does this piece make you feel more energetic? 

A Word on Jewellery Care

Hello lovely readers! 

Today I thought I would take a moment and say a few words about caring for your favorite jewels. I was inspired to write this post after getting a call from one of my customers who was very sad to report that one of her bracelets from my collection had broken. I told her I would be happy to repair the piece for her and was thrilled to hear how much she loved this particular piece. Very much, she answered, "though I guess I probably shouldn't wear it to bed." Oh dear...

Can I just say, ladies, please don't wear your favorite jewellery to bed! Okay, your wedding rings I can make exception for, but really, if you want your pieces to live a long and happy life - and not strangle yourself with your necklace while sleeping - it's really not the best idea. I have one girlfriend who told me she loves one of her Keltie Leanne Designs necklaces so much, she wears it in the shower (just, no...don't do that). So, a few words on this topic:

1.) Gemstones are delicate! - some of them are quite soft, and if faced with certain stressors they can discolor, or fracture or dull. I'm not saying to keep your jewellery under lock and key, but unnecessary elements like soap, excessive sunlight, water (especially chlorinated pool or saltwater) are just, well, unnecessary. Same goes for metals, like gold fill and sterling silver. Check out my post here, on a simple jewellery storage trick to keep your pieces in tip top shape.

 2.) If you wear your jewellery while playing sports, sleeping or otherwise engaging in er, frisky behavior, they are liable to get damaged. So take a minute and leave that pretty gemstone pendant in your locker when sweating it out at the gym.

3.) Handmade and high quality materials does not mean invincible. Yes, we take every step necessary to ensure that Keltie Leanne creations are resilient and will last under normal wear and tear. But this does not mean that that long, delicate chain necklace you love so much, can withstand the same sort of abuse that a more sturdy accessory, like a metal cuff, might handle. Remove scarves with care (I've heard a couple of sad scarf vs. necklace stories lately, and let's just say that scarf won), and un-do the clasps on your bracelets rather than rolling them over your hand to remove them - even if it fits.

4.) The backings that come with your earrings are not just "part of the packaging" (as one customer mistakenly thought). All of our earrings come with a pair of backings that we suggest wearing, to help prevent losing them. You can also pick up a package for a few dollars at your local bead or craft store - Country Beads on West 4th in Vancouver carries them.

So how are your own jewellery care habits measuring up? Do you treat your favorite pieces with love, or do you have your own jewellery neglect stories you'd care to share?

PS - One time I lost one of my all-time favorite sterling silver bracelets...only to find it one year later in the washing machine door sealant. Surprisingly, it was not as clean as you might imagine.

Gold Fill - What's in a Name?

While I was at the Portobello West Market this past weekend, I decided to make it my mission to ensure that all of my customers and prospective customers knew exactly what they were getting when they bought one of my designs (aside from the obvious - a pretty piece of jewellery!). I let them know that my gold pieces used 14-karat gold fill and asked if they knew what that was. Since the majority didn't know what this meant, or what the benefit of gold-filled metal was (and how would you? It's not like you're all hardcore jewellery nerds like me!) I thought it was time to enlighten you folks. Thus, today I present, What is gold fill, and why the heck do you care??

Let me start off with the fact that gold-filled jewellery isn't actually filled with gold (whomever named it gold fill, clearly wasn't the sparkliest gemstone in the jewellery box). Rather, it is a thick layer of gold that is bonded over another metal - typically brass or copper. Regulations require that gold-fill must be at least 5% or 1/20th gold content. Please note - gold-filled is not the same thing as plated gold. 

How is it different? Gold-filled jewellery will not wear off or discolor like plated gold jewellery. It gives the same look as real gold though at a lesser cost than what you'd pay for an actual 14-karat gold piece of jewellery. Plus, the layer of gold in gold-filled jewellery is typically 50 to 1,000 times thicker than plated gold! Gold-filled jewellery is great for women who have skin sensitivities or allergies - if you can wear 14-karat gold, you can wear 14-karat gold filled jewellery.

All of the clasps and earring hooks in our gold designs use gold-filled metal. The majority of the chain I use is also gold-filled, with the exception being a few pieces, and some chunkier components I use, which are gold vermeil (gold plating over sterling silver).

So there you have it! Just one of the features that makes Keltie Leanne Designs jewellery the type of high quality pieces you will be able to keep forever.