FAQ

• Does any of your jewellery contain nickel?

• All of our alloys are nickel free except 14ct white gold. 

• Why do pure metals need to be mixed with other metals?
  
  • You will find examples of jewellery made of pure metals like platinum, but pure gold is soft and not practical for daily wear. Other metals are mixed with gold to improve durability and adjust colour. Adding palladium or nickel produces white gold. Copper produces a rose tint. Silver shifts gold toward a greenish tint. Jewellery made in any of these carats is still solid gold.
    

• How much pure metal is in my jewellery, and how can I tell?
  
  • The purity is shown by a stamp or hallmark on the piece.
  • Platinum commonly 95 percent pure (PT950).
  • Gold: 18ct is 75 percent pure (750). 14ct is 58.5 percent pure (585). 10ct is 41.7 percent pure (417). 9ct is 37.5 percent pure (375). Minimum legal standards vary by country. For example, the US recognises 10ct and the UK recognises 9ct.
  • Fine silver is 99.9 percent pure (999). Sterling silver is 92.5 percent pure (925).

• Do you use titanium or steel?
  
  • We generally do not recommend titanium or tungsten for heirloom rings. They cannot be resized, and removal requires specialist tools. Precious-metal rings can be resized and serviced over a lifetime.

• What kind of hallmarks does Jens Hansen use?
  
  • Your jewellery will carry a fineness mark and our maker’s mark. Where applicable you may also see an individual craftsperson’s mark and approved New Zealand origin marks. These hallmarkings identify metal purity and origin.

• What would be the best carat gold to use for my wedding ring?
  
  • We usually recommend 18ct gold for daily wear. It balances purity with durability. Platinum is also an excellent choice. Silver is not recommended for wedding jewellery that will be worn every day.

• Can I combine two or more different metals in a design?
  
  • Yes. Yellow with white, or platinum with rose, creates a distinct look. 

• How do I keep my silver jewellery clean?
  
  • Regular wear helps reduce tarnish. Silver darkens when left unworn or exposed to sulphur sources like hot pools. Use a silver polishing cloth or a reputable silver dip. A warm soapy wash and a soft toothbrush works for general cleaning. We are happy to sonic clean and buff your jewellery, or you can visit a reputable local jeweller.