The Gold Standard
Different materials. One distinctive design philosophy.
At Ashley Carson, materials are as intentional as the designs themselves. From bold, contemporary metals to handcrafted 14k gold-filled jewelry and solid gold, every material is selected for its unique qualities, versatility, and design possibilities.
Understanding the differences helps you choose the pieces that best suit your style, lifestyle, and investment.
14k Gold-Filled | Designer Collection
Our Designer Collection features handcrafted jewelry made with 14k gold-filled materials, offering the beauty of real gold with exceptional everyday wearability.
Gold-filled jewelry consists of a substantial layer of genuine gold mechanically bonded to a base metal. Unlike conventional gold plating, the gold layer is significantly thicker and designed to withstand regular wear.
Why We Love Gold-Filled
- Real 14k gold on the exterior
- Durable and water-friendly
- Rich gold appearance without the solid-gold price
- Ideal for intricate, handcrafted designs
Gold-filled jewelry is our choice for pieces intended to be worn frequently and enjoyed for years with proper care.
PVD Gold-Plated | Modern Metals
Our Modern Metals collection explores bold silhouettes, sculptural forms, and statement-making design.
These pieces feature gold-tone finishes applied through techniques such as Physical Vapor Deposition (PVD), primarily on stainless steel, with select brass-based designs.
PVD uses a specialized coating process that can produce a durable, attractive finish. Its wear resistance depends on the underlying material, coating, and how the piece is worn.
Why We Love Modern Metals
- Striking gold-plating
- Freedom to explore larger, bolder designs
- Versatile statement pieces
- More accessible price points
Modern Metals is about creative expression and impact, without requiring the investment of precious-metal jewelry.
Solid 14k Gold | Aurum
Aurum represents our approach to fine jewelry, crafted in solid 14k gold.
Unlike gold-filled or surface-finished jewelry, solid 14k gold contains gold throughout the metal alloy. It offers lasting intrinsic value and can be professionally polished and maintained over time.
Why We Love Aurum
- Genuine 14k gold throughout
- Intrinsic precious-metal value
- Exceptional longevity with proper care
- Timeless versatility
Aurum is our vision for enduring fine jewelry, designed with the same distinctive Ashley Carson point of view.
What's the difference?
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14k Gold-Filled
Designer Collection
A substantial layer of real 14k gold bonded to a base metal.
Water-friendly, handcrafted everyday jewelry.
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PVD Gold-Plated
Modern Metals
Gold plating applied through a specialized PVD process to stainless steel and select brass designs, creating bold statement jewelry at accessible price points.
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Solid 14k Gold
Aurum
A precious-metal alloy containing 14k gold throughout.
Fine jewelry with intrinsic material value.
Made to Be Worn. Designed to Stand Apart.
Whether you're drawn to the versatility of Modern Metals, the everyday durability of gold-filled jewelry, or the intrinsic value of solid gold, each Ashley Carson collection reflects a commitment to thoughtful materials and distinctive design.
Proper care helps preserve every piece. Visit our Jewelry Care Guide for cleaning, storage, and maintenance recommendations.