The Porcelain Guide

Is a porcelain jewel fragile?

Porcelain is usually associated with fragility because we find it in fine tableware and delicate objects. A high-fired porcelain jewel, however, is different. Fired at 1,260 °C, it vitrifies and acquires a dense, hard, non-porous structure, able to withstand everyday wear.

In practice, it can accompany you every day, get wet and keep its colour over time. As with any jewel — porcelain, gold or natural stone — it is best to avoid hard knocks against solid surfaces, which can damage it.

Porcelain, ceramic or resin: what’s the difference?

The three terms get mixed up constantly in online shops, and they are not the same thing. Porcelain is a specific type of ceramic with a fine white body, fired at much higher temperatures — hence its hardness, whiteness and that characteristic translucency. Low-fired ceramic is more porous and more prone to chipping. Resin is plastic: light and cheap, but without the nobility of the material or its behaviour with light.

How is artisan porcelain jewellery made?

At OMA every piece is shaped by hand, without industrial moulds. Then comes the single firing at 1,260 °C — one firing that demands precision from the first gesture, because it allows no corrections. Pieces with a golden finish receive 24-karat gold lustre and a second, lower-temperature firing that fixes the gold permanently: it is not a surface plating that wears off.

Final mounting is done in sterling silver 925 — hooks, clasps and settings — gold-plated on selected pieces, with zirconia.

How to care for your porcelain jewel?

Keep it in its suede pouch, separate from other jewellery, to protect it from knocks and scratches. It can get wet without any problem and be cleaned with a soft cloth, with no need for special products.

Porcelain does not oxidise or yellow, and keeps its colour over time, since the pigment is part of the material rather than its surface.

How to care for your porcelain piece?

OMA porcelain pieces are made to last. To keep them in good condition, simply wipe them gently with a cloth or, when necessary, clean them with water and mild soap.

As with any porcelain piece, it is best to avoid hard knocks and sudden changes in temperature. With simple care, it will keep its beauty and finish over time.