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Choosing Jewelry That Lasts: Stainless Steel, Gold Vermeil, and Solid Gold

by Amaryllis Jane on Apr 27 2025
Your journey to everyday elegance starts here. At Amaryllis Jane, jewelry isn't just an accessory — it's a story you carry with you, day after day. When you choose jewelry, you deserve pieces that mirror your strength, your grace, and your dreams. That’s why we thoughtfully craft jewelry that not only looks beautiful but is designed to last — no compromises. But what’s the right choice for you: 316L premium grade surgical stainless steel, certified gold vermeil, or solid gold? Let's explore the journey of everyday jewelry that grows with you — from essentials to investment. Stainless Steel: A Strong Start for Everyday Wear Stainless steel jewelry is beloved for a reason — it's durable, water-resistant, and accessible. If you're searching for tarnish-free, everyday jewelry, stainless steel offers a reliable starting point. Stainless steel pieces resist rust and fading, making them ideal for active lifestyles. They're also hypoallergenic, perfect for sensitive skin. At Amaryllis Jane, we carefully select high-quality stainless steel for selected designs — ensuring you experience the ease of low-maintenance jewelry with effortless style. Best for: Everyday basics, active lifestyles, first-time fine jewelry wearers. Gold Vermeil: Everyday Elegance, Elevated When you're ready for more than everyday durability — when you crave a little more poetry, a little more glow — gold vermeil offers the perfect upgrade. What makes gold vermeil special? A solid 925 sterling silver base (precious, unlike steel) Coated with a thick layer of genuine 18k gold — five times thicker than regular gold plating Waterproof and tarnish-resistant, crafted for daily wear Our gold vermeil jewelry captures the spirit of fine jewelry — luminous, luxurious, and long-wearing — without the high solid gold price tag. Each piece reflects subtle elegance, with the warmth and glow of real gold, handcrafted to move with you through life's most beautiful chapters. Best for: Everyday luxury, milestone gifts, building a refined jewelry capsule. Solid Gold: An Investment in Forever When life calls for something eternal, solid gold jewelry answers. Solid gold pieces are more than adornments — they are investment jewelry, carrying both emotional and financial value.Gold is a metal that doesn't tarnish, doesn't lose worth, and grows richer with time — just like the memories you create wearing it. Amaryllis Jane’s upcoming solid gold collection is designed for those who want to mark life’s biggest moments — a timeless reminder of strength, love, and self-celebration. Best for: Heirlooms, milestone celebrations, self-investment. Stainless Steel vs Gold Vermeil vs Solid Gold: Which One is Right for You? Feature Stainless Steel Gold Vermeil Solid Gold Material Base PVD coated Steel Alloy Solid 925 Sterling Silver Pure Gold (10k, 14k, 18k) Gold Content Optional Gold Tone Genuine 18k Gold Layer (5x thicker) Solid Gold Throughout Durability Highly Durable, Scratch Resistant Durable with Daily Care Extremely Durable Water Resistance Waterproof Waterproof (with care) Waterproof Skin Sensitivity Hypoallergenic Hypoallergenic Hypoallergenic Tarnish-Resistance Excellent Excellent (with proper care) Never tarnishes Price Range Most Accessible Mid-Level Affordable Luxury Premium Investment Best For Everyday Basics Everyday Luxury, Special Occasions Forever Pieces, Heirlooms Expected Lifespan 5–10 years 3–5 years Lifetime   Many customers embrace gold vermeil jewelry as their everyday luxury because it offers something stainless steel cannot: the authentic glow of real 18k gold. Crafted with a solid sterling silver base and a thick layer of precious gold, gold vermeil captures the richness and romance of fine jewelry at a more accessible price point. While stainless steel is known for its extreme durability, gold vermeil delivers a warmer, more refined finish that feels closer to traditional heirloom pieces. Even with a slightly shorter lifespan, gold vermeil jewelry remains a favorite for those who seek affordable everyday gold jewelry — pieces that feel meaningful, elegant, and made for special memories.At Amaryllis Jane, we create gold vermeil jewelry in Australia designed to move with you: from daily rituals to unforgettable moments, crafted for all that you are. The Amaryllis Jane Promise Whether you begin with a waterproof stainless steel essential, graduate to luminous gold vermeil, or invest in a piece of solid gold — you deserve jewelry that mirrors the beauty and resilience you carry every day. At Amaryllis Jane, we design jewelry for all that you are — and all that you are becoming.Because life is too beautiful for jewelry that doesn't last.

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Is Gold-Plated Jewelry Worth It? The Truth Behind What You’re Wearing

by Amaryllis Jane on Apr 19 2025
Not all gold is created equal. Here’s how to tell what’s truly worth keeping. You’ve likely seen the words gold plated, gold vermeil, or gold-filled on jewelry websites — often used interchangeably. But not all gold coatings are the same, and the difference goes far beyond shine. At Amaryllis Jane, we believe your jewelry should stay with you. Not fade after a season. That’s why we use thick-layered 18k gold over 925 sterling silver — and we tell you exactly how thick it is: 2.5 microns. What Is Gold-Plated Jewelry? Gold-plated jewelry applies a very thin layer of gold — often less than 0.5 microns — over cheaper base metals like brass or copper. These fade quickly with wear. What Makes Amaryllis Jane Different? 2.5 microns of real 18k gold Base: 925 sterling silver (not brass) Hypoallergenic, skin-safe Crafted to last for years — not months Gold Comparison Table Type Gold Thickness Base Metal Longevity Flash Plating ~0.1 micron Mixed or unknown Days to weeks Standard Plated ~0.5 micron Brass or copper 1–3 months (light use) Amaryllis Jane 2.5 microns 925 Sterling Silver Years, with care Final Thoughts If jewelry is meant to mean something, it deserves to last. Our gold isn’t just layered — it’s built with memory, intention, and quality that won’t fade when the season changes. At Amaryllis Jane, we don’t just plate gold. We create keepsakes, wrapped in meaning.

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Mother's Day Gift Ideas That Last — Sterling Silver Jewelry from Amaryllis Jane

by Amaryllis Jane on Apr 17 2025
Two Hoops in One Earrings – A Bond That’s Never Separate

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What is Rose Gold Jewellery and What is the Best Way to Style It?

by Amaryllis Jane on May 07 2024
Jewellery is indeed one of the most romantic things that we can receive as a gift. Just thinking of its timeless elegance and charm is enough to make anyone swoon. But when you add a subtle tinge of pink to the classic gold hues, it becomes even more special.  Identified by its iconic pink hues, rose gold jewellery is a popular choice because it exudes femininity and looks extra romantic! Plus, its distinct colour can easily elevate any outfit, making sure you’re captivating hearts everywhere you go. However, it’s time to answer what everyone has been asking since it came into the spotlight: what is rose gold actually made of? Keep reading below to find out! What is rose gold jewellery? Before we get started, let’s establish one thing here: rose gold is not exactly solid gold.  But wait, if it’s not solid gold, then what is it made of? Great question! Actually, rose gold jewellery is a blend, or an alloy, of pure 24-karat gold, silver, and copper. While pure 24-karat yellow gold is often the foundation for various gold colours and qualities, it is too soft for jewellery in its pure form. Therefore, it must be alloyed with other metals to enhance its durability. Different alloy combinations are utilized to achieve various colours and properties in metals used for jewellery, such as platinum, white gold, yellow gold, and rose gold. Rose gold made its debut in early 19th century Russia when renowned jeweller Carl Faberge incorporated it into his iconic Faberge Eggs, initially referred to as Russian Gold. Subsequently, during the opulent and feminine 1920s in the United States, rose gold surged in popularity and became a favoured choice for engagement rings and exquisite jewellery pieces. Cartier also played a major role in making rose gold even more popular when they started crafting luxurious jewellery pieces with rose gold, precious gemstones, and diamonds. Another piece of jewellery that significantly contributed to rose gold's popularity is the Trinity Ring, a simple band intertwining three gold colours. It was designed by Cartier and commissioned by the renowned French writer, artist, filmmaker, and playwright Jean Cocteau. Cocteau famously sported the Cartier ring on his pinkie, adding to its iconic status. We can also thank the ever-changing trends and celebrity endorsements for making rose gold pieces a staple for decades. Today, it continues to hold its spotlight in the fashion segments of popular magazines, adorning the hands of trendsetters and future brides alike. How can I find good quality rose gold jewellery? When it comes to jewellery, you want to make sure you’re getting the real deal so it can last longer. One of the most important things to take note of when buying rose gold jewellery is the quality mark.  The quality mark discloses the precious metal content in each piece of jewellery, and you can usually find them inside the ring bands or the clasps of necklaces. Here’s a quick guide to the quality marks so you can choose the rose gold piece: 18 Karat, 18K, or 750: These marks indicate that 18 out of 24 parts, or at least 75%, of the metal content is pure gold. 14 Karat, 14K, 585, or 583: 14 out of 24 parts, or at least 58.3%, is gold. While technically 14K gold requires only 58.3%, many pieces contain 58.5% gold. 10 Karat, 10K, or 417: 10 out of 24 parts, or at least 41.7%, is gold. GF, GP, or GEP: These abbreviations stand for gold-filled, gold-plated, and gold electroplated, respectively. They are often accompanied by a number indicating the plating's purity, such as 14K GP on 14-karat gold plated fashion jewellery. Vermeil or 925: This indicates that the item is made from sterling silver and covered with gold plating. Is rose gold hypoallergenic? Since rose gold mostly contains pure yellow gold, it is hypoallergenic and safe for most individuals to wear without causing allergic reactions. Unlike some metals, it does not contain nickel, which is a common trigger for allergies among jewellery wearers. How can I style my rose gold jewellery? Now that we’ve covered the bases on what rose gold is, it’s time to get to the fun stuff: styling your rose gold jewellery! While you might think that the pink hues of rose gold will make it hard to pair it with other metals, this is actually the opposite. The subtle colour of rose gold makes it easy to mix and match with other metals, such as yellow gold, white gold, and silver. In fact, the tri-colour mix of rose gold, yellow gold, and silver has been a famous jewellery combination for years! Layering is a hot trend right now, and it also applies to wearing rose gold pieces. Rose gold necklaces are available in pre-layered styles or as individual chains for personalized layering. Double and triple layers are popular choices, but you can opt for four or more layers for a more dramatic effect. Adding more necklaces creates a bolder look, with 2 to 3 layers recommended for casual or work attire and unlimited layering for a fun night out with friends! The same layering concept applies to rings, anklets, and bracelets. If you enjoy stacking bracelets, experiment with mixing and matching cuffs, tennis bracelets, and other designs while maintaining a cohesive theme of rose gold to unify your style. Speaking of outfits, try wearing neutral or nude-coloured outfits with your rose gold jewellery. The soft tones of the accessories harmonize with the outfit, resulting in a chic and sophisticated appearance. You can combine blush hues, beige tones, and sandy pinks, or neutral colours like white, black, grey, cream, and navy. Any of these outfits would look really great with rose gold! Moreover, the subtle pop of colour that rose gold has made it perfect for pairing with gemstones, especially if you’re looking for a customised engagement ring. Pink gemstones look even more stunning when set in rose gold, because they create a seamless transition between the metal and the gemstone. Stones like morganite, pink diamonds, pink sapphires, and pink tourmaline are good options! However, you can play with other colours since rose gold complements blue, red, purple, white, and brown. Surprisingly, even black gemstones can create a striking contrast against rose gold - talk about a total eye candy!

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The Magic of Motherhood: How A Mother’s Love Changes Lives

by Amaryllis Jane on May 07 2024
The most noble form of love on the planet is from our mothers. And speaking of noble acts, there’s no denying that the most noble responsibility a woman can bear is to become a mother. From the long, painful months of carrying a child in your womb, to giving birth, and then shaping that kid to be strong and smart for the world – nothing could ever come between that.  With that, join us as we put the spotlight on these influential mothers who continue to shower their families with love while inspiring the world. Moms do so much for their children, and they deserve to be recognised like this. These powerful women have done more than look out for their loved ones, as they have also taken huge responsibilities in society and pushed for positive changes in their respective communities. Keep reading below to find out more about them. Tammy Duckworth Behind the tough wars she has been through, US Senator Tammy Duckworth, a seasoned Iraq War Veteran and Purple Heart awardee, also has a lighthearted side to her impressive resume. Before joining the U.S. Senate in 2016, she soared through the ranks, quite literally, as one of the first Army women to take on combat missions during Operation Iraqi Freedom. With 23 years of service in the Reserve Forces, she decided to trade her uniform for a different kind of Capitol Hill attire in 2014, retiring as a Lieutenant Colonel. Before her Senate journey, Duckworth represented Illinois's Eighth Congressional District with charm and dedication for two terms in the U.S. House of Representatives.  In 2018, Duckworth made history as the first Senator to give birth while in office. She championed family-friendly policies by successfully pushing for groundbreaking rules change, allowing Senators to bring their infants onto the Senate floor – a message resonating with working families nationwide. Now, as a US senator, Duckworth tirelessly works for the people of Illinois, all while balancing the joys of raising her two young daughters, Abigail and Maile. Melinda Gates We’ll bet on it that you’re currently reading this article and you’re surrounded by a Microsoft-powered application, whether you’re currently writing emails, typing up documents at work, or simply browsing the Internet. And while the genius behind this tech giant, Bill Gates, has graced a lot of attention because of his success, few know the story of his wife, Melinda Gates.  Born as Melinda French in Texas in 1964 to a mom who really valued education (having missed out on college herself), Melinda Gates had a knack for math and science from a young age. She went on to study computer science at Duke University and later snagged a master's degree in business administration. Her journey led her to Microsoft, where she climbed the ranks and took charge of cool projects like Expedia and Encarta. During her time at Microsoft, Melinda met her future husband and boss, Bill Gates. Their love story began, and in 1994, after six years of dating, they tied the knot. Together, they founded the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation to tackle global poverty and health issues. These days, Melinda is fully dedicated to the foundation, achieving remarkable feats like supporting underprivileged students and enhancing access to birth control in developing countries. Melinda and Bill have three children, Jennifer, Rory, and Phoebe – all decorated in terms of scholastic accolades.  Michelle Obama Now that we’re talking about strong women standing beside their powerful beaus, it’s time to talk about what we can all collectively agree is the coolest first lady in US history: Michelle Obama.  In 2009, Michelle became the first African American first lady, adding another achievement to her impressive resume which includes graduating from Princeton and Harvard Law. A Chicago native, she practised law before her White House days and even managed to balance a career at the University of Chicago Medical Center with raising her two daughters, Sasha and Malia. During her time in the White House, Michelle passionately spearheaded the Let's Move! campaign, aiming to kick childhood obesity to the curb within a generation. Alongside that, she delved into various other projects close to her heart, supporting veterans, military families, and young minds pursuing higher education. Today, Michelle is a best-selling author who shares her stories of hope and inspiration through her memoirs. In 2023, Obama got a nod for the Primetime Emmy Award in the Outstanding Hosted Nonfiction Series or Special category at the 75th Primetime Creative Arts Emmy Awards. This recognition came from the Netflix documentary film "The Light We Carry: Michelle Obama and Oprah Winfrey." Kathy Headlee Kathy Headlee, a mom of seven (with the youngest being an adorable addition from Romania), founded Mothers Without Borders with the mission of bringing joy and support to orphaned children globally. Starting in 1992, she led a bunch of amazing volunteers in delivering essential supplies to orphanages and offering caregiving training in Romania. Since then, Mothers Without Borders has been on a heartwarming journey, sending volunteers to spread love and assistance to kids all around the world. Guided by Kathy's compassionate spirit, Mothers Without Borders has orchestrated numerous community development projects — even throwing in some life-changing toilets — and sent volunteers on exciting adventures to places like Romania, Mexico, India, Indonesia, Bolivia, Taiwan, Haiti, Uganda, Ethiopia, Kenya, Zambia, Zimbabwe, and the United States. Kathy herself spends a good chunk of each year soaking up the positive vibes in Africa, overseeing various projects from the lively Mothers Without Borders Regional Headquarters in Lusaka, Zambia. Candy Lightner In an unfortunate hit-and-run accident, Candy Lightner lost her 13-year-old daughter, Cari, because of a drunk driver. Ultimately devastated by this, Candy channelled her grief into positive action and started Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) in the US and Canada. This organization aimed to put the brakes on drunk driving, push for stricter laws, and support those affected by such incidents. Thanks to their tireless efforts, MADD has become a driving force in raising awareness, advocating for legislation, and ultimately preventing countless accidents, saving numerous lives along the way. Dr. Dana Suskind Dr. Dana Suskind is a mom of three and a super-skilled ear, nose, and throat doctor at the University of Chicago. She's the brain behind the Thirty Million Words Initiative, cheering on parents to chat up a storm with their little ones. Her gig is all about spreading the word on how babbling and bonding in those first three years can do wonders for a child’s development.

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Building Timeless Elegance: How to Find the Perfect Pieces for Your Jewellery Collection

by Amaryllis Jane on May 07 2024
Some people invest in their capsule wardrobe – you know, a timeless collection of neutrals and basics that you can easily dress up or down and mix or match depending on the occasion. While this is a genius way to stay elegant and classy all the time, it’s also good to know how to properly accessorize your capsule wardrobe. As such, it’s high time for you to start building your jewellery collection.  When it comes to curating your personal collection, it all boils down to your personal taste and style. You need to ask yourself: do I want something I can wear daily or a special one I can wear for big days? No matter your preference, we narrowed down the most helpful tips to help you find the perfect jewellery pieces to make your outfits sparkle anytime, anywhere. Keep reading below to know more! Start by finding the right metal for your skin tone. Just like how you’re choosing which makeup will suit you best, you also have to find the right metal for your skin tone to achieve that timeless look. Here’s a quick guide: Fair skin with red undertones: Avoid wearing rose gold jewellery as it will only accentuate your pinkish undertone. Instead, opt for silver to give your skin a fresh-looking glow.  Cool or bluish undertones: Go for silver jewellery as well to make your skin look bright and clear.  Olive or lightly tanned skin with warm undertones: Gold jewellery is perfect for you if you have this skin tone. It complements your skin colour perfectly! Neutral undertones: If you have neutral undertones, you’re in luck! Any metal will look good on you, so play around with your jewellery! If you’re still in doubt, give colour analysis a try. Simply book an appointment with a colour analysis professional, and they will assign the perfect colour palette to match your skin tone, from your clothing, makeup, hair colour, and even jewellery. However, this can be on the pricier side, so if it’s out of the budget for now, just pay extra attention to the pieces of jewellery you’ll be wearing. For instance, your earrings and necklaces should be a great match for your skin tone since they are closer to your face. Your bracelets and rings, on the other hand, are not that much of a deal since they are not as close.  Invest in your jewellery’s quality. You wouldn’t buy cheap, fast-fashion pieces if you were trying to build a capsule wardrobe, right? After all, the goal is to shop better so you can shop less. Similarly, you need to invest in the quality of the pieces you are buying so they will last you a very long time. The last thing you want when building a timeless jewellery collection is a bunch of cheap jewellery that will turn your skin green and tarnish after a few wears, or worse, irritate your skin and cause allergies.  While gold vermeil or silver-plated jewellery is not the same as their solid counterparts, they still boast good quality, especially if you want to save a couple of bucks. With the right care and maintenance, they can last a few years. It’s also best to avoid brass jewellery as they often contain nickel, which is a common allergen. Know the classics Building a capsule wardrobe is all about going for neutral colours that you can quickly mix and match – the same goes for jewellery! When it comes to building a timeless jewellery collection, you need to find simple, elegant, yet classic designs and silhouettes. Here are the pieces you’ll need for your capsule jewellery collection: Dainty necklace While some may think that a dainty necklace is a fairly small piece to base your capsule jewellery collection, believe us when we say that it will make the biggest difference. Their minimalistic charm makes them easy to layer with other necklaces, and they can make you look put together when you’re having a very busy day. The best part? They will look good no matter the occasion, so you can wear them every day for work and then pair them with a glam updo at night! Pendant necklace Pendant necklaces are great if you want to add a statement piece to your simple outfits, like if you’re wearing a plain shirt and a pair of jeans. Similarly, they can easily be layered with dainty necklaces if you want a more elevated look.  Chain necklace Your capsule jewellery collection is never complete without a medium-weight chain necklace like a herringbone or tennis necklace.  Despite its trendy appeal, the tennis necklace stands as a timeless piece that can grace your neckline for years to come. This necklace is designed to gracefully shimmer against your skin, drawing attention to your upper attire. On the other hand, the herringbone chain necklace serves as a more sophisticated alternative to the paperclip chain necklace. It effortlessly lends itself to layering or exudes a refined polish when worn independently. Hoop earrings Small, medium, or large – hoop earrings are a quintessential piece to add to your jewellery collection. These charming earrings not only add an effortlessly elegant touch to your earlobe, but they can also elevate any outfit from casual to chic! For a timeless look, go for the small or medium hoops, as they can add a subtle sparkle to your ensemble. If you're thinking about buying just one pair, go with an "everyday" hoop that's not too ornate or flashy. Ideally, go for simplicity, making sure they complement both your casual white t-shirt and your more formal dinner dress. These flexible earrings are made to be easily worn every day and blend in with a variety of styles.  Watches Be it silver, gold, or leather, watches are a staple piece in any jewellery collection. More than giving time, a classic watch makes your outfit look more polished and classier. No matter which material you choose, rest assured that they will look good on you. And since it’s not as close to your face, it all just boils down to your personal preference.  Tennis bracelet Much like its counterpart, the tennis necklace, tennis bracelets have been a staple for generations now.  Originally known as an eternity bracelet during the Roaring Twenties, this piece of jewellery underwent a significant rebranding in 1978. During a tennis match, renowned US tennis star Chris Evert caused a pause in play when she lost her diamond and gold bracelet, making it a memorable moment in sports history. In a subsequent interview, Evert referred to her exquisite jewellery as a "tennis bracelet." Tennis bracelets are ideal for stacking and layering on your wrist, as they complement various accessories like a classic watch. A genuine diamond tennis bracelet can cost a lot of money, but you can always go for a gold vermeil cubic zirconia tennis bracelet. It's an affordable alternative without compromising the stylish appeal. Dainty rings For an instant style boost, opt for a set of delicate stacking rings. These petite yet impactful jewellery pieces offer the flexibility to be worn individually or stacked together, offering a plethora of styling possibilities. Create a bold statement by adorning them collectively, or embrace subtle sophistication by wearing them separately. You can also layer them with chunky signet rings for a bolder statement!

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Allergen-Free Jewellery: How to Sparkle with Our Hypoallergenic Jewellery

by Amaryllis Jane on May 07 2024
Admit it or not, we’ve all done it once – sacrifice our comfort and safety just to look gorgeous. While some may say that it’s a fairly small price to pay in the name of beauty and elegance, we beg to differ. There are far better ways to slay the game without having to feel uncomfortable, especially when it comes to jewellery.  Enter hypoallergenic jewellery, our sparkling solution that will keep you looking beautiful and elegant minus all the allergies. Below, let’s explore how pieces made with 925 sterling silver, 14K or 18K gold, titanium, or platinum are changing the jewellery game by mixing comfort with style.  What is hypoallergenic jewellery? Hypoallergenic jewellery, in a nutshell, are pieces that do not have metals that can cause skin allergies or irritation, such as nickel. The most common materials used in hypoallergenic jewellery are stainless steel, 925 sterling silver, 14K or 18K gold, titanium, and platinum, as they have lower nickel content.  Unlike other types of jewellery, hypoallergenic does not have a strict rulebook or criteria because it all boils down to your specific skin allergies and which materials can trigger them. This is also why you'll most likely hear the term "hypoallergenic" tossed around like confetti. As such, it's best to double-check the materials used in every piece you're buying to ensure that they use skin-friendly and high-quality metals. Why should you choose hypoallergenic jewellery? Picture this: no more itching, redness, or discomfort that often comes with traditional jewellery. It's like a breath of fresh air for your skin. Plus, these pieces are like little superheroes – durable, resistant to tarnishing, and lasting forever. The best part? Your style game stays strong with hypoallergenic jewellery, effortlessly moving from laid-back vibes to fancy occasions. Whether you're rocking sterling silver or going all out with gold, these materials are like the fashion chameleons that never go out of style.  Even if you don't have known allergies, wearing hypoallergenic jewellery can be like a shield, preventing those pesky sensitivities that might pop up over time with non-hypoallergenic materials. What are the best types of hypoallergenic jewellery? 925 Sterling Silver 925 sterling silver is an alloy that contains 92.5% pure silver and 7.5% other metals, typically copper or zinc. Known as the fairy godmother of alloys, 925 sterling silver is the standard of silver jewellery in most markets today because of its durability and hypoallergenic properties.  What are the advantages of 925 sterling silver? Skin-friendly. Silver allergy is not uncommon, especially if you're wearing pure silver. But since 925 sterling silver is an alloy with no trace of common allergens like nickel or cobalt, it's a great choice for those with sensitive, delicate skin. Long-lasting lustre. Silver is a timeless classic that stands the test of time. With a little tender loving care, your sterling silver pieces will retain their dazzling charm for years.  Versatile and fashionable. Sterling silver is a great choice if you want to switch styles or want an effortless yet captivating accessory. Be it for casual wear or formal attire, it will ultimately add a hint of elegance to your ensemble like fairy dust. 14k and 18k Gold  Gold takes the crown as the reigning queen of jewellery metals, and it's all for good reason. More than its timeless glamour, gold is also the most flexible and mouldable metal in the game. To make it more durable, it's mixed with small amounts of alloy, giving us everyone's favourite gold types: 14k and 18k. These two are the darlings of precious metals, each with its own golden story. The secret lies in the gold percentage – 18K flaunts a 75% gold and 25% alloyed metals blend, while 14K rocks a 58% gold composition. Those alloyed metals might include a bit of silver, copper, nickel, or palladium. Another difference between the two is their colour. 18K gold boasts a deep, luxurious yellow, while 14K shines with a lighter tone, courtesy of those magical alloys. It's like choosing between a golden sunset and a sunrise – both divine, just with a touch of different magic. What are the advantages of 14k and 18k gold? Great for sensitive skin. Real gold remains the epitome of skin-friendly metals, ensuring comfort and safety for those who have skin allergies. It does not have common triggering materials, such as cobalt or nickel, making them the best options in hypoallergenic jewellery.  Classic and elegant. Gold jewellery, with its enduring charm, remains a timeless classic that transcends fashion trends. Whether embracing the warmth of 14K or indulging in the opulence of 18K, gold jewellery always radiates elegance and sophistication, symbolizing a legacy of refined taste. Durable and low maintenance. Since 14k and 18k gold are made from solid gold, there's no questioning their superb quality. It's highly resistant to rust and tarnishing (even if you wear it while showering!), so it will last for a long time, even across generations. It becomes not just an accessory, but also a precious heirloom, carrying with it the stories and elegance of time. Great investment pieces. If you want to start investing in jewellery, 14k and 18k gold are your go-to! The value of gold increases over time, so you can reap your rewards in a few years' time!  Genuine Rhodium Rhodium, the jewel among metals, stands out as the whitest and most precious choice for jewellery, surpassing even gold and platinum in rarity and outshining silver in luminosity. Usually discovered as a byproduct in platinum mines, rhodium shares its metallic lineage with platinum in the esteemed platinum group, which includes Platinum, Rhodium, Iridium, Ruthenium, Osmium, and Palladium.  However, what truly sets rhodium apart is its exquisite brilliance, reflectiveness, and durability, making it in demand not just in jewellery but also in crafting automobiles, lighting, and mirrors. What are the advantages of genuine rhodium? Pure and skin-friendly. Genuine rhodium stands out as one of the most skin-friendly metals as it excludes common metals like nickel and cobalt. It actually protects your skin from other metal alloys containing nickel. Long-lasting and durable. In the world of metals, rhodium emerges not just as a choice but as a poetic expression of feminine strength and timeless beauty. But in the world of jewellery, it is known for its ability to resist rust, corrosion, and tarnishing.
Gold Vermeil vs. Gold-plated Jewellery: Which One Should You Pick?

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Gold Vermeil vs. Gold-plated Jewellery: Which One Should You Pick?

by Amaryllis Jane on May 07 2024
A woman’s ensemble is never complete with a few shiny pieces of jewellery, and gold just makes it all the better. Known for its timeless elegance, gold has been worn by the greatest of pharaohs and monarchs, not only as a sign of beauty, but also of grace and status.  With a wide array of gold jewellery in the market today, it can be hard to choose which one would suit you best, especially when it comes to gold vermeil and gold-plated jewellery. As one of the most accessible gold types, these pieces bring a fresh and modern take to the classic gold. Keep reading below to know what sets these two apart, so you can find the perfect investment piece truly worth their weight in gold.  What is gold vermeil? Gold vermeil, pronounced "vur-may" (FYI, it's French!), is a prominent category in the realm of gold jewellery. Unlike other types of gold, there are certain criteria before you can call it vermeil. For starters, the piece should be made from sterling silver, an alloy composed of 92.5% pure silver and 7.5% other materials. Since it contains more sterling silver, it’s stronger and closer to real gold than other alternatives, like brass or copper. Additionally, the gold plating must be at least 10 karats and the gold content should be no less than 41.7% -- ensuring its luxurious and sophisticated appearance. Lastly, its gold plating should measure at least 2.5 microns in thickness, with a micron representing 1/1000th of a millimetre, so it stays beautiful and shiny as long as possible.  In essence, vermeil pieces are not merely jewellery; it's a testament to craftsmanship and adherence to standards, ensuring that each piece radiates both elegance and longevity. Why choose Gold Vermeil? Gold vermeil has an exquisite appearance. Gold vermeil has a high-end look that mirrors the appearance of solid gold pieces, so it’s hard to tell the difference. The best part? It does not cost as much! Gold vermeil is more durable. Thanks to its thicker gold plating, vermeil pieces last longer than most gold-plated jewellery and have better resistance to wear and tear. Plus, you can easily remove the tarnished areas by polishing them.  Gold vermeil is allergy-friendly. Since it’s made from sterling silver, gold vermeil is a safe choice for those with metal allergies. What is Gold-plated Jewellery?  Gold-plated jewellery, on the other hand, is a more budget-friendly option for those who want the timeless sparkle of gold in their ensemble. It uses electroplating to envelop the base metal (usually copper and brass) with a layer of gold. Each piece should have at least 0.5 microns of gold attached to the surface of the base metal to be considered as gold-plated.  The thing with gold-plated jewellery, however, is that they do not last as long as gold vermeil, since its base metals are not as durable. On average, gold-plated jewellery lasts around a year or so, depending on your usage. What are the Pros of Gold-plated Jewelry? Gold-plated jewellery is more affordable. If you want to look classy and stylish without breaking the bank, gold-plated is the way to go.  Gold-plated jewellery offers a diverse option for base metals. Want to play around with your pieces and experiment with the materials? Then opt for gold-plated pieces! You can enjoy a wide array of options in designing and creating your jewellery pieces since you can use copper or brass as your base.  Gold-plated jewellery is fashionable and trendy. Gold-plated jewellery frequently showcases stylish and trendy designs, which can suit any taste and fit the fast-changing fashion trends. What are the cons of gold-plated jewellery? It tarnishes faster. Since gold-plated jewellery is only made of a thin layer of gold over a base metal, it is more prone to tarnishing, fading, and wear and tear, unlike gold vermeil.  When the base metal comes into contact with moisture, the gold layer might degrade and tarnish. Similarly, exposure to chemicals such as hair spray, perfume, or lotion may damage gold-plated jewellery. It is not allergy-friendly. Individuals with metal allergies may experience irritation to their skin due to the base metals employed in gold-plated jewellery. It does not last as long. The thin gold layer means that gold-plated jewellery may have a limited lifespan compared to alternative options. How do I know if it’s Gold Vermeil or Gold-plated Jewellery? When buying gold jewellery, it helps to know how to distinguish gold vermeil from gold-plated jewellery. Here are some great tips to guide you in choosing your gold pieces: First, check the item for visual cues, such as wear, discolouration, or tarnishing -- which are very common in gold-plated jewellery. You can also inspect hallmarks or markings on the piece to quickly identify them. For instance, if you see "925", this denotes sterling silver in vermeil.   By checking for these on your pieces, you can make informed choices and buy something that perfectly suits your taste and expectations. How can I make my gold jewellery last longer? As with any jewellery, you can make your gold jewellery last longer with proper care and maintenance. Follow these tips to keep them shiny and elegant for as long as possible: Clean your gold pieces gently. After adorning your jewellery, delicately cleanse it with a soft, lint-free cloth to eliminate any dirt, sweat, oil, or chemicals that may have been stuck there. Avoid contact with chemicals. Protect your cherished pieces from the harmful effects of chemicals, perfumes, and cleaning agents that may affect its appearance.  Store properly. Safeguard your jewellery by storing it in a jewellery box or pouch to avoid potential scratching and maintain its sparkly, beautiful condition. You can also use silica gel packets to eliminate any moisture that may tarnish them. Use your pieces carefully. Remove your gold jewellery before working out or swimming, as this can quickly ruin your gold jewellery. Gold vermeil jewellery is worth investing in because it’s fashionable and elegant. So when it comes to choosing between gold vermeil and gold-plated pieces, consider your personal taste, budget, and lifestyle. Whichever you choose, how you style and care for them is key to truly enjoying your pieces for years to come.