Here's The Difference Between All The Medals That Make Up Your Favorite Jewelry Pieces - What Does 24k Gold Mean?

Are all metals in your jewelry pieces created equally?

What is the difference between solid gold and gold-plated jewelry?  When you look at a piece of your jewelry and it says it is solid gold that means it has a higher gold value than one of your jewelry pieces that say gold-plated. When you see 24k gold it is the purest in gold form. If you have pieces of jewelry that say 18, 14, 12, or 10 karats gold this means that the gold is mixed or filled with some type of metal alloy or other metals. Normally, a gold piece that says it is 14 karat gold usually costs more than a piece that is 10 karat gold, and this is because there is more gold in the 14 karat gold piece.

What is the difference between sterling silver and stainless steel jewelry? All silver is not created equal and neither is the maintenance. Typically a 925 sterling silver jewelry piece is more expensive. One reason is sterling silver is more than a type of metal but is an element on the Periodic Table noted as Ag. Sterling silver is considered a precious metal and its characteristics are soft and can lose its shape, it can lose its luster and needs to be polished often. Stainless steel is composed of chromium and steel. Stainless steel is more economical and easier to look after because it holds its shape and has a natural luster. Stainless steel cam withstands everyday wear and tear however, sterling silver is a precious metal, softer and that requires more upkeep and is sometimes less desirable to wear every day.

Whether you choose 14k gold or gold plated, sterling silver or stainless steel your jewelry pieces are important to you. Knowing the difference in metal choices helps determine your expectations for your jewelry piece.