Metal Matters: Why We Only Use 14k Gold-Filled & Sterling Silver

I hate cheap jewelry. 

There is something incredibly disappointing about a piece that looks beautiful, only to have it tarnish, break, or turn your skin green after just a few wears. 

The jewelry we choose to represent our faith should be the exact opposite of that.

When you choose a piece of Soluminated jewelry, you’re doing more than just selecting an accessory. You’re choosing a tangible reminder of your covenants, your faith, and your light. These pieces are meant to be worn, loved, and woven into the story of your real daily life—whether that's a quiet moment in scripture study, a busy day serving in your calling, a loud pool day with the kids, or that one late-night shower after a day of wiping sticky hands and comforting little hearts.

That’s why, from the very beginning, I knew I had to be uncompromising about the materials I use.

My mission is to create jewelry that can truly last a lifetime, just like the promises they represent. But as you've probably seen, the online jewelry world is a confusing place. You'll see terms like "gold-plated," "gold vermeil," and "PVD" thrown around, all promising quality. But what do they really mean?

I want to equip you with the knowledge to make an informed choice. I want you to feel confident selecting pieces (from my shop or any other!) that are a true, lasting investment—not a temporary purchase that will end up tarnished and trashed before your next paycheck.

Let's break down the different types of gold jewelry you'll find, from the lowest quality to the best.

1. Gold-Plated

This is the most common type of fashion jewelry. "Gold-plated" means a microscopically thin layer of gold (often less than 0.05% of the item's weight) is applied to a base metal, usually brass or copper, using an electric current.

• The Reality: Because this layer is so thin, it is not designed to last. It will quickly chip, scratch, and wear off, especially with daily wear. When the gold flakes away, the base metal underneath is exposed, which is what causes your skin to turn green and can lead to allergic reactions.

2. Gold Vermeil

This term sounds much fancier, but it is essentially just a thicker version of gold plating. To be legally called "vermeil" (pronounced ver-may), it must have a sterling silver base and the gold layer must be at least 2.5 microns thick.

• The Reality: While this is a step up from standard plating, it is still a plated item. The gold is not permanently bonded to the base, meaning it is still vulnerable to wearing off, chipping, and tarnishing over time. It requires delicate care and should never be worn in the shower or while exercising.

3. Gold PVD (Physical Vapor Deposition)

This is a newer, high-tech process you might see advertised as "tarnish-proof." A thin layer of gold is vaporized in a vacuum and bonded to a base, which is almost always stainless steel.

• The Reality: PVD creates a very durable finish that is more resistant to scratches and corrosion than simple plating. However, it is still just a very thin coating on top of steel. It doesn't have the intrinsic value, warmth, or weight of real gold. It’s still a coating, not a substantial layer of gold. This means it WILL wear off with consistent friction from skin oils, sweat, perfumes, lotions, and fade over time. It's also susceptible to chemicals, including chlorine, that will erode the PVD coating over time. 

4. 14k Gold-Filled (The Soluminated Standard)

This is (in my opinion) the only choice for creating beautiful, high-quality jewelry that is made to last without paying the staggering price tag for solid gold.

This is not plating. This is not a coating. This is a real, thick layer of 14k gold.

Gold-filled is created through a completely different process. A thick, durable layer of 14k gold is permanently heat-bonded to a high-quality jeweler's brass core. This is a strict, regulated process that requires the 14k gold layer to make up at least 5% (or 1/20) of the item's total weight.

Think about it this way: the gold layer on a gold-filled piece is over 100 times thicker than on a standard gold-plated item.

Why We Choose 14k Gold-Filled & Sterling Silver

1. It’s Made for Your Life: Because the 14k gold layer is so thick and permanently bonded, it will not chip, fade, or wear away. You can wear your pieces in the shower, in the pool, while you sleep, and during your daily tasks. It is designed to keep up with you without requiring more care or stress to keep it tarnish free and beautiful. 

2. It’s Hypoallergenic: The thick outer layer is real 14k gold, which is a precious metal. It is a wonderful, safe choice for those with sensitive skin.

3. It’s a Timeless Investment: This is the next best thing to solid gold. You are getting a true layer of 14k gold that will last a lifetime with proper care.

For our silver pieces, we use .925 Sterling Silver, a precious metal that is just as timeless and durable.

A Note on Caring for Your Pieces

Both of these lifetime materials are simple to care for.

• 14k Gold-Filled: This is beautifully low-maintenance. If it ever looks dull, simply wash it gently with a little soap and water and pat it dry with a soft cloth.

• Sterling Silver: Silver's only quirk is that it WILL tarnish (darken) when exposed to air. All sterling silver does this-- and it is not damage! It is easily wiped away with a jewelry polishing cloth to restore its perfect shine.

Our Promise  to You

My goal for Soluminated has always been to equip and edify you to share your light. Part of that means being transparent and offering you pieces you can truly rely on.

When you wear your any piece from Soluminated, I want you to focus on the faith it represents, not worry if the gold will rub off. Choosing 14k gold-filled and sterling silver is my commitment to you—a commitment to create truly heirloom pieces that can last a lifetime of discipleship. 

With love,

Keira