Gold Plated vs Solid Gold Jewellery: What Lasts and What Doesn’t (UK Guide)

In recent years, something unusual has been happening with sterling silver prices and it’s not just in the markets: it’s affecting everyday jewellery too. Sterling silver, the metal at the heart of so many of our treasured pieces, has seen a significant rise in its global price, driven by factors far beyond fashion. Below we explain what’s going on, why it’s out of our control as makers and what positive implications this has for customers who already own or are considering a piece of our timeless sterling silver jewellery. How much has the price of silver increased? Globally traded metals markets set the price of silver and in 2025 this price moved sharply higher. According to the London Bullion Market Association (LBMA), the sterling silver prices climbed from roughly $29.41 per troy ounce on 1 January 2025 to as high as $74.84 per ounce by the end of the year an increase of approximately 144.82% over the course of the year. And that trend hasn’t stopped. In early 2026, sterling silver prices continue to trade above $100 per ounce, a level not seen before in many years. In simple terms: the ingredient in your sterling silver jewellery has become significantly more expensive. What is causing the rise in sterling silver prices? There isn’t a single reason, there’s a confluence of global forces: 1. Industrial Demand Is SoaringSterling Silver isn’t just a precious metal for jewellery. It is also a crucial industrial metal used in: Solar panels and renewable energy technologies Electric vehicles and advanced electronics Artificial intelligence data centres and semiconductors These industrial uses have grown strongly and silver is now deeply embedded in future-facing sectors. Because demand from industry competes with jewellery demand, it pushes the sterling silver price upward. 2. Supply Constraints and Structural DeficitsSilver supply has not kept pace. Production increases are modest year-on-year and recycling, while helpful, can’t make up the shortfall. This structural deficit means that demand has outstripped supply, fuelling upward price pressure.  3. Investment Flows and Market DynamicsSilver is also seen by some investors as a store of value, especially in uncertain economic times. There’s been notable interest in silver across global markets, which also adds to its price momentum. Because sterling silver is more thinly traded than gold, its price can be more volatile, sometimes moving faster than gold itself.  Why This Matters for Jewellery Makers As a small jeweller, we buy silver on the global market just like anyone else. When the underlying metal becomes more expensive, the cost of the raw materials we use, sterling silver sheet, wire, chains, findings - also rises. This isn’t about branding or profitability. It’s simply the way precious metals are priced internationally. There’s no mechanism for a jeweller to “lock in” old prices indefinitely, especially during periods of rapid market change. What This Means for You 1. Pieces you already own have risen in intrinsic metal value.As sterling silver’s market price increases, the metal contained in existing pieces becomes more valuable too. That doesn’t mean resale is encouraged but it does mean your sterling silver jewellery has sturdy material backing. 2. We continue to focus on quality.Some brands might respond to higher metal costs by making thinner, lighter, or less durable pieces. We choose not to compromise on materials or workmanship. If prices change, it is in order to maintain standards you can trust. 3. Well made jewellery is longer-lasting and more meaningful.Sterling Silver, when cared for well, can be polished, repaired and restored for decades. In a world of fast fashion, this reliability matters. In Summary Sterling silver prices are currently elevated due to a combination of: Industrial demand growth Supply constraints Investment and market dynamics These forces are global and beyond the control of individual makers like us. What we can control is how we design, construct and support jewellery that is beautiful, durable, and worth owning for years, not just months. Why has sterling silver become so expensive?Sterling silver is priced on global markets. In recent years, demand from industry and investors has increased while supply has struggled to keep pace, pushing prices higher. Will silver jewellery prices go back down?Silver prices can fluctuate, but current levels reflect long-term industrial demand, not a short-term trend. Does this mean silver jewellery is a good investment?Silver jewellery should be bought to wear and enjoy. However, rising silver prices do increase the intrinsic metal value of well-made pieces. If you ever have questions about how your piece is made or about caring for it so it lasts a lifetime, we’re always here to help. Thank you for your support and loyalty, as always.

A clear, honest guide from the workshop Is jewellery waterproof? “Waterproof jewellery” is a phrase you’ll see everywhere but it’s rarely explained properly. The truth is, no fine jewellery is completely immune to life. However, well made jewellery can be worn confidently day to day, with a little understanding and care. Here’s what we mean and what we don’t. Is any jewellery truly waterproof? In short: no. Fine jewellery isn’t designed to behave like swimwear or sports equipment. Metals react to moisture, air, chemicals and friction over time. What matters is how well the piece is made, what it’s made from and how it’s worn. When brands say “waterproof”, they usually mean: it won’t immediately tarnish or discolour when exposed to water it can cope with occasional contact with moisture That’s very different from being indestructible. Sterling silver & everyday life Sterling silver is a precious metal made to last a lifetime  but it does naturally react with air and moisture over time. Showering occasionally: generally fine Washing hands: no issue Rain, sea air, daily wear: perfectly normal Swimming regularly (especially in pools or the sea): not recommended Salt water and chlorine are particularly harsh and can dull silver much faster than everyday wear. The good news? Tarnish is surface level and can be gently removed. It does not mean your jewellery is damaged or poor quality. Gold jewellery & water Solid gold (including 9ct) is more resistant than silver but it isn’t immune. Chlorine can weaken gold alloys over time Soaps and shampoos can leave residue that dulls the finish Repeated exposure speeds up wear, especially on finer chains Gold jewellery lasts longest when it’s treated as something to live with, not through everything. What we recommend For jewellery you want to last decades, not seasons: Safe for Daily wear Handwashing Occasional showers Normal life Best removed for Swimming (sea or pool) Gym workouts Sleeping Cleaning with chemicals Perfume, hairspray, fake tan application Putting jewellery on last and taking it off first makes a remarkable difference. Our philosophy We design jewellery to be worn, loved, and lived in, not hidden away. But longevity comes from understanding, not slogans. If you ever have questions about caring for your piece, we’re always happy to advise!

Talking of the weekend and the unpredictable weather we encountered we have put together an easy transitional look to carry you through Spring. The frilled collar of this beautiful denim waistcoat will add extra interest when sat next to a chic pair of earrings like our Mini Hoops & Gold Stars. Roll up your striped sleeves to show off your arm party, preferably with a couple of Open Oolana bangles in tow! Add a personal touch with our best selling Scroll Ring, a great alternative to our Signet Rings. A mix of silver and gold will create interest whilst a pop of colour via our Sweetie Charms will also bring you wonderful life enhancing  properties! Get the look: Washed Candyfloss Waistcoat - Seventy & Mochi, Culotte Jean - Mango, Woven Leather Bag - Dragon Diffusion, Merino Turtle Neck -COS.