Materials & Care

Each DK creature is handmade in Paris. 

Sustainable practices are prioritised throughout the jewellery-making process by using locally-sourced materials and community-based craftspeople. We use lab-grown and natural, ethically sourced gemstones.

Provided below are care guidelines for your chosen material and gems. Keep these in mind to optimise the life of your DK creature. Every piece will treat you, how you treat it ✧

If you have any questions, email dk@daniellekarlikoff.com.

  • Gemstones respond best to gentle wear as they risk being chipped from forceful contact or when dropped on hard surfaces. DK uses both synthetic and natural gemstones throughout her work. Synthetic gemstones have an identical chemical composition to that of natural gemstones. 

    Gemstone care

    • Clean Gently: To maintain the sparkle of your gemstones at home, try a spray ofglass cleaner (ammonia is OK for gems and silver), or dishwashing liquid,and gently brush using a toothbrush and warm water. 

    • Professional Cleaning: For a more thorough cleanse, we are happy to provide this complimentary service excluding postage.

  • Gold (Solid)

    Solid gold jewelry is a timeless investment that can last for generations with proper care. Gold, in its pure form (24kt), is incredibly soft and malleable. To increase its durability and workability, it's alloyed with other metals like silver, copper, and nickel. The karat number (kt) indicates the proportion of pure gold in the alloy.

    • 14kt gold: Contains 58.3% pure gold. The higher alloy content makes it a little more resistant to scratches, however its colour is less lustrous as it has less pure gold. Because it has less pure gold, it is a lower pricepoint to that of 18kt. 

    • 18kt gold: Contains 75% pure gold. Its higher gold content results in a richer, more lustrous appearance. This gold will never tarnish due to its high percentage of pure gold. 

    Gold (solid) care

    • Gentle Cleaning: Use a soft, lint-free cloth to gently wipe away dirt, oils, and fingerprints. Avoid harsh chemicals, abrasive cleaners, or ultrasonic cleaners, as they can damage the gold or its finish.

    • Warm Water Rinse: If necessary, rinse your gold jewelry in warm water and gently dry it with a soft cloth.

    • Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Keep your gold jewelry away from chlorine, saltwater, and other harsh chemicals that can cause discoloration or damage.

    Gold-plating

    Gold-plating refers to a thin layer of 18kt gold plating the metal surface of the piece. It can be applied to various thicknesses. DK uses 3 micron plating for earrings and pendants, and 10 micron plating for rings as it has more contact with the skin and elements. Coating less than 10 microns will wear off gradually over time, however, its longevity is significantly improved when taking the right precautions. 

    Gold-plating care

    • Storage: Keep your gold-plated silver item wrapped in acid-free tissue paper in an airtight container when not in use.

    • Avoid Chemicals: Limit prolonged exposure to sweat, water, and harsh chemicals to help preserve the gold-plating. Try to wear your gold-plated pendants over clothes instead of rubbing against skin.

    • Professional Cleaning: Contact us for a re-plating service if your plating significantly wears off over time, starting from €50 depending on the item, excluding postage.

  • Pearls are delicate and require special care to maintain their lustre and beauty. 

    Pearls care

    • Avoid Chemicals: Avoid using harsh chemicals like chlorine and ammonia on pearls to prevent damage.

    • Clean Gently: Clean pearls by gently wiping them with a soft, damp cloth.

    • Storage: Store pearls in a soft, lined pouch or jewellery box to protect them from scratches and moisture.

  • Sterling silver is an alloy composed of 92.5% pure silver and 7.5% other metals, primarily copper. This alloying process enhances the metal's durability and workability, making it suitable for everyday jewellery wear.

    Sterling silver care

    • Avoid Chemicals: Limit exposure to harsh chemicals like chlorine (swimming pools) and household cleaners. Remove jewelry before swimming, cleaning, or using harsh chemicals.

    • Wear Regularly: Regular wear can help prevent tarnish as the oils from your skin can help maintain the shine.

    • Clean Gently: Use a soft, lint-free cloth to gently wipe away dust and fingerprints. For deeper cleaning, consider using a silver polishing cloth or a mild silver cleaning solution.

    • Professional Cleaning: For a more thorough cleanse, we are happy to provide this complimentary service excluding postage.

  • Individual storage: Store each piece of gold jewellery separately to prevent scratches and tangling.

    Soft pouches or boxes: Use soft pouches or jewellery boxes lined with velvet or satin to protect your gold pieces from scratches and oxidation.

    Avoid exposure to air: When storing gold jewellery for extended periods, consider placing it in airtight containers to minimise exposure to air and moisture.