Our Metal
At Eternal Marks, every piece of jewellery is designed to be meaningful, long-lasting and worn with confidence. That’s why we carefully select and work with three high-quality materials: Sterling Silver (925), Gold Filled, and Stainless Steel. Each option offers a different balance of look, durability and value, so you can choose what suits your style and everyday life best.
Compare Our Materials
Use the guide below to help you choose the right finish for your piece.
| Feature | Sterling Silver (925) | Gold Filled | Stainless Steel |
|---|---|---|---|
| Appearance | Classic bright silver finish | Rich gold finish | Modern silver-grey tone |
| Durability | Durable with normal care | Highly durable (thicker gold layer than plated) | Extremely strong and hard-wearing |
| Tarnish resistance | May tarnish over time, can be polished | Excellent resistance to fading | Highly resistant to tarnish |
| Skin friendly | Suitable for most skin types | Suitable for sensitive skin | Hypoallergenic |
| Maintenance | Occasional polishing recommended | Low maintenance | Very low maintenance |
| Best for | Timeless keepsakes & classic jewellery | A premium gold look for everyday wear | Everyday wear & great value |
Which material should I choose?
- If you want a classic finish: choose Sterling Silver (925).
- If you love gold jewellery: choose Gold Filled for a rich gold look with excellent durability.
- If you want the most hard-wearing, low-maintenance option: choose Stainless Steel.
If you’re buying as a gift and you’re unsure, Sterling Silver (925) is the most universally loved choice.
Material details
Sterling Silver (925)
Sterling silver is a timeless jewellery material with a bright, elegant finish. It’s made from 92.5% pure silver and is a popular choice for meaningful keepsakes.
- Classic look that never goes out of style
- Ideal for everyday wear
- Can be polished to restore shine over time
Gold Filled
Gold filled jewellery offers the luxurious look of solid gold with excellent longevity. It’s created by bonding a thick layer of gold to a core metal using heat and pressure, making it far more durable than gold-plated jewellery.
- Thicker gold layer than gold-plated jewellery
- Designed to resist everyday wear and fading
- Great choice for a premium gold finish
Stainless Steel
Stainless steel is a strong, modern and low-maintenance material. It’s ideal for everyday wear and offers excellent durability at great value.
- Extremely hard-wearing
- Highly resistant to tarnishing and corrosion
- Very low maintenance
Quick icon guide
A simple snapshot of what each material is best known for.
Sterling Silver (925)
- Classic & timeless
- Polishable
- Gift favourite
Gold Filled
- Premium gold look
- Durable finish
- Long-lasting wear
Stainless Steel
- Most hard-wearing
- Low maintenance
- Best value
FAQs
Is gold filled better than gold plated?
Gold filled has a much thicker layer of gold than gold-plated jewellery, making it far more durable and better suited to everyday wear.
Will sterling silver tarnish?
Sterling silver can naturally tarnish over time, particularly if it’s stored for long periods. A quick polish with a soft cloth will usually restore its shine.
Which material is best for everyday wear?
All three are suitable for everyday wear. If you want the lowest maintenance option, choose stainless steel. If you prefer a classic jewellery finish, choose sterling silver. If you want a premium gold look, choose gold filled.
I’m buying a gift. Which is the safest choice?
Sterling Silver (925) is the most universally loved option and a great default choice if you’re unsure. Gold filled is ideal if the recipient prefers gold jewellery.
How should I care for my jewellery?
Wipe gently with a soft cloth after wearing. Store your jewellery in a dry place and avoid contact with chemicals, perfumes and cleaning products to help maintain the finish.
Still unsure?
If you’d like help choosing the right material for a specific design or occasion, please get in touch and we’ll be happy to help.