The Difference in Materials
Solid gold is made entirely of gold and is the most valuable and durable option. Gold filled jewelry has a layer of gold bonded to a base metal, making it more affordable than solid gold while still being durable. Gold plated jewelry has a thin layer of gold applied to a metal through a process called electroplating, making it the most affordable option but less durable than solid gold or gold filled. Sterling silver is an alloy made of 92.5% silver and 7.5% other metals, making it a popular and affordable option for jewelry. Another option is stainless steel for those with allergies. Depending on your preferences, potential allergies, price point and aesthetic choice, we can offer a variety of choices. Always feel free to email us with any special requests so that we can have the inventory you require available.
01
Gold Filled
This is the standard metal carried by Sugar Spark. Gold filled contains at least 5% gold. Gold filled jewelry has almost 100x more gold than plated jewelry making it more durable and resistant to wear and tear. Gold filled is created by melting at least 5% gold by weight onto a base metal. With proper care it can last years. It is more expensive than gold plated but more affordable than solid gold.
02
Gold Plated
Gold plated is the most affordable of jewelry metals due to the smaller amount of gold. It does show wear more quickly and needs to be kept dry. Many Charms are gold plated. Care needs to be taken with chemicals, lotions, perfumes, sunscreen, etc.
03
Solid Gold
Solid gold is the highest in purity and durability, but it is also the highest in price. Currently the price of gold is close to $2,500 per ounce. Sugar Spark will order gold upon special request with a deposit.
04
Sterling Silver
Sterling Silver is an alloy of silver containing 92.5% by weight of silver and 7.5% by weight of other metals, usually copper. The sterling silver standard has a hallmark of 925. Sterling silver is comprised of additional metals to give silver strength as it is too soft to create jewelry alone.
