Our Material: Why We Choose Recycled 18k Gold and Sterling Silver
At Caroline Hjerpe, every piece of jewelry is handcrafted in our workshop. We prioritize quality over quantity, using skilled hands and traditional techniques to create something truly special.
Each piece is carefully shaped, soldered, and polished, ensuring no two are exactly alike. The small imperfections? They’re a mark of authenticity, made just for you.
Sustainability is just as important as quality, which is why we use 100% recycled 18k gold (red or white) and sterling silver. By giving new life to existing materials, we ensure your jewelry is durable, beautiful, and made to last for generations. So why recycled 18k gold and sterling silver? Here's why we choose them for their perfect balance of durability and sustainability.
18k Red Gold
The majority of our jewelry is crafted in 18k red gold, a metal we truly love for its timeless beauty and warmth. Red gold is the most common gold color in Sweden, cherished for its rich, golden hue. It’s a Scandinavian alloy with a higher copper content, giving it a deep, warm tone that’s just slightly richer than yellow gold. Unlike rose gold, which has a pinkish hue, red gold offers a more subtle, golden warmth, making it the perfect complement to other gold tones.
18k White Gold
If you’re after a cooler, sleek look, white gold is the perfect choice. Made by blending pure gold with white metals and coated in rhodium, it has a smooth, polished finish that’s built to last. Compared to silver, white gold is more durable and resistant to scratches, making it a great option for everyday wear. Its bright, elegant shine gives it a timeless, sophisticated vibe.
Why Choose 18k Gold?
Solid 18k gold is a timeless and versatile choice. Not only does it have a stunning, rich look, but it’s also incredibly durable and long-lasting, making it ideal for jewelry meant to be worn every day. Whether you choose red gold or white gold, 18k gold ensures your jewelry remains beautiful and resilient for years to come. Plus, by using recycled 18k gold, we’re helping to close the loop on precious metal waste, reducing environmental impact while maintaining high standards of quality.
Sterling Silver
Sterling silver is another fantastic option we use in our jewelry. Made from 92.5% pure silver, it’s versatile, affordable, and has a lovely shine. However, sterling silver is softer than gold and more prone to scratches. It can also tarnish over time, but with proper care, it will maintain its elegance and last for many years. While it requires a little more attention to preserve its shine, sterling silver can still be a beautiful and lasting choice when handled with care. And just like our gold, the silver we use is 100% recycled, ensuring it’s as kind to the Earth as it is to your jewelry box.
Mixing Metals
A question we often hear is whether wedding or special occasion jewelry needs to match gold colors. Our answer: there are no rules! Whether you prefer the warm richness of red gold, the cool elegance of white gold, or the timeless shine of sterling silver, feel free to mix and match to create a look that’s uniquely yours.
At Caroline Hjerpe, we’re proud to offer jewelry made from sustainable materials that are both beautiful and built to last. Whether you’re drawn to red gold, white gold, or silver, we’re here to craft a piece that will stay with you for years to come!
See photo for a comparison of the metals we use:
