925 silver, stainless steel or gold-plated: how to choose your jewelry

When buying jewelry, the question of material always comes up: will silver tarnish? Is steel good quality? Will gold-plating last? Here is a simple guide to understand the differences and choose with confidence.

925 silver (sterling silver)

925 silver, also called sterling silver, contains 92.5% pure silver. The rest is an alloy, often copper, which makes the metal stronger: pure silver would be too soft for jewelry. The "925" or "S925" hallmark guarantees this content.

Its advantages: a bright shine, real precious-metal value and a piece that can be passed down. The thing to watch: silver oxidises in contact with air and moisture and can tarnish over time. Nothing serious, a soft cloth brings back its shine.

Several of our pieces are in 925 silver, such as the Dolce sterling silver ring, the Cairo bracelet and the Chance d'Amour necklace.

Stainless steel

Stainless steel is an alloy of iron, chromium and often nickel. The chromium forms a thin protective layer that prevents rust and oxidation. The result: very durable jewelry that doesn't tarnish and handles daily life well, including contact with water.

It is the material of most of our necklaces and bracelets, often combined with semi-precious stones or pearls. It is generally well tolerated by the skin. If you know you are allergic to nickel, ask us before buying and we will point you to the most suitable piece.

Gold-plated and gold finishes

Gold-plated jewelry is a base metal (brass, silver or steel) coated with a layer of gold. It offers the shine of gold at a much gentler price. How long it lasts depends on the thickness of the layer and on use: with time and friction, it can wear slightly.

Gold finishes on stainless steel are particularly durable and an excellent compromise for everyday wear, like the Cœur Pourpre necklace, in stainless steel with a gold-toned pendant.

So which material should you choose?

For a piece to wear every day without a second thought: stainless steel, gold-toned or not. For a symbolic gift with lasting value: 925 silver. For the shine of gold at a small price, for an occasion or a specific outfit: gold-plated.

Caring for your jewelry, whatever the material

A few simple habits extend the life of any jewelry: take it off before showering, sport or swimming, avoid contact with perfume and creams, and store pieces separately in a pouch. Read more in our handmade jewelry care tips.

Questions about a piece's material? Write to us: we reply within 24 hours. Discover all our creations in our collections.