The "best" material depends on your needs. Gold (especially 14k or 18k) is classic and long-lasting. Platinum is extremely durable and hypoallergenic. Silver is more affordable but requires more care. Precious metals like gold and platinum are generally considered higher quality for long-lasting jewelry.

Carat (k) indicates the fineness of gold. 24 karat is pure gold. 18k gold consists of 75% pure gold and 25% other metals (an alloy), making it more durable. 14k gold contains 58.5% pure gold and is even harder and more scratch-resistant.

It is interesting to know that the carat designation (k) mostly comes from the English (carat) and is widely used internationally, especially in the Anglo-American world.

In contrast, in Germany and other parts of Europe, the fineness measurement in thousandths has become established. This is why you often find hallmarks such as 585 (for 585/1000ths of pure gold, equivalent to 14 carats), 333 (333/1000ths, equivalent to 8 carats), or 750 (750/1000ths, equivalent to 18 carats) on gold jewelry here. This thousandths measurement is a more precise and internationally recognized method of indicating gold content, based on the fine weight system.

This fineness specification in thousandths is used not only in Germany, but also in many other European countries and internationally in the precious metals trade. It allows for a clear and unambiguous classification of gold content, regardless of the regional carat unit.

Yes, 925 silver, also called sterling silver, is an internationally recognized designation for a silver alloy consisting of 92.5% pure silver and 7.5% other metals (usually copper). This makes it more durable than pure silver.

Jewelry can increase in value over time, especially rare pieces, historic pieces, or pieces with high-quality gemstones. However, the value depends heavily on the design, brand, origin, and market. A purely investment purpose is often secondary to the sentimental and aesthetic value of jewelry.

The authenticity of a gemstone is best verified by a certified gemologist. For more valuable stones, look for certificates from reputable labs like GIA, HRD, and IGI. For smaller stones (under approximately €200), certificates are often not common due to high lab costs. Therefore, trust reputable dealers. You can read more about this here .

A gemologist is a gemstone expert. They can identify, evaluate, and determine the quality of gemstones and verify their authenticity.

A certified diamond has been evaluated and documented by an independent gemological laboratory (such as GIA, HRD, or IGI) according to internationally recognized criteria (the 4 Cs: carat, cut, color, and clarity). The certificate is proof of the diamond's quality and authenticity.

The most accurate way to measure your ring size is by having it measured by a jeweler. Alternatively, you can measure a well-fitting ring or use a ring sizer. Please note that finger size can vary throughout the day and depending on temperature.

Yes, many people are allergic to nickel, which can be found in some jewelry alloys (especially cheaper jewelry). High-quality metals such as platinum, pure gold (24k is hypoallergenic but too soft for jewelry), 18k gold, and titanium are generally well-tolerated.

"Vintage" jewelry is generally older than 20 years and younger than 100 years. "Antique" jewelry is older than 100 years. Both categories often have a special charm and can be historically or stylistically interesting.

Consider the occasion (formal, informal), your personal style, the clothes you'll be wearing, and comfort. Sometimes less is more—a bold statement piece or several delicate layers can both be very effective.

Yes, many goldsmiths offer to rework old jewelry or create new, modern pieces. This is a wonderful way to preserve memories and make jewelry wearable again.

Natural gemstones form in nature over millions of years. Synthetic gemstones are created in a laboratory but have the same chemical composition, crystal structure, and optical properties as their natural counterparts. They are generally more flawless and less expensive.

Jewelry can be crafted in a variety of ways: from traditional artisanal techniques such as forging, soldering, chasing, and stone setting to modern methods such as 3D printing and laser cutting. The craftsmanship of the goldsmith is often crucial to the quality and expressiveness of the design.

The value of a piece of jewelry is made up of several factors: the value of the materials (metal, gemstones), the quality of the workmanship (craftsmanship of the goldsmith), the design (originality, aesthetics), the brand (in the case of established designers), the rarity and the history of the piece (ideal value).

Currently, I only ship within Germany. I'm working on shipping to all of Europe soon.

Shipping costs vary depending on the destination country and the weight/volume of the order. The exact costs will be displayed in your shopping cart before completing your order. I offer free shipping within Germany.

Delivery times depend on the destination country. Within Germany, delivery usually takes 2-3 business days. For deliveries within the EU, delivery times are 4-7 business days. Please note that international shipments may be subject to customs delays.

We ship with reliable shipping providers such as DHL, Hermes, UPS, and FedEx. All shipments are insured and trackable.

Yes, all shipments are insured against loss or damage.

Yes, once your order has been shipped, you will receive a shipping confirmation by email with a tracking number and a link to track your order with the relevant shipping provider.

Please inspect your shipment immediately upon receipt for external damage. Document any damage (photos) and report it immediately to the delivery person and to us [your contact details or link to the claim form]. Keep the original packaging until the damage has been resolved.

If an item in your order is not available, we will inform you immediately and offer you an alternative solution (e.g. partial delivery, exchange for a similar item, refund).

Yes, you can also pick up your jewelry directly from our store at Fleischhauerstr. 48, 23552 Lübeck. Our opening hours are Tuesday - Saturday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Yes, you will receive an automatic shipping confirmation email once your order has been shipped. This email will also include your tracking number.

If you are dissatisfied for any reason, please contact me via the contact form or at info@mongstudio.de. I will help you as quickly as possible. Until then, you can also read on to find out what else you can do.

Gold jewelry is best cleaned with mild soapy water and a soft brush. Rinse thoroughly with clean water and gently dry with a soft cloth. Avoid contact with harsh chemicals (chlorine, detergents) and perfume.

Silver jewelry can tarnish (oxidize), especially when exposed to air and moisture. Store it in an airtight container. Use special silver cleaning cloths or silver baths for cleaning. Household remedies such as baking soda or toothpaste should be used with caution.

Store each piece of jewelry separately in a soft-lined jewelry box to prevent scratches and tangling. Store gold and silver jewelry separately to avoid chemical reactions.

Yes, although gemstones are very hard, they can be scratched, chipped, or broken, especially if they are impacted or come into contact with harder materials. Diamonds are the hardest, but even they can be damaged. Be sure to store them carefully and avoid impact.

It's recommended to have your jewelry professionally cleaned once or twice a year to check the condition and setting of the stones. A professional can remove dirt that's hard to reach at home and detect minor damage. This is especially recommended for more expensive pieces of jewelry with gemstones.