top of page

MATERIAL INTEGRITY & STUDIO STANDARDS

​​​​

The Solid-Core Foundation

​

Every RyKier creation begins with a solid-core of .925 Sterling Silver. Unlike industry-standard pieces that utilize brass or bronze "fillers" to achieve scale, our studio uses heavy-gauge precious metal throughout. This ensures that the piece you hold has the density, durability, and skin-safe properties required for longevity.

​

The Finishing Standard: 18k Gold

 

18k Gold > For our gold finishes, we utilize a heavy 2.5-micron layer of 18k Yellow Gold. While the industry frequently relies on thin "flash plating," our studio mandates a strict technical thickness—ensuring a deep, lasting gold luster that is permanently bonded to the solid silver core.

​

The Platinum Standard: White Rhodium

 

For our white-metal finishes, we utilize Rhodium—a rare, precious member of the Platinum family. Rhodium is prized for its extreme hardness and brilliant diamond-white reflection. By layering Rhodium over our solid .925 silver core, we create a tarnish-resistant layer that is both hypoallergenic and exceptionally durable.

​

​

Our Commitment to Transparency

 

We believe that anyone investing in a RyKier piece deserves to know exactly what it is made of. We do not hide behind vague marketing terms. We lead with the core metal, specify our finish thickness, and guarantee the structural integrity of every object that leaves our Pittsburgh studio.

​

​

The Engineering: Why Solid-Core?

​

  • The Limitation of Gold-Filled: Gold-filling is a mechanical bonding process used primarily for wire and sheet metal. It works for simple, flat shapes, but it cannot capture the deep, cast textures of a 3D sculpture.

  • The Sculptural Advantage: To preserve every scale, hinge, and organic detail of our designs, we cast each piece in solid .925 silver first. Only after the sculpture is perfected do we apply a heavy 2.5-micron finish of 18k Gold.

  • The Result: A piece that retains the substantial weight and tactile detail of the original digital sculpt, with the warmth and permanence of high-karat gold.

​

 

​​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

SOFT STRUCTURE.png

PRESERVING THE LUSTER

​

To maintain the architectural finish and brilliance of your gold-layered piece:

  1. Chemicals: Avoid direct contact with perfumes, chlorine, and hair products, as these can chemically erode the gold finish over time.

  2. Friction: Store pieces individually in their RyKier pouch to prevent surface abrasion against other metals.

  3. Cleaning: Wipe gently with a soft, dry microfiber cloth. Avoid silver polishing compounds or liquid dips, as these are designed for raw silver and will strip the gold layer.

bottom of page