FAQs
Shipping Policy
We offer free shipping on all U.S. orders over $75 via USPS and UPS, use code FREESHIP at checkout. Orders typically ship in 1-3 business days. If you need your order expedited, please contact us and we will explore shipping options. Additional fee may apply.
Returns & Exchanges
Your satisfaction is our happiness. We gladly accept returns and exchanges. Product must be in original condition, original Marla Jade packaging and have all tags attached. Please contact us within 7 days of delivery and ship items back within 14 days of delivery. Email hello@marlajade.com or call 786-301-1885. Please include your order number.
Buyers are responsible for return shipping costs. If the item is not returned in its original condition, the buyer is responsible for any loss in value.
Gold-Plated vs. Gold-Filled Jewelry
Gold-plated jewelry has a thin layer of gold applied over a base metal (such as brass or copper) using an electroplating process. The gold layer is typically very thin, often around 0.5 microns, which makes it more susceptible to fading, tarnishing, or wearing off over time, especially with frequent wear.
Gold-filled jewelry has a much thicker layer of gold, which is pressure-bonded to a core metal (usually brass). The gold content must be at least 5% of the total weight of the piece. This makes gold-filled jewelry more durable and resistant to tarnish compared to gold-plated jewelry.
Which lasts longer: gold-plated or gold-filled jewelry?
Gold-filled jewelry lasts significantly longer than gold-plated jewelry. With proper care, gold-filled pieces can last for many years, while gold-plated jewelry may start to fade or wear off within months, depending on wear and exposure to moisture, sweat, and chemicals.
Can gold-plated jewelry tarnish?
Yes, gold-plated jewelry can tarnish over time as the thin layer of gold wears away, exposing the base metal underneath. This process is accelerated by exposure to water, sweat, lotions, and perfumes.
Does gold-filled jewelry tarnish?
Gold-filled jewelry is much more resistant to tarnishing compared to gold-plated jewelry. However, improper care, exposure to harsh chemicals, or extreme conditions can still cause it to lose some of its luster over time.
Is gold-filled jewelry hypoallergenic?
Gold-filled jewelry is generally considered hypoallergenic because the thick gold layer prevents the base metal from coming into contact with the skin. Gold-plated jewelry, on the other hand, may cause allergic reactions once the gold layer wears down.
Which is better for everyday wear?
Gold-filled jewelry is a better option for everyday wear since it is more durable, tarnish-resistant, and maintains its gold appearance for a longer time. Gold-plated jewelry is best for occasional wear or trendy pieces that don’t need to last for years.
Jewelry Care
To keep your treasures looking like new please follow care instructions. We recommend that you clean gold filled pieces with mild soapy water or an untreated soft cloth. Please avoid contact with the acidic or corrosive substances. Please avoid wearing pendants when sweating, showering or swimming.
Metal Beads
All of our silver beads are 0.925 Sterling Silver. All of our gold and rose gold beads are 14k gold filled or 14k gold. Our gold filled beads should NOT tarnish. YES you can wear them in the water. YES in shower, YES in the ocean and YES in the pool! Sterling Silver tarnishes by nature but will shine easily with a polishing cloth.
Gemstone Beads
All gemstones are natural and to our knowledge they are not treated in any way.
Chains
Most chains are Gold Filled or Sterling Silver but some are 14k gold plated and specified in the product descriptions.
Custom Orders
Most collections can be made in larger or smaller sizes, please contact us for custom sizing. Allow 7-10 days for custom orders to ship, contact us if you need your order expedited. An additional fee may apply for expedited shipping.
All custom orders are FINAL SALE.
Individual gemstone meaning images purchased from Sugar Curl Printables