The difference is the amount of silver. White Gold plated / silver plated jewelry only has a very thin layer of white gold / silver over base metal (usually is alloy or copper). When the layer has tarnished and worn off, you will left with the dingy base metal components that will never shine again. Sterling silver has unlimited layers to work with. If your jewelry lost its brilliant shine, follow the instructions above to restore its shininess again.Proper jewelry care will ensures your jewelry to lasts for a lifetime!