What Makes 18K Gold and Natural Gemstones the Foundation of Timeless Jewelry

Not all fine jewelry is created the same.
At Chris Correia Fine Jewelry, we’re known for crafting timeless, wearable pieces that center around natural gemstones and 18k gold. These are the materials we return to, collection after collection, not just because they’re beautiful, but because they stand the test of time.

Whether you're new to fine jewelry or curious about what sets our pieces apart, here’s what you should know about the materials behind our Legacy Collection.

What Is 18K Gold, and Why Do We Use It?

18k gold contains 75% pure gold, alloyed with 25% other metals like copper or silver for added strength. It has a warmer, richer tone than 14k gold and is more durable than 24k gold, which is too soft for everyday wear.

You’ll find 18k gold in every piece of our Legacy Collection because it offers the best of both worlds: luxury and longevity.

Key benefits of 18k gold:

• Richer color: Its higher gold content gives it a deeper, more vibrant golden hue.

• Gentle on skin: With fewer alloys, 18k gold is ideal for those with skin sensitivities.

• Wears beautifully: Over time, it develops a soft patina that enhances its character rather than diminishing it.

If you're searching “Should I buy 14k or 18k gold jewelry?” Know that 18k is often the preferred choice for fine, heirloom-quality pieces that are worn regularly.

Why We Center Each Design Around the Gemstone

In the Legacy Collection, every design begins with the stone—not the other way around. We start by selecting a natural gemstone that stands out for its color, clarity, and overall presence. Then we design a setting that enhances the stone’s unique beauty and shape.

This process results in pieces that feel personal, not mass-produced.

Common gemstones used in the Legacy Collection include

• Tourmaline: Known for its bold range of colors, from pink and green to deep red.

• Aquamarine: A calming blue stone prized for its clarity and cool tones.

• Sapphire: Not just blue—our sapphires are often chosen in muted, sophisticated hues.

• Natural Diamonds: Subtle, responsibly sourced, and used to accent our colored stones.

Each piece is handcrafted in NYC, where our team works closely with skilled gem setters to ensure the stone is secure, well-balanced, and beautifully framed—often with our signature halo or bezel setting.

Are Your Gemstones Natural and Ethically Sourced?

Yes. All of our gemstones and diamonds are:

• Natural and untreated (never lab-grown or color-enhanced)

• Ethically sourced, with full traceability to ensure safe labor and environmental care

• Hand-selected, not just for color or clarity—but for presence, proportion, and one-of-a-kind appeal

If you’ve ever searched “How do I know if a gemstone is ethical?” we’re here to make that process transparent. Every stone in the Legacy Collection is sourced with care and selected with intention.

What Makes the Legacy Collection Different?

The Legacy Collection blends Chris’s decades of design expertise with Sasha’s fresh eye, creating a generational conversation in jewelry form. Every piece reflects our values: handcrafted quality, timeless design, and meaningful materials.

What makes the collection truly special:

• Crafted from solid 18k gold—never plated or filled

• Each piece begins with the gemstone—not a mold or pre-set design

• Designed and made in New York City by master jewelers

• Finished with satin textures and polished details that feel luxurious to the touch

Explore the Legacy Collection

If you're looking for high-quality, meaningful fine jewelry crafted in 18k gold and centered around natural gemstones our Legacy Collection is a beautiful place to start.