FAQ

What are the materials in your pieces?

Most of the jewelry here at Kit is either Sterling Silver or 10-14k gold. Sterling silver—marked 925—is an alloy made of 92.5% pure silver and 7.5% other metals, usually copper. Pure silver is too soft for most jewelry, so adding a small amount of alloy strengthens it while keeping its bright, classic look. Sterling is durable, wearable, and ages beautifully, which is why it has been a standard in fine jewelry for centuries. Some pieces may be gold-plated silver (often called vermeil when the gold layer is thicker) which is sterling silver coated with a layer of gold. It offers the look and warmth of gold at a more accessible price, though the surface layer can wear over time, especially with frequent exposure to friction, water, or chemicals. Proper care helps extend its life and shine.

10–14k gold is a gold alloy—pure gold mixed with metals like copper, silver, or zinc to create a stronger, more durable material. Pure 24k gold is too soft for most jewelry, so these blends make pieces suitable for everyday wear. 10k gold contains 41.7% pure gold, while 14k gold contains 58.5%, offering a balance of richness in color and long-lasting strength.

Both gold and silver jewelry is usually marked with a maker’s stamp (925 for silver, 10k or 14k for gold). We also test the metal ourselves to validate the content.

How do I care for my items?

All jewelry at Kit is estate, vintage, or antique—each piece has its own history, and light wear is part of its charm. Everything we sell is ready to wear, but older pieces can be more delicate and may not be suited for daily or high-impact use.

Please remove your jewelry before vigorous or hand-heavy activities (sports, gym, gardening), as well as chores like cooking, cleaning, dishwashing, and laundry. Avoid wearing jewelry in the bath or while swimming. Chemicals such as bleach, chlorine, alcohol, and ingredients in hair products, cosmetics, and perfume can cause lasting damage. A simple rule: jewelry goes on last and comes off first.

Porous stones (opal, pearl, turquoise) should avoid water, and closed-back settings should stay dry. Hard stones (diamond, sapphire) are durable but not indestructible—sharp impacts can still chip them, and older settings can weaken over time.

Silver

Proactive maintenance is the best way to prolong the lifespan of sterling silver. Sterling naturally tarnishes when exposed to air and moisture. Regular wear slows this process, but when not in use, store silver pieces in an airtight pouch or box. Clean by wiping with a soft, dry cloth. Light tarnish can be removed with a silver polishing cloth. Avoid dips or harsh cleaners on pieces with porous stones or detailed patina. Ultrasonic cleaners are safe to use on silver jewelry.

Gold

Gold is made to last, but it still benefits from gentle care. Clean your pieces with warm water, mild (detergent-free) soap, and a soft-bristled brush or cloth—never abrasive cleaners. Ultrasonic cleaners are generally safe for 10k and 14k gold, and a polishing cloth can revive gold that has dulled or discoloured over time. Store gold separately to avoid scratches, and dry it with a soft shirt rather than a towel to prevent snagging on settings. If you ever have questions about care or maintenance, we’re always happy to help.

Gemstones

Do not use steam or ultrasonic cleaners on coloured gemstones, as they can damage or permanently discolour them. Most gemstones can be gently cleaned in warm water using non-detergent soap and a soft-bristled brush, or our jewelry care kit.

Pearls

Do not use steam or ultrasonic cleaners.

How do I determine my ring size?

Measure Your Finger

1. Wrap a strip of paper around your finger where you’d like your ring to be.
2. Make sure that the paper is pulled snug to your finger, the tighter the better, to find your best fit.
3. Mark the spot where the paper meets and measure the distance with a ruler (mm).
4. Use the below chart to determine your ring size.

Circumference (mm) US/CAN Ring Size
44.2 3
45.55 3.5
46.8 4
48.07 4.5
49.3 5
50.56 5.5
51.9 6
53.08 6.5
54.4 7
55.6 7.5
57.0 8
58.12 8.5
59.5 9
60.94 9.5
62.1 10
63.45 10.5
64.6 11
65.97 11.5
67.2 12
68.49 12.5
69.76 13

 

Sustainability

I chose to sell vintage and estate pieces because they’re one of the most sustainable and ethical ways to enjoy fine jewelry. Every pre-loved ring, chain, or pendant already exists; no new mining, no new manufacturing, and no additional strain on the environment. By giving these pieces a second life, we keep them in circulation while reducing the demand for newly produced materials, which often come with significant ecological and human costs.

The traditional fine jewelry industry can also feel intimidating and (let's be honest) - a bit pretentious, with inflated pricing and limited transparency around sourcing or labor practices. At the opposite end of the spectrum, many modern “affordable luxury” or “waterproof” brands rely on cheaper metals with gold plating that inevitably wears, tarnishes, or flakes over time. These pieces often end up discarded within a few seasons, contributing to the growing problem of overconsumption.

I honestly believe that vintage jewelry offers a better path: beautifully crafted, built to last, fairly priced, and inherently low-impact. Buying vintage means choosing quality that has already stood the test of time, supporting a circular economy, and wearing something that comes with it's very own story.