An electrolytic process where a coating of gold of not less than 10K fineness, with a minimum thickness equivalent to 7 millionths of an inch. Falling metal prices and budget cuts were attributed to the decline. Silver Silver is an element that occurs naturally in the Earth and in pure form, although it is too soft for practical use. Silver plate is a combination of base metal, such as brass, with a plating of pure silver bonded in an electrolytic process. Vermeil is sterling silver jewelry electroplated with karat gold.
Silver is much less expensive than gold and platinum.
The ease of working with silver makes it a favorite among jewelry designers. Mr. Ernie Herrick presented the lost wax casting technique working with silver to the class. Some 2,000 years ago, South American Indians were the first to work and mine platinum, creating nose rings and jewelry items with a smelting process that would remain secret until the late 1700s. Platinum is more rare on Earth than gold and silver. Platinum jewelry is often alloyed with other members of the platinum family, iridium or ruthenium, to add strength.