GOLD-FILLED

Gold-filled jewelry is very similar to solid gold. They hold many of the same qualities, except gold filled requires less of an investment. The outside layer of gold-filled jewelry will always be 14k gold. This means it will not tarnish or stain your skin. Gold filling has a much thicker layer than gold plated jewelry. When jewelry is gold filled 5% of the jewelry is 14k gold. Because of this, you do not have to worry about the base metals becoming exposed and causing any reactions or sensitivities.

Gold-filled metal is made by pressure bonding a layer of karat gold to the surface of the base metal. Typically, this metal is brass. Gold-filled is not as expensive as solid gold and requires less maintenance than gold plated jewelry. It is the perfect happy medium. With intentional and proper care, gold filled jewelry can last for years. Your gold filled jewelry should be treated with the same care as solid gold.

STERLING SILVER

Sterling silver is a metal alloy, meaning that sterling is a combination of metal rather than a single metal (pure silver). Sterling is 92.5% pure silver and 7.5% alloy. Sterling is typically stamped to indicate its authenticity (925, 92.5, .925, or ss). The alloy is typically copper, nickel, or zinc. The alloy metals are very beneficial as they make sterling silver much more durable and desirable, especially in permanent jewelry. In fact, this alloy combination is found in a large variety of items, including most household items because of its durability. These items also require continual polishing and care.

Please note that sterling silver jewelry is just like a silver spoon. Leaving this material in air will cause it to tarnish. While the chemical makeup of our skin will help the jewelry maintain a bright shiny silver look, it is not uncommon for the chemical makeup of a certain person's skin to cause expedited tarnishing.