When you’re looking for jewelry, it is important to keep in mind what kind of jewelry metal you’re getting. From the look to the care instructions, there are differences between all the different types of jewelry materials, so let’s get into the details so you are prepared to make the right decision for your new piece of jewelry.
Gold Plated
Gold plated jewelry has a very light layer of gold which is 0.05% or less on top of the base metal. You must follow the care instructions to keep your gold plated jewelry looking its best.
Care instructions:
+ Keep away from moisture
+ Remove when sleeping
+ Remove before entering any water (shower, hot tub, pool, etc)
+ Avoid direct contact with harsh chemicals (perfume, lotion, sunscreen, cleaner, etc)
+ Remove when active
+ Store in a closed bag when you are not wearing it
Gold Filled + Rose Gold Filled
Gold filled is made by using jeweler’s brass as the core metal and pressure bonding multiple layers of 14 karat gold on top. Rose gold filled is the same, just with copper added to get the rose coloring. Gold filled jewelry has to meet the federal quality standards established by the Federal Trade Commission of 5% pure gold by weight. Gold filled will not flake off, chip, peel, and will resist tarnishing if you take proper care of it.
Gold filled is an alternative to gold that is more affordable, has more value and durability compared to gold plated, and retains its value.
Care instructions:
Gold filled jewelry is great for everyday wear but to prolong the life of the jewelry, we recommend the following:
+ Remove when sleeping
+ Remove before entering the pool, hot tub, or ocean
+ Avoid direct contact with harsh chemicals (perfume, lotion, sunscreen, cleaner, etc)
+ Remove when active
+ Store in a closed bag when you are not wearing it
Gold filled jewelry will get dirty with everyday wear and will need to be cleaned.
+ Use lukewarm water and mild soap
+ Gently scrub your jewelry with a soft toothbrush or your fingers
+ Rinse and gently pat your jewelry dry
+ You can use a polishing cloth to help restore the shine of your jewelry
Gold Vermeil
Gold vermeil jewelry is a heavy gold plating over sterling silver. This is a hypoallergenic option for jewelry. The gold plating is much heavier than gold plated jewelry so it lasts longer.
Care instructions:
+ Keep away from moisture
+ Remove when sleeping
+ Remove before entering water
+ Avoid direct contact with harsh chemicals (perfume, lotion, sunscreen, cleaner, etc)
+ Remove when active
+ Store in a closed bag when you are not wearing it
Sterling Silver
Sterling silver jewelry is 92.5% pure silver and 7.5% other metals. This is a precious metal and is prone to tarnishing. The tarnishing isn't permanent and can be cleaned back to its shine.
Care instructions:
Sterling silver jewelry is great for everyday wear but to prolong the life of the jewelry, we recommend the following:
+ Remove when sleeping
+ Remove before entering the pool, hot tub, or ocean
+ Avoid direct contact with harsh chemicals (perfume, lotion, sunscreen, cleaner, etc)
+ Remove when active
+ Store in a closed bag when you are not wearing it
Sterling silver jewelry will get dirty with everyday wear and will need to be cleaned.
+ Use lukewarm water and mild soap
+ Gently scrub your jewelry with a soft toothbrush or your fingers
+ Rinse and gently pat your jewelry dry
+ You can use a polishing cloth to help restore the shine of your jewelry
+ If you’re having a difficult time removing the tarnishing, you can mix a small amount of baking soda and water to create a paste. Use a small amount of the paste and a soft toothbrush to gently scrub your jewelry. Rinse and gently pat your jewelry dry.
Now that you have the breakdown of each kind of jewelry metal, you should be able to make an informed decision. But you do have to be careful when it comes to the wording you may see advertising jewelry pieces. Two terms to be aware of are “waterproof” and “tarnish resistant.” Waterproof doesn’t mean that it can withstand certain chemicals you’d find in pool water, lotions, body washes, etc, so you want to be careful. It is not uncommon for some gold plated jewelry to be labeled tarnish resistant. You’re best to stick with gold filled if you’re worried about tarnishing. Gold plated is more for trends and the casual wearer.
Still wondering what jewelry metal to pick?
If you’re just a casual wearer or experimenting with new trends, gold plated and gold vermeil are ideal options for you.
If you’re looking for wedding jewelry, meaningful gifts, or you’re someone who doesn’t want to take their jewelry off, sterling silver and gold filled are what you want.
Ready to go shopping? Check out our jewelry with all sorts of jewelry metal options!