What materials should you choose for long-lasting jewelry: 925 silver, gold plated or stainless steel?

When it comes to choosing jewelry, the material is essential to ensure it will last over time without losing its shine or deteriorating. In France, many people turn to stainless steel for its tarnish resistance, but is it really the best choice? Or do 925 silver and plated offer a more elegant and durable alternative? In this article, we'll explore the pros and cons of these materials to help you choose the one that's right for you.

The criteria for choosing a durable piece of jewelry

Before getting into the details of the different materials, it is important to understand what criteria a piece of jewelry must meet to be considered "durable." These criteria include:

1. Resistance to daily wear and tear – A durable piece of jewelry should be able to withstand scratches, impacts, and exposure to water or chemicals.
2. Luster and Color – A quality material should retain its appearance without fading or changing color.
3. Comfort and aesthetics – Jewelry that we wear every day should be comfortable to wear and reflect a certain elegance.

Stainless steel: Guaranteed strength, but a “cheap” look

Stainless steel is often touted for its scratch and corrosion resistance. It's a popular choice in many French boutiques because it doesn't tarnish and is easy to maintain. However, aesthetically, it often leaves something to be desired.

• Advantages : Inexpensive, does not tarnish, resistant to water and chemicals.
• Disadvantages : Its visual appearance is less noble, and it can take on an orange tint over time, sometimes giving a “low-end” look. For those looking for a touch of luxury and elegance, stainless steel lacks that little extra that makes all the difference.

925 silver: Timeless nobility

925 silver, also known as sterling silver, is a material renowned for its beauty and brilliance. Unlike stainless steel, it is a precious metal, synonymous with elegance and refinement.

• Benefits :
• Aesthetics : 925 silver offers a brilliant shine and a luxurious appearance.
• Durability : If properly maintained, it can last a lifetime. It is also a recyclable material, an eco-friendly option for those who want to combine elegance and responsibility.
• Comfortable to wear : Lightweight and soft on the skin, it is ideal for everyday use.
• Disadvantages : It can tarnish over time, especially when exposed to moisture. However, occasional cleaning with a soft cloth is enough to restore its shine.

Why Maison Lissia chooses it: We use recycled 925 silver, a choice that is both aesthetically pleasing and ethical. Our jewelry is designed to last, and sterling silver is the perfect foundation for creating elegant and durable pieces.

Gold plating: Affordable luxury

Gold plating, which involves coating a 925 silver or metal piece of jewelry with a thin layer of gold, is the ideal option for those who want to combine luxury and durability. Gold plating offers the appearance of pure gold at a much more affordable price.

• Benefits :

• Elegance and prestige : The plating gives a golden shine that immediately adds a touch of sophistication to any outfit.
• Durability : Quality plated or gold jewelry, like Maison Licia's, is designed to withstand water and daily wear and tear. Unlike stainless steel, gold plating does not discolor and retains its shine for a long time.

• Disadvantages:

If the plating is too thin, it may wear off over time. However, at Maison Lissia, we strictly adhere to French and European standards that require a minimum plating thickness of 3 microns for a piece of jewelry to be considered gold-plated. This standard ensures that our jewelry retains its color, does not tarnish, and does not turn green, even after daily use. This way, you can enjoy elegant and durable jewelry without compromising on quality.

What material should you choose for your jewelry?

• If you are looking for jewelry for everyday use, which does not lose its shine and remains aesthetically pleasing over time, 925 silver and gold plated are excellent options.
• Stainless steel, although it offers a durable solution, is visually less refined and does not correspond to a luxury image.
• Maison Lissia specializes in recycled 925 silver and waterproof gold plating, two materials that embody both durability and elegance. Plus, they're designed to be worn every day without fear of tarnishing or wear.

Why choose Maison Lissia for your 925 silver and gold-plated jewelry?

At Maison Lissia, we are committed to creating jewelry that is not only sustainable but also environmentally friendly. By using high-quality materials like recycled sterling silver and gold plating, we combine the best of both worlds: elegance and longevity. Our jewelry is also waterproof, allowing you to wear it without worry, whether in the shower, at the beach, or by the pool.

For jewelry that lasts, choose the quality and luxury of 925 silver and gold plating.

Rather than opting for options like stainless steel, choose materials that offer durability, elegance, and comfort. Sterling silver and gold plating are top choices for those who want jewelry that stands the test of time while reflecting sophisticated style.

At Maison Lissia, we pride ourselves on creating jewelry that meets these expectations while respecting the environment. Choose durability and elegance with our 925 silver and gold-plated collections.