STERLING SILVER | VERMEIL GOLD | STAINLESS | GOLD PLATED

Sterling silver is made by combining 92.5% pure silver with 7.5% of another metal, usually copper. It is a relatively affordable option for silver jewelry.


Gold is a precious metal that comes in different karats (purities). 24 karat gold is pure gold, while 18 karat gold is 75% gold and 25% other metals. 14 karat gold is 58.3% gold and 41.7% other metals.


Vermeil gold is a type of gold-plated jewelry. It is made by coating a base of sterling silver with a thick layer of gold. The gold used for vermeil is typically 14k or higher.


Gold-plated jewelry is made by coating a base metal with a thin layer of gold. The thickness of the layer can vary, and it may wear off over time.


PROS

CONS

Sterling Silver

Affordable compared to pure gold

Tends to tarnish over time and needs cleaning

Has a similar appearance to pure gold

Can be scratched or dented more easily than pure gold

Durable and long-lasting

Some people may have allergic reactions to the copper or other metals used in the alloying process for sterling silver.

Gold

Very durable and long-lasting

More expensive than sterling silver

Does not tarnish or corrode

Can be scratched or dented more easily than some other precious metals

Comes in different karats (purities) to suit different budgets

Theft risk: Because of its high value, gold jewelry can be a target for theft or robbery

Vermeil Gold

More affordable than pure gold

Can be scratched or dented more easily than pure gold

Durable and long-lasting

The gold plating can wear off over time

Gold-plated

More affordable than pure gold

The gold plating can wear off over time

Can be scratched or dented more easily than pure gold

Can have a similar appearance to pure gold

The base metal may tarnish or corrode

Less durable than other types of jewelry.

TAKING CARE OF SILVER, GOLD AND STAINLESS STEEL

To take care of sterling silver jewelry, you should keep it clean and dry. Avoid exposing it to water, chemicals, or extreme temperatures. When not wearing it, store it in a cool, dry place, preferably in a tarnish-resistant pouch or airtight container. Clean it with a soft cloth or a jewelry cleaning solution specifically designed for silver.


To take care of gold jewelry, you should also keep it clean and dry. Avoid exposing it to chlorine, which can damage the metal. When not wearing it, store it in a cool, dry place, preferably in a tarnish-resistant pouch or airtight container. You can clean gold jewelry with warm water and mild soap or a jewelry cleaning solution specifically designed for gold.


To take care of vermeil gold jewelry, you should treat it as you would gold jewelry. Avoid exposing it to water, chemicals, or extreme temperatures. Be gentle when cleaning to avoid wearing off the gold plating.


To take care of gold-plated jewelry, you should avoid exposing it to water, chemicals, or extreme temperatures. Be gentle when cleaning to avoid wearing off the gold plating. Avoid using abrasive materials or chemicals as it can damage the plating and base metal.