Choosing the right metal and stone is a big part of creating your piece. Each option has its own colour, character, durability and price point, so I've put together a simple guide to help you understand the differences.

Gold:

I work primarily with 9kt, 14kt and 18kt gold. The main difference between them is the percentage of pure gold they contain, which affects their colour, feel, durability and price.

9kt Gold

9kt gold contains 37.5% pure gold.

A lighter, softer gold with less of an orange tone and more of a subtle honey colour. A great choice if you’re working within a budget, while still giving you the beauty and durability of solid gold.

14kt Gold

14kt gold contains 58.5% pure gold.

A richer gold colour that sits beautifully between 9kt and 18kt. It’s not too orange or too yellow, but a beautifully balanced, warm gold. It’s my personal preference.

18kt Gold

18kt gold contains 75% pure gold.

It has the richest, warmest yellow colour of the three. Its higher gold content also makes it the most premium option.

Stones:

There isn't one "best" stone. The right choice depends on how you plan to wear your jewellery and your budget.

Lab Grown Diamonds

Lab grown diamonds are real diamonds, with the same chemical and physical properties as natural diamonds.

They offer incredible brilliance and allow you to choose a larger or higher specification stone for your budget. I source each diamond individually, and all lab grown diamonds I use are IGI certified.

Natural Diamonds

Natural diamonds were formed deep within the earth billions of years ago, making every stone completely unique.

I source both modern and antique natural diamonds, working closely with some of the best London based diamond dealers. My personal preference will always lean towards antique stones when sourcing natural. Their individual cuts, character and natural inclusions make each one incredibly special, with a unique history and characteristics that simply can’t be replicated in a lab

Moissanite

Moissanite is a different gemstone to diamond, known for its high light refraction and durability.

It's often considered a more budget friendly alternative to lab grown diamonds. However, the price difference can be relatively small, and I personally think lab grown diamonds offer considerably better value for a similar budget.

Sapphire

Sapphires are beautiful, durable stones that come in an incredible range of colours, with natural inclusions and variations that can make each stone unique.

I love using smaller sapphires in birthstone bands and larger, one of a kind sapphires as centre stones where budget allows. Their natural colour, inclusions and individuality mean you can find something that feels completely personal to you.

Emerald

Emeralds are known for their rich green colour and naturally occurring inclusions.

They're softer and more delicate than diamonds and sapphires, so they need a little more care when worn every day.