Silver Cross Pendant Iced Out

Silver Cross Pendant Iced Out (4.1 x 2.1 cm) that does not disappear under a shirt

A cross of 4.1 by 2.1 cm, set with VVS CZ stones across its whole surface with no flat sections of metal between them. This is the large, emphatic version: it does not disappear under a shirt, and that is the point. The base is a nickel-free copper alloy with a silver-tone finish applied in five layers of PVD.

Product details

• Base material: copper alloy, nickel-free

• Finish: silver-tone, 5x PVD

• Stones: VVS CZ (simulated diamond)

• Dimensions: 4.1 cm long x 2.1 cm wide

• Delivered in a Carpe Ice jewellery box

Why a Copper Alloy and Not Steel

A fully set pendant calls for dozens of small settings that meet each other precisely. Copper can be worked more finely than steel, so those settings sit tightly together and almost no metal stays visible between the stones. That is why virtually every serious iced out piece is built on a copper base. Copper is also denser than hollow steel, which gives the pendant the weight that lets it hang calmly instead of bouncing with every movement.

Five Layers of PVD Over the Copper Base

The silver colour is applied with PVD, physical vapour deposition: the material is bonded at molecular level inside a vacuum chamber rather than laid on galvanically, at Carpe Ice in five layers. That makes the finish noticeably harder and more scratch-resistant than an ordinary coating. On a fully set piece that counts double, because the metal runs between the stones as a grid of fine ridges and it is exactly there that a finish takes the hardest wear. On a cool silver tone, wear would also show immediately as a warmer undertone; that is precisely what the PVD layer prevents. The alloy underneath is nickel-free.

Which Chain Can Carry This

This pendant has weight and size, so it asks for a chain that can handle it. A cuban, box or rope of 3mm or wider is the safe base; on a fine 1.5mm chain it pulls the line out of shape and puts pressure on the clasp. At 55 to 60 cm the cross lands at chest height, where its size shows to best effect.

Iced Out or Plain

We also carry this cross in a plain version of 3 cm without stones, on a stainless steel base. That is a different product rather than a cheaper one: it is smaller, quieter and meant for daily wear. That plain cross has no layer on it — it is polished steel — which is why it can go in the shower too. That does not hold for this iced out pendant: here a PVD layer sits over a copper base, and it comes off before showering, swimming and training. This version is over a third longer, asks for attention and is a going-out piece. Choose on how visible you want it and how you will wear it, not on price.

Keeping It Sparkling

A copper alloy is more sensitive to moisture than steel, so take the pendant off before showering, swimming and training, apply fragrance before you put it on, and store it dry in the box it came in. Dust and soap collect between the stones, and that is what dulls the sparkle first, not the stones themselves. A dry, soft toothbrush lifts it out. Do not use an ultrasonic bath or abrasives.