Part of our mission when starting Sainte-Foy was to create high-quality jewelry that provides the attention to detail most often found in fine jewelry but at an approachable price point. Our 18k Gold Vermeil and sterling silver bridge this gap, with pieces crafted combining both traditional and modern techniques used by the talented team of artisans in our Responsible Jewelry Council certified atelier. 

Our demi-fine jewelry is made using precious metals and barrier layers for long-lasting wear. The 18k Gold Vermeil pieces are crafted from a base of sterling silver, palladium barrier and thick 2.5 micron recycled gold layer, required by US industry standards for Gold Vermeil. Sterling silver pieces are finished with rhodium, one of the rarest precious metals, providing a hypoallergenic barrier as well as added durability, tarnish protection and a bright lustre.

We choose to use 18 karat gold for our fine jewelry offerings due to its high quality and purity. Solid gold jewelry karats indicate the amount of gold content, with lower karats including less gold and higher karats including more gold. 18 karat is made up of 75% gold and 25% alloys. We love the balance it provides between both aesthetics and durability, with richness of color, appearing brighter and more lustrous than 14 karat gold, yet remaining more durable than 22 or 24 karat pieces. All of our solid gold jewelry is hand-made from 100% recycled metal at the bench in our NYC studio. 

We source our precious and semi-precious gemstones from a variety of places. You can learn more about our business ethos, sustainability practices and strict requirements for both metals and gemstone sourcing here.

For our 18K Gold Vermeil and sterling silver, we advise avoiding exposure to water and harsh chemicals such as chlorine, perfume or cleaning solutions or wearing during exercise or household chores. An occasional splash of water is okay, just lightly pat dry. To clean, gently polish your jewelry with the cloth included with your purchase. For a deeper cleaning for pieces with engraving and stones, use a small amount of mild soap and water on a soft, lint-free cloth or brush and ensure the piece is thoroughly dried.

While solid 18k gold jewelry is considered heirloom quality and meant to stand up to daily wear, it can still develop a beautiful patina over time. If you are especially concerned about this, we advise avoiding exposure to harsh chemicals such as chlorine, perfume or cleaning solutions and to consider removing it for exercise or household chores. You may gently polish your jewelry with the cloth included with your purchase. For a deeper cleaning for pieces with engraving and stones, soak your jewelry in a mixture of mild soap and warm water for up to 15 minutes and then use a soft, lint-free cloth and brush. Ensure the piece is thoroughly dried.

When not wearing, always store your jewelry in the provided Sainte-Foy pouch or box.