With the rise in costume and fashion jewellery in recent years, it begs the question - what exactly are we putting on our skin? And, more importantly, what should we be putting on our skin?
In this short read, the Fromedith team will be breaking down the jewellery materials used in all our products, highlighting all the pros and cons and everything that you need to know.
Breaking down the Fromedith supplies
Gold-Plated Alloy
What is it?
Gold-plated products have a more inexpensive metal alloy base with 14k/18k gold electroplated above it. The gold plating gives it its shine and protects the metal base.
Why is it good?
Since the gold plating is usually thin, and plated over an inexpensive alloy base, it is extremely cost-efficient while still providing the jewellery piece with a decent lifespan. With prices starting from as low as $5, it’s an inexpensive and easily replaceable piece, making it great for those who enjoy collecting new pieces of jewellery!
Why is it bad?
Gold-plated alloy jewellery are not entirely resistant to tarnish. As highlighted above, the gold plating is especially prone to wearing off due to its thinness, which will uncover the alloy base. The alloy base is fundamentally not resistant from rusting, and hence, greater care has to be taken to prevent any unwanted, pesky rusting. Find out ways to take care of your gold-plated alloy jewellery with our Jewellery Care Tips!
At Fromedith, though we’ve largely phased out all our gold-plated alloy products, some materials we use in our Mystery Boxes and Blind Bags (on telegram) are still made of gold-plated alloy - which we optimise as a way to keep the prices of our jewellery as low as possible.
Stainless Steel & Gold-Plated Stainless Steel
What is it?
Stainless steel is one of the most durable, yet affordable jewellery material you can find - which is why we’ve chosen stainless steel as our mainstay components in most of our products. Selected stainless steel pieces in our range also come with gold plating, providing it with a more luxurious shine.
Why is it good?
With our stainless steel products starting from as low as $15 for necklaces, $9 for earrings and $10 for rings, they are definitely extremely affordable, allowing wearers to accumulate an extensive collection.
Our stainless steel products are also suitable for those with sensitive skin as they are hypoallergenic and resistant to water/corrosion, making it perfect for prolonged wear.
Why is it bad?
Of course, for gold plated stainless steel, the gold plating may wear off and darken over time, but these are just the unavoidable nature of metals! To prolong the lifespan of your products, proper care still needs to be taken - find out how you can keep them shiny with our Jewellery Care Tips.
925 Sterling Silver
What is it?
925 sterling silver is another popular material used for jewellery as they are hypoallergenic and suitable for sensitive skin. As pure silver is extremely delicate and prone to breaking, it is usually mixed with other more durable metals such as copper, zinc or nickel - giving rise to the term 925, which refers to the percentage of pure silver (92.5%) in sterling silver.
Why is it good?
925 sterling silver is hypoallergenic and great for sensitive skin. It is also generally more lightweight than other metals (such as stainless steel) and is durable enough for daily wear.
Why is it bad?
925 sterling silver are, unfortunately, prone to oxidation and will turn a darker colour when exposed to surroundings. They will often tarnish when come into prolong contact with skin. However, this isn’t a cause for concern - nor is it a testament of why it is ‘bad’ - here’s how to clean your sterling silver jewellery to restore them to its original shine.
At Fromedith, we offer a relatively higher-end 925 Collection featuring dainty necklaces, rings and earrings optimised for daily wear. These elegant designs are timeless pieces bound to last, making them affordable investments to add to your jewellery collection.
So, what should we be wearing?
All in all, the key to choosing your jewellery boils down to your own personal preferences.
At its lower price point, gold-plated alloy jewellery offers its wearers a greater diversity of options, and might be suitable for those who enjoy changing their jewellery on a daily basis.
Stainless steel jewellery are good for those who prefer to wear the same piece of jewellery 24/7 - while showering, sleeping or engaging in vigorous exercise. Personally, we enjoy wearing stainless steel pieces as they’re fuss-free and durable - here’s the pair of Stainless Steel Basic Hoops we’ve been wearing for months!
For those with the capacity for larger budgets, 925 sterling silver jewellery can be delectable treat-yourself moments! Our 925 sterling silver range offers a selection of dainty, timeless and sparkly pieces that allows you to make a statement - at $20 or less a piece!
What’s your pick? Let us know!
We hope that this article has been informative and helpful in aiding you in discerning the different types of materials used in our products! If ever in doubt, refer to each individual product listing for the materials used in each product.
Modern Jewellery for your Everyday
The Fromedith team believes wholeheartedly in affordable jewellery that lasts.
In 2022, we made the decision to switch over to stainless steel or 925 sterling silver for most of our jewellery pieces, as opposed to gold-plated alloy jewellery. With this switch, you can be rest assured that your jewellery is safe for prolonged wear and exposure to water.
If you'd like to read more on our jewellery materials, business journey and more, check out our blog, or keep in touch with us on Instagram.
We're so glad you decided to join us in the Fromedith fam.