Gold and Simulated Gemstone Charms for Children: A Guide to Materials and Design

The market for children’s jewelry, specifically birthstone charms, features a range of materials and designs intended to commemorate a child’s birth month. These charms, often crafted in gold and featuring simulated or lab-created gemstones, offer an accessible and personalized gifting option. This article details the materials, construction, and care considerations for these charms, based on available information.

Materials and Construction

The charms discussed in the provided sources are primarily constructed from gold, specifically 10k and 14k yellow gold. The purity of the gold is a key factor, with 14k gold offering a higher gold content than 10k gold. These charms are often “assembled in the US from imported materials,” indicating a global supply chain. The metal may also be rhodium plated to enhance its appearance and reduce tarnishing.

The gemstones used in these charms are not natural gemstones, but rather simulated stones. Specifically, cubic zirconia and simulated tourmaline are mentioned. Cubic zirconia is a synthetic crystalline material frequently used as a diamond simulant, while simulated tourmaline replicates the appearance of the natural gemstone. The use of these materials significantly impacts the cost and value of the charms. The stones are typically cut in a “multi-shape” design, and measure approximately 6mm in length and 4mm in width.

Design and Aesthetics

The charms are designed to represent either a boy or a girl, with oval shapes generally associated with boy charms and triangular shapes with girl charms. The pendants are relatively small, measuring approximately 17.5mm in length and 7mm in width for the 10k gold charms, and 17mm in length and 8mm in width for the 14k gold charms. These dimensions suggest they are intended as delicate pieces of jewelry for young children.

The charms are designed to be pendants, intended to be hung from a chain. However, it is important to note that a chain is not included with the purchase. The availability of chain options with the 14k gold pendants is specifically mentioned.

Gemstone Authenticity and Treatment

The sources explicitly state that the gemstones used are “simulated stones.” This is a crucial distinction, as it indicates that the stones are not naturally occurring gemstones. They are created in a laboratory to mimic the appearance of natural stones. It is also noted that “gemstones may be treated and may require special care,” suggesting that even simulated stones may undergo processes to enhance their appearance and that specific cleaning protocols should be followed.

Purchasing and Return Policies

One source details a clear return policy, offering a full refund or exchange within 30 days of purchase for items in new, unused condition with original tags and packaging. This provides a level of consumer protection and assurance of quality. Customer service contact information is also provided, including a phone number and email address.

Care and Maintenance

The provided information recommends wiping the charms clean to maintain their appearance. Given the use of simulated stones and potentially rhodium-plated gold, gentle cleaning with a soft cloth is advisable. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as these could damage the simulated gemstones or the rhodium plating.

Birthstone Representation and Variety

The 14k gold pendants are available with a choice of 12 different birthstones, allowing for personalization based on the child’s birth month. This suggests a standardized association between specific gemstones and months of the year, a common practice in birthstone jewelry. However, the sources do not detail which specific gemstone corresponds to each month.

Table of Charm Specifications

Sources

1. Plaza del Caribe
2. Lazuliny
3. US Jewels