The jewellery terms, decoded
| Term | What it usually means |
|---|---|
| Imitation / artificial jewellery | Any jewellery that imitates precious metals and stones. The broadest term. |
| Fashion / costume jewellery | Trend-led imitation jewellery, often made for occasional wear. |
| Gold-plated | A base metal coated with a thin layer of real gold by electroplating. |
| Gold-tone | A gold colour finish; the finish may or may not contain real gold. |
| 1 gram gold | An Indian market term for jewellery with a thin gold layer over copper or brass, popular for traditional designs. |
| Demi-fine | Quality base metals (brass, sterling silver) with gold or rhodium plating, CZ or gemstones, made for everyday wear. |
| Fine jewellery | Solid gold, platinum and natural or lab diamonds. |
Imitation jewellery: pros and cons
- Pros: very affordable, huge variety, great for one-off outfits and matching bridal looks.
- Cons: can darken or peel quickly, may contain nickel that irritates skin, and stones may be glued rather than set.
Gold-plated jewellery: pros and cons
- Pros: real gold colour and warmth, lighter than solid gold, much more affordable.
- Cons: plating is thin and wears with friction and water; quality depends on the base metal and any protective coating.
For a deeper look at plating types, read gold-plated vs vermeil vs gold-filled vs 1 gram gold.
Demi-fine jewellery: pros and cons
- Pros: fine-jewellery look, better materials and setting, anti-tarnish and skin-friendly options, made for daily wear.
- Cons: costs more than basic imitation jewellery, and like all plated jewellery it needs basic care.
Miayaa is a demi-fine brand: our pieces use brass, sterling silver and alloy bases with gold or rhodium plating, finished to be anti-tarnish, skin-safe and nickel-free.
Which one should you buy?
| If you want… | Choose |
|---|---|
| A statement set for one wedding function | Imitation or 1 gram gold |
| Everyday studs, hoops and pendants for office or college | Demi-fine |
| A thoughtful gift under ₹1,000–2,000 | Demi-fine |
| An heirloom or investment | Fine jewellery in solid gold |
Explore Everyday Wear, Office Wear and Wedding Collection to see how demi-fine pieces work across occasions.
How long does each type last?
| Type | Typical life with regular wear | What shortens it |
|---|---|---|
| Basic imitation / costume | A few outings to a few months | Thin plating, uncoated finishes, humidity |
| 1 gram gold | Varies with plating quality | Water, sweat, friction on edges |
| Gold-plated demi-fine | Much longer with good care | Perfume, water, sleeping in it |
| Solid gold | A lifetime | Only scratches and wear, which can be polished |
These are general patterns, not guarantees. The same piece can last very differently for two people depending on skin chemistry, climate and habits.
Where each type fits in your wardrobe
- Everyday: demi-fine studs, hoops, pendants and slim rings. See daily wear earrings.
- Office: minimal demi-fine pieces. See office wear jewellery.
- Festivals: statement demi-fine earrings or traditional imitation sets.
- Weddings: a mix of statement demi-fine pieces and family fine jewellery. See wedding guest ideas.
- Investment: solid gold only.
Care is the same for all of them
Whichever type you buy, plated jewellery lasts longest when it is kept dry, away from perfume and stored sealed. Follow our safe cleaning method and read why artificial jewellery turns black to avoid the most common problems.
How to tell good quality at a glance
- The listing names the base metal and plating.
- Stones sit evenly in claws or pavé settings, with no visible glue.
- Clasps and earring posts feel sturdy and close securely.
- The brand explains care, delivery and exchange clearly.
