PRODUCT MATERIALS
Material Overview
Welcome to Golden Earth. Each piece is made from 316L stainless steel or 925 Sterling Silver, with the luxurious finish of 18K or 14K electroplated gold plating. I believe that jewellery should feel as special as it looks, which is why I focus on quality, durability, and design in every piece. Take your time to explore, and I hope you find that perfect addition to your collection that speaks to your unique style. I hope you're able to choose materials that resonate with you.
316L Stainless Steel vs 925 Sterling Silver
316L stainless steel is a high-quality, corrosion-resistant metal, making it a great choice for jewellery that will withstand the test of time. It is often used in high-end watches, medical equipment, and marine hardware due to its superior resistance to rust, tarnish, and wear. It’s especially favored in jewellery because it:
- Resists tarnishing: Unlike many other metals, 316 stainless steel does not tarnish, ensuring your jewelry maintains its shine for years.
- Hypoallergenic: Ideal for those with sensitive skin, it is less likely to cause allergic reactions, as it contains very low levels of nickel.
- Durability: It’s resistant to scratches and impact, making it a strong, long-lasting option for everyday wear.
2. 925 Sterling Silver: The Classic Elegance
925 sterling silver, often considered the gold standard in silver jewelry, is an alloy made up of 92.5% pure silver and 7.5% of other metals (typically copper). It’s renowned for its:
- Brilliant Shine: Sterling silver has a naturally bright, white sheen, making it an elegant choice for a wide range of designs.
- Malleability: Silver is softer than stainless steel, which allows for intricate and detailed designs.
- Timeless Appeal: Sterling silver has been a favorite in fine jewelry for centuries due to its classic, luxurious look.
Gold Plating
To give your jewelry a rich, warm glow, both 316 stainless steel and 925 sterling silver pieces are plated with a thin layer of high-quality 18k or 14k gold. This layer is applied using a process known as electroplating, ensuring the metal has a beautiful golden hue.
Why Choose 18k or 14k Gold Plating?
- 18k Gold: Contains 75% gold, offering a deeper, richer yellow color and a luxurious feel. It is often considered ideal for fine jewelry due to its balance of purity and durability.
- 14k Gold: Contains 58.3% gold, providing a slightly more affordable option while still delivering a beautiful gold finish. It’s slightly more durable than 18k gold due to the higher percentage of other metals mixed in.
Plating Thickness: 0.05 Micron
The gold plating on each piece is 0.05 micron thick. While this is thinner than a solid gold piece, it still provides a beautiful, long-lasting finish. Proper care will help maintain the luster of the plating over time, keeping your jewelry looking fabulous for years to come. More information is in the Care Guide dropdown menu on the page of each piece
Whichever you choose, Golden Earth offers:
- Quality and Durability: Whether you choose the robustness of 316 stainless steel or the elegance of 925 sterling silver, both materials are expertly crafted to ensure your jewelry will stay beautiful, comfortable, and reliable for years to come.
- Luxury at an Affordable Price: With 18k or 14k gold plating, you get the luxurious look and feel of solid gold without the high price tag.
- Hypoallergenic and Skin-Friendly: Both 316 stainless steel and 925 sterling silver are ideal for those with sensitive skin, as they are less likely to cause irritation compared to other metals.