Materials
Mountainside's goal is to have a jewelry line that is as environmentally and socially responsible as possible. A few low impact practices which are already in place include sustainably sourced metals, ethical production practices, and repurposing vintage jewelry parts which are deconstructed and then reused to make one of a kind pieces. We use recycled sterling silver, brass and 14k gold, which helps conserve energy and minimizes environmental impact and any metal scraps are saved, sorted, and reused. All jewelry is handmade in California and metals are sourced from reputable companies in the USA and are nickel & lead free. Stones come from reliable sources such as local rock shops, gem dealers, found materials, or companies with supply chain transparency. Many of the stones and beads used are repurposed from found pieces as well as being cut, carved, drilled, and polished by hand in our Lapidary work shop. Mountainside Jewelry is a proud member of the Santa Cruz Gem & Mineral Society and the Ethical Metalsmiths alliance.
metals
Sterling Silver: A high quality, precious material that will last a lifetime. It may darken or oxidize over time, but can be revived to its original shiny state by using a polishing cloth.
Brass: An alloy made of mainly of copper and zinc and serves as a budget-friendly alternative to solid gold. Mountainside brass pieces are polished to a high-shine and possess a bright golden color. Brass pieces will oxidize over time, but can be revived by polishing and cleaning with a polishing cloth like the one sold here.
Gold Vermeil: Sterling silver is used as a base metal and is dipped in an electroplating solution that coats the metal with a thick layer of gold. In order to qualify as vermeil, the gold layer must be at least 2.5 microns thick. Vermeil can be long lasting when well cared for.
Gold Filled: A common material for delicate pieces such as chains. Literally solid gold filled with a base metal. Gold filled is when a solid layer of gold is mechanically and permanently bonded with heat and pressure to a base metal. It consists of a higher amount of gold than plated, and can maintain its quality and appearance when well-cared for. Gold-filled jewelry has 100x more gold alloy than gold plated and because that layer is so much thicker, it means gold-filled jewelry lasts longer and stands up to wear and tear.
14 Karat Gold: A life-long and enduring precious metal that ensures your piece will remain in pristine condition, always, even with little to no maintenance. It's resistant to water, sweat, and other elements, so your 14k gold can be worn all-day, every day. Never to be taken off.
Eco Friendly Packaging
Online orders are mindfully packaged using eco-friendly materials in an ongoing effort to support sustainability. Packaging is minimal and composed of a paper based alternative to bubble wrap, boxes or padded mailers made from 100% Recycled materials that can easily be reused or redeposited back into the recycling stream, as well as 'Cello Carton Sealing Tape' instead of plastic tape, which is entirely plant-derived, renewable, and naturally biodegradable. The paper packing tape features solvent-free adhesive and is SFI Certified (Sustainable Forestry Initiative). The kraft backing is made from renewable resources and the tape core is recyclable with mixed papers. Please reuse or regift your jewelry boxes and bags!
