14kt Rolled Gold, also known as 14/20 gold filled or gold overlay, is made by heat-and-pressure-bonding a thin layer of gold to a brass core.  The 1/20 notation refers to the ratio of the 14 karat gold layer to the brass layer weight, which is 5%.  (This is not to be confused with gold-plated since gold-filled or rolled gold has an actual layer, not just a microscopic film of karat gold.)  Rolled gold is very strong and durable, yet pliable enough to be intricately worked.  In other words, a 14kt gold tube with a semi-precious core is formed that enables the artist to create very swirling, curvilinear designs, truly unique pieces of wearable artwork that are also very affordable.

Sterling Silver is the term used to describe silver alloy that contains 92.5% silver and 7.5% copper.  It is beautiful and very affordable.

Brass, also known as Merlin's Gold, is an alloy consisting of 85% copper and 15% zinc.  Because of the patina it develops if not cleaned, it is used in some of the Phoenix Series pieces to evoke an ancient feeling.

German Silver, also known as nickel silver, is an alloy consisting of 65% copper, 18% nickel, and 17% zinc.  It contains no silver.   It has a slight blue cast to its color but, unlike sterling, does not tarnish.   Very strong and durable, it is used in some of the larger pieces in the Phoenix Series.