Metals & Materials Info

Gold Filled

Gold-filled jewelry consists of a thick layer of real gold bonded to a base metal (typically jeweler’s brass) through heat and pressure. This layer is thicker than gold plating and much more durable, so it won’t wear off easily. With proper care, gold-filled pieces can last for decades and are a great alternative to solid gold.

Notable Qualities:

✦ Hypoallergenic and safe for sensitive skin.

✦ Water-resistant (but prolonged exposure to moisture may lead to dullness and gradual wear over time).

✦ Highly durable and resistant to tarnishing.

✦ Affordable alternative to solid gold.

✦ Best stored in a dry, airtight container to maintain shine.

✦ Clean with mild soap and water, then dry with a soft cloth.

Sterling Silver

Sterling silver (also known as .925 sterling silver) is a precious metal made from 92.5% pure silver, with the remaining 7.5% typically consisting of copper for added strength. It has been prized for centuries for its beauty, durability, and value. It has been used in jewelry, currency, and decorative arts across cultures, dating back to Ancient Rome and beyond. Sterling silver has a brilliant, mirror-like shine that can easily be maintained with proper care. Since sterling silver is naturally prone to oxidation, it may tarnish over time when exposed to air, moisture, and body oils. Proper storage and occasional polishing will help maintain sterling silver’s lustrous beauty.

Notable Qualities:

✦ Hypoallergenic and safe for sensitive skin.

✦ Water-resistant (but prolonged exposure to moisture can accelerate tarnishing).

✦ More durable than pure silver due to added alloys.

✦ Naturally tarnishes over time but can be easily polished.

✦ Best stored in an airtight container or anti-tarnish bag to slow tarnishing.

✦ Clean with a silver polishing cloth or mild silver cleaner.

Gold/Silver Plated

Plated jewelry features a thin layer of gold or silver electroplated onto a base metal, typically copper or brass. This outer layer gives the appearance of solid gold or silver at a more affordable price. While plating adds some protection against tarnishing, it is not permanent and will gradually wear away over time, especially with frequent wear or exposure to moisture, friction, and chemicals. Proper care can help extend the life of plated jewelry and slow down fading.

Notable Qualities:

✦ Generally safe for sensitive skin. However, those with brass or copper sensitivities may experience skin discoloration over time.

✦ Avoid moisture, lotions, perfumes, and harsh chemicals to prevent fading.

✦ More affordable than pure or filled metals

✦ Best stored in a dry, airtight container to slow tarnishing.

✦ Clean gently with a dry microfiber cloth.

Stainless Steel

Stainless steel is a highly durable and corrosion-resistant metal, making it an excellent choice for everyday jewelry. Stainless steel does not easily tarnish or oxidize, though exposure to lotions, oils, and dirt may cause dullness over time. It is also hypoallergenic, making it a great option for those with metal sensitivities.

Notable Qualities:

✦ Hypoallergenic and safe for sensitive skin.

✦ Water-resistant (but prolonged exposure to moisture may cause surface dullness over time).

✦ Durable and tarnish-resistant—does not oxidize.

✦ More affordable than precious metals.

✦ Best stored separately to prevent scratches from harder metals.

✦ Can be cleaned with mild soap and water, then dry with a soft cloth.

Brass

Brass is a warm toned metal made from a blend of copper and zinc and has been used in jewelry-making since ancient times due to its gold-like appearance and durability. Over time, exposure to air, moisture, and body oils causes oxidation, resulting in a natural patina that gives brass an antique look. Some people love this aged effect, while others prefer to polish brass back to its original shine. Proper storage and occasional cleaning help maintain its appearance.

Notable Qualities:

✦ Generally safe for sensitive skin. However, those with rare brass or copper sensitivities may experience temporary skin discoloration over time.

✦ Avoid moisture, lotions, perfumes, and harsh chemicals to slow tarnishing and oxidation

✦ Durable and strong, making it ideal for long-lasting jewelry.

✦ Naturally oxidizes over time, but can be polished to restore shine.

✦ Best stored in an airtight container or anti-tarnish bag to slow oxidation.

✦ Can be cleaned with a brass polishing cloth or mild polishing compound.

Copper

Copper is a reddish-orange metal known for its warmth and vibrancy. It is one of the oldest metals in jewelry making, dating back over 10,000 years to ancient civilizations such as the Egyptians, Mesopotamians, and Indigenous American cultures. Like brass, it is highly reactive to air and moisture, developing a rich patina over time. This patina can range from deep brown to green, depending on exposure. Many people embrace this natural aging process, but copper can also be polished to restore its shine.

Notable Qualities:

✦ Generally safe for sensitive skin. May cause temporary skin discoloration (a harmless greenish tint) when worn for long periods due to oxidation.

✦ Avoid moisture, lotions, perfumes, and harsh chemicals to slow tarnishing and oxidation.

✦ Durable and lightweight, making it ideal for jewelry.

✦ Naturally develops a patina over time, which can be polished away if desired.

✦ Best stored in an airtight container or anti-tarnish bag to slow oxidation.

✦ Can be cleaned with lemon juice, vinegar, or a copper polishing cloth.