Understanding 14K Gold-Filled & Sterling Silver Jewelry

At Made by Adelaide, we take pride in using high-quality materials to create timeless, handcrafted jewelry. Our pieces are made with 14K gold-filled and sterling silver, ensuring durability, beauty, and lasting value. But what do these materials mean, and how do they compare to solid gold or plated jewelry? Let’s break it down!

What is 14K Gold-Filled?

14K gold-filled jewelry is a high-quality alternative to solid gold, offering the same luxurious look and durability at a more affordable price.

How It’s Made:

Gold-filled jewelry is created by bonding a thick layer of 14-karat gold to a base metal (usually jeweler’s brass) using heat and pressure. This process results in a material that contains 100 times more gold than gold-plated jewelry, making it much more durable and resistant to tarnishing.

Gold-Filled vs. Gold-Plated

Why Choose Gold-Filled?

✔Long-Lasting: With proper care, gold-filled jewelry can last 10+ years without fading or rubbing off.

✔ Hypoallergenic: Unlike plated jewelry, it contains a significant amount of real gold, making it safe for sensitive skin.

✔ Water-Resistant: While it’s always best to avoid harsh chemicals, gold-filled jewelry won’t easily tarnish from everyday wear.

✔ Affordable Luxury: Enjoy the beauty of gold without the high price of solid 14K or 18K gold.

What is Sterling Silver?

Sterling silver is a classic, high-quality metal known for its bright white shine and versatility.

How It’s Made:

Sterling silver is an alloy made up of 92.5% pure silver and 7.5% other metals, typically copper. This combination enhances its strength while maintaining its beautiful silver appearance. You may notice sterling silver jewelry stamped with “925”, which indicates its silver content.

Why Choose Sterling Silver?

✔ Timeless Beauty: Sterling silver has a classic, high-end look that pairs well with any style.

✔ Durable & Strong: More resistant to scratching than pure silver, making it perfect for everyday wear.

✔ Hypoallergenic: Ideal for most people with sensitive skin.

✔ Easy to Maintain: Can be polished to restore its original shine, even if it tarnishes over time.

Caring for Your Sterling Silver Jewelry

Sterling silver can naturally oxidize (tarnish) over time when exposed to air, moisture, and certain chemicals. To keep your silver jewelry looking its best:

• Store it in an airtight bag when not in use.

• Clean it with a soft cloth or a silver polishing cloth to remove tarnish.

• Avoid exposure to harsh chemicals, perfumes, and lotions.