Gold & Silver Jewelry Materials Guide | MONOLISA Handmade Jewelry
Choosing Metals for Jewelry You Can Truly Wear
Choosing jewelry isn’t just about style — it’s also about materials, comfort, and how a piece will hold up over time. At MONOLISA, I work primarily with 14k gold filled, 14k gold (solid), Argentium silver, and traditional sterling silver because they balance beauty, durability, and everyday wearability.
Earlier collections included brass and plated metals, but today my focus is on these longer-lasting precious metals. I don’t use gold plating or vermeil in new designs — instead, I choose materials that are made to be worn and enjoyed for years.
14k Gold Filled Jewelry
14k gold filled metal has a thick layer of solid 14k gold permanently bonded to a core metal, usually brass. By law, gold-filled material must contain at least 5% real gold by weight — that’s hundreds of times more gold than typical plated jewelry.
This bonded layer is what makes gold filled so special. It’s designed to be worn, not just admired in a box.
Why I Love Gold Filled for Everyday Jewelry
- Durable for daily wear – resists flaking, peeling, and color change when cared for properly.
- Beautiful like solid gold – has the look and warmth of high-karat gold at a more approachable price.
- Comfortable and practical – ideal for earrings, rings, and pieces you reach for often.
- Better than plating and vermeil – far more gold, far more wear, and a much longer life.
Many of my crystal earring designs, including the styles above, are crafted in 14k gold filled so you can enjoy sparkle and gold color without worrying about rapid wear.
14k Gold Jewelry (Solid)
14k gold is a solid gold alloy containing 58.3% pure gold mixed with other metals for strength and durability. It’s considered a fine jewelry standard and is perfect for heirloom-style pieces.
In my collections, I use 14k yellow gold for sculpted rings, earring jackets, and select mixed-metal designs. These pieces are meant to feel special and timeless while still being wearable.
Why I Use Solid 14k Gold
- Longevity – solid gold can be worn for decades and passed down.
- Refined feel – a luxurious weight and glow that only fine gold offers.
- Versatile styling – pairs beautifully with pearls, gemstones, and mixed-metal Argentium silver designs.
For customers looking for a true fine gold investment piece, my 14k gold collection is the best place to start.
Argentium® Silver
Argentium silver is a modern, upgraded silver alloy containing 94% pure silver — more pure than traditional sterling. It’s engineered to be up to seven times more tarnish-resistant than standard 925 silver.
I love working with Argentium because it stays bright longer, is nickel-free, and is made from ethically sourced silver. It’s a dream to solder and finish, which allows me to create clean, sculptural forms.
Benefits of Argentium Silver
- Enhanced tarnish resistance compared to traditional sterling.
- Hypoallergenic and nickel-free for sensitive skin.
- Bright, white shine that pairs beautifully with gemstones.
Traditional Sterling Silver
Sterling silver is a classic jewelry metal made from 92.5% pure silver and 7.5% other metals (usually copper) for strength. I use high-quality sterling alloys in select designs where a traditional silver look is desired.
While sterling will naturally tarnish over time, it can always be cleaned and brought back to a bright finish. Proper storage and care make a big difference in how it ages.
Sterling in MONOLISA Designs
- Used thoughtfully in pieces where weight and feel are important.
- Cleanable and repairable for long-term wear.
- Beautiful contrast when paired with gemstones and crystals.
For customers who love silver tones and don’t mind occasional cleaning, sterling can be a wonderful, classic option.
Why I Don’t Use Vermeil or Gold Plated Metals
You’ll often see jewelry labeled as vermeil or gold plated. While these pieces can look pretty when new, the gold layer is very thin and sits only on the surface.
- Vermeil – gold plated over sterling silver. The plating eventually wears away, especially on rings and everyday pieces.
- Gold plated – an ultra-thin layer of gold (often less than 0.5% real gold) over base metal. This is the least durable option.
Because my work is designed to be worn regularly and loved for years, I focus on 14k gold filled, solid 14k gold, Argentium silver, and traditional sterling silver — metals that hold up beautifully over time with proper care.
