By Mythili Reddibathini
February is the month of love. Romantic, platonic, and in my opinion, maybe the most important: self-love. I love to use this month to invest in myself, through fun workouts, nourishing food, and definitely the occasional shopping spree.
When you look good, you feel good, and one of my favorite ways to elevate my everyday look is through jewelry. A timeless accessory, jewelry can manifest in so many fun shapes and sizes. Maximalist, minimalist, or somewhere right in between.
Investing in your jewelry is important if you want it to last. Too many people pay for overpriced costume jewelry when they could be paying a similar price for a solid gold or silver piece that will last them a lifetime. With that being said, if you’re looking to upgrade your accessory game this season, consider this your go-to guide for buying that next everyday piece.
Generally, gold jewelry becomes more durable in the following order: gold-plated, gold-filled, vermeil, and solid gold.
- Gold-plated jewelry is usually made of copper or brass and covered in a light gold coating. Everyday wear isn’t the best for this type of jewelry as it’ll easily tarnish.
- Gold-filled jewelry is the next-step up. Usually made out of brass, gold-filled jewelry usually has a thicker layer of gold surrounding it, making it more durable for everyday wear.
- Gold vermeil features a similar composition as gold-filled jewelry, except for the fact that it usually features entirely precious metal. Gold vermeil is usually made of sterling silver or another precious metal with a thick layer of gold plating over it. Vermeil is also a more affordable alternative to solid gold jewelry that will last you a long time.
But ultimately the jewelry that will give you the most bang for your buck will always be solid gold. Whether it’s yellow, rose, or white, solid gold jewelry will last for several generations. Hypoallergenic and durable against water, solid gold has proven itself time and time again that it is the staple to add to your everyday stack.
For my silver girls, sterling silver is an amazing more affordable option than platinum or white gold. It holds its shape and is incredibly durable. While sterling silver can oxidize when exposed to water for a long time, by wiping it with a polishing cloth every once in a while, your silver stack will stay shiny.
There are so many different ways to layer and accessorize with jewelry. If you prefer a more lowkey look, start with a bracelet and/or a simple watch on either wrist. A statement signet ring or small gold band can draw attention to your fingers. And there’s something so chic about a girl with a necklace that she’ll literally never take off. A simple pair of hoops or studs are the cherry-on-top of any outfit.
Right now maximalism is in. If you want to explore a chunkier look but don’t know where to begin, start with textures. Layer chain bracelets with bangles. Add a beaded necklace or interesting chain to your necklace stack. Play with your necklace lengths and weights for an effortless, unique look. A statement ring can also complement your simpler rings. One of my favorites is the Aura Swirl Ring by Ettika.
The key to a great stack, whether its necklaces, rings or bracelets, is mixing different silhouettes and textures. If you opt for danty simple pieces, try mixing in some thicker bands or a watch. If you like the chunky maxamist look blend in some simpler silhouettes like a bangle to make those statement peices pop.
I hope I’ve convinced you of the importance of investing in your jewelry. However, the upfront cost of solid gold and silver can definitely be intimidating. If you wear a statement pair of earrings or ring only a couple times a year, perhaps the gold-plated version is more practical. But for that everyday ring stack or staple pair of hoops, take some time to think about how long you want your pieces to last.
