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Let's talk about gold-filled jewelry. What is gold-filled & why do I use it in my pieces? 
Gold-filled is a USA industry standard, meaning gold-fill pieces must have a minimum of (but not limited to) 5% applied to the base metal. It’s a strictly regulated process that involves pressure bonding multiple layers of solid gold with extreme heat over a core of high quality jeweler’s brass, copper, or sterling silver. The result is a durable, quality, real gold product. While gold-fill isn't solid gold & less expensive, it's actually more durable than solid gold, which can develop softness over time. This means they wear out easily. However, mixing solid gold with other metals creates a gold alloy that is stronger. With proper care, these pieces can last anywhere from 10-30 years. I choose to use gold-filled rather than gold-plated because the plating can wear off even with proper care. That's because gold-plate uses the smallest amount of gold. The less expensive the piece, the higher likelihood that it's gold-plated & not gold-filled. Using premium gold-filled metals for my pieces allows me to offer top-of-the-line, quality gold jewelry - at an affordable price! This thick outer layer of gold makes it highly durable and safe for people with allergies or sensitive skin as well. Read on for the best way to care for these pieces:
  • cleanse with mild soap (only if needed)
  • polish with a soft cloth - an eyeglass chamois works really well!
  • don't sleep in your jewelry - chains can get snagged on pajamas or bedclothes 
  • don't shower in your jewelry - while its safe to get wet, the cleanser you use for your body shouldn't be used on your jewelry
  • apply lotions, parfums, & colognes prior to putting on your jewelry - the oils can dull the shine of your gold