by Julie Fountain, 8th April 2025
At Beach Art Glass, every piece of jewellery begins with a love of the sea and ends with something truly special: a handcrafted glass bead, inspired by the coast, paired with precious metals that are as beautiful as they are kind to your skin.
I’m often asked about the metals I use in my jewellery—especially by those with sensitive skin—so I thought I’d take you behind the scenes and explain why I choose the materials I do, and how you can keep them looking their best for years to come. All my findings (that's the metal parts used to turn a bead into a pendant or pair of earrings) are handmade especially for Beach Art Glass by an expert UK silversmith.
Gentle on Skin, Kind to the Planet
If you’ve ever had a reaction to a pair of earrings or a necklace, you’ll know just how important it is to choose the right metals. That’s why I only use high-quality, ethical silver and gold in my designs.
Argentium Silver: Strong, Bright, and Tarnish-Resistant
All of my handmade headpins and bails are crafted from Argentium silver, a modern, hypoallergenic silver alloy that’s more resistant to tarnish than traditional sterling. It’s also nickel-free, making it a wonderful choice for sensitive skin. Unlike standard sterling silver, Argentium contains a touch of germanium, which helps it stay bright and shiny with minimal care.
Ethical Silver Ear wires: Comfortable and Conscious
Your ears deserve the very best. That’s why my ear wires are made with ethical silver, sourced with care and designed for comfort. They’re nickel-free, smooth, and lightweight—perfect for those who find traditional metals irritating.
Sterling Silver Chains: Classic and Elegant
The chains I use are solid sterling silver (92.5% pure silver), offering a classic look that pairs perfectly with my handcrafted beads. Sterling does require a little upkeep to maintain its shine, but it’s a timeless metal that will last for generations when looked after.
Gold Options for a Warmer Touch
If you prefer the warmth of gold, I can offer handmade 9ct gold findings as a bespoke option. 9ct gold is more durable than higher-carat golds, making it ideal for everyday wear, and it’s also generally well tolerated by sensitive skin.
What About the Glass Beads?
Every bead in my collection is handcrafted in the flame by me, using traditional lampworking techniques. After shaping, the beads are annealed slowly in a kiln to relieve stress within the glass—this process not only strengthens them but also ensures they will last a lifetime with a little love and care.
Caring for Your Jewellery
To keep your Beach Art Glass jewellery looking its best:
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Avoid harsh chemicals: Perfume, hairspray, and cleaning products can dull the shine of both silver and glass.
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Store it safely: Keep your jewellery in a dry place, ideally in a soft pouch or box, to prevent tarnishing and scratching.
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Clean gently: A soft polishing cloth works wonders for silver. You can also use a mild soap and warm water to clean your glass beads—just dry them thoroughly afterwards.
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Wear it often! Believe it or not, wearing your silver jewellery regularly actually helps keep it bright.
When you choose Beach Art Glass, you're not just choosing jewellery—you’re choosing carefully selected materials, ethical craftsmanship, and a deep respect for both the sea and the wearer. Whether you're treating yourself or gifting a loved one, you can feel confident that every element has been made with care.
If you have questions about metal sensitivities or would like to request gold findings for a special piece, just get in touch—I'm always happy to help.