Good questions.
Clear answers.

We sell genuine 10K gold and 925 sterling silver jewelry, along with select plated and stainless-steel styles. The material for each piece is stated on its product page so you know exactly what you are buying. Always review the individual listing for the metal and finish of that item.

Karat Vault sells directly online, without the showroom overhead and layers of traditional retail markup. Our goal is to price each piece around the jewelry itself—its metal, weight, construction and craftsmanship—while still providing knowledgeable service before and after your purchase.

10K gold is a durable real-gold alloy containing 10 parts pure gold out of 24. The other metals in the alloy add strength, making 10K gold a practical choice for jewelry designed for regular wear.

925 sterling silver contains 92.5% pure silver blended with other metals for strength. A “925” stamp is the customary hallmark for sterling silver, although hallmark placement and visibility can vary by piece.

Rhodium is a bright, reflective precious metal often applied over sterling silver to enhance shine and help resist tarnish. Like any plated finish, it can gradually wear with friction, chemicals and time.

When the “Make Your Best Offer” option appears on a product page, you may submit an offer for review. An offer is not accepted until Karat Vault confirms it, and availability or promotional restrictions may apply.

Where a chain sits depends on its length, your neck size and your build. Use the length guide on eligible product pages as a visual reference, then compare it with a chain you already own or measure a soft string at the position where you want the chain to fall.

Millimeter width changes the overall presence of a chain. A 1–2mm chain is generally more subtle, 3–4mm offers a noticeable everyday look, and 5–6mm creates a bolder profile. Use our on-model width guide where available and check the exact width listed on the product page.

Solid gold links contain gold alloy throughout and generally feel heavier for their size. Hollow gold links have an open interior, creating a larger look at a lighter weight and price. Hollow jewelry should be handled more carefully because dents and crushing are not easily repaired.

Jewelry weights are approximate unless a product page states otherwise. Small variations are normal because of manufacturing tolerances, length and finishing. When a product has multiple lengths, the displayed weight may update with the selected option.

Not always. The pendant bail must be large enough to pass over both the chain and its end clasp. Compare the chain width and clasp dimensions with the pendant opening, or email us before ordering if you would like help checking compatibility.

Most items ship within one business day. Processing time is separate from carrier transit time, and you will receive tracking information after your order ships.

Yes. Free standard shipping is included with every order. We use USPS Ground Advantage or UPS Ground, depending on which service is more economical for the shipment. Estimated transit time is 3–5 business days after the carrier receives the package.

FedEx 2Day shipping is available for $29. The estimated two-business-day transit time begins after the carrier receives your package and does not include order-processing time.

Yes. Karat Vault shipments are insured through delivery to your doorstep. Carrier estimates can still be affected by weather, holidays, address issues or other carrier delays.

Returns are accepted within 30 days of receiving your order. Jewelry must be unworn and in its original condition. Returned items are inspected before a return is approved.

Email KaratVault713@gmail.com with your order number and the item you wish to return. Return authorization is required, so please do not mail an item until you receive instructions from us.

The customer is responsible for return-shipping costs unless the return is required because of an error by Karat Vault. If an item is incorrect or there is a problem with your order, contact us before sending it back.

Eligible jewelry sold as genuine 925 sterling silver or 10K gold carries a lifetime authenticity warranty for the original purchaser. It guarantees that the precious-metal description on the product page is accurate.

The warranty does not cover accidental damage, breakage, dents, bends, kinks, stretched links, misuse, normal wear, scratches, tarnish, finish wear, third-party alterations, or lost or stolen items. Plated finishes are not covered by the lifetime authenticity warranty.

Yes. Tarnish is a natural surface reaction and does not mean sterling silver is fake. Humidity, body chemistry, cosmetics and chemicals can affect how quickly it appears. Rhodium-plated pieces are more tarnish resistant, but no finish is completely maintenance-free.

Some solid 10K gold and sterling silver pieces tolerate occasional water exposure, but soaps, chlorine, salt water and chemicals can dull metal and shorten the life of plated finishes. For the best long-term appearance, remove jewelry before swimming, bathing, exercising or using cleaning products.

Wipe jewelry gently with a clean care cloth after wear. Store pieces dry and separately to reduce scratching and tangling. Avoid abrasive cleaners, and never force a kinked or bent chain. For plated jewelry, use especially light pressure to preserve the finish.

Lay the chain on a flat surface and loosen the knot gently with clean fingertips or two blunt pins. Do not pull hard, as this can stretch or break links. For a tight knot or damaged link, consult a professional jeweler.