The Metals We Choose at Aurora

 

Thoughtful Materials, Honest Choices

At Aurora, pearls are always the heart of our designs.

Every decision we make — from form to finish — exists to support the beauty, presence, and individuality of the pearl itself.

When it comes to metal, we believe in honest materials, thoughtful balance, and realistic expectations.

Rather than defaulting to one option, we select different metals for different purposes — based on wearability, aesthetics, and value.

 

Sterling Silver (S925) — Our Foundation

Most Aurora pieces are crafted using S925 sterling silver, a trusted standard in fine jewelry. We choose sterling silver because it offers:

• Strength and durability suitable for daily wear

• A refined weight and feel

• Skin-friendly properties for sensitive wearers

• A timeless, neutral foundation that allows pearls to shine

Even when finished in gold tones, the core of the piece remains solid sterling silver — never brass or base metal.

 

Gold-Toned Finishes at Aurora

To bring warmth and versatility to our designs while maintaining quality and accessibility, Aurora primarily works with two gold-toned finishes.

 

S925 with 18K Gold Plating

Our gold-plated pieces are crafted on a sterling silver base and finished with 18K gold plating.

This finish is chosen for:

• A brighter, more luminous gold tone

• A refined surface that enhances the glow of pearls

• An elegant appearance that feels light and modern

Even as the gold layer naturally wears over time, the material beneath remains sterling silver, preserving the integrity and value of the piece.

 

U.S. 14K Gold-Filled

Aurora also uses 14K gold-filled components sourced from the United States, which contain a substantially thicker layer of gold than standard plating.

Gold-filled jewelry offers:

• Better color longevity than gold plating

• Strong durability for frequent, long-term wear

• A warm gold tone that evolves gently over time

With regular wear, the gold tone may gradually deepen or appear darker due to natural oxidation.

This is a normal material reaction — not a defect — and reflects how gold interacts with skin, air, and environment.

With proper care and gentle cleaning, the finish can often be refreshed and maintained beautifully.

 

About Gold Plating & Wear — An Honest Note

Gold plating is not permanent by nature. Across the jewelry industry, all gold-plated finishes will gradually wear over time.

This is a material truth, not a quality flaw.

With normal wear and proper care, Aurora’s gold-plated pieces are designed to maintain their beauty for one to two years, and often longer depending on individual wear habits.

We believe transparency matters. Understanding how materials age helps set honest expectations — and allows jewelry to be worn with confidence, not concern.

 

Why We Don’t Default to Solid Gold

Aurora is a pearl-led brand by intention.

For most designs, sterling silver, gold-plated silver, and gold-filled finishes offer the best balance of:

• Visual harmony

• Tactile quality

• Accessibility

• Long-term wearability

These materials allow the pearl to remain the focus — without unnecessary excess.

 

Custom Solid Gold & Platinum Options

For those seeking heirloom-level pieces, custom solid gold and platinum options are always available.

We offer:

• 14K or 18K solid gold

• Platinum

Custom orders are crafted upon request and priced individually.

Please contact our customer care team before placing an order so we can guide you through the process before purchase.

 

Our Philosophy

At Aurora, we do not promise materials that defy time.

Instead, we choose materials that age honestly — with grace, intention, and care.

Jewelry should be enjoyed, understood, and lived in.

And pearls should always remain the soul of the piece.