Sterling Silver & 10K Gold Chains: Composition & Value

Question
I recently saw some new chains/jewelry at our local Wal-Mart store that state it is sterling silver and 10K gold. It's gold color looks very nice but I am wondering about it's composition and durability.  The sales person did not know anything about it.  A thick 24 inch rope chain - it was very heavy, was priced at $198.  In 10k I know it would be very expensive, but for a mixture that says sterling silver, that seems very high.  I understand gold particulars in karat ratings but I have never seen it state "sterling silver". They said it was not plated.  So, is it 10kt gold and the only other alloy used in it being sterling silver?  How would that hold up compare to regular 10kt gold made with the usual alloys? Or if I am totally off base, please explain this type of "gold" to me.

Answer
Deborah, wow what a question. : )

This is something I would have to see at the store to make a call on what is being sold.  There is no such thing as a gold alloy made of sterling silver and 10kt gold.  First of all, sterling is a legal designation for silver which is "92.5% pure silver" and 7.5% other metal, generally copper. That is a legally binding definition in the quotes.  A 10kt gold alloy only needs 10 parts of 24 parts to be pure gold, with the number being 0.417 when used as a mark, 417. The other metal can be any thing that works with the gold to make a usable jewelry mix.  The added metal can be silver and copper and generally is that with a few traces other ingredients. There is not a sterling/10kt alloy.

Generally, when jewelry is marketed and advertised as gold and silver, this is a combination of the two metals used together but not mixed into a new metal alloy. For instance, a chain might be 10kt with a sterling chain wrapped around it or a ring made of sterling with gold accents.

Wal-Mart is either going to have to explain better what this is or make better signs if they are talking about sterling and 10kt chains as separate chains but with a sign stating what the chains are which are on display.  That could be it.  As for a mix of the metals, not going to be happening!  I suggest going to the store and taking a second look at what is offered.

Deborah, thanks for this question. This one is a first. I do hope the answer is of some value to you.

God Bless and Peace. Thomas.  October 20, 2008