Our Materials
We currently stock bright aluminium (which is uncoated and bare metal), anodised aluminium (coated with a protective layer), bronze, copper, jewellers brass, titanium and stainless steel for jewellery making and specifically chainmaille. Let’s have a closer look at each one…
Aluminium
Aluminium is a great choice for modern jewellery due to its light weight, durability, sustainability as well as being budget-friendly. Although it is not considered hypoallergenic by itself, our rings do not contain nickel and the anodised aluminium has a protective coating which makes it especially suitable for those with sensitive skin. This coating can also be dyed, creating the wide range of colours you see on the website. With so many options, your creativity is just waiting to go to a next level!
Bronze, Copper and Jewellers Brass
The bronze rings we stock are ½ hard and the wire is C510 (Cu-Tin Alloy).
The copper rings we stock are made from full hard wire for strength and they are solid copper – C110.
The brass rings are made from ½ hard wire from C226 wire – a Cu-Zinc Alloy.
All of the above materials can react with the natural oils and sweat in people’s skin which can leave a greenish tinge behind. The pieces themselves may develop a natural tarnish that can be easily restored or left as a patina.
Titanium
Titanium is incredibly strong, yet incredibly lightweight which can make an excellent alternative for jewellery. Titanium is hypoallergenic which makes it a great material for people with metal allergies and sensitive skin.
Stainless Steel
Stainless steel is also an excellent choice for all chainmaille and jewellery making uses. Our rings and findings are made from 304 stainless steel which although not specifically hypoallergenic, it is a good alternative for those with sensitive skin. It is strong, durable and very easy to maintain.
UK REACH and EU REACH Regulations
As sellers of supplies and finished products, we have a legal obligation to adhere to both local legislation and those in other countries. One such legislation is that of REACH (registration, evaluation, authorisation and restriction of chemicals), originally an EU regulation and that now has a UK equivalent after Brexit. But what does this regulation mean for us as a seller and you as a consumer?
In a nutshell, REACH is there to keep people safe. The majority of the items we sell are considered as articles. They are in their final form as components for you to use - clasps, chains, pendants, jump rings etc, therefore will not be manufactured any further and therefore this "determines its function to a greater degree than its chemical composition" (EU REACH articles definition). However, for due diligence the manufacturer of our stainless steel rings has had the original wire tested and we can confirm they do meet REACH requirements for levels of nickel, yay!!