Jewellery & Watch Materials Guide
At Accessory Mob, we carefully select materials that balance beauty, durability, comfort, and affordability. Below is a detailed guide explaining the materials used across our jewellery and watches, what they mean, and how to care for them.
Understanding Tarnish: What You Need to Know
At Accessory Mob, we believe in being transparent about our pieces. All jewellery, even the finest, will eventually show some signs of tarnish or wear if not properly cared for. But with the right knowledge and maintenance, you can enjoy your accessories for much longer.
Tarnish-Proof vs. Tarnish-Resistant
Tarnish-Proof jewellery will not tarnish because it is made from metals that resist oxidation entirely, such as pure gold or platinum. However, these metals are typically very expensive and are found mainly in high-end fine jewellery.
Tarnish-Resistant jewellery is designed to resist tarnishing for a longer period, but it is not immune to it. Tarnish-resistant pieces are crafted from quality metals like brass, stainless steel, or sterling silver, often coated with a layer of gold, rhodium, or other protective finishes. With proper care, these pieces can keep their shine without the high cost.
Accessory Mob specialises in tarnish-resistant pieces made from brass and stainless steel, sometimes plated with 14k or 18k gold or coated to increase durability. The same metals and techniques are used by major jewellery brands, often at a much higher price. We aim to keep our jewellery affordable without compromising on quality, giving you long-lasting style at a fraction of the cost.
Jewellery Materials
Stainless Steel (Primary Material)
Stainless steel is a strong metal alloy made from iron combined with chromium. The chromium creates a protective layer that helps prevent rust and corrosion. It is one of the best everyday jewellery materials and makes up most of our collection.
Key benefits:
- Highly durable and long-lasting
- Resistant to rust, tarnishing, and corrosion
- Does not fade easily
- Hypoallergenic for most people, gentle on sensitive skin
- Holds its shine with minimal maintenance
Stainless steel jewellery is ideal for daily wear. It can handle regular use and stays looking good longer than many fashion jewellery materials.
Care tips:
- Wipe with a soft cloth after wear
- Store in a dry place
- Avoid harsh chemicals for maximum longevity
Copper Jewellery
Copper is a naturally occurring metal known for its warm, reddish tone. It is lightweight, flexible, and allows us to create affordable and stylish designs.
Key characteristics:
- May darken or develop a natural patina over time
- Can react with moisture, perfumes, or sweat
- May leave a temporary greenish mark on skin (harmless and washable)
Copper jewellery requires a little more care than stainless steel, but it offers beautiful designs at a lower price point.
Care tips:
- Remove before showering or exercising
- Avoid water, perfumes, and lotions
- Store separately to slow oxidation
Brass Jewellery
Brass is an alloy made primarily from copper and zinc, often used as a gold-tone alternative. It allows for elegant, gold-look designs without the high cost of solid gold.
Key characteristics:
- Lightweight with a warm, gold-like appearance
- Can tarnish or darken over time
- May react to moisture and chemicals
Brass jewellery is best suited for occasional wear and fashion styling rather than daily exposure.
Care tips:
- Keep away from water and sweat
- Store in airtight or dry containers
- Gently polish with a soft cloth if needed
Stones & Embellishments
Cubic Zirconia (CZ) Stones
Cubic zirconia stones are lab-created gemstones designed to resemble diamonds. They offer a luxurious sparkle at an accessible price.
Key benefits:
- High clarity and brilliance
- Durable for everyday wear
- More affordable than natural gemstones
- Ethical and consistent in quality
CZ stones give you a diamond-like look without the cost or upkeep of real diamonds.
Care tips:
- Clean gently with a soft cloth
- Avoid harsh chemicals to maintain shine
Rhinestones
Rhinestones are lightweight decorative stones, usually made from glass or acrylic. They allow for fashion-forward, affordable, and trendy designs.
Key characteristics:
- Very lightweight and adds sparkle and colour
- Less durable than CZ stones
- Best for occasional wear
Rhinestone jewellery is ideal for statement looks, events, and styling, rather than heavy daily wear.
Care tips:
- Handle gently
- Avoid water and pressure
- Store carefully to prevent stones loosening
Watch Materials
Our watches are designed to combine style, comfort, and practicality. Different models use different material combinations, explained below.
Stainless Steel Back
The back of the watch that rests against your skin is made from stainless steel. This makes it skin-safe and comfortable, resistant to corrosion, and helps reduce skin reactions while improving the overall durability of the watch.
Stainless Steel Strap (Select Models)
A metal bracelet made from stainless steel. It is strong, durable, resistant to rust and fading, and offers a premium look and feel suitable for daily wear.
Zinc Alloy Case
The watch case (outer body) is made from zinc alloy, a lightweight metal commonly used in fashion watches. It allows for sleek, detailed designs while keeping watches lightweight and affordable. Note that zinc alloy is less durable than stainless steel and should not be exposed to excessive water.
Zinc Alloy Strap (Some Models)
A metal strap made from zinc alloy rather than stainless steel. It is lightweight, stylish, and an affordable option, though it is more prone to wear over time and is best for light, everyday use rather than heavy exposure.
Water Resistance (Watches)
Many of our watches are water-resistant, meaning they can withstand light splashes such as hand washing or light rain.
Important: Water-resistant does NOT mean waterproof. Please avoid swimming, showering, or submerging the watch in water. Water exposure beyond light splashes can damage internal components, especially in zinc alloy cases.
Jewellery Care Guide
With the right habits, your Accessory Mob pieces can stay beautiful for a long time. Here is everything you need to know:
1. Avoid Moisture
Water, particularly saltwater or chlorinated water, speeds up tarnishing and can dull the finish of your pieces. Remove jewellery before swimming, showering, or exercising, and always dry it thoroughly if it does get wet.
2. Keep Away from Chemicals
Perfumes, lotions, and household cleaning products can weaken the protective layer on your jewellery, making it more susceptible to tarnish. Apply lotions, perfumes, and sprays before putting on your jewellery, and avoid contact with harsh chemicals including chlorine. If your jewellery does come into contact with chemicals, rinse it in clean water immediately.
3. Store Properly
Air exposure causes metals to oxidise faster, leading to tarnish over time. Store your pieces in a dry, dark place, ideally in a soft pouch or lined jewellery box. Anti-tarnish strips or small silica gel packets can help absorb moisture. Make sure chains and necklaces are fastened when storing to avoid tangling, and store items separately so that pieces do not tangle, rub, or scratch one another. We recommend storing your jewellery in airtight bags and/or your Accessory Mob pouch. Keep jewellery away from sunlight, excessive heat, or damp conditions.
4. Clean Your Pieces Regularly
Sweat, oils, and dust build up on jewellery, dulling its shine and accelerating tarnish. Use a soft microfibre cloth to gently polish your jewellery after each wear. For deeper cleaning, use mild soap and water, then dry thoroughly. Avoid abrasive cleaners, as these can scratch the protective layer.
5. Rotate Your Pieces
Wearing the same piece daily exposes it to more wear and tear. Give your favourite pieces a break by rotating your jewellery. This helps extend their lifespan and keeps them looking fresh.
6. Remove During Activities
Take off your jewellery before working out or any activity where you may perspire heavily, as sweat can cause oxidation. Remove jewellery during any activity that could scratch, knock, or damage it. Also remove jewellery while cooking, cleaning, and washing up. If in any doubt, take it off and keep it safe.
Why Choose Accessory Mob?
Our mission is to offer you affordable, high-quality jewellery that does not compromise on style or durability. We use materials found in high-end jewellery — brass, stainless steel, and high-quality plating — and make them accessible at a fraction of the price. While no jewellery is entirely tarnish-proof unless made of pure precious metals, our tarnish-resistant pieces are designed to give you longevity, style, and affordability.
Accessorise confidently, knowing that you have chosen jewellery crafted with integrity and care. We are here to make sure your pieces stay beautiful and wearable, so you can enjoy them every day.
Shop Accessory Mob — because great style should not break the bank.