Venetian Gold: My Little Vendôme’s Signature Patina
Venetian Gold is an 18-karat gold patina applied by hand to a nickel-free brass base. It is neither solid gold nor an alloy: it is the signature finish of My Little Vendôme jewelry, hypoallergenic, with a warm golden hue inspired by antique jewelry.
Behind this name lies a passion. Vintage jewelry holds a special place in the heart of Alice, the founder of My Little Vendôme. She loves their warm hues, softened by the passage of time, and that unique glow of pieces that have lived a life. Or Vénitien was born out of this desire: to recapture that very glow in today’s designs.
What is Venetian Gold?
Originating in Verona, near Venice, Venetian Gold is not a metal in and of itself. It is a finishing process: an 18-karat gold patina, applied by hand to a nickel-free brass base. Each piece passes through the hands of a craftsman, step by step. It is this work that gives the jewelry its deep, slightly weathered gold tone, so different from shiny, uniform gold plating.
Solid gold, classic gilding: why Venetian gold is different
Solid gold jewelry is made entirely of gold, not just on the surface. It’s a whole different world—and a different price range. Our pieces aren’t like that, and we’d rather just tell you so.
Much gold jewelry, on the other hand, is given a uniform industrial gold plating. This process does not apply to our creations. Venetian Gold is a patina: a layer of 18-karat gold applied by hand, piece by piece, to achieve a hue that traditional gold plating cannot produce.
This transparency is intentional. A patina is a delicate finish that requires some care. In return, it offers a warm, vibrant golden hue—that charm found in jewelry that seems to already have a story behind it.
Why a nickel-free brass base?
Nickel is often the cause of redness and irritation caused by certain types of jewelry. That’s why we’ve eliminated it. Our pieces are made from nickel-free brass—which is what makes Or Vénitien hypoallergenic and comfortable to wear, even on sensitive skin. This means you can enjoy your jewelry every day with complete peace of mind.
The silver version: palladium and rhodium
L’Or Vénitien is also available in a silver version. The base remains the same—nickel-free brass—but it is plated with palladium and rhodium, two precious metals. The finish becomes white, luminous, and cooler in tone. A subtle, precious sheen, for those who love cool tones. Care instructions remain the same as for the gold version.
An RJC-audited and certified workshop
Each piece of jewelry is handmade in a workshop that has been audited and certified by the Responsible Jewellery Council (RJC). This independent certification evaluates the ethical and responsible practices of companies in the jewelry industry. This is a standard that is very important to us: knowing where and how our pieces are crafted.
Each item is also covered by a 1-year warranty against manufacturing defects.
A patina that evolves over time
A patina is a living material. When cared for properly, it retains its depth and luster for a long time. All it takes are a few simple steps:
- Remove your jewelry before showering, bathing, swimming in a pool or the ocean, and exercising.
- Avoid contact with perfumes, creams, and cosmetics.
- Wipe it down with a soft cloth after each use.
- Put it back in its case.
These steps are not a burden. They are part of the life of a piece of jewelry that has been hand-patinated, just as one cares for a beautiful antique.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Venetian Gold hypoallergenic?
Yes. Our jewelry is made with a nickel-free brass base. It is this lack of nickel that makes it hypoallergenic and well-tolerated by those with sensitive skin.
Can Venetian gold jewelry be kept underwater?
No. Patina doesn't react well to water or cosmetics. Remove your jewelry before showering, bathing, swimming in a pool, or going to the beach, and then wipe it down with a soft cloth after wearing it: it will retain its luster much longer.
Where does the name "Venetian Gold" come from?
Venetian Gold originated in Verona, near Venice—which is where it gets its name. Its hue is inspired by the antique jewelry cherished by Alice, the founder: their warm, time-worn gilded finishes guided the creation of this signature finish.
