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At VIDAL & VIDAL, we dedicate time to creating jewelry that lasts, not only by designing timeless shapes but also by selecting cutting-edge metals and processes that guarantee exceptional durability.
Here is a list of all the materials we use in our jewelry so you can learn firsthand about the expert process behind every design.
1. 18kt Gold
At VIDAL & VIDAL, we work exclusively with 18-Karat Gold, technically known as First Law Gold (750 thousandths). This means the piece is composed of 75% pure gold, the highest and most prestigious standard in European jewelry.
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Process and Quality
Unlike 9kt or 14kt gold, our alloy guarantees infinite durability. Each piece is born from an exhaustive casting process followed by meticulous manual polishing to eliminate any micro-porosity in the metal.
As it is law gold throughout its structure, there is no risk of color loss; the jewelry maintains its brilliance and intrinsic value from generation to generation, resisting contact with water, perfumes, and the passage of time. When buying 18kt Gold, you are acquiring a piece with intrinsic value that maintains its eternal shine without the need for external coatings.
2. 18kt Gold Plating
The Gold Plating we use is the result of an advanced galvanizing process performed entirely in our own facilities in Menorca. We immerse the metal base in a solution where 18-Karat Gold adheres and deposits through an electric current, forming a uniform and resistant coating.
The Secret to Our Durability
By not outsourcing the plating process, we personally audit the thickness of every micron. We ensure a thickness of 1 micron of 18kt Gold, which represents a layer up to 10 times thicker than standard industrial costume jewelry.
We use the Hamilton (3N) tone, an elegant champagne gold that avoids artificial yellow tones. Furthermore, being Nickel Free, we guarantee hypoallergenic jewelry that is respectful of the environment.
3. 925 Sterling Silver
Our pieces are crafted in First Law Silver (925 thousandths), officially certified with the B2 925 mark. However, we apply a unique refinement process through galvanizing with a final layer of Pure Silver (1000 thousandths), granting it a superior glow.
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To prevent natural darkening (sulfuration), we seal each piece with our exclusive galvanic lacquer, which acts as an invisible shield against humidity and air.
4. 925 Sterling Silver with 18kt Gold Plating
In this material, we combine the nobility of 925 Sterling Silver with the warmth of 18-Karat Gold, creating pieces of precious metal over another precious metal, treated with the rigor of high jewelry.
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- Signature Collection: In our most premium range, we apply an extraordinary coating of 3 microns of Hamilton 18kt Gold, raising the standard of luxury and resistance to the maximum.
It is the ideal choice for those seeking the weight and feel of high jewelry with the aesthetic of law gold.
5. 925 Sterling Silver Plating
Used for our most artistic designs with a bronze base. We apply a generous layer of 925 Sterling Silver exceeding 5 microns, creating a real and lasting barrier, far superior to the decorative "flashes" of the general market.
6. Rhodium Plating
Rhodium, from the platinum family, is extremely rare. We apply it to create a white-mirror finish. As a photosensitive material, it refracts light exceptionally, enhancing the brilliance of any set gems or zircons. It provides extraordinary hardness against scratches.
7. 925 Sterling Silver with Rhodium Plating
The standard for white luxury pieces. Rhodium acts as a molecular sealant over the silver, preventing it from turning black. This eliminates the need for constant chemical cleaning, offering jewelry that is always ready to shine.
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8. 925 Sterling Silver with Platinum Plating: Signature Exclusivity
Reserved for our Signature line. Platinum is the noblest and most resistant metal in existence. We apply this metal over silver to create 100% hypoallergenic and virtually indestructible pieces, resistant to perfumes and skin pH. It is the pinnacle of our Menorcan craftsmanship.
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Frequently asked questions about our materials
Our 18kt Gold and Rhodium-plated Silver pieces are highly resistant. However, for gold-plated items, we recommend avoiding prolonged contact with salt water or swimming pools to preserve the microns of thickness and the Hamilton shine for years.
It means it is 100% free of nickel, the primary cause of skin allergies. All our galvanic processes in Menorca strictly comply with this regulation, guaranteeing hypoallergenic jewelry.
Thanks to our exclusive galvanic lacquer and our rhodium or platinum finishes, we create a molecular barrier that prevents sulfuration (the natural darkening process of silver) caused by air and humidity.
The main difference lies in the thickness of the plating and process control. While standard costume jewelry usually has a gold "flash" of barely 0.1 microns, we guarantee a minimum of 1 micron of 18kt Gold in every plating, and 3 microns in the Signature collection.
Furthermore, by performing the galvanic process in our own factory in Menorca, we ensure the gold adheres molecularly to the piece, preventing flaking and ensuring long-lasting quality.
Although all our pieces are nickel-free, for extremely sensitive skin, we recommend our 18kt Gold pieces or the Signature line with Platinum plating. As noble metals certified as "Nickel Free," they minimize any risk of allergic reaction. Platinum, in particular, is known as one of the most hypoallergenic and resistant metals in high jewelry.
All our silver pieces bear the official "B2 925" hallmark, certifying they contain 92.5% pure silver. This is what you should look for in a piece to ensure it is sterling silver.
Additionally, we apply a final finish of 1000 fine silver (pure silver) for superior brilliance. This certification guarantees you are acquiring a precious metal with intrinsic value and not a base metal with a silver-like appearance.
