Silver is a rare, soft metal with a bright metallic luster. The purity of silver in jewelry is expressed in “degrees” (°). 925° means the piece contains 92.5% pure silver, while the remaining 7.5% consists of other metals, most commonly copper. Pure silver is too soft for everyday wear, which is why it is alloyed with small amounts of other metals to increase durability without compromising its character.

Gold is a dense, soft, highly malleable metal known for its natural brilliance and rarity. Its unique properties are why it has been valued since ancient civilizations. Gold does not rust or tarnish. Unlike silver, gold purity is not measured in percentage but in karats, based on a 24-part system. 24K means 24 out of 24 parts are pure gold (100% gold). Lower karats indicate that the alloy contains a smaller proportion of pure gold and a higher percentage of other metals added for strength. 

When referring to metals, karat measures the proportion of pure gold (or platinum) in an alloy.

For example:

• 14K gold contains 14 parts pure gold out of 24
• This equals 58.5% pure gold
  
  

The remaining percentage consists of other metals that enhance strength and durability. Check out the detailed table here.

Casting is a jewelry-making technique in which molten metal is poured into a mold. Once cooled, the mold produces a solid form, allowing multiple identical pieces to be created with precision.

Plating is the surface coating of a jewelry piece with a thin layer of another metal (such as gold, silver, or platinum). It alters the color or surface finish but does not change the base metal underneath.

When referring to gemstones, carat is a unit of weight.

• 1 carat = 0.20 grams

For example, a 5-carat diamond weighs 1 gram. Carat weight affects value, but it is distinct from cut, clarity, and color.

Polishing is the final finishing process in metalwork. Using specialized rotating brushes, the surface of the metal is refined until it reaches the desired level of smoothness and shine. This step enhances brilliance while revealing the true character of the metal.

Oxidation is a chemical reaction between a metal and elements in the air. Silver may darken over time due to exposure to sulfur in the atmosphere; this is natural oxidation. Gold, platinum, and metals from the platinum family are highly resistant to oxidation, making them exceptionally stable over time.

Authentic gold and silver jewelry carries small stamped markings indicating metal purity.

For example:

• A 14K gold piece contains 58.5% pure gold and is typically stamped 585.
• A sterling silver piece may carry the stamp 925.

These marks certify the composition and authenticity of the metal.