Brighton jewelry frequently incorporates gemstones into its designs, particularly within its earring collections. While not specifically focused on traditional birthstones, the brand utilizes a wide variety of gems – including amethyst, garnet, citrine, ruby, sapphire, topaz, turquoise, and rose quartz – alongside materials like enamel, silver, and brass to create fashionable and aesthetically pleasing pieces. This article will explore the gemstones commonly featured in Brighton earrings, the materials and construction techniques employed, and the care instructions recommended to maintain their luster.
Materials and Construction
Brighton earrings are crafted through a multi-step process beginning with a designer’s hand sketch. The pieces are typically cast in solid brass or zinc alloy and then plated in pure silver. This plating provides a bright, attractive finish, but silver is prone to tarnishing. To mitigate this, Brighton applies a protective lacquer coating to its silver jewelry. This lacquer retards the natural oxidation process, helping to maintain the piece’s shine.
Earring posts, French wires, and lever backs are composed of sterling silver (925), while clip-on earrings are made from stamped brass with a plating finish. Certain ring styles also utilize sterling silver, identifiable by the “925” stamp on the inside of the band. The use of various metals allows for diverse designs and caters to different preferences regarding ear comfort and sensitivity.
Beyond metals, Brighton earrings frequently incorporate enamel, as seen in the Fontina Brown Enamel Drop Post earrings. The brand also utilizes a wide range of gemstones, as detailed in the available product information.
Gemstone Variety in Brighton Earrings
Brighton earrings showcase a diverse selection of gemstones, though their inclusion isn’t necessarily tied to traditional birthstone associations. The available data indicates the following gemstones are commonly used:
- Amber: Listed as a gemstone option.
- Amethyst: A popular choice, appearing in numerous designs.
- Citrine: Another frequently used gemstone.
- Cubic Zirconia: A common and affordable gemstone alternative.
- Diamond: Used in some higher-end pieces.
- Emerald: Included in the gemstone options.
- Garnet: A gemstone option available in Brighton earrings.
- Moissanite: A diamond simulant used in some designs.
- Onyx: A gemstone option.
- Opal: Included in the gemstone options.
- Pearl: A classic gemstone frequently incorporated into earring designs.
- Quartz: A gemstone option.
- Rhinestone: Used as an accent or alternative to more expensive gemstones.
- Ruby: A gemstone option.
- Sapphire: A gemstone option.
- Tanzanite: Included in the gemstone options.
- Topaz: A gemstone option.
- Turquoise: A gemstone option.
- Rose Quartz: A gemstone option.
The variety of gemstones allows Brighton to offer earrings in a wide range of colors and styles, appealing to diverse tastes. The use of cubic zirconia, rhinestones, and moissanite provides more affordable options without sacrificing visual appeal.
Design and Style
Brighton’s earring designs often draw inspiration from historical and nautical themes. The Portofino Link Drop Post Earrings, for example, are inspired by historical nautical hardware, specifically round links with a center bar designed to prevent chain kinking during sailing. This link design has been adapted for decorative purposes, allowing for layering with both black and multi-color looks, enhanced by glossy enamel.
Earring styles range from post earrings with flat disc backs to dangle/drop styles. Sizes vary, with the Portofino Link Drop Post Earrings measuring 7/8" in drop length and 5/8" in width. The asymmetrical shape is also noted as a design trait.
Care and Maintenance
Proper care is essential to maintain the beauty and longevity of Brighton earrings. Due to the silver plating and lacquer finish, specific precautions should be taken.
Brighton recommends wiping down silver items with a dry, 100% cotton cloth to remove impurities. It is crucial to keep the jewelry away from water, jewelry cleaners, silver cleaners, treated polishing cloths, perfumes, hairspray, lotions, hand sanitizers, and make-up, as these substances can damage the protective lacquer and cause tarnishing.
Brighton advises wearing the earrings as the last item put on in the morning and storing them away when not in use. For sunglasses, which also fall under Brighton’s accessory line, replacement parts (lenses, temples, nose pieces, ornaments, screws) are available, though availability may be limited for discontinued styles.
Warranty and Repair
Brighton offers a one-year warranty on its accessories against damage due to manufacturer’s defects. If a defect is found within this period, the item will be repaired or replaced at no charge to the original owner. For items beyond the warranty period, repairs will be attempted for a minimal charge.
Watches are warranted for five years against defects in materials or workmanship pertaining to the mechanism, with a one-year warranty on the battery, band, casing, and crystal. However, damage from normal wear and tear or water damage is not covered.
Brighton also provides assistance with repairing eyewear, even if it has prescription lenses, by sending replacement parts to the customer for repair by a local optician.
Quick Fixes for Sunglasses
Brighton offers a “Quick Fix” service for sunglasses, providing replacement parts such as lenses, temples, nose pieces, ornaments, and screws. While currently offered free of charge, Brighton reserves the right to implement a minimal fee for these parts in the future.
Conclusion
Brighton earrings represent a blend of fashion-forward design, diverse material selection, and a commitment to quality. While not explicitly marketed around traditional birthstones, the brand’s extensive use of gemstones – including amethyst, garnet, citrine, and many others – provides customers with a wide range of options to suit their individual style and preferences. Proper care and maintenance, following Brighton’s recommendations, are essential to preserving the beauty and longevity of these pieces. The brand’s warranty and repair services further demonstrate its dedication to customer satisfaction.