Jewellery Materials and Finishes: A Practical Buying Guide

Material and finish terms affect appearance, care and expected wear. A buyer should rely on the information supplied for the specific product rather than assume that two items with a similar colour have the same construction.

Solid metal, alloy, plating and coating

Solid metal or alloy

The stated metal is present throughout the item, although an alloy can contain more than one element. A listing should identify the alloy or fineness where the seller has reliable information.

Plated

A layer of one metal is applied over a different base material. The listing should identify the plating and base material where known. Care must avoid unnecessary abrasion.

Coated or finished

A surface treatment changes colour, texture or resistance. The term alone does not identify the coating thickness, base material or expected service life.

Stainless steel

This identifies a family of iron-based alloys, not one single formula. A seller should avoid adding a grade or medical claim unless supporting product information exists.

Gemstones and simulated stones

Natural, laboratory-grown, treated and simulated stones are different descriptions. A listing should use only the description supported by its supplier or documentation. Colour alone is not proof of gemstone identity.

Claims that need product evidence

Terms such as waterproof, water-resistant, non-tarnish, hypoallergenic and lifetime finish require product-specific evidence and clear conditions. These claims should not be extended across a complete catalogue unless every affected item has been checked against the same standard.

Questions to ask before ordering

• What is the base material?
• Is the colour part of the material or a surface finish?
• Is a stone natural, laboratory-grown, treated, simulated or unspecified?
• What cleaning and storage method is recommended for this item?
• Does the return policy have a hygiene or customisation restriction?

Use the jewellery care guide for conservative care controls and the Refund, Return and Exchange Policy for the store’s review process.