With so many kinds of jewelry out there, it's not always easy to tell 925 sterling silver, gold-plated and solid gold apart. Here's what you need to know to make an informed choice.
925 Sterling Silver: A Timeless Classic
925 silver, also known as sterling silver, is made of 92.5% pure silver, with the rest being an alloy that adds strength and durability. It's a precious metal in its own right, prized for its bright white shine and versatility: it goes with every outfit, from everyday looks to dressier occasions.
Gold-Plated: The Look of Gold at an Affordable Price
Gold plating means coating a base metal with a thin layer of gold, usually 18 karat. It gives you the warm look of gold at a far more affordable price than solid gold. The trade-off: this layer can wear off over time if the jewelry isn't cared for properly (see our jewelry care guide).
Solid Gold: The Exceptional Piece
Solid gold is gold all the way through, usually alloyed with other metals for added strength (14K or 18K). It's the most durable and most precious option, but also the most expensive, reserved for pieces you want to keep for a lifetime.
How Do the Prices Compare?
Sterling silver and gold-plated jewelry generally fall within a similar price range, affordable enough for everyday wear. Solid gold, on the other hand, costs significantly more because of the amount of pure gold it contains.
How to Care for Each Material
- 925 sterling silver: can tarnish slightly when exposed to air; easy to clean with a soft cloth.
- Gold-plated: protect it from water and repeated friction to preserve the gold layer.
- Solid gold: very durable, requires little special care.
How to Choose
For affordable everyday jewelry, sterling silver or gold-plated pieces are excellent choices. For a piece you want to pass down or keep for a very long time, solid gold remains the safest bet. Find our sterling silver and gold-plated pieces in our shop. Every piece is shipped with care from Aix-en-Provence, France, with free shipping to the USA.
