Materials
We’ve put a lot of thought into choosing materials that strike a balance between high quality and affordability. That's why we only use 14-karat gold fill, sterling silver, and occasionally solid gold. Here’s what you need to know about each of these beautiful metals.
14-Karat Gold Fill
We love the durability and shine of gold fill, which is why it's our go-to metal. It's the next best thing to solid gold at a much more affordable price point.
Gold fill is an alloy of gold that’s been mechanically bonded to a base metal, usually jeweler’s brass. The gold layer has to be at least 5% or 1/20th the weight of the metal. Karats refer to how much gold is in the mix. 14k gold is 14 parts gold and 8 parts other metals (like silver, copper, and zinc).
What’s the difference between gold fill and gold plated?
This question comes up a lot, it's easiest to explain with a visual.
Gold-filled jewelry contains 100 times more solid gold than Gold-plated jewelry. Once the thin layer of gold on gold-plated jewelry wears off it will reveal the brass base, making it the least durable option and not hypoallergenic.
Gold Vermeil is similar to gold-plated but with a sterling silver base. While the gold layer will still eventually wear off and tarnish to expose the sterling silver base, it remains hypoallergenic because of the sterling silver base.
Will it tarnish?
Gold fill is tarnish-resistant because it has been mechanically bonded through heat and pressure instead of plated. While it can tarnish over time due to exposure to moisture, chemicals, perspiration, and air pollutants, you can easily bring back its original shine with a gentle clean and occasional polish. If well cared for, gold fill jewelry can last a lifetime.
Is it hypoallergenic?
Yes! All of our materials are nickel-free (the main culprit for turning skin green and causing allergic reactions).
Sterling Silver
Sterling silver is an alloy composed of 92.5% silver and 7.5% other metals. Because it's an alloy (mixed with other metals) it is more durable and scratch-resistant than pure silver while still preserving it’s shine as a precious metal.
Is it hypoallergenic?
Yes! All of our materials are nickel-free (the main culprit for turning skin green and causing allergic reactions).
How do I take care of sterling silver?
Silver loves to be worn! Your skin's natural oils help protect it. While it's the shiniest metal out there, it does tend to tarnish. Luckily tarnish is easy to remove; whenever your silver starts looking dull, just give it a clean and a polish and it'll be as good as new. To prevent excess tarnishing, avoid wearing your silver jewelry in the shower or when swimming, and store it in a dry, dark place when you're not wearing it. With proper care, sterling silver jewelry can last a lifetime.
14k Solid Gold
Solid gold is undeniably pricey, but its biggest perk is how low-maintenance it is. Right now, our Sedona nose ring is the only piece we offer in solid gold.
For jewelry you wear every day on your face—exposed to sweat, water, oils, and everything else—investing in a metal that never tarnishes is worth every penny (and the peace of mind!). Solid gold is fully hypoallergenic, so you can wear it 24/7 without worrying about tarnish, fading, or durability. It’s a piece that’s built to last a lifetime.
Complimentary Shine Service
We love seeing your Baskara pieces shine! Send us your jewelry anytime for a complimentary clean and polish. Shipping fees apply.