Reach out to speak with a Permanent Jewelry Expert by calling +1 801-658-0015 or by filling out the contact form linked here.
Solid Gold, Gold-Filled, or Sterling Silver? Choosing the Right Chain Metal for Permanent Jewelry
When choosing chain for permanent jewelry, one of the most important decisions is which metal to offer your clients. The three most common choices—solid gold, gold-filled, and sterling silver—each carry unique benefits in terms of look, price point, and durability. Understanding the differences will help you stock the right options for your studio and guide your customers to the best choice for their lifestyle and budget.
This guide breaks down the strengths of each, with links to Sunstone’s Certified Chain Collection so you can compare directly.
Solid Gold Chains Provide Luxury and Longevity
Solid gold permanent jewelry chains are the pinnacle of permanent jewelry. Available in 10k, 14k, and 18k options, they’re prized for their timeless beauty, resistance to tarnish, and ability to hold value.
Pros:
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True luxury material
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Tarnish-resistant and hypoallergenic
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Exceptional durability and daily wear resilience
Cons:
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Highest upfront cost
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Premium pricing may limit your audience
Top Gold Chain Picks:
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Charlie Figaro Chain (14k Yellow Gold Chain with Figaro Links)
https://permanentjewelry.sunstonewelders.com/products/charlie-chain-14k-yellow-gold
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Grace Figure 8 Chain (14k Yellow Gold with Infinity Links)
https://permanentjewelry.sunstonewelders.com/products/grace-permanent-jewelry-chain
👉 Related reading: The Pros and Cons of Permanent Jewelry
https://permanentjewelry.sunstonewelders.com/blogs/news/the-pros-and-cons-of-permanent-jewelry
Gold-Filled Chains Are The Sweet Spot for Most Clients
Gold-filled chains are one of the most popular choices in permanent jewelry because they balance luxury appearance with affordability. Gold-filled is not the same as gold-plated: it involves a thick layer of 14k gold mechanically bonded to a jeweler’s brass core, making it far more durable than plating.
Pros:
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Affordable alternative to solid gold
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Resistant to tarnish and wear
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Visually indistinguishable from solid gold to most customers
Cons:
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Not as long-lasting as solid gold (but much more durable than plating)
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May not appeal to clients seeking “pure” gold
Top Picks:
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Rosella Enamel Chain (Gold-Filled Base)
https://permanentjewelry.sunstonewelders.com/products/rosella-permanent-jewelry-chain-dark-rose-enamel-design-available-in-sterling-silver-and-gold-filled
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Aspen Chain (Gold-Filled Option)
https://permanentjewelry.sunstonewelders.com/products/aspen-permanent-jewelry-chain-oval-design-long-and-short-links-available-in-gold-filled-and-sterling-silver
👉 Related reading: What Are the Basic Steps to Permanent Jewelry?
https://permanentjewelry.sunstonewelders.com/blogs/news/what-are-basic-steps-to-permanent-jewelry
Sterling Silver Chain: Affordable, Bright, and Beginner-Friendly
Sterling silver chain offers customers a bright, reflective finish at an approachable price point. It’s ideal for clients testing their first permanent piece or for studios building an entry-level inventory.
Pros:
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Most affordable of the three metals
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Lightweight and comfortable
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Easy to weld
Cons:
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Tarnishes over time if not cared for
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Softer than gold-filled or solid gold, prone to scratches
Top Picks:
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Sarah Chain (Sterling Silver Rolo)
https://permanentjewelry.sunstonewelders.com/products/sarah-permanent-jewelry-chain-rolo-design-long-and-short-links-available-in-sterling-silver-and-gold-filled
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Ella Heart Chain (Sterling Silver)
https://permanentjewelry.sunstonewelders.com/products/ella-permanent-jewelry-chain-flat-heart-design-available-in-sterling-silver-and-gold-filled
👉 Related reading: How Do I Care for Permanent Jewelry?
https://permanentjewelry.sunstonewelders.com/blogs/news/how-do-i-care-for-permanent-jewelry
Choosing the Right Metal for Your Studio
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Upscale studios: Prioritize solid gold chains for premium clients.
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Growing businesses: Lean on gold-filled chains for affordability without sacrificing luxury.
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Beginner-friendly: Stock sterling silver chains to capture entry-level customers and casual buyers.
👉 Compare styles: The Best Chains for Permanent Jewelry in 2025
Questions about sourcing chains? Check out our other chain resources below!
Explore the Sunstone Certified Gold, Gold-Filled, and Silver Chain Options
By stocking solid gold, gold-filled, and sterling silver permanent jewelry chains, you can meet the needs of every customer. Whether they’re searching for luxury investment pieces, stylish everyday looks, or budget-friendly first bracelets.
👉 Browse Sunstone’s Certified Permanent Jewelry Chain Collection:
https://permanentjewelry.sunstonewelders.com/collections/permanent-jewelry-chain
Related Reading about Permanent Jewelry:
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Why Do People Get Permanent Jewelry?
https://permanentjewelry.sunstonewelders.com/blogs/news/why-do-people-get-permanent-jewelry -
Can You Personalize Permanent Jewelry?
https://permanentjewelry.sunstonewelders.com/blogs/news/can-you-personalize-permanent-jewelry -
The Pros and Cons of Permanent Jewelry
https://permanentjewelry.sunstonewelders.com/blogs/news/the-pros-and-cons-of-permanent-jewelry