Every piece of Annette Piper jewellery is made using carefully selected natural gemstones, cultured pearls and quality precious metals. As a qualified gemmologist (Diploma of Gemmology, Gemmological Association of Australia), I personally verify every stone before it is used – so you can shop with complete confidence.
Natural Gemstones
What gemstones does Annette Piper use?
All gemstones used are natural. My collections regularly feature:
Rock crystal quartz, citrine, carnelian, sardonyx, coral, garnet, hematite, lava, pyrite, obsidian, onyx, banded agate, amazonite, serpentine, jade, aquamarine, lapis lazuli, sodalite, aventurine, peridot, turquoise, rose quartz, topaz, amethyst and a wide variety of agates and jaspers.
Lesser-known varieties (such as angelite and nebula stone) and traditionally recognised precious stones (such as sapphire, tourmaline, ruby and diamond) are also used when exceptional cuts and quality stones are found.
Where do the gemstones come from?
My gemstones are sourced from 47 countries around the world. Importantly, 80% come from artisanal small-scale miners – meaning your purchase supports independent mining communities globally.
My premium AAA-grade stones are cut by a small family business who specialise in beautiful, non-commercial cuts you are unlikely to find anywhere else.
Are the gemstones treated?
Some gemstones are treated (for example, heat treatment to enhance colour). In keeping with industry best practice and my commitment to transparency, all known treatments are disclosed in individual
product descriptions.
What about inclusions and imperfections?
Natural gemstones contain inclusions and imperfections – this is completely normal and is actually proof of their genuine, natural origin. Every stone passes through my personal quality control process, and only sound, quality gems are used in finished pieces.
Will my piece be unique?
Yes. Because many of the gemstones I source are rare and available in limited quantities, repeating styles or pieces is extremely difficult. This means your jewellery is very likely to be one of a kind.
Pearls
What type of pearls are used?
All pearls used in Annette Piper jewellery are freshwater cultured pearls, available in a variety of shapes and sizes. Cultured pearls are genuine pearls – grown inside a mollusc with a small amount of human assistance to begin the process.
Are the pearls treated?
Most coloured freshwater cultured pearls have been treated by irradiation or dyeing to enhance or alter their colour. Where this applies, it is noted in the product description.
For detailed information about pearls – including how they are formed, graded and valued – visit the Gemstones P–R: Facts & Lore page or the Annette Piper blog.
Metals
What metals are used in Annette Piper jewellery?
All metals used are precious metals – no base metals or low-quality plating. This means your jewellery is allergy-friendly, durable and built to last.
Sterling Silver
92.5% pure silver, alloyed with copper (or similar) for hardness and durability. The international standard for quality silver jewellery.
Argentium Sterling Silver
93% pure silver alloyed with germanium rather than copper. The result is a tarnish-resistant sterling silver – ideal for those who prefer low-maintenance jewellery.
Fine Silver
99% pure silver. Used where hardness is not a concern. Naturally tarnish-resistant due to its high purity.
Karen Hill Tribe Silver (Thailand)
98–99% pure silver, entirely handmade by artisans from the Karen Hill Tribe of Thailand. Purchasing Karen Hill Tribe silver directly supports this community in maintaining their traditional craft.
Note: Where a combination of silver types is used in a single piece (for example, fine silver and sterling silver), the description will refer to the lowest silver content used – typically ‘sterling silver’.
12ct or 14ct Gold Fill
A thick layer of 12ct or 14ct gold is permanently bonded to a brass core using heat and pressure. Gold fill contains 1/20th (5%) carat gold by weight – this is an actual layer of gold, not a microscopic film as found in gold-plated items.
Gold fill is estimated to last approximately a decade with regular wear, making it an excellent choice for those who love the look of gold at a fraction of the cost of solid carat gold. It is also ideal for those with sensitivities to silver.
Gold Vermeil
Sterling silver electroplated with high-carat gold (typically 22ct or 24ct). A beautiful, allergy-friendly gold-look option with a fine silver base.
Carat Gold
9ct, 12ct, 14ct and 18ct solid gold is occasionally used and is available on request. Please contact annette@annettepiper.com to discuss carat gold options.
Why choose Annette Piper Jewellery?
✔ All gemstones are natural and personally verified by a
qualified gemmologist
✔ Gemstone treatments are always disclosed
✔ 80% of gemstones sourced from artisanal small-scale miners
✔ Pearls are genuine freshwater cultured pearls
✔ All metals are precious metals – no base metals or cheap plating
✔ Allergy-friendly metals used throughout
✔ Karen Hill Tribe silver supports traditional artisan communities
✔ Rare and limited-availability stones help ensure your piece is truly unique
Questions about materials used in a specific piece?
Email annette@annettepiper.com – I’m always happy to help!