Product Info & Care

What is 14kt Gold Filled Jewelry?

Gold-filled jewelry consists of a layer of solid gold mechanically bonded to a base metal. It is a more affordable alternative to solid gold jewelry while offering many of the same amazing characteristics of solid gold, such as its beautiful color, luster and durability.

The typical composition of gold-filled jewelry is:

  • Base Metal: The core of the jewelry piece is usually made of a base metal, such as brass or copper.
  • Gold Layer: A layer of solid gold is then bonded to the surface of the base metal. The gold layer is typically thicker than what you would find on gold-plated jewelry, making gold-filled jewelry more durable and longer-lasting.
Gold-filled jewelry is designated with a specific "karat" quality, such as 14k or 18k, which indicates the purity of the gold in the layer. For example, 14k gold-filled jewelry contains a layer of 14-karat gold bonded to the base metal. Some key features of gold-filled jewelry include:

  • Durability: Gold-filled jewelry is more durable than gold-plated jewelry because the gold layer is thicker and securely bonded to the base metal. With proper care, it can last for many years.

  • Affordability: Gold-filled jewelry offers the look and feel of solid gold at a fraction of the cost, making it a more budget-friendly option.

  • Tarnish Resistance: Gold is highly resistant to tarnishing, so gold-filled jewelry is less likely to tarnish compared to other metals, it doesn’t flake or rub off like a plated material.

  • Hypoallergenic: It is often a suitable option for people with metal allergies because the gold layer creates a barrier between the skin and the base metal, reducing the risk of skin irritation.
With proper care and maintenance, gold-filled jewelry can retain its appearance and beauty for a long time. It should not be confused with gold-plated jewelry, which has a much thinner layer of gold and will wear away more quickly.

14kt Gold Fill Care Tips

Gold-filled jewelry is an amazing alternative to solid gold jewelry. Proper care can help maintain the appearance and longevity of your gold-filled jewelry. Here are some tips:

Keep it clean:
  • To remove dirt, oils, and sweat, gently clean your gold-filled jewelry with a soft, lint-free cloth after each wear.
  • For more thorough cleaning, you can soak the jewelry in warm, soapy water (mild dish soap or baby shampoo is suitable). Use a soft brush, like a toothbrush, to gently scrub away any debris. Rinse with clean water and pat dry with a soft cloth.
Avoid chemicals:
  • Avoid exposing your gold-filled jewelry to harsh chemicals, such as chlorine, bleach, or ammonia, as they can damage the gold layer and the base metal.
  • Remove your jewelry before swimming in pools or hot tubs, as chlorine can be particularly harmful.
Minimize contact with lotions and perfumes:
  • Apply lotions, perfumes, and hairsprays before putting on your jewelry. Chemicals in these products can tarnish and erode the gold layer over time.
Store properly:
  • Store your gold-filled jewelry in a dry, cool place away from direct sunlight. You can use a jewelry box or a soft pouch to prevent scratching and tarnishing.
  • It's a good idea to store each piece of jewelry separately to prevent them from tangling or scratching each other.
Avoid excessive moisture:
  • Do not wear your gold-filled jewelry in humid or damp conditions for prolonged periods, as moisture can cause the base metal to tarnish.
Remove before physical activities:
  • Take off your gold-filled jewelry before engaging in strenuous physical activities or household chores to prevent damage or scratches.
Regular inspections:
  • Periodically inspect your jewelry for any signs of wear, such as loose settings, bent prongs, or worn-out clasps. Address any issues promptly to prevent further damage.
Avoid wearing while sleeping:
  • It's a good practice to remove your gold-filled jewelry before going to bed to prevent unnecessary wear and tear.
Remember that the gold layer on gold-filled jewelry can eventually wear away over time, but with proper care, it can last for many years. The longevity of your jewelry will depend on factors such as how often you wear it and how well you care for it.

Sterling Silver Care Tips

Sterling silver jewelry is beautiful and versatile, but it can tarnish over time. Proper care and maintenance can help keep your sterling silver jewelry looking its best. Here are some care tips:
Wear it often:
  • Believe it or not, wearing your sterling silver jewelry actually helps prevent tarnish. The natural oils in your skin can help keep the silver shiny. So, don't be afraid to wear your pieces regularly.
Store it properly:
  • When you're not wearing your jewelry, store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Use a jewelry box or pouch to prevent scratches and tarnish.
  • Consider storing your sterling silver jewelry in an airtight bag or with anti-tarnish strips, which can help reduce tarnish.
Avoid exposure to chemicals:
  • Remove your jewelry before swimming in pools or hot tubs, as chlorine can react with silver and cause it to tarnish.
  • Avoid exposing your silver jewelry to household chemicals, such as bleach, ammonia, or hairspray, as they can also tarnish or damage the metal.
Clean it regularly:
  • To remove tarnish, use a soft, lint-free cloth or a specially designed silver polishing cloth. Gently rub the jewelry to restore its shine. Be careful not to rub too vigorously, as this can scratch the metal.
  • For stubborn tarnish, you can create a paste by mixing baking soda with water. Apply the paste to the tarnished areas, gently rub, and then rinse and dry thoroughly.
Avoid abrasive materials:
  • Don’t use abrasive materials like toothbrushes or paper towels to clean your silver jewelry, as they can scratch the metal.
Limit exposure to air:
  • When not in use, store your sterling silver jewelry in airtight containers or resealable plastic bags to reduce exposure to air, which can contribute to tarnish.
Keep it dry:
  • Moisture can accelerate tarnishing, so be sure to dry your silver jewelry completely if it gets wet.
Be mindful of cosmetics:
  • Apply lotions, perfumes, and hairsprays before putting on your silver jewelry to avoid chemical interactions that can lead to tarnish.
With proper care, sterling silver jewelry can maintain its beauty and last for generations. While some tarnish is inevitable, regular maintenance and following these care tips can help keep your jewelry looking its best.