A Beginner’s Guide to Jewelry Metal Alloys: What You Need to Know Before You Buy
Whether you're stepping into the world of fine jewelry for the first time or you're a conscious shopper looking to make smart, sustainable choices — understanding jewelry metals and alloys is essential. At Everglow Jewelry, we believe the beauty of your piece should extend beyond how it sparkles — it should also reflect craftsmanship, durability, and a respect for the planet.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the basics of metal alloys, explore how gold gets its colors, and clarify the differences between terms like gold-plated and solid gold — with a special emphasis on metals that can be upcycled and reused to support a more sustainable jewelry industry.
What Are Metal Alloys in Jewelry?
A metal alloy is simply a mixture of two or more metals. Pure precious metals like gold, silver, and platinum are naturally soft, which can make them impractical for everyday wear. By combining them with other metals — such as copper, nickel, or zinc — jewelers create alloys that are stronger, more durable, and able to hold their shape.
The alloy blend can also influence the color, weight, and even cost of the finished piece.
Gold Alloys Explained (Yellow, White, Rose & Beyond)
Gold is almost never used in its pure 24-karat form. It’s too soft to withstand the rigors of daily life. Instead, it’s alloyed with other metals to create beautiful, wearable versions in a variety of colors:
Yellow Gold
Mixed with silver and copper
Retains its rich, warm tone — the closest in appearance to pure gold
Durable and classic, this is a timeless choice
White Gold
Mixed with palladium, silver, or nickel
Coated in rhodium for a bright, platinum-like shine
Needs occasional replating to maintain its color
Rose Gold
High copper content gives this alloy a rosy, pink hue
Stronger than yellow or white gold due to copper's hardness
A romantic, vintage-inspired option
Uncommon Colors: Green & Purple Gold
Green gold contains silver and sometimes cadmium. It’s soft and not recommended for rings or everyday wear.
Purple gold is a gold–aluminum alloy. Visually stunning but very brittle — prone to cracking or chipping.
While these vibrant golds may appeal to collectors or art jewelry enthusiasts, their fragility makes them less ideal for daily use.
Understanding Gold Types: Plated, Filled, or Solid?
When browsing gold jewelry, you may come across different manufacturing methods. Here’s what you should know:
Gold-Plated
A thin layer of gold over a base metal (usually brass or copper)
The most affordable option but wears off over time
Not recyclable or upcyclable
Gold-Filled
A thicker layer of gold mechanically bonded to a base metal
Longer-lasting than gold-plated
While we do not currently offer gold-filled at Everglow Jewelry, we can special order it if needed
Vermeil
Sterling silver base with a thick layer of gold
More luxurious than gold-plated, but still not as long-lasting as solid gold
Also available by request, though not part of our regular collection
Solid Gold
The most valuable and durable type of gold jewelry
Available in 10K, 14K, 18K, and 22K, with higher numbers indicating a greater percentage of pure gold
Fully upcyclable and sustainable, making it a top choice for eco-conscious shoppers
Sterling Silver, Platinum & Sustainable Metals
At Everglow Jewelry, we prioritize materials that are long-lasting, recyclable, and upcyclable — because beauty should never come at the cost of the planet.
Sterling Silver (92.5% silver)
Strong and brilliant
May tarnish over time but can easily be polished
Can be melted down and reused again and again
Platinum
Naturally white, extremely durable, and hypoallergenic
More rare and expensive, but perfect for lifelong pieces
100% recyclable and one of the most sustainable choices in fine jewelry
Why Upcyclable Metals Matter
As part of our mission at Everglow Jewelry, we focus on metals that support a low-waste, circular approach to jewelry. Unlike plated or costume jewelry, solid gold, sterling silver, and platinum can all be:
Melted and repurposed
Resized or reshaped without degradation
Passed down through generations without losing value
This allows us to offer pieces that are not only beautiful, but also kinder to the environment — a win for you and the planet.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right metal for your jewelry is about more than just style — it’s about making a lasting, thoughtful investment. Whether you’re drawn to the timeless beauty of yellow gold, the cool sophistication of sterling silver, or the unmatched durability of platinum, knowing what’s in your jewelry helps you shop smarter and more sustainably.
At Everglow Jewelry, we’re here to help you make informed, conscious choices — and to create pieces that last, tell your story, and shine through every chapter.
