At Mara Paris, we use only precious metals for all our jewelry. All of our silver and gold are recyclable, and up to 20% of the metal we use comes from recycled sources. During production, no precious metal is wasted.
In addition, we recycle our own metals, ensuring a sustainable and responsible approach to our craft.
Solid 18K Gold
Solid 18K gold is the perfect choice for those seeking the ideal combination of beauty, durability, and value in fine jewelry.
Gold has long been a symbol of wealth, power, and beauty, from the opulent jewelry of ancient civilizations to the intricate designs of the Renaissance and Victorian eras. Its durability and timeless appeal have made it a preferred material for crafting both religious and personal adornments. Today, gold remains a cornerstone in fine jewelry, blending historical significance with modern design to create pieces that are both elegant and enduring.
At Mara Paris, we work with 18K gold, the same standard used by the world’s top jewelry houses. We choose 18K because it offers the best balance of luxury, quality, and longevity. Composed of 75% pure gold and 25% other metals, 18K gold (also referred to as 750/1000) has a rich color and excellent durability, making it a more practical option than higher-purity gold like 24K, while maintaining the luxurious appearance expected from fine jewelry.
Gold Vermeil
Vermeil offers a luxurious gold look at a more accessible price point, making it an excellent choice for bold, gold-colored jewelry.
Vermeil is made from sterling silver coated with a thick layer of 18K gold through electroplating. To be classified as vermeil, the gold layer must meet specific thickness standards, which vary by country. In France, the gold layer must be at least 5 microns thick. This process allows for the creation of jewelry that resembles solid gold but remains more affordable due to the use of silver as the base.
Since the 18th century, vermeil has been prized for its ability to mimic the look of gold at a lower cost. In France, it was frequently used to create fine silverware and jewelry. Today, vermeil remains a popular choice, combining the beauty of gold with the affordability of silver, offering a cost-effective alternative to solid gold.
Sterling Silver
925 Sterling Silver is a metal we use for its affordability, versatility, and beauty.
Silver is renowned for its brilliant white luster and malleability, making it ideal for jewelry, currency, and various industrial applications. Due to its softness, pure silver is often alloyed with other metals, like copper, to enhance its strength and durability. Throughout history, silver has been treasured for its rarity and beauty, symbolizing wealth and craftsmanship across many cultures.
Like most precious metals, silver is available in different grades, each indicating the purity of the metal in a piece. The number represents the percentage of pure silver in the alloy. Common grades include 800, 830, 895, 900 and 925 silver.
At Mara Paris, we exclusively use 925/1000 sterling silver, the highest standard for jewelry, renowned for its perfect balance between beauty, durability, and longevity. This composition ensures that your silver pieces stand the test of time without compromising quality, providing both strength and brilliance in everyday wear.
Sterling Silver in Jewelry
Sterling silver, composed of 92.5% pure silver and 7.5% other metals, is celebrated for its purity, versatility, and timeless elegance. This careful alloying process enhances its strength while retaining its brilliant luster. Sterling silver’s malleability makes it a favorite for intricate designs, and its resilience allows it to withstand everyday wear.
In the world of luxury and artisanal craftsmanship, sterling silver holds a distinguished place, representing both sophistication and heritage. Master craftsmen have long favored it for its versatility, allowing intricate designs to come to life, beautifully responding to the creative vision of the designer. Every piece crafted from sterling silver embodies a legacy of refined artistry, where attention to detail, craftsmanship, and the material's natural elegance come together to create timeless, wearable and art.
Understanding the Properties and Limits of Silver
Compared to gold or platinum, silver is a softer, more malleable metal, allowing for intricate designs but making it more susceptible to scratches and bending.
Stating that one metal is more malleable than another doesn't imply it is of lower quality; it simply refers to the material's inherent physical properties.
By understanding these characteristics, you can care for your silver jewelry properly, ensuring it retains its beauty and durability for years to come.
Gold Plated Brass (3 Microns)
We use gold-plated brass exclusively for a limited number of larger statement pieces, allowing us to create bold designs while maintaining a balance between luxury and affordability.
Gold plated brass involves coating a brass base with a layer of gold, typically 3 microns thick. This method provides the appearance of gold jewelry at a more affordable price, making it ideal for bold, statement pieces. While brass offers strength, the gold plating gives the jewelry a rich, golden look. However, with frequent wear, the gold layer may wear off over time, exposing the brass underneath, especially if not properly cared for.