| Frequently Asked Questions
WHAT IS THE JEWELRY “MADE OF”?
Usually the base metal is either brass or “jeweler’s white metal”. Earring posts are surgical steel. Most beads and pearls are glass and will be specified as such. If not specified, they are usually Lucite or acrylic. Gemstones can be faceted glass, genuine Swarovski crystals, or cubic zirconias. Additional components may be leather, enamel epoxy, fabric, suede, shells, etc.
HOW ARE THE METAL JEWELRY ITEMS MADE?
A mold is created from an artist’s sketch. The mold is detailed and prepared for casting. Molten metal is poured into the mold; when dry, the casted item is trimmed and polished. Next, the metal casting is attached to a rack of like items. The rack is then submerged into a plating tank that contains a solution of real gold (or rhodium for silver tone items), water, and chemicals. The items on the rack are simultaneously plated when bonding occurs as electrical currents are passed through the tank.
HOW DOES THE QUALITY OF PARK LANE JEWELRY COMPARE WITH DEPARTMENT STORE COSTUME/FASHION JEWELRY?
Our jewelry reflects the same, or in many cases surpasses the quality standards of comparable styles of fine fashion jewelry found in upscale retail stores. Park Lane applies very high manufacturing specifications by determining the mils of gold or rhodium (silver finish) that will be in the plating solution and the length of time the items are in the “bath tank”. This stipulation helps to insure a fine, durable finish. Our company has over fifty years of experience in the design and manufacturing of jewelry. We know it is important to evaluate the specs for each style item. Rings and necklaces that are worn against the skin require enhanced plating to provide optimum wear. Occasionally, you may see an item in a retail store that closely resembles something in your Park Lane collection; however, it is likely that it has not been manufactured to the high specifications to which Park Lane subscribes. Other features that set our jewelry apart are our unique $12.00 Customer Bonus Item offer and our incredible Unconditional Replacement Guarantee; two perks not offered by traditional jewelry sales venues.
WHERE IS THE JEWELRY MADE?
The manufacture of upscale fine fashion jewelry is a global endeavor. Many items contain several different components, i.e. metal settings, findings and clasps, pearls, beads, enamel, crystals, cubic zirconias, straps, chain, cord, etc. Park Lane seeks out the best quality, variety, and value. The origin of every item is different. For example, an individual necklace may have a European design, be casted and plated in the USA, contain acrylic beads from Germany, cords from Korea, crystals from Austria, and be assembled in Asia. Some items are wholly manufactured in the US, while others are created and completed elsewhere.
WHAT ARE THE POSTS OF PARK LANE PIERCED EARRINGS MADE OF? Surgical steel – the same metal used to manufacture surgical instruments. Surgical steel is hypo-allergenic.
IʼM ALLERGIC TO MOST METALS - I CAN ONLY WEAR REAL GOLD JEWELRY.
Suggested reply: “Many people who previously have had a reaction to regular costume jewelry have found they can wear Park Lane fashion jewelry without incident. It’s worth a try; after all, we have an unconditional guarantee! If you ears are sensitive to pierced earrings…we do offer some styles in clip. Or, you could continue to wear your classic 14KT gold earrings and get the look of the latest accessory trends by selecting Park Lane necklaces, chains, beads, and bracelets.”
DOES THE JEWELRY “TURN”? Suggested reply: “No, not under normal conditions and use. Some people with a high level of acidity in their skin know that their system reacts to metal. We suggest choosing accessories that are created with beads, pearls, and fabric cord. Pins and long chains are also good alternatives to jewelry that rests against your skin. The best thing you can do to preserve the beauty of your jewelry is to keep it clean and dry by wiping it with a soft polishing cloth after wearing it and storing it covered in its box.”
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