Craftsmanship
Every piece in the Strovlin collection is the result of deliberate material choices, precise finishing techniques, and careful construction. This page explains exactly what goes into our jewelry — so you know what you are buying and how to care for it.
Base Metals
The base metal forms the structural foundation of every piece. We work with six primary metals across our 463-product catalog, each chosen for specific performance and aesthetic properties.
Stainless Steel (Titanium Steel / 316L)
Our most widely used metal. Stainless steel — often labeled titanium steel in jewelry — is a chromium-nickel alloy prized for its exceptional durability, corrosion resistance, and hypoallergenic properties. It does not tarnish, rust, or react with sweat or water under normal wear conditions.
- Hardness: High — holds its shape and resists scratching better than softer metals.
- Skin safety: Nickel content is within EU/international safe limits; suitable for sensitive skin.
- Finish options: Polished mirror, brushed matte, PVD gold/rose gold/black coating.
- Found in: Rings, bracelets, necklaces, earrings, anklets, brooches.
Sterling Silver (S925 / 925 Silver)
925 sterling silver is 92.5% pure silver alloyed with 7.5% copper for added strength. The "S925" or "925" stamp is the international hallmark confirming purity. It has a naturally bright, cool-white lustre and is a premium choice for fine-detail work.
- Tarnish: Silver oxidises over time — this is natural and can be reversed with a soft polishing cloth.
- Skin safety: Hypoallergenic for most people; the copper component may cause reactions in those with copper sensitivity.
- Found in: Rings (moissanite, zircon, open-band styles), necklaces (pearl sweater chains), bracelets, earrings, brooches, hair accessories.
Copper & Beryllium Copper
Copper is a warm-toned, highly malleable metal that takes plating exceptionally well. Beryllium copper is a high-performance copper alloy with greater spring strength — used in pieces that require precise tension, such as pull-cord bracelets and adjustable bangles.
- Warmth: Copper's natural reddish tone gives gold-plated pieces a richer, warmer appearance.
- Note: Unplated copper may leave a temporary green mark on skin in humid conditions — this is harmless and washes off.
- Found in: Bracelets (luminous lotus, magnetic therapy, zircon flower), rings, earrings, brooches.
Brass
Brass is a copper-zinc alloy with a naturally golden tone. It is denser and more rigid than pure copper, making it ideal for structured pieces that need to hold a precise shape — particularly hair accessories, ear studs, and statement earrings.
- Weight: Slightly heavier than alloy — gives a premium, substantial feel.
- Found in: Hair accessories (pearl and crystal bridal pieces), ear studs, statement earrings.
Zinc Alloy
Zinc alloy (also called pot metal or zamak) is a lightweight, cost-effective metal that casts into highly detailed shapes with excellent surface definition. It is the preferred base for intricate decorative pieces where fine detail matters more than long-term durability.
- Best for: Detailed pendants, decorative brooches, fashion earrings, and statement pieces worn occasionally.
- Care note: More susceptible to tarnish than stainless steel — keep dry and store in a sealed pouch.
- Found in: Bracelets, rings, necklaces, earrings, brooches.
Plating & Surface Finishes
Plating applies a thin layer of precious or decorative metal over the base metal to achieve the desired colour and finish. We use four primary plating methods across our catalog.
| Finish | Method | Appearance | Durability |
|---|---|---|---|
| 18K Gold Plating | Electroplating — a gold layer (18 karat, 75% pure gold) is deposited onto the base metal using an electric current. | Warm yellow gold; rich and classic. | Good. Thickness varies by piece — thicker plating lasts longer. Avoid abrasives and prolonged water exposure. |
| Rose Gold Plating | Electroplating with a gold-copper alloy layer, giving the characteristic pink-warm tone. | Soft pink-gold; romantic and contemporary. | Good. Same care as gold plating applies. |
| Vacuum / PVD Plating | Physical Vapour Deposition — metal is vaporised in a vacuum chamber and bonded to the surface at a molecular level. Used on our stainless steel pieces. | Available in gold, rose gold, black, and steel colour. Exceptionally even finish. | Excellent — the most durable plating method we use. Significantly more scratch- and fade-resistant than standard electroplating. |
| Electroplating (Standard) | Electric current deposits a metal layer (gold, silver, rose gold, black) onto the base metal. | Bright, uniform colour across the surface. | Moderate. Thickness determines longevity. Avoid harsh chemicals, perfume, and prolonged moisture. |
| Drop Oil / Enamel | Coloured resin or enamel is applied into recessed areas of the metal and cured to create vivid, durable colour fills. | Opaque, glossy colour — used in heart bracelets, flag rings, and decorative pendants. | Good. Colour is sealed within the metal recess and resists chipping under normal wear. |
| Brushed / Matte Finish | The metal surface is abraded with fine abrasives to create a non-reflective, textured appearance. | Understated, contemporary — used on wishing stone pendants and geometric rings. | Very good. Matte surfaces hide minor scratches better than polished finishes. |
Stones & Embellishments
We use a range of stones and decorative elements across our catalog — from lab-grown precision-cut stones to natural freshwater pearls and handpicked raw gemstones.
Cubic Zirconia (Zircon)
A lab-grown crystalline stone that closely mimics the brilliance of diamond. Precision-cut for maximum light refraction. Used extensively across rings, bracelets, and necklaces. Hardness: 8–8.5 Mohs.
Moissanite
A lab-grown silicon carbide stone with a refractive index higher than diamond — meaning it produces more fire and brilliance. Used in our S925 silver moissanite rings. Hardness: 9.25 Mohs.
Rhinestone / Crystal
Faceted glass or acrylic stones with a reflective foil backing. Deliver high sparkle at an accessible price point. Used in rhinestone bracelets, crystal star rings, and statement earrings.
Freshwater Pearl
Naturally cultivated pearls harvested from freshwater molluscs. Each pearl is unique in shape and lustre. Used in our S925 silver pearl necklace and pearl pendant necklaces. No two pieces are identical.
Natural Gemstones
Raw and semi-polished natural stones including aquamarine, green aventurine, amethyst, black crystal, and blue goldstone. Used in our handmade braided gemstone bracelets. Natural inclusions and colour variation are expected and desirable.
Moonstone / Opal (Synthetic)
Lab-created opalescent stones that display a shifting colour play (adularescence). Used in moonstone pendant necklaces. Consistent colour and clarity across the range.
Beeswax (Amber)
Natural beeswax amber inlaid into Thai silver settings. Each piece carries the natural warmth and translucency of genuine amber. Used in our retro Thai silver beeswax bracelet.
Ceramic Beads
Hand-glazed ceramic beads in a range of artisan finishes — ice crack, flower glaze, and crackle patterns. Each bead is individually fired, making every bracelet subtly unique.
Stone-Setting Techniques
| Technique | Description | Used In |
|---|---|---|
| Micro-Pavé / Micro-Inlay | Tiny stones are set flush into the metal surface using a microscope-assisted process. Creates a seamless, all-over sparkle with no visible prongs. | Geometric bracelets, zircon rings, interlocking bracelets |
| Prong Setting | Metal claws hold the stone above the surface, maximising light entry from all angles for maximum brilliance. | Solitaire pendant necklaces, moissanite rings |
| Bezel Setting | A continuous metal rim encircles the stone, holding it securely. The most protective setting — ideal for everyday wear. | Oval star zircon rings, geometric pendant necklaces |
| Channel Setting | Stones are set in a row within a metal channel, with no metal between stones. Creates a clean, continuous line of sparkle. | Tennis bracelets, eternity-style rings |
| Drop Oil / Inlay | Coloured resin is poured into engraved recesses and cured. Creates vivid, durable colour fills without stones. | Heart bracelets, flag rings, enamel pendants |
Handcraft & Construction Techniques
Braiding & Weaving
Several pieces in our collection are hand-braided or hand-woven. Our ethnic woven bracelets, natural gemstone braided bracelets, and rice bead woven necklaces are constructed by hand using traditional cord and bead techniques. No two handmade pieces are perfectly identical — minor variations in bead placement and cord tension are a mark of authentic handcraft.
Pull-Cord & Adjustable Construction
Our pull-cord bracelets (e.g. Luminous Lotus Pull Bracelet, Gold Flower Bead Pull Rope Bracelet) use a sliding knot mechanism that allows the wearer to adjust the fit without a clasp. The cord is knotted using a specific technique that holds tension without slipping under normal wear.
Chain Construction
We carry multiple chain architectures across our necklace and bracelet range:
- Snake bone chain: Smooth, flexible links that create a fluid, scale-like surface. Resistant to kinking.
- Cuban link chain: Interlocking oval links with a flat, uniform face. Bold and substantial.
- Twisted rope chain: Multiple strands twisted together for a textured, dimensional look.
- Blade / herringbone chain: Flat, wide links that lie flush against the skin. Highly reflective.
- Box chain: Square links connected at right angles. Clean, geometric, and kink-resistant.
Open-Band & Adjustable Ring Construction
The majority of our rings feature an open-band design — a gap in the band that allows the ring to be gently pressed inward or outward to fit the finger. This is achieved by leaving the band ends unjoined during forming. The metal is work-hardened to hold its shape after adjustment.
Casting & Forming
Decorative elements — pendants, charms, and shaped ring bands — are produced by casting molten metal into precision moulds. After casting, each piece is hand-finished: excess metal is filed away, surfaces are polished or brushed, and stones are set individually.
Quality Standards
| Standard | What It Means for You |
|---|---|
| 925 Hallmark | All sterling silver pieces carry the S925 stamp, confirming 92.5% silver purity. This is the internationally recognised standard for sterling silver. |
| Tarnish Resistance | Stainless steel and PVD-plated pieces are rated tarnish-resistant under normal wear conditions — including sweat, water, and daily handling. |
| Hypoallergenic Materials | Stainless steel and S925 silver are our primary hypoallergenic metals. If you have known metal sensitivities, we recommend these over alloy or copper-based pieces. |
| Lead & Cadmium Compliance | All pieces in our catalog are sourced from suppliers who comply with international jewelry safety standards for lead and cadmium content. |
How to Care for Your Jewelry
Stainless Steel & PVD-Plated
Wipe with a soft, dry cloth after wear. Safe for brief water contact. Avoid prolonged submersion and harsh chemicals. Store separately to prevent surface scratches.
Sterling Silver (S925)
Polish with a silver polishing cloth to remove tarnish. Store in an airtight pouch or box when not in use. Keep away from perfume, chlorine, and sulphur-containing products.
Gold & Rose Gold Plated
Avoid contact with water, perfume, and lotions — these accelerate plating wear. Remove before swimming, bathing, or exercising. Clean with a dry soft cloth only.
Copper & Alloy
Keep dry and store in a sealed pouch. Wipe clean after wear. Occasional tarnish is normal — polish with a soft cloth. Avoid prolonged skin contact if you have copper sensitivity.
Stone-Set Pieces
Avoid ultrasonic cleaners — vibration can loosen micro-pavé settings. Clean gently with a soft damp cloth. Do not soak pieces with glued or resin-set stones.
Handmade & Braided Pieces
Keep away from water — cord and woven elements can weaken when wet. Store flat to maintain shape. Natural gemstone beads may fade with prolonged direct sunlight exposure.
Questions About a Specific Piece?
If you want to know the exact material or construction of a specific product before ordering, we are happy to provide full details. Reach out and we will respond promptly.