Jewelry Terminology

Jewelry Terminology Guide

Understanding the materials behind your jewelry.

Rhodium

A rare, precious metal from the platinum family
Applied as a protective coat through electroplating
Helps prevent tarnishing and resists scratches
Gives silver jewelry a bright, white gold-like finish

Gold Filled

Made with a thick layer of solid gold (at least 5% of total weight)
Mechanically bonded to a base metal (often sterling silver or brass)
Significantly more durable than gold plating or vermeil
Designed to withstand long-term wear without fading or flaking

Gold Plated

A thin layer of gold applied over a base metal (like copper or silver)
Created through chemical or electrochemical processes
More affordable option, but can wear over time with regular use

Vermeil

Features a sterling silver base coated with 14K–24K gold
Must meet a minimum gold thickness of 2.5 microns
Hypoallergenic and considered "demi-fine" jewelry
More valuable than standard gold plating due to precious metal base

PVD (Physical Vapour Deposition)

Advanced vacuum coating process using titanium nitride
Produces an extremely hard, durable finish
More resistant to sweat and daily wear than gold plating
Used by luxury brands like Rolex and Cartier

41.7% pure gold

The most affordable option with the highest durability. Contains 41.7% pure gold mixed with other metals for strength.

Most durable and scratch-resistant
Budget-friendly option
Ideal for everyday wear

58.3% pure gold

The most popular choice for fine jewelry. Offers an excellent balance between purity, durability, and value.

Perfect balance of purity and strength
Most popular choice worldwide
Great for engagement rings

75% pure gold

A luxurious option with rich color and high purity. Contains 75% pure gold for a beautiful, warm tone.

Rich, vibrant gold color
High purity and value
Hypoallergenic for sensitive skin

91.7% pure gold

Very high purity with a deep, rich yellow color. Popular in traditional and cultural jewelry designs.

Deep, authentic gold color
Traditional and cultural significance
High investment value

99.9% pure gold

Pure gold with no other metals mixed in. Extremely soft and malleable, best suited for investment pieces rather than everyday jewelry.

Purest form of gold
Maximum investment value
Completely hypoallergenic

Choosing the right karat

The karat you choose depends on your priorities. Lower karats (10K-14K) offer durability for everyday wear, while higher karats (18K-24K) provide richer color and greater purity. Consider your lifestyle, budget, and personal preferences when selecting your perfect piece.

Lab Diamonds - What you need to know!

Cut is the most important of the 4 C's when it comes to diamonds. We offer direct access to both lab-grown and natural diamonds, ensuring you get the perfect stone for your jewelry.

Property

Lab Diamonds

Natural Diamonds

Hardness

Mohs 10

Durability

Identical

Formation

Created in weeks in a lab

Formed over billions of years

Types

HPHT and CVD