14K Gold-Filled is a type of metal alloy widely used in jewelry. It is a thick layer of 14-karat gold mechanically bonded to a core of base metal, offering a more affordable alternative to solid gold while maintaining a luxurious appearance. Gold-Filled features 5% gold as opposed to a Gold-Plated piece that only features .05% gold. This layering process and gold content results in a durable and tarnish-resistant product, ensuring a longer lifespan compared to gold-plated items. Although not solid gold, 14K gold-filled jewelry provides an attractive compromise between quality and cost, making it a popular choice for those seeking elegance on a budget. See below for how to best care for your 14K Gold-Filled Pieces.

1. Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Keep gold-filled items away from harsh chemicals, including household cleaners and chlorine, as they can damage the gold layer. If you do come in contact with these chemicals, clean your piece with water and dish soap to keep its shine long-term.

2. Remove Before Activities: Remove gold-filled jewelry before engaging in activities that might cause physical damage or expose it to chemicals, such as swimming or heavy exercise.

3. Store Properly: Store gold-filled pieces in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight. Use jewelry boxes or pouches to prevent scratches and tarnish.

4. Polish Regularly: Use a jewelry polishing cloth to gently polish the gold-filled pieces, maintaining their shine and reducing the risk of tarnish.

5. Avoid Abrasive Surfaces: Be cautious when wearing gold-filled jewelry alongside other pieces, as metal-on-metal contact can lead to scratches.

Sterling Silver is a classic and popular metal alloy widely used in jewelry making. Composed of 92.5% pure silver and 7.5% of another metal, often copper, sterling silver is renowned for its lustrous appearance and durability. Sterling Silver jewelry exudes a timeless elegance, and its versatility allows for a broad range of designs. Regular care, such as polishing and proper storage, helps maintain its shine, making sterling silver a cherished choice for those who appreciate both quality and aesthetic appeal.

Caring for sterling silver materials is essential to preserve their appearance and longevity. Here are some tips:

1. Regular Cleaning: Clean your sterling silver regularly with a mild soap and water solution. Gently rub the surface with a soft cloth or sponge, and then rinse and pat dry thoroughly.

2. Polishing: Use a silver polishing cloth to remove tarnish and restore shine. Avoid using tissues or paper towels, as they can scratch the silver.

3. Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Keep sterling silver away from harsh chemicals, such as household cleaners, perfumes, and hair sprays. These substances can accelerate tarnishing.

4. Remove Before Activities: Take off your sterling silver jewelry before engaging in activities that could expose it to harsh conditions, such as swimming, exercising, or using cleaning products.

5. Proper Storage: Store sterling silver items in a cool, dry place. Consider using anti-tarnish strips or pouches to minimize exposure to air and moisture.

6. Wear Regularly: Believe it or not, wearing your sterling silver jewelry can help prevent tarnish. The natural oils in your skin can provide a protective barrier.

We use 10K and 14K Solid Gold to make our fine jewelry pieces. These metals are tarnish-proof, water-proof, and made to last a lifetime. Below are some best practices for caring for your solid gold pieces:

1. Clean Regularly: Clean gold jewelry by soaking it in warm water with a little mild dish soap. Use a soft cloth or a soft-bristled toothbrush to gently scrub away any dirt or grime.

2. Store Properly: Store different pieces separately to avoid scratching. For example, store chains and rings separately, as they can scratch each other.

3. Keep Away From Chemicals: Always put on jewelry last when dressing, so it's not exposed to perfumes, lotions, or hairsprays, which can cause a build-up or damage.

4. Polishing: If your gold jewelry has become dull over time, use a gold polishing cloth to restore its shine. These cloths are treated with cleaning agents that safely remove tarnish.

5. Be Mindful of Impact: While gold is a durable metal, it can still be scratched or dented. Take off jewelry when doing heavy physical activities, like exercising, cleaning, or working with tools.

You may have noticed that all of our 14K Gold-Filled or Sterling Silver pieces featuring opals are described as "cultured opal." Cultured opals are lab-grown opals. We choose to create with these stones because they offer a more affordable option for opal-lovers.  In addition, they are stronger than naturally occurring opals and therefore a better fit to stand up to the wear and tear of your daily life.

*All of our Solid Gold pieces feature Natural Opals*

Yes! We offer repairs on pieces that we created in-house, as long as they are not discontinued. Reach out to us at ofgreatvaluejewelry@gmail.com to start the repair process.