All SHEL jewelry is hand crafted from solid 14k gold. Select upgrades to 18k or platinum are available upon request. With the exception of a few semi-hollow chains, all pieces are solid and made to last.

Why would I buy 14k gold versus 18k gold? What’s the difference?

At SHEL, we often recommend 14k gold—whether yellow, rose, or white—for pieces you’ll wear every day. This includes engagement rings, wedding stackers, and signature bands. With its slightly lower gold content, 14k gold is more durable than 18k, making it better suited for daily wear. It resists scratching and helps prongs and settings stay secure over time.

18k gold, by contrast, has a higher gold content and a richer, more luminous hue—especially in yellow gold. While undeniably beautiful, it’s also softer, which makes it more prone to denting or prong movement if worn daily. That’s why we love it for special occasion pieces—those you wear on weekends, date nights, or special occasions.

We’re happy to create pieces in 18k or even 22k upon request. Ultimately, it’s about your lifestyle, your style, and the energy you want your piece to carry.

Where do your gemstones and diamonds come from?
We work with a small, trusted group of global suppliers who meet our standards for ethics, transparency, and craftsmanship. Our stones are sourced anywhere from Arizona to Australia and Sri Lanka—always prioritizing design-quality material.

Are your natural diamonds conflict-free?
Thanks to the Kimberley Process and efforts enacted by the United Nations, the modern diamond industry strives to eliminate conflict diamonds and practice ethical procurement. Predating modern conflicts, antique diamonds offer a conflict free solution while reducing the environmental impact.

Are there other ethical diamond sourcing options?
Absolutely. In addition to working with conflict-free and antique diamonds, SHEL is happy to source diamonds from regions like Canada, where we can offer full transparency from the mine to your hand. These Canadian diamonds come with a clear chain of custody, so you know exactly where your diamond originated and that it was mined under strict ethical standards.

We can also source diamonds verified by the GIA (Gemological Institute of America), which offers a Diamond Origin Report to confirm a diamond’s country of origin. While GIA certification is a trusted way to verify origin, it does not offer the same full mine-to-market traceability as Canadian sourcing. It’s one more option for those who value additional certification.

Of course, these options may come at a premium, but they allow you to wear your jewelry with even greater peace of mind, knowing your choice aligns with your values. As always, we’re here to help you find the perfect stone for your style and conscience.

Do you work with lab-grown diamonds?
We do. Our lab-created diamonds are grown using the CVD (Chemical Vapor Deposition) method—a sustainable, energy-efficient process that yields exceptionally clear diamonds with minimal inclusions.