When it comes to jewelry, "Is it real?" is often asked. But what does "real" really mean? For some, it could mean pure gold or silver; for others, it might mean durable, high-quality pieces that don't tarnish or fade. At Pierre Graham, we want to clarify the mystery and share why our jewelry is authentic and crafted with intention and care.
What is "Real" Jewelry?
The term "real" can have several meanings, depending on perspective. Some might define it as 100% pure gold, unadulterated by other materials. Others may consider it authentic, wearable, and long-lasting, giving you a luxury look without the fine jewelry price tag.
At Pierre Graham, our jewelry is crafted from 14K gold, 18K gold, and 925 sterling silver, all plated over durable metals such as stainless steel and sterling silver. While they may not be solid gold or silver, these pieces are designed to look and feel luxurious while offering the benefit of being more accessible and safe to wear in various environments.
The Truth About Plated Jewelry
You might wonder, "If it's plated, is it still real?" The short answer is yes! Plated jewelry refers to a layer of precious metal bonded to a base metal, like gold or sterling silver. At Pierre Graham, we use high-quality base metals like stainless steel and sterling silver to ensure our pieces are durable, hypoallergenic, and long-lasting.
Why does this matter? Pure gold, for example, is very soft and can easily scratch or bend. Using a sturdy base material ensures that our jewelry can stand up to everyday wear without compromising on its beautiful, luxurious finish.
Real Luxury, Real Durability
"Real" also means something different for those who want jewelry that can handle everyday life. We understand that your active, on-the-go lifestyle demands practicality. Imagine you're on vacation, headed to the beach, or running errands in the city. Wearing fine jewelry in those situations might not be practical, or worse, it can attract unwanted attention. Pierre Graham offers pieces that give you the best of both worlds—a luxurious look with the durability you need for any situation.
Our jewelry is crafted to last and look beautiful for a special occasion and to accompany you through life's moments. We understand that "real" can mean resilient and practical, especially for active, on-the-go lifestyles.
Affordability and Style, Without Compromise
"Real" doesn't have to mean out of reach. At Pierre Graham, we believe that everyone should be able to experience the joy of beautiful jewelry. Using high-quality plated materials, we can offer pieces that look and feel high-end without the steep price tag of solid gold or silver.
Our customers appreciate timeless, versatile designs but also want to wear their jewelry without fear of it losing its charm. Whether a minimalist gold chain or a bold, vintage-inspired ring, our collection speaks to the modern jewelry lover who values authenticity, style, and practicality.
The Beauty of Rhodium-Plated VVS-Style Jewelry
For our VVS-style jewelry, we take things a step further by using rhodium plating, which is highly sought after for its mirror-like shine and added durability. Rhodium is a rare, valuable metal that enhances the appearance of jewelry and protects it from tarnishing, making it an excellent choice for keeping pieces bright and beautiful for longer. Rhodium-plated jewelry resists scratches and corrosion, ensuring your bold, statement-making pieces look flawless.
Regarding the materials underneath the rhodium, we use copper and brass for our VVS-style pieces. These metals are more affordable but still offer excellent strength and wearability. Both copper and brass are superior alternatives to more familiar, lower-cost options like zinc alloy, which can tarnish quickly or degrade over time. This attention to detail in selecting materials ensures you get the best combination of luxury, durability, and affordability.
The Hierarchy of Metals at Pierre Graham
When selecting materials for our jewelry, we always prioritize quality and durability. Here's a quick breakdown of the hierarchy of metals we use at Pierre Graham, from base metals to premium finishes:
- Gold Plating (14K, 18K) is luxurious and timeless, perfect for creating high-end looks without the high price tag.
- 925 Sterling Silver Plating - Elegant, durable sterling silver offers a classic, bright finish.
- Rhodium Plating - Adds a premium layer of protection and shine to our VVS-style jewelry, enhancing its longevity and brilliance.
- Base Metals: Stainless Steel and Sterling Silver provide a solid, durable foundation that resists tarnishing and wear.
- Copper & Brass (for VVS-style jewelry) - Affordable, long-lasting, and superior to common alternatives like alloy or zinc alloy.
By choosing these metals, we ensure that each piece of jewelry in our collection is "real" in every sense—offering real quality, durability, and beauty.
The Pierre Graham Mission
When you wear a piece from Pierre Graham, you're not just wearing plated jewelry—you're wearing something carefully crafted, thoughtfully designed, and meant to last. We've chosen materials that balance luxury with durability so you can feel confident that your jewelry is authentic in every sense of the word.
So, the next time someone asks, "Is it real?" you can proudly say, "Yes, and it's made to last."