Solid Gold vs Gold-Plated Jewellery: What's the Difference?
A piece of jewellery should suit both your style and the way you live. Understanding the materials it's made from can help you choose something you'll enjoy wearing for years to come.
At Maya Magal, we work with recycled solid gold, recycled sterling silver and 18ct gold-plated recycled brass. Each material has its own character, benefits and purpose, making them suitable for different occasions and lifestyles.
RECYCLED SOLID GOLD
Our Fine Jewellery collections are handcrafted in 9ct recycled solid gold.
Because the gold runs all the way through the piece, it won't lose its colour over time and is designed to be worn every day.
IDEAL FOR
- Engagement rings
- Wedding bands
- Everyday jewellery
- Future heirlooms
WHY CHOOSE SOLID GOLD?
✓ Designed to last a lifetime
✓ Suitable for daily wear
✓ Can be resized, repaired and polished
✓ Ages beautifully
18ct GOLD-PLATED RECYCLED BRASS
Many of our Signature pieces are handcrafted from recycled brass before being finished with a generous layer of 18ct gold plating.
This creates the rich warmth of gold while offering a more accessible price point.
IDEAL FOR
- Statement jewellery
- Layering
- Occasion pieces
- Trying new styles
WHY CHOOSE GOLD-PLATING?
✓ Beautiful warm gold finish
✓ More accessible than solid gold
✓ Lightweight and comfortable
RECYCLED STERLING SILVER
Our sterling silver collections offer a timeless alternative to gold.
Made from 925 recycled sterling silver, they're designed for everyday wear and naturally develop character over time.
Many people love silver for its clean, understated finish and versatility.
Which is best for everyday wear?
If you're looking for jewellery you'll rarely take off, solid gold is the most durable choice.
Sterling silver is also an excellent everyday material with occasional cleaning.
Gold-plated jewellery is perfect if you'd like the appearance of gold at a lower price point, although it benefits from a little extra care to preserve its finish.
Which lasts the longest?
|
Material |
Everyday wear |
Longevity |
|
Recycled Solid Gold |
★★★★★ |
Lifetime |
|
Recycled Sterling Silver |
★★★★☆ |
Many years |
|
18ct Gold-Plated Recycled Brass |
★★★☆☆ |
With good care |
OUR PHILOSOPHY
Rather than encouraging one material over another, we believe each serves a different purpose.
Some clients choose a solid gold ring they'll wear every day for decades. Others build a collection of gold-plated favourites for layering and self-expression.
The important thing is choosing jewellery that feels right for you and is crafted with care.
FAQs
Is 9ct gold real gold?
Yes. 9ct gold is real gold, made from 37.5% pure gold combined with alloy metals to improve its strength and durability. Its harder composition makes it an excellent choice for jewellery designed to be worn every day.
Is gold-plated jewellery worth buying?
Gold-plated jewellery is a great choice if you're looking for the look of solid gold at a more accessible price point. While it won't last forever in the same way as solid gold, with the right care it can be enjoyed for years and can often be professionally replated when needed.
How long does gold plating last?
The lifespan of gold plating depends on how often the jewellery is worn and how well it is cared for. Everyday wear, exposure to water, perfume and lotions will naturally cause the plating to wear more quickly. Removing your jewellery before showering, swimming and exercising will help extend its life.
Can gold-plated jewellery be replated?
Yes. Most gold-plated jewellery can be professionally replated to restore its finish. At Maya Magal, we offer a replating service for our gold-plated pieces, helping you enjoy your jewellery for longer.
Which metal is best for everyday jewellery?
The best choice depends on your lifestyle and budget. Solid gold and platinum are the most durable options for everyday wear and are designed to last a lifetime. Sterling silver is also an excellent everyday metal with regular care, while gold-plated jewellery is best suited to occasional or more considered wear.
Does sterling silver tarnish?
Yes. Sterling silver naturally tarnishes over time as it reacts with air and moisture. This is completely normal and doesn't affect the quality of the metal. Regular wear, careful storage and occasional polishing will help keep it looking its best.
Can solid gold jewellery be resized?
In most cases, yes. Solid gold rings can usually be resized by an experienced jeweller. Some designs, such as full eternity rings or styles with stones set all the way around the band, may have limitations, but many rings can be adjusted for a comfortable fit.
How do I care for gold-plated jewellery?
Gold-plated jewellery benefits from gentle handling to help preserve its finish.
- Remove before showering, swimming and exercising.
- Avoid contact with perfume, lotions and household chemicals.
- Wipe with a soft, dry cloth after wearing.
- Store separately in a soft pouch or jewellery box when not in use.
With thoughtful care, your gold-plated jewellery will retain its finish for longer, and can be professionally replated when needed. Read more about how to care for your jewellery in our Jewellery Care Guide.
Written by Maya Magal
About the Author
Maya Magal is the Founder and Creative Director of the brand. Originally trained in textile design, she later apprenticed under master jeweller Tony Thomson, developing a deep appreciation for craftsmanship, precision and the details that give a piece its character.
Today, Maya designs every collection and leads the creative vision of the brand, working closely with the team across bespoke commissions, engagement rings, wedding bands and contemporary jewellery collections.
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