Curious about the metals in our jewelry collection? When you're shopping for jewelry, it can be tricky to know what each metal means, which one is best for you, and how to care for them. But don't worry - we got you covered!
We created a handy guide to the metals we carry here at Aiyah. And the best part? Every piece of jewelry we offer is crafted by independent artists. So, you’re not just buying jewelry—you’re supporting creativity and craftsmanship.
Sterling Silver
Sterling silver is a fan favorite, and for good reason! It’s affordable, durable, and with more wear, it develops a beautiful lasting shine. However, it’s not as tough as some other metals and can get scratched. The good news? Sterling silver is a safe choice for anyone who’s had adverse reactions to other metals. To keep your sterling silver pieces in top shape, store them out of open air, away from moisture, and clean them occasionally with a jewelry-specific polishing cloth or mild soap and water.
14K and 18K Gold
Solid gold is the crème de la crème of metals—it will never corrode or tarnish, making it the epitome of luxury. The “K” stand for karat. This helps determine the percentage of pure gold in the alloy.
- 14K Gold: Contains 58.03% gold, making it more scratch-resistant and durable. It's also one of the more affordable solid gold options.
- 18K Gold: Contains 75% gold, which gives it a richer color but also makes it slightly softer and pricier than 14K gold.
No matter which you choose, gold is a timeless investment that will last a lifetime. The pure gold content also means these pieces will increase in value over time.
Gold Plating
Gold is expensive, we know. Want that golden glow without the hefty price tag? Gold plating might be your perfect match! This involves a very thin layer of gold adhered on top of another metal. It’s a cost-effective way to get that gold finish, but keep in mind that it does fade over time and requires regular maintenance.
Pro tip: Rings tend to fade faster than earrings or necklaces since they’re more prone to rubbing against your hands and other surfaces. To keep your gold plated jewelry looking fresh, avoid abrasive cleaners, and remember to remove your pieces when showering, swimming, working out, or cleaning. Think of your gold plated pieces as fun things to wear during special occasions rather than day-to-day and they will last much longer!
Gold-Filled
Gold-filled jewelry is like the next best thing after solid gold. These pieces have a thicker layer of gold compared to gold plating, which makes them more durable and longer-lasting. The gold-filled process involves bonding two to three layers of gold over a base metal, usually brass. With proper care (same instructions as gold plating), your gold-filled pieces can last over a decade before the base metal starts to show.
Brass and Bronze
Brass and bronze are sturdy, affordable base metals that can last for decades. However, they do tarnish over time, and some people may experience reactions like irritated or green skin when wearing them. Don’t worry, though! A good polishing cloth or professional cleaning can restore their original shine, and they'll never lose their gold color.
Now that you’re in the know about the metals we carry, you can shop with confidence! Whether you’re drawn to the shimmer of sterling silver, the luxury of solid gold, or the affordability of gold plating and gold-filled, there’s a perfect piece waiting for you.