Products and Technology
What is your secret formula?
For proprietary reasons, we cannot divulge anything about our products or technology on the molecular level or about the formula itself, but we can say that it's made with a photochromic dye, which is synthesized of organic materials. Photochromic is typically invisible to the human eye until they are irradiated by ulatraviolet light-mostly in the 320-to-400 nanometer range. The peak wavelength, which is 365 nanometers is commonly referred to as "blacklight". Upon such irradiation, the dyes undergo a molecular excitation transition. Once the dye is irradiated, its energy shifts into the visible range of the spectrum. This reaction is reversed by the absence of ultraviolet light and heat. In other words, the dye will not go clear again, or it will take a long time to become invisible if the temperature is below about 50F degrees, even after the ultraviolet light has been removed.
I have one of your (Sol Pearl or Sol Gem) rings and it is turning my finger green!
The cause of this problem is most likely chemical-related. It can be caused by a reaction to cleaning chemicals, detergents, or even ordinary hand soap. The color is harmless and will wear off. The best way to avoid this problem is to either remove the ring when using any cleaning chemicals, solvents, or soaps, OR, try to determine which chemical is causing the problem. It will most likely occur immediately after using the chemical. This problem can also occur when wearing certain types of latex or nitryl gloves over the ring.
Can you help me with my science fair project?
Because of the ever-increasing number of requests for help with Science Fair or other school projects, also because of the proprietary nature of our technology, we are not able to provide samples or help with these projects. For information about how the process works, you can search online using the keyword: "photochromic".
My new Del Sol nail polish doesn't stay on or isn't as durable as other nail polishes! Why?
We can make nail polish with great adhesion, or we can make it with better-than-average adhesion and have it change color! We chose the latter. Most durable nail enamels contain a chemical which promotes adhesion to the nail by forming an acid as it dries. Unfortunately, acidic systems also destroy the photochromic molecule. Del Sol's proprietary formula has a unique combination of adhesion promoters and buffers, which provide as much adhesion as possible without significantly limiting the life of the photochromic molecule.
Note: It's difficult to go into more detail than this without getting into trade secrets!
HOWEVER, DEL SOL'S NAIL POLISH CAN BE MADE TO ADHERE BETTER by preparing the surface of the nail by roughing-up the nail (pre-etching) before applying any enamel. Some customers are able to achieve adhesion that lasts up to two weeks using this method!
The color of my Del Sol nail polish is sparse or lacks opacity. Why?
All photochromic dyes are transparent. This means that our nail enamel, including the colorants or pigments used to make the indoor color(s) must also be transparent, or at least translucent for the photochromic color to remain visible. This problem is easily solved by applying multiple layers of the Del Sol nail polish! This method will create opacity and will actually enhance the depth of color!
My new Sol Pearl appears to have some kind of hazy residue or film on the pearl. What is it and how do I remove it?
As each piece of Sol Pearl jewelry is packaged, we give the silver a final polishing using a tarnish-resistant compound. Sometimes some of this compound is left on the pearl and can be easily wiped off with a soft cloth.
Are Del Sol's clothing items chlorine safe?
Although our clothing is safe in the low levels of chlorine found in swimming pools and hot tubs, they should never be washed with chlorine bleach!
I have sensitivities or allergies to a lot of things. Can you tell me what chemicals are used to treat the silver and pearl parts of your color-changing rings, with the pearl settings?
The ring itself is made from Rhodium, Silver and Brass and the pearl is from natural pearl shell material. It is pressure treated and not chemically treated until we apply the color change.
Do any of your products contain gluten?
No.
What are laundering instructions for my Del Sol product?
Wash your Del Sol products with like colors in warm water. Tumble dry low. The only rule with Del Sol items is never use bleach, as this will ruin the color-change ability.
My polarized lenses on my sunglasses may have some blur or distortion. Is this normal?
Although distortion and blur are common issues with most polarized lenses, we're proud to say that all our lenses are of a grade that are guaranteed to meet or exceed the American National Standards Institute clarity testing requirements.
The finish on my Solize sunglasses is peeling or flaking off!
This flaking is a known problem, and we are constantly trying to improve the finish so that it will hold up to hair & skin oils, as well as various types of hair gel, spray, etc. In trying to improve our formulas, please keep in mind the sensitive nature of all photochromic dyes; i.e., they can be adversely effected by most chemicals commonly found in the more durable finishes. Fortunately, our Solize have the world's best guarantee!
My watch doesn't fit (metal band). How can I adjust it?
We typically do not offer service for the watches and recommend that you take it to a jeweler for any adjustments or to replace your battery as needed. Many jewelers will offer adjustments at no charge, as a means of getting potential customers to visit their store.
Is Del Sol's jewelry hypo-allergenic; for example, the bracelets and rings?
Although there is no set or regulated standard for allergen levels in jewelry products, we try to maintain zero-minimal level of allergens in all our products - jewelry included. With this low level of allergens, you may be assured our products are hypo-allergenic.