Every piece begins with thoughtful sourcing and ends with expert craftsmanship. From our recycled precious metals to hand-selected pearls and gemstones, we choose materials that are as considered as our designs. Responsibly sourced and carefully handcrafted - it’s jewellery made with integrity, from the inside out.
Our Commitment to Responsible Craftsmanship
Sustainability and Ethics
At Silk & Steel, we believe beautiful jewellery should be made with integrity - from the materials we choose to the hands that craft each piece.
We proudly partner with manufacturing workshops that meet the highest international standards, including RJC (Responsible Jewellery Council) and ISO certifications. These globally recognised standards ensure our jewellery is produced under ethical, fair, and environmentally responsible conditions.
This is part of our ongoing commitment to sustainability and craftsmanship - creating jewellery you can feel proud to wear, now and always.
“We’re committed to creating jewellery with purpose - honouring the people who craft our pieces, our community, and the planet. It’s a privilege to lead a brand where ethical production and conscious design are woven into everything we do.”
— Sarah Cotterall, Founder and Creative Director
Our Metals
We design using recycled sterling silver and gold, plus high-quality stainless steel -chosen for their beauty, durability, and lower environmental impact.
9k Solid Gold
Forever starts here. These solid gold pieces are crafted to last a lifetime and certified by the Responsible Jewellery Council - so you can wear them with confidence (and never take them off).
14k Gold Plated
We use high-quality, durable 14k gold plating - electroplated onto sterling silver and PVD plated onto stainless steel. No flash plating here - just a thick, long-lasting finish designed to be worn and loved.
Sterling Silver
We use 925 sterling silver - that’s 92.5% pure silver, blended with a touch of copper for strength, then finished with rhodium for extra shine and durability. Look out for the ‘925’ stamp - it’s the mark of the real deal.
Stainless Steel
We use high-quality, recycled stainless steel that’s made to last. It’s strong, shiny, hypoallergenic, and super durable - perfect for everyday wear and built to stand the test of time.
Mixed Metals
Torn between gold and silver? Wear both! Our mixed metal designs blend silver and gold stainless steel for the best of both worlds - no choosing necessary.
Enamel
A smooth, hand-painted finish that adds depth and detail to your jewellery. Each piece is carefully crafted for a clean, polished look.
Our Gemstones
We only use 100% natural semi-precious gemstones - each one hand-selected for its unique colour, clarity, and character. No two are the same, and many are believed to hold special meaning. Curious? Explore the stories behind the stones.
Black Onyx for Strength
Need a little clarity? Black Onyx is said to help you tune into your intuition and stay grounded. The perfect stone to keep close when life feels a little full on.
Pearls for Wisdom
We use cultured freshwater pearls in beautiful, natural shapes - no two are ever the same. Perfectly imperfect and full of meaning.
Rose Quartz for Love
Known as the stone of love, Rose Quartz is all about opening the heart - to self-love, real love, and everything in between. Soft, soothing, and full of beautiful energy.
Smokey Quartz for Protection
Need a little energetic shield? Smokey Quartz is said to help clear negativity and keep you grounded. It’s the stone to wear when you want to feel calm, steady, and protected.
Brazilian Amethyst for Clarity
Known for its calming energy, Brazilian Amethyst is said to clear the mind and soothe the soul. It’s the perfect stone for slowing down and tuning in.
White Topaz for Focus
White Topaz is all about clarity - of thought, vision, and purpose. It’s said to help cut through the noise and bring a little more sparkle to your intentions.
We design our jewellery to be worn and loved - but a little extra care goes a long way in keeping each piece shining bright.
Our jewellery is delicate by nature, so be gentle when wearing and storing your pieces.
Try to avoid contact with perfumes, lotions, hairspray, nail polish remover, or household cleaners - they can dull the finish and cause abrasion over time.
Take your jewellery off before hitting the gym, doing the gardening, or lifting anything heavy (especially rings - no one likes a bent shank!)
Chlorine, salt water, and even shower steam can be harsh on metals - especially gold plating.
To enjoy your gold-plated pieces for longer, we recommend wearing them occasionally and storing them safely when not in use. Less wear means longer-lasting shine.
Our gemstones are natural beauties - and like all things in nature, they deserve a little TLC.
Avoid knocks or drops, and remember: inclusions are part of their unique charm, not flaws.
Wipe them gently with a soft, damp cloth after wearing.
Pearls prefer a dry, soft cloth to help them keep their natural glow.
Keep your cord necklace fresh by gently washing in lukewarm water with mild soap. A soft sponge works wonders!
When you’re not wearing your pieces, keep them in a soft pouch or a jewellery box in a dry place.
Avoid direct sunlight, humidity, and extreme temperatures - they don’t mix well with fine jewellery.
A little warm water and detergent-free soap is all you need.
Make sure to dry your jewellery thoroughly afterwards - and skip the polishing cloths and harsh cleaners, especially on plated or gemstone pieces.
We’re happy to help!
If your well-loved piece needs a refresh, simply email a photo to studio@silkandsteel.co.nz and we’ll get back to you with a personalised quote.
