Titanium (Ti-22)

is the element of the New Millinium...

Titanium is a natural element which is light as aluminum, as strong as steel, and is the most hypoallergenic element known to man making it the ideal metal for jewelry. Titanium is completely hypoallergenic. In fact, titanium is the most hypoallergenic material known to man, and is rapidly replacing other surgical implants (prosthetic implants such as hip, shoulder, and jaw) and surgical instruments (scalpels, hemostats and tweezers), since the body does not react to it. Because of this even, the posts and ear wires are made of titanium and are fusion welded to further insure purity, and their hypoallergenic nature.Titanium is also a reactive metal which can be oxidized into a rainbow of colors.

Titanium jewelry - Artfully designed with electricity titanium provides an exotic metal piece of jewelry at a lower cost than gold or platinum. Each piece is handcrafted - formed, colored, and assembled. Titanium jewelry has been on the European market for nearly a quarter century and in the United States for over three decades. It continues to grow in popularity. Titanium's hypoallergenic properties combined with its beautiful coloration's, make it ideal for making jewelry which everyone can wear, even those people who are highly allergic to metals.

The Color...

Is not paint, nor is any other pigment applied.

Refractory metals (such as titanium, tantalum, and niobium) have a unique relationship with oxygen. Oxygen causes a structural change in the metal's surface crystals creating an oxide. This oxide is as hypoallergenic as the titanium itself, but with unique light refractory properties. Using electricity to force oxygen onto the surface of the metal thus thickening the oxide layer enough for a visual color change. At this point, white light becomes diffused into various colors - like a rainbow, oil on water, or a peacock's feather. The blending of various colors is a combination of the voltage used and the length of exposure. Controling and varing the electrical exposure to achieve various colors of blue, pink/purple, turquoise and green. Although coloration sounds simple, the initial surface preparation is very time and labor intensive.

Care...

Avoid scratching the surface, since the color is an optical phenomenon, jewelry may appear dull or faded with wear. However to restore the original vibrant colors, simply wash the pieces in warm soapy water or alcohol and blot dry with a soft paper towel.

Now you too can enjoy the comfort & beauty of alergy free titanium. For these beautiful earrings and more to choose from, visit our Newport, Oregon showroom. Come in today choose from our selection of nearly 500 styles of earrings all set in fine metals. and many more set with natural gems and treasures from Nature.

Are you a member of our earring club? Stop in and see us for more details. Let us assist you with your fine jewelry appraisals, repairs or in designing a most cherished treasure, keeping in mind your special orders are always welcome. We are now centrally located and easy to find, visit FACETS just one street west of McDonald's Golden Arches, in in Newport, Oregon at 1240 NW Grove Street with plenty of parking on site. The gallery is open daily 10 am to 5:00 pm. year round. For further information, call the gallery at (541) 265-2514.

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