Your Jewelry Box Breakdown:
Making Informed Choices for Your Well Deserved Sparkle
Understanding the metals in your jewelry is key to making informed choices that align with your style, durability needs, and budget. At Sarah Cornwell, we thoughtfully choose our metals based on aesthetics, longevity and value for every design we create. We aim to bring you pieces that spark joy and fulfill your jewelry needs for every special occasion, every regular day, and everything in between.
We believe in transparency, and understanding the distinctions between jewelry metals empowers you to make confident decisions when selecting pieces for your collection. Let's explore the characteristics of each metal.
SOLID GOLD
A timeless investment, solid gold is valued for its purity and enduring appeal. It's not going to tarnish and it's kind to our sometimes-more-sensitive skin as we navigate these fabulous decades. This is an excellent choice for durable, everyday wear – true 'live-in' jewelry. Yes, it might have a bit of a price tag, but consider it an heirloom in the making – something to pass down to someone special someday.
GOLD VERMEIL
Gold vermeil offers a smart and stylish option when you want that touch of real gold, but also want to be thoughtful about value. Crafted entirely of precious metals, vermeil has a substantial layer of real 18K gold bonded over sterling silver that gives you the look and feel of solid gold at a more accessible price point. Vermeil is considered the best solid gold alternative because of its precious metal base and at least 100+ mls (or 2.5 microns) of 18K gold. It’s high quality and hard-wearing. With proper care, it can withstand life’s daily adventures, though attention should be paid to avoid harsh chemicals and excessive moisture. Avoid showering, swimming, or heavy workouts with it on and take care when using soaps or lotions to avoid contact with your jewelry! For detailed tips on how to best care for your vermeil jewelry, please refer to our comprehensive Jewelry Care Guide.
GOLD FILLED
Gold filled jewelry offers a reliable and practical choice. It's got a very thick layer of 14k gold that is heat and pressure bonded to a base metal, typically high-quality brass, so it's durable enough for everyday wear – running errands, meeting friends for lunch, you name it. This construction results in a sturdy and tarnish-resistant option that offers high quality, excellent value. It's a smart choice when you want that golden glow without the premium price. With proper care, gold-filled can last a very long time. Take care to avoid exposure to moisture and personal care products to get the most out of your gold-filled jewelry. Find tips on how to best care for your gold-filled jewelry, please refer to our comprehensive Jewelry Care Guide.
STERLING SILVER
It's the elegant foundation of so many beautiful pieces. That lovely, bright silver is a classic for a reason. It's sophisticated, versatile, and looks stunning with everything from jeans to a cocktail dress. Tarnish is normal for true sterling silver pieces. They should be stored airtight and will need periodic cleaning and polishing. For detailed guidance on how to clean and care for your sterling silver jewelry, please see our Jewelry Care Guide. With proper care, it's a timeless beauty that you’ll cherish for years.
GOLD PLATED
Gold plated jewelry features a thin layer of gold over various base metals. Due to the thinness of the gold layer and unregulated production processes, it may be less durable. It consists of gold “flash plating” over various base metals. This choice is prone to flaking and fading with age, everyday wear and water or product exposure. This is not a process we use, except on the rare occasion that a production method or design calls for something plated.
So, there you have it. Whether you're drawn to the enduring luxury of solid gold, the smart elegance of vermeil, the reliable charm of gold-filled, or the classic beauty of sterling silver, you can now choose your pieces with confidence and a little knowing wink.
For detailed instructions on how to best care for your chosen metals and keep your jewelry sparkling for years to come, be sure to check out our Jewelry Care Guide. Now, who's ready for a little jewelry shopping? 😉 ✨
