Solid Gold vs. Plated Jewelry
What is the difference between solid gold, gold vermeil, and gold-plated jewelry?
Solid gold jewelry is made entirely from a gold alloy (such as 14k or 18k) throughout the piece. It keeps its color, value, and integrity over time and can be worn daily, resized, repaired, and passed down. Gold vermeil is sterling silver coated with a thicker layer of gold. It offers a more affordable option, but over time the gold layer can wear off, exposing the base metal underneath. Gold-plated jewelry uses a very thin layer of gold over a base metal such as brass or copper. It is the least durable option plating can fade, chip, or tarnish, especially with frequent wear, water, sweat, or skincare products. At Deeve, we work exclusively with solid 14k and 18k gold never plated, vermeil, or filled so your jewelry is built to last a lifetime, not a season.
Is 14k or 18k gold better for everyday jewelry?
Both 14k and 18k gold are excellent for fine jewelry, but they behave slightly differently:
- 14k gold contains a higher proportion of alloy metals, making it more durable and resistant to scratches—ideal for everyday rings, bracelets, and pieces that see a lot of contact.
- 18k gold has a higher gold content, giving it a richer, warmer color and a more luxurious feel. It’s perfect for special pieces, dress rings, and those who prefer a deeper gold tone.
Deeve offers both 14k and 18k solid gold so you can choose the balance of color, durability, and investment that suits your lifestyle.
Will solid gold jewelry tarnish or turn my skin green?
Genuine solid gold (especially 14k and 18k) does not tarnish in the way base metals do, and it should not turn your skin green. Any slight dullness over time is usually from everyday wear—natural oils, lotions, and environmental factors—and can be easily restored with gentle cleaning or professional polishing.Skin discoloration is typically caused by:
- Copper or nickel in base metals
- Very thin gold plating wearing off
Because Deeve uses solid gold and carefully selected alloys, our pieces are designed for comfortable, long-term wear without the typical issues of fashion jewelry.
Lab-Grown Diamonds & Ethical Sourcing
Lab-Grown Diamonds & Ethical Sourcing
What are lab grown diamonds, and are they “real” diamonds?
Lab-grown diamonds are real diamonds created in a controlled environment that replicates the natural conditions in which diamonds form. They have the same chemical, physical, and optical properties as mined diamonds—meaning they look and perform like any high-quality diamond. The key differences are:
- Origin: Lab-grown diamonds are created in a lab, not mined from the earth.
- Traceability: Their origin and production are more transparent and easier to track.
- Impact: They typically have a lower environmental and social impact compared to many traditional mining operations.
Deeve works exclusively with ethical lab-grown diamonds because they align with our commitment to transparency, modern craftsmanship, and a lighter footprint.
Are lab-grown diamonds a good investment?
Lab-grown diamonds are an excellent choice for people who value:
- Beauty and performance (sparkle, clarity, cut)
- Ethical and environmental considerations
- Better value at a given budget compared to mined stones
Traditional “investment” narratives around diamonds are complex and often overstated. We encourage clients to see lab-grown diamonds as an investment in design, craftsmanship, and daily enjoyment, rather than as a speculative financial asset.
How does Deeve ensure ethical sourcing?
Ethical sourcing at Deeve includes:
- Using lab-grown diamonds from trusted partners with documented production standards
- Working with solid gold that can be recycled, refined, and reused
- Prioritizing long-term wear and repairability so pieces stay in circulation, not in landfills
We believe the most sustainable jewelry is the piece you wear for decades—not the one you replace every year.
Everyday Luxury & Heirloom-Quality
Everyday Luxury & Heirloom-Quality
Heirloom-quality jewelry combines:
- Enduring materials: solid gold, high-quality diamonds or gemstones
- Thoughtful design: timeless silhouettes that don’t rely on short-lived trends
- Craftsmanship: secure settings, balanced proportions, and repairable construction
At Deeve, heirloom quality means your ring, bracelet, or necklace is built to be worn daily, cared for over time, and eventually passed down—without losing its structural integrity or emotional significance.
Can I wear fine jewelry every day?
Yes—if it’s designed for it. Solid gold and well-set diamonds are ideal for everyday wear. We recommend:
- Removing jewelry during heavy manual work or contact sports
- Avoiding harsh chemicals and abrasive cleaners
- Storing pieces separately to prevent scratching
Deeve’s collections, especially Everyday Heirlooms, are specifically designed for daily wear: minimal, comfortable, and durable.
Everyday Luxury & Heirloom-Quality
What makes a piece of jewelry “heirloom-quality”?
Heirloom-quality jewelry combines:
- Enduring materials: solid gold, high-quality diamonds or gemstones
- Thoughtful design: timeless silhouettes that don’t rely on short-lived trends
- Craftsmanship: secure settings, balanced proportions, and repairable construction
At Deeve, heirloom quality means your ring, bracelet, or necklace is built to be worn daily, cared for over time, and eventually passed down—without losing its structural integrity or emotional significance.
Can I wear fine jewelry every day?
Yes—if it’s designed for it. Solid gold and well-set diamonds are ideal for everyday wear. We recommend:
- Removing jewelry during heavy manual work or contact sports
- Avoiding harsh chemicals and abrasive cleaners
- Storing pieces separately to prevent scratching
Deeve’s collections, especially Everyday Heirlooms, are specifically designed for daily wear: minimal, comfortable, and durable.
Care, Maintenance & Circular Craftsmanship
How should I care for my solid gold and diamond jewelry?
For regular at-home care:
- Soak in warm water with a mild, fragrance-free soap
- Gently brush with a soft toothbrush
- Rinse thoroughly and pat dry with a soft cloth
Avoid:
- Harsh chemicals (bleach, chlorine, strong cleaners)
- Abrasive cloths or rough surfaces
- Storing multiple pieces tangled together
For deeper cleaning, polishing, or checking settings, we recommend professional care.
What is “circular craftsmanship” in fine jewelry?
Circular craftsmanship is our approach to designing jewelry that stays in use—and in value—for as long as possible. It includes:
- Repair: Fixing worn components, resizing rings, tightening settings
- Restore: Polishing, refinishing, and refreshing older pieces
- Recycle: Melting and refining solid gold to create new pieces when a design has reached the end of its life
Because Deeve works in solid gold, our pieces can be repaired, restored, and recycled without losing their core material value. This is a key part of our belief that true luxury shouldn’t end up in a landfill.
Does Deeve offer a warranty and repair services?
Yes. Deeve offers a lifetime warranty on manufacturing defects and dedicated fine jewelry services, including inspection, repair, and restoration. We want your pieces to be worn, not hidden away, and we stand behind the craftsmanship that makes that possible.
Sizing, Fit & Customization
How do I find my ring size?
The most accurate way is to:
- Visit a local jeweler for a professional ring sizing, or
- Use a high-quality ring sizer at home and measure at the end of the day when fingers are at their largest
We also provide a size guide to help you convert between different sizing systems and choose the best fit for your style (snug vs. slightly loose).
Can Deeve resize or adjust my jewelry?
Many solid gold rings and some bracelets can be resized or adjusted, depending on the design. Because Deeve pieces are crafted in solid gold, they are generally more adaptable to resizing than plated or hollow jewelry.For specific pieces, we recommend contacting us with the product name and your size needs so we can advise on what’s possible.
Do you offer custom jewelry design?
Yes. Deeve offers custom jewelry design for clients who want a one-of-a-kind piece—whether it’s a modern engagement ring, a reimagined heirloom, or a bespoke solid gold creation. We guide you through design, materials, and budget to create something uniquely yours.
Shipping, Returns & Buying Online
Is it safe to buy fine jewelry online?
Yes if you choose a brand that is transparent about materials, craftsmanship, and policies. When buying fine jewelry online, look for:
- Clear descriptions of materials (solid gold vs plated, lab-grown vs mined diamonds)
- Detailed product photos and measurements
- Warranty and return policies
- Accessible customer support
Deeve provides detailed product information, lifetime warranty, and responsive support so you can feel confident purchasing fine jewelry online.
What if I change my mind after ordering?
We understand that fine jewelry is a meaningful purchase. Our returns and exchanges policy is designed to give you peace of mind while protecting the integrity of our pieces. For full details, please refer to our Returns & Exchanges page or contact us for guidance before you buy.
Choosing the Right Piece
How do I choose a piece of jewelry that I’ll still love in 10 years?
Focus on:
- Materials: solid gold and quality diamonds or gemstones
- Silhouette: clean lines, balanced proportions, and comfortable wear
- Versatility: pieces that work with your everyday wardrobe and can be dressed up or down
Deeve’s collections are designed around timeless, sculpted forms and everyday wearability so your pieces feel current now and classic later.
What are the best “first pieces” to start a fine jewelry collection?
Great starting points include:
- A solid gold chain or bracelet you can wear daily
- A pair of simple earrings (hoops or studs)
- A signature ring you reach for every morning
Our Everyday Heirlooms collection is curated specifically for building a capsule of solid gold essentials you’ll actually wear.
Learn More About Solid Gold, Lab-Grown Diamonds & Modern HeirloomsFine jewelry is an investment in both materials and meaning. At Deeve, we design our collections in 14k and 18k solid gold with ethical lab-grown diamonds so you can feel confident about what you’re wearing every day. Solid gold offers lasting color, weight, and value, while lab-grown diamonds provide the same brilliance and durability as mined stones with more transparent, modern sourcing.If you’re building a capsule of everyday jewelry, choosing an engagement ring, or upgrading from plated pieces, understanding the difference between solid gold, vermeil, and gold-plated jewelry is essential. Solid gold can be resized, repaired, and restored over time, which is why it’s the foundation of true heirloom-quality pieces. Paired with well-cut lab-grown diamonds, your jewelry becomes something you can wear now and comfortably pass down later.As a Canadian fine jewelry house rooted in five generations of craftsmanship, Deeve approaches design through the lens of circular craftsmanship—repair, restore, and recycle. That means your rings, necklaces, bracelets, and earrings are made to stay in your life, not in a landfill. Our goal with this Fine Jewelry FAQ is to give you clear, honest answers so you can choose pieces that align with your style, your values, and your long-term wardrobe.For a deeper dive into specific topics, you can explore our dedicated guides on solid gold, lab-grown diamond education, sustainability, and jewelry care, or contact us directly for personalized support.
