Gold Prices Are Up. Here’s What We Told MSN About It.

Gold prices are up, and it’s changing the way shoppers think about fine jewelry. When MSN and Investopedia published a piece exploring how rising gold costs are changing the jewelry industry, they reached out to us for commentary.

Here’s what we told them:

“Most shoppers don’t follow the commodities market,” said Coral Strands founder Karen Moran, “but they feel the difference when a simple gold ring now costs double what it did two years ago.”
— MSN / Investopedia

Why Gold Jewelry Costs More Right Now

The surge in gold prices isn’t just a jewelry trend—it’s tied to larger economic factors. As inflation, global demand, and investment speculation rise, the cost of raw gold has followed. That trickles down to every jewelry studio, boutique, and consumer.

What used to be a $300 dainty ring might now start at $600 or more—even in small, independent brands.

We’re not interested in cutting corners or sneaking in cheaper alloys. But we are designing smarter.

Mixed Metals: The Smart Way to Wear Gold

““Mixed-metal jewelry—like the combination of silver and 14-karat gold—is popular lately,” Moran told MSN. “It offers the weight and feel of precious metals without the sticker shock. But here’s where it gets more interesting brass is quietly replacing gold in a huge swath of trend-driven jewelry. And most consumers can’t tell the difference.””
— MSN / Investopedia

 

We’ve leaned into mixed metal design for both style and value. Our Golden Hills Turquoise with 14K Gold is one of our bestsellers for a reason—it blends contrast, cost-efficiency, and heirloom quality.

Explore the full Mixed Metal Jewelry Collection for more ideas.

What We Use (and Why It Matters)

We work with:

• 14K Solid Gold: We only use ethically sourced, 14k gold in our heirloom pieces like this candy necklace and tourmaline rings.
• 14K Gold-Filled: Real gold pressure-bonded to a base layer (not plated, dipped, or painted). It lasts. It looks rich. It’s priced for real life.
• Sterling Silver: A true precious metal that can be polished, shaped, and treasured for years.
• Brass: We’ll never call it “gold-tone.” We use brass in select charm necklaces and always disclose it. It’s bold, it’s beautiful, and with a thick gold overlay, it fits the vibe—without the markup.

Browse the Gold Jewelry Collection or shop our Charm Necklaces to see how we use each material.

How to Shop Smart When Prices Are High

Here’s how we help our customers make confident choices—even when the gold market is unpredictable:

• Layered looks: Mix metals intentionally. Add a silver charm necklace next to a gold choker. It reads elevated, not improvised.
• Pick your hero piece: Invest in one 14K solid gold ring, and layer it with lower-cost stackers.
• Understand materials: “Gold-dipped” ≠ gold-filled. Know what you’re buying—and always read the product details.
• Build with intention: Our Charm Bar lets you create a custom necklace that blends metals, textures, and price points.
• Threader earrings: Gold look and affordable

Want more ideas? Explore our Jewelry Styling Tips or visit us at a market to try pieces in person.

FAQs

What’s the difference between gold-filled and gold-plated?

The difference between gold filled and gold plated is that gold-filled is a thick layer of real gold permanently bonded to a base metal (usually brass). It won’t rub off or flake like gold-plated jewelry and is considered a high-quality, long-lasting option.

Is brass bad for jewelry?

Not at all—if it’s used intentionally. We use brass for select components where it makes sense, often finished in gold or silver. It keeps designs bold and affordable, especially in charm pieces.

Why is gold jewelry so expensive now?

Gold is a global commodity. As the price of raw gold rises, everything made with it—rings, chains, findings—rises too. Jewelry prices now reflect that market shift.

How do I know if a piece is worth it?

Ask what materials are used. Look for clarity: solid gold, gold-filled, sterling silver, etc. Avoid vague terms like “gold tone.” If it’s built to last, the maker will say so.

Want Jewelry That’s Honest About What It’s Made Of?

We don’t do smoke and mirrors. We don’t pretend brass is gold. And we don’t believe quality has to be out of reach.

Whether you're shopping for solid gold or building a custom charm necklace under $200, we’ve got you.

Explore our Gold Jewelry, Mixed Metals, or Brass Charm Necklaces to find something bold, intentional, and real.

P.S.

Thanks to MSN and Investopedia for quoting us in this important conversation.
We’ll keep saying what others won’t: you deserve to know what you’re wearing.