Materials & Ethics
Materials & Ethics
Last updated: 09/11/2025 • Our materials, sourcing standards and workshop practices
We make fine jewellery to last: solid precious metals only, responsibly sourced diamonds and gemstones, and hallmarking in the UK. This page explains exactly what goes into a Sovushka piece and the standards we hold.
Contents
1) Metals we use
| Metal | Spec | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Yellow gold (9k, 14k, 18k) | Solid gold alloys only — never plated or filled | Balanced for colour, hardness and daily wear |
| Rose gold (9k, 14k, 18k) | Copper-rich alloy for warm hue | Available in mirror, satin or brushed finishes |
| White gold (14k, 18k) | High-grade white gold; rhodium finish as standard | See section 2 for care & replating cycle |
| Platinum (by request) | 950 Pt typical | Natural white metal; heavier and very durable |
We do not use vermeil, plated or filled metals in fine jewellery. Every precious-metal item is hallmarked at a UK Assay Office in line with UK law.
2) White gold & rhodium
- Our white gold is rhodium-finished for a bright, cool tone.
- Rhodium gradually softens with wear; typical refresh is 6–18 months depending on skin chemistry and lifestyle.
- We offer an in-house rhodium replating & finish refresh service.
3) Diamonds & gemstones
- Diamonds: natural and lab-grown available. We prioritise high colour/clarity cuts for sparkle; grading certificates (GIA/IGI) available where applicable.
- Gemstones: sapphire, emerald, ruby and others sourced from trusted partners. We disclose treatments when present.
- Heirloom stones: we can assess and, where safe, reuse your stones in a new setting.
Prefer lab-grown? They offer excellent fire and clarity for budget — many clients choose lab diamonds for centre stones and natural diamonds for accents.
4) Responsible sourcing
- Transparent supply: we work with suppliers who uphold responsible mining and cutting practices and provide origin/chain-of-custody detail where available.
- Conflict-free commitment: diamonds are sourced in line with industry best practice. We never knowingly buy from conflict-affected or high-risk sources.
- Nickel-safe alloys: alloys are selected to meet UK/EU nickel-release requirements.
- Recycling & refinements: we recycle bench scraps and offcuts; your gold can often be refined and credited toward a new piece.
- Animal-free packaging: our packaging avoids animal-derived glues or leather. Gift options are paper/board based.
5) Workshop practices
- Design, casting oversight, setting and hand finishing are carried out by our UK studio and specialist partners.
- Every piece is inspected under magnification and hallmarked at the London Assay Office (or another UK office if required).
- We document specs and provide care guidance for longevity. Repairs and size adjustments are supported via our Care Services.
6) FAQs
Can you certify my diamond?
Yes — we can supply stones with GIA/IGI certificates or set a certified stone you provide (after inspection).
Is lab-grown diamond real diamond?
Yes. It is chemically and optically diamond, grown in a controlled environment rather than mined.
Do you use recycled gold?
We recycle in the workshop and can source recycled alloys on request; availability can vary by colour/karat.
7) Related pages
