| | Glossary of Jewelry and Accessories Terms | Gold Filled 14K gold filled jewelry items have a solid layer of 14K gold bonded over a core base metal. The outer layer of gold filled items have a thick layer of solid 14K gold and will last as long as solid gold jewelry with normal wear and care.
Natural Gemstones A natural gemstone is a mineral, stone or organic matter which has been created in nature without any human intervention. Natural gemstones are then cut and polished for use in jewelry. Since gemstones are formed in nature, no two are exactly alike. Natural gemstones often have inclusions or imperfections which is proof of a natural gemstone. Often natural gemstones are treated to enhance the appearance of the stones and to create gemstones which are wearable. This process of treating and enhancing gemstones has existed for centuries. Heating, dyeing and irradiation treatments improve color, clarity and durability resulting in beautiful and a vibrant array of gemstones with their own unique characteristics.
Sterling Silver Sterling silver is 92.5% pure silver and 7.5% of some other metal (usually copper). Some countries require sterling silver products to be stamped .925 as a verification so you may see this on the back of some silver elements. Fine Silver is 99.9% pure however fine silver is very soft and can bend and break easily. Fine silver also tarnishes easier than sterling silver. The mixture of copper in sterling silver helps to slow down the tarnishing process as well as create a more durable alloy perfect for jewelry. At Fresh Collections we use only sterling silver in our silver pieces.
Vermeil Vermeil products are a base of sterling silver which has been bonded with a layer of gold, usually 18K or better, overlaid onto the silver surface.
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