The Materials We Choose
Every piece at Bijou by Sam is handcrafted from materials chosen for their beauty, durability, and everyday wearability. We don’t use shortcuts or mass-produced components. Instead, we work with metals and gemstones that feel as good as they look, pieces you can wear daily without worry.
Argentium Sterling Silver
We use .940 Argentium Sterling Silver for its exceptional anti-tarnish properties and lasting quality. Unlike traditional sterling silver, Argentium resists tarnishing naturally, which means your jewelry stays bright and beautiful with minimal care. It’s hypoallergenic, durable, and feels luxurious because it is. No plating, no shortcuts, just solid silver that lasts.
14k Gold Fill
Our gold pieces are crafted from 14k Gold Fill, not plated or vermeil. Gold fill offers the warmth, beauty, and durability of solid gold at an accessible price. It’s a thick layer of real 14k gold mechanically bonded to a base metal, which means it won’t flake, chip, or wear off like plating does. You get the look and feel of fine jewelry that’s made to last through everyday life.
Natural Gemstones
We choose gemstones purely for how they look and feel. Each stone is selected for its color, light, and the quiet beauty it brings to a piece. From the soft purple of amethyst to the deep blue of lapis lazuli, the calming aqua-green of amazonite, and the warm orange-red of carnelian, our gemstones add subtle color and natural variation to every design. Because they’re natural, each stone is slightly unique, which means your jewelry is truly one of a kind.
How to Care for Your Jewelry
Handcrafted jewelry is made to be worn and loved, not hidden away. With simple, thoughtful care, your pieces will stay beautiful for years.
Daily Wear
Your Bijou by Sam jewelry is designed for everyday life. Wear it often. The natural oils from your skin actually help keep silver bright. That said, it’s best to put your jewelry on last, after applying lotions, perfumes, or hairspray, and take it off first when you get home.
Cleaning Silver
Argentium Sterling Silver naturally resists tarnish, but if you notice any dulling over time, a gentle polish with a soft jewelry cloth will restore its shine. For deeper cleaning, use warm water with a drop of mild dish soap and a soft toothbrush to gently clean around gemstones and details. Rinse thoroughly and pat dry with a soft cloth.
Cleaning Gold Fill
14k Gold Fill requires very little maintenance. Simply wipe with a soft, dry cloth after wearing to remove oils and keep it glowing. If needed, clean with warm water and mild soap, rinse well, and dry completely. Avoid harsh chemicals and abrasive cleaners.
Caring for Gemstones
Natural gemstones are durable but deserve gentle handling. Clean them with warm water and a soft cloth. Avoid ultrasonic cleaners, steam, and harsh chemicals, as these can damage delicate stones. Store gemstone jewelry separately to prevent scratching.
Storage
Store your jewelry in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and humidity. Keep pieces separated in a jewelry box, pouch, or soft cloth to prevent scratching. If you’re not wearing a piece for a while, storing it in an airtight bag can help slow any natural tarnishing.
What to Avoid
Remove your jewelry before swimming, bathing, exercising, or cleaning. Chlorine, saltwater, sweat, and household cleaners can damage metals and gemstones over time. It’s also best to remove jewelry before bed to prevent tangling or bending delicate pieces.
Small-Batch, Made When You Order
Every piece is handcrafted in my Montana studio when you place your order. I don’t use pre-made components. I form every jump ring, shape every earwire, and set every stone by hand. This slow, intentional process means your jewelry is made just for you, with care and attention to every detail.
If you ever have questions about caring for your jewelry or need repair guidance, I’m here to help. Your pieces are meant to be cherished, and I want them to last.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Argentium silver tarnish?
Argentium Sterling Silver naturally resists tarnishing much better than traditional sterling silver. While it may develop a slight patina over time with wear, it won’t tarnish quickly or dramatically. A simple wipe with a soft jewelry cloth keeps it bright. The natural oils from your skin actually help maintain its shine.
What’s the difference between gold fill and gold plated?
14k Gold Fill has a thick layer of real 14k gold mechanically bonded to a base metal, making up at least 5% of the item’s total weight. Gold plated jewelry has only a microscopic layer of gold applied to the surface. Gold fill won’t flake, chip, or wear off like plating does. It offers the look, feel, and durability of solid gold at an accessible price, and it lasts for years with proper care.
How do I clean my gemstone jewelry without damaging it?
Clean natural gemstone jewelry gently with warm water and a soft cloth. For detailed cleaning around settings, use a drop of mild dish soap and a soft toothbrush, then rinse thoroughly and pat dry. Avoid ultrasonic cleaners, steam, harsh chemicals, and abrasive materials. These can damage delicate stones or loosen settings.
Can I wear my handmade jewelry every day?
Yes! Your Bijou by Sam jewelry is designed for everyday wear. Both Argentium Sterling Silver and 14k Gold Fill are durable enough for daily life. Just remember to put your jewelry on last (after lotions and perfumes) and take it off first when you get home. Remove it before swimming, bathing, or exercising to protect it from chemicals and moisture.
How should I store my handcrafted jewelry?
Store your jewelry in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and humidity. Keep pieces separated in a jewelry box, soft pouch, or cloth to prevent scratching. If you’re not wearing a piece for an extended period, storing it in an airtight bag can help slow any natural tarnishing of silver.
What materials do you use in your jewelry?
Every piece is handcrafted from .940 Argentium Sterling Silver or 14k Gold Fill, paired with natural gemstones chosen for their color and beauty. We don’t use plated metals, mass-produced components, or synthetic stones. Every jump ring, earwire, and detail is made by hand in our Montana studio.
Will my jewelry turn my skin green?
No. Both Argentium Sterling Silver and 14k Gold Fill are high-quality metals that won’t turn your skin green. Skin discoloration typically happens with low-quality plated or alloyed metals, which we don’t use. Our materials are hypoallergenic and safe for sensitive skin.
How do I keep my silver jewelry from tarnishing?
The best prevention is regular wear. The natural oils from your skin help keep Argentium silver bright. When you’re not wearing a piece, store it in an airtight bag or anti-tarnish pouch. Keep jewelry away from humidity, chlorine, and household cleaners. If tarnish does appear, a gentle polish with a soft jewelry cloth restores the shine.
Can I shower or swim with my jewelry on?
It’s best to remove your jewelry before showering, swimming, or bathing. Chlorine, saltwater, soap, and shampoo can damage metals and gemstones over time. While our materials are durable, protecting them from prolonged water exposure and chemicals helps them last longer and stay beautiful.
What if my jewelry needs repair?
I’m here to help. If your piece needs repair or adjustment, please reach out. Because every item is handcrafted in my studio, I understand exactly how it was made and can guide you through care or repair options. Your jewelry is meant to be cherished, and I want it to last.