A jewelry brief should identify metal fineness clearly enough that the designer, production partner and buyer understand the same material requirement. Writing only “gold,” “silver” or “white metal” leaves important questions unanswered.
Use the correct material and fineness terms
For gold, specify the karat or fineness mark required by the destination market. Common examples include 9K / 375, 14K / 585 and 18K / 750. For sterling silver, 925 commonly indicates 92.5% silver by mass.
These marks identify a metal proportion, not every element in the alloy. If a specific alloy composition or restriction matters, request additional information rather than assuming it from the fineness alone.
The World Gold Council's gold jewelry guide lists common gold fineness marks. The FTC Jewelry Guides explain truthful precious-metal representations in the United States.
Add color and finish
State whether the desired appearance is yellow, white, rose, silver-tone or another defined finish. Add the surface treatment: polished, brushed, satin, matte, oxidized, plated or textured. If rhodium plating or another coating is used, identify it separately from the base metal.
Where color matching is important across a collection, approve a physical reference or sample. A digital photograph does not guarantee an exact alloy color.
Identify which components are covered
A jewelry item may combine different materials in different parts. Posts, backs, clasps, chains, decorative elements and connecting components may not all use the same alloy. Identify which components must meet the requirement.
For earrings or other pieces with skin contact, state any relevant restrictions and ask for supporting alloy information. Do not rely on an unsupported “hypoallergenic” label.
Consider the destination market
Marking and hallmark requirements vary by jurisdiction. A fineness description suitable for one market may not satisfy another market's rules. Confirm whether a hallmark, maker's mark, country-of-origin statement or other documentation is required before production or export.
Do not place a stamp on a product merely because a design file includes it. Confirm that the material and local rules support the mark.
A metal specification template
Base metal: Karat / fineness: Color: Alloy restrictions: Surface finish: Plating / coating: Components covered: Required mark or hallmark: Destination market: Supporting documentation:
Frequently asked questions
Is a 750 mark enough to describe white gold? It indicates a gold fineness of 750, but it does not describe the full alloy composition, color, plating or other product details.
Should a brief specify the metal used for earring posts? Yes, especially when skin contact or a material restriction is important. Do not assume the post uses the same alloy as the visible decorative part.
Do marking rules apply internationally in the same way? No. Confirm the rules in each intended market before using fineness marks or making precious-metal claims.
Make the specification unambiguous
Include the material information in the design brief and quotation, then check it again against the approved sample and product description. Discuss your metal requirements with VELORA MUSE.