Education, care guides, and the values behind every piece we make.
Not all lab-created stones are equal. Here's what VVS1 means and why it matters for your jewelry.
VVS1 stands for Very Very Slightly Included, Grade 1. It's one of the highest clarity grades a stone can receive, meaning any inclusions are so microscopic that they're nearly impossible to see even under 10x magnification.
For you, that means the stone looks completely clean to the naked eye. No visible blemishes, no cloudy spots, no dark marks. Just pure, uninterrupted fire.
Check the clarity description for the specific product and ask how it was assessed. A clarity label describes inclusions; it does not identify the gemstone or establish independent certification.
Clarity alone does not determine visible sparkle. Cut, lighting, and the condition of the stone also matter, so a VVS1 label does not guarantee an immediately visible advantage over another piece.
A practical guide to picking the right metal for your lifestyle, skin tone, and budget.
Start with the materials listed for the specific piece. Confirm whether a gold description refers to solid gold or a coating, and check the post, backing, or clasp construction before buying.
Sterling silver (925) is bright, cool-toned, and pairs effortlessly with casual and formal wear. It's the more affordable option and develops a beautiful patina over time if left untreated. With regular polishing, it stays brilliant indefinitely.
A gold-colored finish does not establish solid-gold construction. Follow the care instructions for the exact piece, including when to remove it for showering, swimming, or exercise.
Compare stone identity, dimensions, setting, and metal construction separately. A metal color or clarity label alone does not establish the overall quality of a finished piece.
What lab-created means, and why moissanite is a distinct gemstone—not a lab-grown diamond.
Moissanite is silicon carbide, a gemstone distinct from diamond. Lab-created moissanite is not a lab-grown diamond: the two have different chemistry and optical properties.
The term lab-created describes a gemstone's origin, not its identity. Carbon growth methods such as HPHT and CVD are used to make lab-grown diamonds; they are not a description of moissanite's composition.
Choose jewelry by the gemstone and metal construction stated for the specific product. Laboratory origin alone does not establish a product's total environmental impact or its supply-chain conditions.
Moissanite can register as diamond on some thermal testers, so a thermal-test result alone does not establish that a stone is diamond. Moissanite and diamond have different hardness and refractive properties.
Simple steps to keep your Lumina pieces looking new for years.
Fine jewelry is built to last, but it does need occasional care. The good news: maintaining sterling silver and 18k gold vermeil with lab-created stones is straightforward.
For daily care, simply wipe your jewelry with a soft, lint-free cloth after wearing. This removes oils from your skin and keeps the metal bright.
For a deeper clean, mix warm water with a drop of mild dish soap. Soak your piece for 5-10 minutes, then gently brush with a soft toothbrush. Rinse with warm water and pat dry with a microfiber cloth.
Store each piece separately in a soft pouch or lined box to prevent scratching. Avoid exposing your jewelry to chlorine, perfumes, or harsh chemicals. With these simple steps, your Lumina pieces will stay brilliant for years.