Gold Quality Explained

Understanding the Difference: Solid Gold, Gold-Filled, and Gold-Plated Jewelry

At Aura Lee's Jewelry, we believe in transparency and quality. We know that choosing the right jewelry involves understanding the materials used. That’s why we’re committed to helping you make informed decisions about your purchases. On this page, we’ll explain the key differences between solid gold, gold-filled, and gold-plated jewelry—and why Aura Lee’s uses only gold-filled or solid gold components. (Gold-plated components are not used.)

What Is Solid Gold?

Solid gold refers to jewelry that is made entirely of a gold alloy. It’s not 100% pure gold, as pure gold (24 karats) is too soft for everyday wear. Instead, solid gold is mixed with other metals like copper or silver to create a durable alloy. The karat value, such as 14kt or 18kt, indicates the percentage of pure gold:

• 14kt Gold: Contains 58.3% pure gold and 41.7% other metals.
• 18kt Gold: Contains 75% pure gold and 25% other metals.

Benefits of Solid Gold

• Durability: Resistant to tarnish and corrosion.
• Longevity: Maintains its value over time.
• Care: Requires minimal upkeep.

Solid gold is often chosen for fine jewelry due to its enduring quality and timeless elegance. However, it’s also the most expensive option.

What Is Gold-Filled Jewelry?

Gold-filled jewelry is a high-quality and affordable alternative to solid gold. It consists of a thick layer of solid gold mechanically bonded to a base metal (usually brass). By law, the gold layer must make up at least 5% of the item’s total weight.

How Gold-Filled Differs from Solid Gold

• Appearance: Virtually indistinguishable from solid gold.
• Durability: Highly resistant to tarnishing, flaking, and fading.
• Affordability: Offers the beauty of gold at a fraction of the cost.

At Aura Lee’s, we value quality and longevity, which is why we use both gold-filled and solid gold findings and chain in our designs. Gold-filled pieces offer the best of both worlds: they look and feel luxurious while remaining accessible and long-lasting.

What Is Gold-Plated Jewelry?

Gold-plated jewelry features a very thin layer of gold electroplated onto a base metal like brass or copper. While gold-plated items can be attractive initially, they are not as durable as solid gold or gold-filled.

Drawbacks of Gold-Plated Jewelry

• Thin Layer of Gold: The gold layer is usually less than 0.05% of the item’s total weight.
• Short Lifespan: Prone to tarnishing, fading, and flaking over time.
• Maintenance: Requires frequent upkeep to retain its appearance.

Because of its lower quality and lack of durability, Aura Lee’s does not use gold-plated components in any of our jewelry.

Why Aura Lee’s Chooses Gold-Filled and Solid Gold Over Gold-Plated

At Aura Lee’s, we prioritize quality, longevity, and value. Here’s why we’ve chosen gold-filled and solid gold over gold-plated materials:

• Better Value: Gold-filled jewelry offers a durable and long-lasting alternative to solid gold without the high cost.
• Commitment to Quality: Gold-filled materials ensure your jewelry retains its beauty for years to come.
• Ethical Standards: We’re committed to using materials that align with our standards of craftsmanship and integrity.

By choosing Aura Lee’s, you’re investing in jewelry that is designed to last and made with care.

Caring for Your Gold-Filled and Solid Gold Jewelry

To keep your solid gold and gold-filled jewelry looking its best:

1. Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Remove your jewelry before swimming, showering, or using cleaning products. (Pro-Tip: Swimming can affect your body temperature, causing fingers to shrink in size. Don't be the next sad story on FB or Insta!)
2. Clean Gently: Use warm water, mild soap, and a soft cloth or brush to clean your pieces. (Pro-Tip: Clean your jewelry regularly. Jewelry worn daily should be cleaned often. If not, it will collect body grease, dirt, grime, etc.- which bacteria love. Yuck!)
3. Store Properly: Store jewelry in a dry, padded box or a soft pouch to prevent scratches. (Pro-Tip: Do not sleep or play (too hard) in your fine jewelry. This includes wearing an engagement ring to bed, while playing sports or while gardening.) 

With proper care, quality jewelry can last a lifetime, maintaining its shine and elegance.

Shop Quality You Can Trust

At Aura Lee’s, we’re dedicated to providing jewelry that blends beauty, durability, and value. By choosing gold-filled and solid gold components, we ensure our designs offer a luxurious look without compromising on quality. Explore our collection today and discover the difference for yourself.

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Learn More About Our Craftsmanship

At Aura Lee’s Jewelry, every piece tells a story. Let your next piece be one that reflects our commitment to quality and your unique style.