The Charms

THE CHARMS

I use pewter and Tibet silver (TS) charms that are long-lasting and easy to care for. Both have been tested and are lead and cadmium-free (according to their manufacturers).

Consisting of mostly tin and small amounts of antimony and copper, pewter dates all the way back to the Bronze Age. The more you touch pewter, the faster it develops a patina, which occurs when the pewter begins to oxidize over time. The patina gives your pewter an antique look and protects the layers underneath. If you prefer the shiny "silver" look, using a toothbrush, scrub the charm with mild soap and/or toothpaste and warm water. Towel dry completely. OR you can also you a silver polishing cloth to rub the patina away.

Tibet silver is similar to pewter and consists mainly of copper, zinc and nickel with trace amounts of chromium, aluminum, tin and silver (if at all). The manufacturer indicates that it is cadmium-free. Currently, jewelry, beads and castings described as 'Tibetan Silver' tend to be a base iron casting, overlaid with pewter and some silver plating.