Fine Jewelry

In shortFine jewelry is made from precious metals such as solid gold, platinum and sterling silver, set with natural or lab-created gemstones. Stones that would be risky on a ring, such as opal, emerald or morganite, are much safer in earrings and pendants because they take far fewer knocks.

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Rings take the most punishment of any jewelry. Once you move to earrings, pendants and bracelets, your choice of stones widens considerably, and that is where softer, more colorful gems really shine.

Pairing with bridal jewelry

Match metals to your engagement ring if you plan to wear them together often. Echo a detail rather than duplicate it: a leaf pendant alongside a vine ring, or a single bezel-set stone on a chain alongside a bezel solitaire.

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between fine jewelry and fashion jewelry?

Fine jewelry uses precious metals and genuine or lab-created gemstones. Fashion or costume jewelry uses base metals, plating and imitation stones, and costs far less but wears out sooner.

Is gold vermeil fine jewelry?

Vermeil is sterling silver with a gold coating. In the United States, the FTC's guidance ties the term to a minimum thickness of gold over sterling silver. It is more durable than ordinary plating but not the same as solid gold.

See also