Every Tilly May piece is finished using traditional methods that preserve the soft textures and intricate details in each design. I craft every piece with care, choosing materials for their beauty and character to create jewellery meant to be worn and loved.
This guide walks you through the materials and finishes I use.
You’ll often see “waterproof” used for jewellery made with heavy‑duty industrial coatings like PVD (Physical Vapour Deposition). It’s a vacuum‑sealed process that fuses colour onto metal to create a thick, ultra‑durable shell built for constant wear, swimming, and long soaking.
My pieces are water‑resistant, meaning you never need to worry about splashes, sweat, or everyday moisture. They’re perfect for daily wear, but they’re not designed for long swims or baths, so it’s best to take them off when you’re in the water.
All of my stainless steel designs use 304 stainless steel as a solid base which is naturally tarnish‑resistant, hypoallergenic, and gentle on sensitive skin. Each piece is finished in polished silver or with a layer of gold plating.
Water-Resistant vs. Waterproof
My gold‑plated and silver‑plated brass pieces are crafted using plating techniques that give each design its soft shine and delicate finish. Because they’re plated on a brass base, they’re best treated as occasion‑friendly, gentle‑wear jewellery rather than everyday pieces.
To keep them looking their best, it’s important to avoid moisture, perfumes, lotions, sweat, and long periods of skin contact.
Plated Brass
Important Note on Jewellery Appearance
When purchasing Tilly May jewellery, please be aware that the appearance of colours, finishes, and details in photographs may differ from how they appear in person. Factors such as lighting conditions during photography, camera settings, and screen calibration can create subtle variations in colour or brightness.
I strive to ensure all images accurately represent my products. However, these variations are sometimes unavoidable. Please review the product descriptions thoroughly and reach out if you have specific questions about a piece.
As a policy, refunds or exchanges cannot be offered based on colour discrepancies or finish variations that result from photographic or technological influences. I appreciate your understanding and your trust in Tilly May’s commitment to quality and transparency.
Colour Guide
