LET'S TALK ABOUT IT AND IT'S CARE

First let’s talk about what gold-fill is because there is a lot of confusion out there. This is the best everyday jewelry because it has the qualities of gold while actually being more durable and more affordable!

Gold-filled jewelry is composed of a solid layer of gold which is bonded to a base of another metal, such as sterling silver or copper.

While gold-filled jewelry is typically less expensive than solid gold jewelry, it is actually more durable, looking shiny and new even with decades of wear.

“Since gold never tarnishes and has great workability, many jewelry designers and makers prefer it to other metals. If properly cared for, gold can last indefinitely, which makes it a prized metal to designers as well as consumers. It doesn’t oxidize or corrode, and only a handful of rare acids or hot chlorine bleach can damage it.”

So why not just purchase solid gold jewelry instead of gold-filled jewelry? Price isn't the only reason.

Yes, pure gold jewelry is more expensive than gold-filled jewelry, but there’s more to it in terms of workability and durability. Gem Society explains the role of gold alloys.

“Despite gold’s desirable properties, it does have one significant drawback: softness. This means it wears out easily. However, mixing gold with other metals creates gold alloys that are stronger, more durable, and better suited for jewelry use.

While jewelers do use pure gold for some jewelry pieces, these dent and wear so readily that most people don’t wear pure gold jewelry on a regular basis.”

This jewelry loves to be lived in and is safe in all water and to sweat in. Clean regularly to keep this metal bright and shiny. We recommend Shinery plant-based jewelry cleaner which is safe for all metals. For rings and go-to earrings we recommend the Ring Keeper.

WHAT IS IT AND HOW DO YOU CARE FOR IT?

Gold plated jewelry is the most affordable gold alternative and is not the same as gold-filled.

The Gem Society says the primary difference between gold-fill and gold-plate is quality. “Of the two types of gold overlays, gold platings are thinner and less expensive. With a thickness of a few thousandths of an inch, at best, gold plating wears off easily.”

Gold-plated jewelry is also less expensive than both pure gold or gold-fill. You can guess why. It has less gold overall, so the materials cost is less.

What does that mean for you?

Well, you may be able to buy more gold-plated jewelry than gold-filled pieces because it’s cheaper, but these pieces may not look ‘gold’ long as gold-plated jewelry won’t last for long. ..

Normal wear and tear that includes sweat, perfume, hair products, salt water, chlorine, and even UV rays will turn your gold-plated jewelry odd colors, darken in, and even rub off to the base layer.

If you are on a tight budget (college ladies - we see you!) and are looking for inexpensive jewelry you can wear for a season, then gold-plated jewelry may hit the mark.

Remove before showering, swimming, sunbathing and sleeping.

Do not use a polishing cloth as trying to polish this metal may result in wearing off the gold more quickly.

ALL ABOUT IT AND ITS CARE

Sterling silver has a beautiful shine and can be purposely oxidized, which causes silver metal to look dark gray or almost black in color.

A different process from natural oxidation referred to as tarnish.

Sterling silver is made up of 92.5 percent silver and 7.5 percent of other metals that form an alloy. 

Some of those other metals, primarily copper, can cause sterling silver to tarnish over time when they interact with moisture in the air.

Pro tip - silver will stay shiny if you wear it! Much like our 14k gold-fill jewelry, you can live worry free in your silver!

Do take special care when storing it though -  we recommend our Jewelry Care Bundle.

Use the polish cloth to remove tarnish and try Shinery for extra sparkle. For rings and go-to earrings we recommend the Ring Keeper.

ALL ABOUT IT AND ITS CARE

“Pearls are the only gems found within living creatures, both salt and freshwater mollusks. However, most pearls on the market today are cultivated, since they now occur extremely rarely in nature.

While they require special care, pearls have an enduring appeal for jewelry, particularly as the traditional June birthstone.”

It’s safe to use warm, soapy water for occasional, thorough cleaning. If the pearls are strung, be sure the string is completely dry before wearing or storing. It’s best to wipe cultured pearls with a very soft, clean cloth after each wearing.