Jewelry Metal Comparison

Material

Price

Durability

Tarnish/Discoloration

Allergies

Best For

Solid Gold

Expensive $$$$

Excellent

Doesn’t tarnish (lower karats can dull)

Hypoallergenic in higher karats

Luxury, investment pieces, daily wear

Gold Vermeil 

Moderate to High $$$

Good

Tarnishes over time as gold layer fades. Gold Vermeil is made with gold and sterling silver precious metals.

Hypoallergenic (925 sterling silver base)

Fine jewelry look at lower cost; affordable luxury

Gold-Filled 

Moderate $$$

Very Good

Minimal tarnish, lasts for years. Usually, Gold-filled is made with brass metal base bonded with gold.

May cause allergies due to base metal such as brass or other alloys

Affordable alternative to solid gold

Sterling Silver

Moderate $$

Good

Tarnishes easily but is easy to clean

Hypoallergenic (except rare cases reaction to trace metals in the alloy)

Affordable fine jewelry, vintage patina look, classic, timeless pieces

Stainless Steel

Affordable $

Excellent

Does not tarnish or discolor

Hypoallergenic (if it does not have nickel)

Everyday wear like watches, fashion jewelry

Brass

Very affordable $

Good

Tarnishes and discolors easily, it can turn greenish color

High risk of allergic reactions (esp. sensitivities to copper and zinc)

Fashion jewelry, statement pieces, vintage-style at a low cost