Materials we use
Cubic Zirconia
Cubic Zirconia stones are affordable diamond substitutes, with only their density and strength differentiating them from diamonds. These stones are cut from crystals grown during a manufacturing process and are what most people refer to as man-made diamonds. Specifically they are the crystalline form of zirconium dioxide (ZrO2) with the synthesised stone being hard, optically flawless and usually colourless.
This process creates unique crystals which are beautiful in their own right, with their own clarity and brilliance. We consider that Cubic Zirconia diamonds are superior in quality to the cheaper Rhinestones which are used in much costume jewellery. To ensure the quality of the Prive range we select only the best grade and clarity of cubic zirconia to use in our jewellery range.
Pearls
We use two kinds of pearls. Freshwater cultured pearls are pearls grown just like their natural pearls, but farmed from shellfish in a controlled environment. These Pearls are normally an irregular oval shape, which is ideal in pendants and illuminate with a beautiful pearl glow.
We also use Faux pearls because they have a perfect spherical shape which is ideal in necklaces and provide for a beautiful symmetry. Created from glass these pearls have a lustrous shine. Faux pearls are beautiful as well as affordable.
Crystals
Crystals are made by kiln firing natural minerals and quartz sand which is then cooled slowly to avoid stress and inclusions – producing a brilliant clear crystal. Colour may also be added to the crystal. With such a process superb workmanship is essential for creating the finest quality crystals.
Prive crystal jewellery pieces are made exclusively with genuine Swarovski crystal elements. Since the company’s inception in 1895, the Swarovski family has been known as the makers of the finest crystal in the world.
Rhodium & Brass
Rhodium is a hard, silvery, durable metal that has a high reflectance. Rhodium if often used in jewellery and for decorations, and until recently was worth more than gold. It is electroplated on white gold and platinum to give it a reflective white surface. This is known as rhodium flashing. It may also be used in coatings to protect against tarnish and improve shine. We use Rhodium flashing on brass as the base metals for our jewellery.
Brass is an alloy of copper and zinc. It is one of the most commonly used base metals in jewellery manufacture. We specify our suppliers use nickel free brass, as nickel is the usual cause of jewellery allergy.
Rhinestone
A rhinestone or paste diamante is a diamond simulation made from rock crystal, glass or acrylic. Much costume jewellery in the world is made using rhinestone as they offer a sparkling crystal at low cost. We only use Swarovski elements to maintain the high standard of Prive Bridal Jewellery.