Gold Filled vs Sterling Silver
There are many unique and popular jewelry materials available in the market today. Two of such are gold filled and sterling silver. So the battle of gold filled vs sterling silver becomes on where every buyer must be aware of the distinct properties, benefits, and drawbacks both of these metals offer.
This article will take a detailed look at the comparison between gold filled vs sterling silver where you’ll known exact information to make an informed and correct decision.
What is Gold Filled
Gold Filled, often confused with gold plated, is a high-quality metal alloy made by bonding a layer of gold to a base metal, usually brass or copper. The main difference between gold filled and gold plated is the amount of gold weight carried by the jewelry. The gold layer in gold filled jewelry must be at least 5% of the total weight of the piece, which is significantly thicker than less than 1% of gold plating.
It is often used as an alternative to solid gold which can be expensive due to higher amounts of gold used. It’s actual composition is:
Gold Layer: Contains 5% or more of pure gold by weight.
Base Metal: Typically brass or copper to provide hardness and durability.
Is Gold Filled Jewelry Worth Anything
Unlike Gold Plating, which has a thin layer of gold that can wear off quickly, Gold Filled jewelry maintains its gold appearance over time. This makes it an excellent choice for someone who is looking for some durable gold based jewelry in lower price range. Though, it is not as expensive as solid gold jewelry, one can expect to get better price than gold plated jewelry.
Properties of Gold Filled Jewelry
A gold filled jewelry has the under mentioned properties.
1. Durability
Gold filled jewelry stands in between gold plated and solid gold in terms of durability. For example, in gold plated jewelries, small scratches or collisions can make your jewelry’s gold wear off. Whereas in gold filled, no such incidents occur due to a much thicker layer of gold used.
Yes, it cannot provide as much durability as solid gold, but still it stands out against gold plated. This makes it an ideal choice for daily wear at low cost.
2. Care and Maintenance
Gold filled jewelry is relatively low maintenance jewelry. Regular cleaning with a soft cloth and gentle soap solution can keep it looking like new. Avoid any sort of harsh chemicals like detergents and abrasive materials to protect its beauty.
3.Tarnishing
God filled jewelry does not tarnish very easily. Tarnishing is a property of a metal where it reacts with sulfur compounds from the atmosphere to form unwanted chemicals over its surface. This results in bad appearance and overall weight loss.
As gold filled jewelries have a deep down layer of gold, it protects the base metal from any such reactions. That’s why the beauty of your metal remains just like a new one.
4. Cost and Affordability
Gold Filled jewelry is more affordable than solid gold but more expensive than Gold Plated items. It offers a good balance between cost and quality, making it a popular choice for those who want the look of gold without the high price tag.
What is Sterling Silver?
Sterling silver is a high-quality silver alloy consisting of 92.5% pure silver and 7.5% other metals, typically copper or nickel. This combination is made to provide a feel of hardness, strength and durability to fine silver which is soft and malleable.
Sterling silver can also be found in different types like 935 silver, 950 silver and argentium silver. All of these contain a different composition with a small change in overall properties.
How Sterling Silver is Made
Sterling silver is created by combining pure silver in different proportions with hard metals like copper. This allows jewelry makers to strengthen the overall hardness and durability value of the metal so they can do processes like molding and polishing easily. Composition of different types of sterling silver is:
925 Sterling Silver: Contains 92.5% silver and 7.5% of copper or nickel.
935 Sterling Silver: Contains 93.5% silver and 6.5% of copper or nickel.
950 Sterling Silver: Contains 95% silver and 5% of copper or nickel.
Argentium Silver: Contains 93.5% silver and 6.5% of copper and germanium.
The more silver content is in an alloy, the softer it will become.
Properties of Sterling Silver
Sterling silver also offers a unique set of properties compared to gold filled jewelry.
1. Durability
Sterling silver is a durable but not as resistant to tarnishing as gold filled. It can develop a patina over time, which is a natural oxidation process leading to duller appearance. Regular cleaning and proper storage can help you maintain its shine and appearance.
Out of all the types of sterling silver, only argentium silver is the one which does not tarnish.
2. Care and Maintenance
Sterling silver requires high level of maintenance and care from their owners. Regulars cleaning and tarnishing checks are very important for its appearance and shine. All you need for this purpose is a mild soap, some warm water and a clean soft jewelry polishing cloth.
It is also inevitable to store sterling silver jewelry in a dry, clean and air tight storage box or it will tarnish with time.
3. Cost and Affordability
Sterling Silver is generally more affordable than Gold Filled and solid gold. Its price is reflective of the silver content and the craftsmanship involved in creating the jewelry.
Gold Filled vs Sterling Silver – A Comparison
Aesthetic Differences
Gold Filled: Offers a rich, warm gold appearance that closely resembles solid gold. Its shiny, luxurious finish is ideal for those seeking a high-end look.
Sterling Silver: Presents a sleek, classic silver appearance with a bright, reflective surface. Its cool tone is suitable for a wide range of styles and can be polished to a high shine.
Durability
Gold Filled: Known for its durability and resistance to tarnishing. The thick gold layer ensures that the jewelry maintains its appearance and withstands regular wear.
Sterling Silver: Durable but more prone to tarnishing over time. Regular maintenance is required to keep Sterling Silver jewelry looking its best.
Hypoallergenic Properties
Gold Filled: Generally considered hypoallergenic due to the thick gold layer, which minimizes exposure to base metals. However, individuals with sensitive skin should check for any potential reactions.
Sterling Silver: Contains a small amount of copper, which can sometimes cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. Look for sterling silver with minimal alloy content if you have sensitive skin.
Cost and Value
Gold Filled: More expensive than Sterling Silver but offers a higher perceived value due to the gold content. It provides a cost-effective alternative to solid gold while maintaining a luxurious appearance.
Sterling Silver: More affordable and provides good value for its price. It is an excellent choice for those who prefer the look of silver and want a budget-friendly option.
Environmental and Ethical Considerations
Gold Filled: The environmental impact of gold filled jewelry depends on the base metals used and the gold sourcing practices. Opt for brands that prioritize ethical sourcing and environmentally-friendly practices.
Sterling Silver: The impact of Sterling Silver jewelry on the environment can vary based on mining and production practices. Look for recycled silver options and brands committed to ethical practices.
Personal Style and Preferences
Gold Filled: Ideal for those who love the look of gold and want a piece that closely resembles solid gold without the high price tag. It’s perfect for statement pieces and classic designs.
Sterling Silver: Suited for individuals who prefer a sleek, modern look and appreciate the versatility of silver. It works well for everyday wear and a variety of styles.
Purpose and Usage
Gold Filled: Great for special occasions and high-end designs. It’s a good choice for jewelry that will be worn frequently and needs to maintain its appearance over time.
Sterling Silver: Ideal for everyday wear and casual pieces. It’s a cost-effective choice for those who want stylish jewelry without breaking the bank.
Budget and Investment
Gold Filled: Offers a balance between affordability and the look of gold. It’s a good investment for those who want a high-quality piece without the cost of solid gold.
Sterling Silver: Budget-friendly and provides good value. It’s a practical choice for those looking to expand their jewelry collection without significant expense.
Conclusion
Gold filled and sterling silver are two excellent choices of materials where the decision making depends on buyer’s preferences, needs and budget. Gold filled jewelry can provide a luxurious and premium feeling to touch, sterling silver can be a god option for a white color.
Both materials offer a unique set of advantages and disadvantages. So, as a buyer you must be aware what you want and which jewelry will be a right fit for you. This will help you in making an informed decision about your jewelry purchase as you’ll get most out of it.