Materials

At Mountainside, we are committed to creating jewelry that is both beautifully crafted and thoughtfully produced. Our goal is to maintain environmentally and socially responsible practices at every stage: from sourcing raw materials to final packaging.

We prioritize sustainably sourced and recycled metals, ethical production methods, and the repurposing of vintage and found elements. Many one-of-a-kind designs incorporate reclaimed components that are carefully deconstructed and reimagined into new pieces.

We work primarily with recycled sterling silver, brass, and 14k gold, helping conserve energy and reduce environmental impact. All metal scraps are collected, sorted, and reused whenever possible. Our metals are sourced from reputable U.S. based suppliers and are nickel and lead free.

Our stones are sourced from trusted suppliers, including local rock shops, independent gem dealers, responsibly sourced found materials, and companies committed to supply chain transparency. Many stones and beads are repurposed from vintage or found pieces. Select stones are cut, carved, drilled, and polished by hand in our lapidary workshop. Mountainside Jewelry is a proud member of the Santa Cruz Gem & Mineral Society and the Ethical Metalsmiths.

 

metals

Sterling Silver: A timeless and precious metal chosen for its strength and longevity. Sterling silver may naturally darken or oxidize over time, which is a normal reaction to air and moisture. Its original brightness can easily be restored with a polishing cloth.

Brass: An alloy composed primarily of copper and zinc, brass offers a warm, golden tone as a more accessible alternative to solid gold. Mountainside brass pieces are polished to a high shine. Like all copper-based metals, brass will naturally oxidize with wear but can be restored with gentle polishing.

Gold Vermeil: Gold vermeil features a sterling silver base coated with a thick layer of gold through electroplating. To qualify as vermeil, the gold layer must be at least 2.5 microns thick. When properly cared for, vermeil offers both durability and the richness of solid gold at a more accessible price point.

Gold-Filled: Gold-filled material consists of a substantial layer of solid gold that is mechanically bonded to a base metal using heat and pressure. It contains significantly more gold than standard gold plating, approximately 100 times more, resulting in greater longevity and resistance to wear. With proper care, gold-filled pieces maintain their color and quality for years.

14 Karat Gold: A solid, enduring precious metal designed for lifelong wear. 14k gold is highly resistant to tarnish and corrosion and can withstand exposure to water, sweat, and daily elements. It offers exceptional durability while maintaining its rich, warm tone.

14k Gold Coated: Gold coated jewelry features a base metal, often brass, finished with a thick layer of genuine gold through an electroplating process. This allows us to create pieces with the rich tone and warmth of solid gold while offering a more accessible price point. The beauty of gold-coated jewelry is that it can be professionally refreshed. We offer re-coating services to restore your piece to its original luster whenever needed, allowing you to continue wearing and enjoying it for years to come.

 

Eco Friendly Packaging

All online orders are packaged with sustainability in mind. We use minimal, paper-based materials in place of plastic wherever possible.

Packaging materials include:

• Paper-based alternatives to bubble wrap
• Boxes and padded mailers made from 100% recycled content
• Plant-derived, biodegradable carton sealing tape instead of plastic tape

Our paper packing tape features solvent-free adhesive and is certified by the Sustainable Forestry Initiative (SFI). The kraft backing is made from renewable resources, and the tape core is recyclable with mixed paper.

We encourage you to reuse, repurpose, or regift your jewelry boxes and packaging whenever possible!