I always try to source the best quality materials and consumables from local and/or UK small businesses. I do not buy bulk chinese mass produced items to use for my products.
Aluminium (used for Trainers Tags/Bracelets/Keyrings and other jewellery items)
Aluminium is a wonderful metal to use for hand-stamping for so many reasons. Its easier to stamp and form than some of the harder metals and once polished can remain shiny with little effort needed for the end user. On the whole I use 1050 fod grade Aluminium which is non-tarnish and Hypo-allergenic.
It is very lightweight so perfect to use for things worn by children, on shoes and/or for a large keyring. Because it is softer than Steel it can suffer from wear and tear a little more than other metals though.
Stainless Steel (Bracelets/Pet items/chains/pendants/jump rings/ear-wires etc)
Highly durable, stainless steel is great for items that are heavier duty in use. Keyrings/chains in particular. Stainless Steel is also a very good option for people who suffer from skin reactions to other base metals/Silver.
Much harder to stamp than other metals I have to use superior stamps that are specfically hardened for steel use. With that in mind, some of my bigger more complex/intricate stamps are not suitable for use on Stainless Steel
Sterling Silver (Chains/Pendants/Earrings/Bracelets/findings for gemstones)
Sterling Silver (Assayed 925 purity) is the most affordable of all the Precious Metals. As it is an alloy of copper it is very important to note that some people may have skin reactions to Sterling Silver which may either tarnish the metal or marr skin.
Sterling Silver should not be worn in places where it regularly comes into contact with chemicals - such as in a swimming poor/hot tub/shower etc and some perfumes may also cause tarnishing. It is an easily polished metal though so it can easily be cleaned at home or you can send your items to me to be polished professionally.
Many high street shops have taken to Rhodium-plating Silver items to try to keep them shiny for longer but this has been found ineffectual in the long run. I do not offer Rhodium plating.
Gemstones (all fine jewellery items)
I only source Gemstones and Semi-precious Gemstones from UK Conflict-free suppliers and all of the stones I use have been Certified as Authentic. I can trace my stones back to the Source country and in many cases even back to the actual mine. Though I do not include Certification with my pieces I am more than happy to provide this information if you need it.