Choosing the Right Metal
At Society Nautique, we believe the right metal should feel just as personal as the piece itself.
Whether you’re starting your jewelry collection or adding to it, understanding different jewelry metals — and how they wear over time — helps you design a piece you’ll love with confidence.
Because our pieces are made to order, we offer select designs in multiple metal options. This allows you to choose the material that best fits your lifestyle, style, and budget, while still maintaining the quality and intention behind every piece.
Please note: not every metal is available for every design. Available options are listed under the Material section of each product. If you’re interested in a custom request, our team is always happy to help — just reach out.
Our Metal Options
14k Gold Fill
For those who love the look of solid gold without the investment, 14k gold fill is one of our favorite materials.
Gold-filled jewelry features a thick layer of 14k gold that is heat- and pressure-bonded to a high-quality brass core. This process makes it significantly more durable than traditional gold plating and generally safe for sensitive skin.
With proper care, gold-filled pieces can last for decades — making it an accessible, everyday favorite.
Why we love it:
It offers exceptional durability, beautiful color, and long-term wear at a more approachable price point.
Sterling Silver (.925)
Sterling silver is a classic for a reason.
Made from 92.5% pure silver, sterling silver is a precious metal known for its durability, versatility, and timeless appeal. It’s hypoallergenic and can be polished and refinished many times over the course of its life.
Why we love it:
Sterling silver is made to last a lifetime and develops character with wear — perfect for everyday jewelry lovers.
14k Rose Gold Fill
Our rose gold-filled pieces offer a soft, blush-toned alternative to traditional yellow gold.
Like yellow gold fill, rose gold fill contains a thick layer of 14k gold, with added copper to achieve its warm rosy hue. While romantic and unique, rose gold can show wear differently over time, which is why we offer it selectively in styles where it holds up best.
Why we offer it:
It’s a beautiful way to add warmth and dimension to a stack when the design allows for longevity.
Gold Vermeil
Gold vermeil features a thick layer of gold plated over solid sterling silver, meeting industry standards for durability.
We use 14k and 18k gold plating to achieve a soft, elegant gold tone. Should the gold layer wear over time, the sterling silver underneath remains hypoallergenic and can be replated if desired.
Why we love it:
It’s a beautiful alternative to solid gold, offering a luxurious look without the full investment. We mostly only use this on charms or clips
10k Solid Gold
10k solid gold is an underrated favorite.
With a higher alloy content than 14k gold, it’s more durable and slightly more subtle in color — a soft, champagne-like yellow. It’s waterproof, tarnish-resistant, and ideal for delicate, everyday pieces.
Why we love it:
It offers the benefits of solid gold with increased durability and a more approachable price.
14k Solid Gold
If you’re ready to invest, 14k solid gold is our top recommendation for everyday wear.
It’s durable, low-maintenance, and designed to last generations. We choose 14k gold because it offers the best balance of strength, beauty, and longevity.
Why we love it:
It’s timeless, tarnish-free, and made to be worn every single day.
Our insider tip:
Invest in a solid gold chain, then add charms or tags in gold fill. Chains take the most wear — and gold-filled accents will still last for decades.
How to Choose the Best Metal for You
When selecting a metal, consider the following:
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Budget: Gold fill offers the look of solid gold at a lower price. Solid gold is a lifetime investment.
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Style: Dainty pieces benefit from stronger metals like solid gold or sterling silver.
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Skin Sensitivity: Solid gold and sterling silver are best for sensitive skin.
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Maintenance: Solid gold requires the least upkeep.
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Lifestyle: For 24/7 wear, solid gold is unmatched.
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Weight & Comfort: Lightweight pieces tend to get worn more often — comfort matters.
Caring for Your Jewelry
No matter the metal, proper care extends the life of your pieces.
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Do not apply lotions, perfume, and sunscreen before wearing jewelry
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Remove pieces before swimming or using harsh chemicals
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Store clean, dry jewelry in airtight containers
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Clean gently with mild soap and water or a soft cloth
There’s no single “best” metal — only the one that’s right for you.
At Society Nautique, we offer thoughtful material options for every style and budget. But we believe the true value of jewelry isn’t just in the metal — it’s in the meaning, story, and intention behind the piece.
