Precious Metals Guide

925 silver

925 or sterling silver is 92.5% pure silver alloyed with other metals such as copper or zinc. It is finished with rhodium plating to add a rich, deeper luster. The item will always remain white and never turn colors. Silver will oxidize over time, requiring routine cleaning. Periodic rhodium re-plating is optional.

14K Vermeil

Vermeil (pronounced vehr-may) is sterling silver with a thick layer of 14k gold plating. This is longer lasting than standard gold plating and the highest quality gold plated jewelry you can buy. This is a more affordable way to own gold jewelry. Recommended for occasional wear only. Periodic re-plating is necessary to maintain it's gold finish.

14K Gold

14K Gold is solid, real gold and will never turn colors. It is 58.5% pure gold alloyed with different metals to add hardness. 14K is the best compromise of beauty and durability. 18K and higher karat gold is softer and easier to dent, making small pieces quite fragile. Lower gold karats such as 8-10K gold are strong but does not look as rich in color. 14K is the best balance and can be worn daily.

White gold is finished with rhodium plating for extra shine and a deep rich luster. This is standard in the jewelry industry. Periodic re-plating is optional.

Solid gold jewelry is hypoallergenic and not likely to cause a skin reaction.

Platinum

Platinum is a naturally lustrous white metal with a deep shine. Unlike white gold or silver, it does not require any rhodium plating for it's beautiful color so it never needs re-plating. It is also the most hypoallergenic jewelry metal. Platinum is harder than both gold or silver, making it more difficult to damage or dent. It is also denser than gold or silver, meaning that the exact same item made in platinum will be heavier than a gold or silver version.