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Freak Like Me Arrives at Sandersons Department Store, Stroud

A photo of the display of Freak Like Me in Sandersons department store Stroud

There’s something special about seeing your work in a space that values craftsmanship, individuality and considered design. That’s exactly why we’re so pleased to share that Freak Like Me jewellery is now available at Sandersons Department Store in Stroud.

Set within one of Stroud’s most loved independent stores, our collection sits among a carefully curated mix of brands that celebrate quality, creativity and originality – values that have always been at the heart of Freak Like Me.


Jewellery That’s Designed to Be Personal

Freak Like Me was created with a simple idea:

no two people are the same – so why should their jewellery be?

Each piece in the collection features a handcrafted leather cuff paired with a natural gemstone centre. Every stone is completely unique, shaped by nature, with its own colours, patterns and character.

What makes the collection different is the interchangeable design.

The gemstone can be removed and paired with different leather straps, allowing you to change the look depending on your style, your outfit, or simply how you feel that day.

It’s jewellery that evolves with you.


Discover the Collections In Store

At Sandersons, you’ll find two distinct collections:

The Unique Collection

Bold, statement pieces featuring larger natural gemstones.
Each one is designed to stand out – expressive, individual and impossible to replicate.

The Slim Classic Collection

A more refined, understated take on the same concept.
Smaller stones, slimmer cuffs – perfect for those who prefer something subtle but still distinctive.


A Cabinet of One-of-a-Kind Pieces

The display at Sandersons has been designed to reflect the nature of the jewellery itself.

Each bracelet is presented individually, allowing the stone to take centre stage. From vibrant turquoise to softly patterned agates, every piece offers something different – a colour, a texture, a detail that catches your eye.

It’s less about choosing a product, and more about finding the piece that speaks to you.


Why Sandersons

Stroud has long been known for its independent spirit, creative community and appreciation for craftsmanship. Sandersons reflects that perfectly – a space where customers come to discover something a little different.

Being part of that environment feels like a natural fit for Freak Like Me.


Come and Find Your Piece

If you’re local to Stroud, we’d love you to visit Sandersons and experience the collection in person.

There’s something about seeing the stones up close – the depth of colour, the natural patterns, the individuality of each piece – that can’t quite be captured online.

Because in the end, this isn’t just about jewellery.

It’s about finding something that feels like you.


 

Mila x

Freak Like Me – Unique Like You

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Why wear handcrafted brass jewellery?

Textured Brass Bangle

So why is brass a popular choice for handcrafted jewellery?

Brass jewellery has been worn for thousands of years and can be traced back to the Neolithic period. The word ‘brass’ has been found in ancient texts and from the 8th to 7th century BC direct references to brass were found on cuneiform tablets. The use of brass started in Spain then spread to Britain then across to the Middle East. Brass then appeared in the East Mediterranean where is was used for military equipment and coins. With its affordability and durability and beautiful gold-like warm tones it is a popular choice for jewellery.

Brass is made from a combination of copper and zinc alloy and the gold-like colour depends on the ratio of copper to zinc. The colour of brass can range from dark brown to a silver white colour. To obtain the golden hue then the ratio must be 67% copper and 33% zinc.

Brass is one of the most durable metals around due to the copper element and can last centuries if properly maintained and stored. Copper will turn green over time due to oxidisation, so as it makes up around 60% of the brass, then brass will have a layer of greenish hue on its surface if it oxidises. This layer is called patina and it acts as a shield to protect the brass from corroding. It is easily cleaned off – see below.

There are benefits to wearing brass jewellery due to the amount of copper in it. It is believed to have natural antimicrobial and antibacterial elements and because of constant contact with the skin, skin absorb the copper which enters the body.  As mentioned above brass is composed of copper and zinc but to improve its quality sometimes a minute amount up to 1% of other metals, such as nickel and lead, are added. The result is that brass will have more of a shine and be more durable. Brass is very safe to wear although on occasion due to the nickel and lead there could be an allergic reaction, such as an itch or rash. However not all brass jewellery has any nickel or lead and is purely copper and zinc.

To keep brass jewellery looking as new always try to regularly clean your jewellery with a soft cloth after wearing. There are also easy ways to polish your brass jewellery:

  • 1.     Use a polishing metal cream such as glanol.
  • 2.    Use kitchen ingredients! You will need vinegar, salt, flour, warm water and a small bowl. Put 1 tsp of salt and ½ cup of vinegar in the bowl. Mix until the salt has dissolved. Add the flour and mix until you have a paste-like substance. Rub the brass jewellery with the paste and cover all surfaces. Leave for 10 mins then rinse with warm water. Gently dry jewellery with a clean cloth.

In conclusion, handcrafted brass jewellery with its warm golden hues offers many benefits including durability, versatility and affordability and is considered safe to wear. It requires minimal maintenance making it a lovely choice for those looking for stylish and long-lasting jewellery. It offers the opportunity to wear large statement pieces or little minimalist designs to suit every taste and occasion. Mix it with sterling silver or pure copper and you will have a lovely unique look!

Click here for beautiful unique brass jewellery