The Real Talk on Gold-Filled vs. Everything Else (Plus My New Chain Collection!)

Hey Pals of Palettes!

So I've been seeing tons of questions and content centered around different jewelry materials, especially after I started my new gold-plated stainless steel chain collection (more on that in a sec!). I figured it was time for some real talk about what all these terms actually mean, without the industry jargon that makes your eyes glaze over.

Let Me Tell You What I've Learned the Hard Way

When I first started making jewelry, I'll be honest—I grabbed whatever materials looked pretty and seemed affordable. Some worked out great, others... well, let's just say I noticed piece I kept for myself had quickly tarnished (believe me, I cringe when I think about early items I sold that must had tarnished on you too). 🙈

These days, I'm WAY pickier about what goes into your jewelry box. Here's what I've learned to avoid:

The stuff that breaks my heart: Those dirt-cheap pieces from big retailers that literally fall apart in weeks, or irritate your skin after one wear. I used to think "jewelry is jewelry," but experiencing a pair of earrings or necklace fail after two wears? Nope. Not happening in my shop.

Gold-plated brass—the tricky one: This gets used a lot by beginning jewelry makers because it looks great upfront, is incredibly accessible with a wide range of options on the market, and most importantly, keeps costs down. But here's the thing—that gold layer is paper-thin. After a few months of real-world wear, you're left with brass showing through. It's not terrible, but it's not what you thought you were buying either (it's supposed to be gold, not bronzy-brown).

But Wait, Let's Talk About My New Favorite Thing!

Gold-plated stainless steel is having a moment in my studio, and for good reason. You know how I just said gold-plated brass can be disappointing? Well, stainless steel changes the whole game.

The steel base is practically indestructible. It won't tarnish, won't turn colors, and honestly could probably survive the apocalypse. Add that beautiful gold plating on top, and you get something that looks expensive but won't drain your coffee fund.

This is actually why I'm so excited about my new chain collection! I've been testing these pieces for months (yes, I'm that person who wears prototypes everywhere), and they've held up beautifully through everything. I have a simple chain necklace that I left on the table, and my toddler got her hands on it and has been throwing that piece through the wringer and it hasn't broke, and still looks amazing!

Why This Collection Feels So Right for Right Now

Here's something interesting; I've been watching jewelry trends closely, and it turns out my obsession with gold-plated stainless steel chains is perfectly timed. With gold prices hitting crazy highs (we're talking over $3,000 an ounce!), more and more people are craving that luxe gold look without the sticker shock.

But it's bigger than just price. There's this whole movement happening toward what I like to call "joyful maximalism"— people are done with boring, safe jewelry and want pieces that actually express who they are. Think bold chains you can layer, statement pieces that make you smile, jewelry that expresses your true self and tells your story.

My new chain collection is designed exactly for this moment. These aren't delicate little chains that disappear—they're substantial enough to anchor a layered look, gorgeous enough to wear solo, and sturdy enough for your real life. Plus, they're perfect for adding charms and pendants to create your own unique "necklace story."

Gold-Filled: The Sweet Spot I Keep Coming Back To

If you've been following along, you know last year I was gravitating toward transiting to gold-filled pieces more and more. Think of it as the responsible older sibling of gold-plated jewelry.

Instead of that whisper-thin plating, gold-filled has a thick layer of real gold bonded to the base metal. It costs more upfront, but it's the kind of jewelry you'll still be wearing years from now. I love knowing that when you invest in one of my gold-filled pieces, it's actually going to stay gorgeous.

For this reason, the ALS Necklace Collection will remain made with gold-filled chain and gold-filled charms (as long as I can keep sourcing them).

The Care Talk (Because I Actually Want You to Keep Loving Your Jewelry)

Okay, real talk time! I don't care if your piece cost $20 or $200, if someone made it by hand, it deserves better than being thrown in a drawer with your car keys.

My non-negotiable care tips:

• Take it off before jumping in the shower (I know, I know, but trust me)
• Keep perfume and lotion away from your jewelry—spray first, jewelry second
• Give your pieces a soft place to live when they're not on you

These aren't high-maintenance demands, just basic love that'll keep your jewelry looking fresh.

Here's the Thing About Budgets (And Why I'm Not Going All Gold-Filled)

Not everyone can drop serious cash on jewelry, and honestly? That shouldn't stop you from wearing beautiful things that make you happy.

Here's what I'm seeing: people want to build jewelry collections that reflect their personality, but they also want to layer and stack multiple pieces. That's where gold-plated stainless steel becomes a total game-changer. While I absolutely love creating gold-filled pieces for customers who want that premium durability, I'm also committed to keeping gorgeous, well-made stainless steel options in my lineup.

Why? Because when you can afford to buy 2-3 pieces instead of just one, you can actually create those layered looks everyone's loving right now. You can experiment, mix and match, and build a collection over time that truly feels like you.

I've always believed that the intention behind a piece matters more than the price tag. Whether you were drawn to my shop for the gold-filled ALS necklaces, or you just fell in love with something from my new stainless steel chain collection, what matters to me most is that you feel amazing wearing it.

What's Coming Next

Speaking of that chain collection -  I'm literally bursting with excitement to share it with you all! These pieces have been living rent free in my mind for months, and I finally had time to bring them to life. I think you're going to love how they layer with pieces you already own.

Thanks for reading this far (seriously, you're the best), and for trusting me to make jewelry that fits your life. Whether you're team gold-filled, stainless steel, or "whatever makes me feel pretty today, " I'm here for all of it!

Can't wait to see how you style whatever piece calls to you next!

xoxo,

Your Pal Sal

P.S. - Got questions about any of this? Drop a comment or send me a message, I'd love to hear from you!