Jewellery Materials Guide
Jewellery Materials Guide
Choosing the right metal is as important as the design itself. This guide explains the composition, durability, care requirements, and suitability of each material we use at By Effie, so you can make a confident, informed choice.
Titanium
Composition
Our titanium jewellery is made from commercially pure titanium (ASTM F67) or titanium alloy Grade 23 (Ti-6Al-4V ELI, ASTM F136), depending on the piece. Both grades are specified in ASTM and ISO standards for surgical and implant applications. Grade 23 contains aluminium and vanadium in controlled amounts set by the standard.
Durability & Wear
Titanium is exceptionally lightweight — roughly half the weight of steel at comparable strength — and highly resistant to corrosion, including exposure to sweat, water, and everyday cosmetics. The surface is naturally oxide-forming, which contributes to its stability. It does not tarnish.
Care
- Rinse with clean water after prolonged exposure to chlorinated pools or saltwater.
- Clean gently with a soft cloth and mild soap; avoid abrasive materials.
- Store separately to prevent scratching from harder metals or gemstones.
Who It Suits
Titanium is a good choice if you prefer lightweight jewellery, lead a very active lifestyle, or have had reactions to other metals in the past. If you have known metal sensitivities or require specific documentation for a medical reason, please consult your healthcare provider and request material certification from us — we can provide supplier test reports on request.
Solid Gold
Composition
Solid gold jewellery is alloyed throughout its entire cross-section. The purity is expressed in karats: 9ct gold contains 37.5% pure gold (hallmarked 375 in the UK), 14ct contains 58.5% (585), and 18ct contains 75% (750). The remaining percentage is made up of alloying metals — typically silver, copper, and zinc — which affect colour and hardness. All gold jewellery sold in the UK must be hallmarked by an Assay Office under the Hallmarking Act 1973.
Durability & Wear
Higher karat gold is softer and more prone to scratching; lower karat gold is harder and more durable for everyday wear. Solid gold does not tarnish but may develop a patina over time that can be polished away. It can be resized and repaired by a jeweller.
Care
- Remove before swimming in chlorinated water — chlorine can weaken gold alloys over time.
- Clean with warm water, a drop of washing-up liquid, and a soft brush; dry thoroughly.
- Store in a soft pouch or lined box, away from other pieces.
Who It Suits
Solid gold is a lasting investment piece suitable for everyday wear. It is generally well tolerated, though individual responses to alloying metals can vary. If you have a known sensitivity to copper or nickel, check the alloy specification of the specific piece, or contact us.
Gold-Plated
Composition
Gold-plated jewellery has a base metal core — typically brass or sterling silver — with a layer of gold applied by electroplating. The thickness of the gold layer is measured in microns (µm). Standard plating is typically 0.5–1 µm; heavier plating (sometimes marketed as gold vermeil, which requires a sterling silver base and a minimum of 2.5 µm of gold in the UK) is more durable.
Durability & Wear
The gold layer will wear over time, particularly at points of friction such as clasps, rings, and bangles. How quickly this occurs depends on plating thickness, the base metal, skin chemistry, and how the piece is worn. Replating is possible through a jeweller.
Care
- Remove before washing hands, swimming, showering, or applying perfume, lotions, or hairspray.
- Wipe clean with a soft, dry cloth after wearing.
- Store in a sealed pouch or airtight container to reduce tarnish of the base metal.
- Avoid ultrasonic cleaners and abrasive cloths.
Who It Suits
Gold-plated pieces offer the look of gold at a more accessible price point. They are best suited to occasional or event wear rather than all-day, every-day use. If you have a sensitivity to the base metal (e.g. brass), prolonged wear on broken or sensitive skin is not recommended.
Sterling Silver
Composition
Sterling silver is 92.5% pure silver with 7.5% alloying metals, typically copper, to improve strength and workability. It is hallmarked 925 in the UK under the Hallmarking Act 1973.
Durability & Wear
Silver is softer than gold alloys and more prone to scratching, but it is a durable everyday metal when cared for. It will naturally tarnish — a surface oxidation process — particularly when exposed to air, moisture, sulphur compounds (found in some foods, rubber, and wool), and perfumes. Tarnish is surface-level and can be polished away.
Care
- Polish regularly with a silver polishing cloth to maintain shine.
- Remove before swimming, bathing, or using household cleaning products.
- Store in an airtight bag or anti-tarnish pouch when not in use.
- Avoid exposure to chlorine, bleach, and sulphur-containing substances.
Who It Suits
Sterling silver suits those who prefer a classic, cool-toned metal that can be polished and maintained over years. It is a good everyday option with consistent care. As with any alloy, individual responses to the copper content can vary.
Quick Comparison
| Material | Composition | Tarnish | Durability | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Titanium | Commercially pure or Ti-6Al-4V ELI (ASTM F67 / F136) | None | Very high; lightweight | Active lifestyles; those who prefer lightweight jewellery |
| Solid Gold (9ct–18ct) | 37.5%–75% gold alloy, hallmarked | None (may patina) | High; repairable | Investment pieces; everyday fine jewellery |
| Gold-Plated | Base metal + electroplated gold layer | Base metal may tarnish as plating wears | Moderate; layer wears over time | Occasional or event wear; accessible price point |
| Sterling Silver | 92.5% silver, hallmarked 925 | Yes; removable with polishing | Good with regular care | Classic everyday jewellery; cool-toned preference |
This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. If you have a known allergy or medical condition, please consult a healthcare professional before wearing any jewellery.