We use goldfilled wire for our pieces, which is different from 14K in a couple of ways. Goldfilled wire is composed of a solid layer of gold (typically amounting to at least 5% of the item’s total weight) mechanically bonded to a base of mixed metals. Goldfilled is also not to be confused with gold plating, which is a method of covering another type of metal with a very thin film of gold by electroplating it. The gold finish on plated jewelry is so thin that it doesn’t last very long at all- often chipping, fading, and tarnishing in a matter of days. Our goldfilled pieces have the same appearance as 14K gold and can last a lifetime with proper care, but excessive wear and tear may expose the base metals beneath. Here are some ways you can care for your goldfilled pieces to make them last:

• Avoid wearing your gold-filled pieces of jewelry in chemical-rich environments- hot tubs and pools being the worst.

• Perfumes, hairspray, scented lotions, and sunscreen can also prematurely tarnish your pieces. If you’ve gotten these on your pieces, simply give the jewelry a wash with mild soap, and pat dry.

• We recommend taking off your goldfilled pieces when exercising as well, as chemicals from the body that are released when sweating may react poorly with the alloy.

• Taking your jewelry off to sleep will make it last longer.