Frequently Asked Questions

Caring for Your Jewellery

Jewellery can become dull over time due to exposure to detergents, moisturizers, and other chemicals. Ideally, you should remove your jewellery to protect it from such substances. If it does become dull, a quick polish with a soft cloth or jewellery cloth can brighten it up. Use a soft toothbrush with jewellery cleaner or mild liquid soap and warm water to gently clean your pieces. Dry with a soft cloth. Be cautious when cleaning porous and soft gemstones.

Choosing the Right Metal

Gold: M&M’s offers gold in 9Ct and 18Ct. The 9Ct gold contains 37.5% pure gold (375), while 18Ct gold contains 75% pure gold(750), making it more expensive. Both types are alloyed with other metals. Gold colours include rose gold, yellow gold, and white gold. White gold is more expensive than yellow and rose/red gold and requires rhodium plating for a whiter appearance.

Sterling Silver: M&M’s uses 925 sterling silver.

Allergies & Reactions

Some people may develop an allergic reaction to a ring over time due to hormonal changes, weather (sweat), or the metal alloy, such as nickel. Rhodium or gold plating can help alleviate allergies by creating a protective layer between the alloy and skin. M&M uses nickel-free gold.

Rhodium & Gold Plating

Rhodium: White gold rings are traditionally plated with rhodium to achieve the whitest appearance. This plating will wear off over time but should do so gradually and evenly. If the ring becomes too yellow, you can send it back for re-plating (at an extra cost).

Gold Plating: M&M’s uses rose and yellow gold plating for certain silver pieces. Plating is not permanent, as it is a thin metal layer coating the sterling silver. It wears off over time depending on usage and exposure to chemicals such as chlorine and detergents. Skin acidity can also affect the longevity of the plating. The piece will eventually return to its silver appearance and can be re-plated anytime.

Sizes and Sizing

Ring Sizes and Sizing: The best way to determine your ring size is to visit a local jeweller and have your finger professionally measured. Sizes can be altered or custom-made upon special request.

Please note that all services depend on the condition of the jewellery. Meagan and Colette can provide advice based on the specific state of your items.

Book an Appointment

Contact us: Tel:  +27 21 794 1181 | Email: info@maackandmartin.co.za | Studio Hours: Mon-Fri: 09:00 – 17:00

To book an appointment for a consultation or to visit the studio send an email to info@maackandmartin.co.za

N.B. Design consultations or jewellery alterations are only by appointment.