The tradition of birthstones, assigning specific gemstones to each month, offers a personalized connection to jewelry and a rich tapestry of historical and symbolic meaning. While traditional birthstones are often naturally occurring minerals, modern interpretations embrace a wider range of materials. Kendra Scott’s birthstone collection exemplifies this, offering necklaces featuring materials like dichroic glass, mother-of-pearl, and cubic zirconia alongside more conventional gemstones like ruby. This article will explore the significance of birthstone necklaces, particularly those offered by Kendra Scott, focusing on the materials used and the care required to maintain their beauty.
The Kendra Scott Approach to Birthstone Jewelry
Kendra Scott, a designer and entrepreneur, founded her company in 2002 with a focus on natural gemstones and a commitment to giving back to the community. The brand’s philosophy centers around three core values: Family, Fashion, and Philanthropy, reflected in its designs and business practices. Kendra Scott’s birthstone collection provides a contemporary take on the traditional concept, offering a variety of styles and materials to suit diverse tastes and budgets. The collection includes necklaces priced under $50, making them accessible gifts for any occasion.
Materials in the Kendra Scott Birthstone Collection
The Kendra Scott birthstone collection features a diverse range of materials, moving beyond solely traditional gemstones. Several necklaces utilize glass, specifically dichroic glass, and crystal, offering vibrant color options. Other materials include mother-of-pearl, cubic zirconia (CZ), and 14k gold.
Dichroic Glass: The Elisa Rose Gold Pendant Necklace features dichroic glass, a material known for its color-changing effect. This effect is achieved through a coating that reflects different colors depending on the angle of light.
Mother-of-Pearl: The Elisa Gold Pendant Necklace is available with an Ivory Mother-of-Pearl stone. Mother-of-pearl is an organic gemstone formed within the shell of certain mollusks. It is valued for its iridescent luster and delicate beauty.
Cubic Zirconia: The Cailin Gold Pendant Necklace features White CZ, a synthetic crystalline material often used as a diamond simulant. It offers brilliance and clarity at a more affordable price point.
Ruby: The Marisa 14k Yellow Gold Oval Solitaire Pendant Necklace features a ruby.
Care and Maintenance of Kendra Scott Jewelry
Maintaining the beauty of Kendra Scott jewelry requires careful attention to the materials used. The brand provides guidance on proper care to protect the plating and prevent tarnish. Fashion jewelry is typically plated over brass, and exposure to certain substances can diminish the plating’s luster. It is recommended to remove jewelry before washing hands, swimming, exercising, cleaning, or applying personal body products like lotions, perfumes, and makeup. Wearing safety backs with earrings is also advised to prevent loss. Kendra Scott offers a one-year warranty on fine jewelry against defects in material or workmanship, and facilitates repairs for damage occurring after the first year at an additional cost.
Return and Exchange Policies
Kendra Scott offers free return shipping for eligible items purchased on its website. Items must be unworn, unused, and returned in original packaging with tags attached within 30 days of receipt. Certain items, including engraved pieces, Birthday Discount purchases, gift cards, branded merchandise, custom pieces created at the Color Bar™, and permanently discounted merchandise, are considered final sale and are not eligible for return or exchange.
The Significance of Necklaces in the Collection
The Kendra Scott birthstone collection primarily features pendant necklaces. These necklaces are designed to be versatile and can be styled with matching bracelets or earrings for a coordinated look. The pendant style allows the birthstone to be the focal point of the piece, drawing attention to its color and unique characteristics. The collection offers a range of metal finishes, including gold, rose gold, and silver, allowing customers to choose a style that complements their personal preferences.
Gift Giving and Accessibility
Kendra Scott’s birthstone necklaces are positioned as ideal gifts due to their affordability and personal significance. The price point, with many necklaces under $50, makes them accessible for a wide range of budgets. The birthstone association adds a thoughtful touch, making the gift more meaningful and personalized. Complimentary gift boxes are available to enhance the presentation.
Conclusion
The Kendra Scott birthstone collection represents a modern interpretation of a time-honored tradition. By incorporating materials like dichroic glass, mother-of-pearl, and cubic zirconia alongside traditional gemstones, the brand offers a diverse range of options to celebrate each birth month. The emphasis on quality materials, thoughtful design, and accessible pricing makes these necklaces appealing to a broad audience. Proper care and maintenance, as outlined by Kendra Scott, will ensure that these pieces remain beautiful and cherished for years to come.