Introducing Sterling Forever
Sterling Forever made its sparkling debut in 2012 as an online boutique specializing in celebrity-inspired jewelry and accessories. Based in Maryland, this brand aims to deliver red carpet glam without designer price tags.
But how legit is this affordable label? In this 3000-word review, we’ll examine Sterling Forever pieces under a metaphorical loupe, analyzing the good, the bad and the tarnished. Read on for the real deal on quality, selection, brand reputation and more to decide if these baubles are trendy or just trashy.
Overview of Sterling Forever Jewelry
Co-founder Mike Cooke launched Sterling Forever after noticing demand for knockoffs of the fabulous bling spotted on Hollywood starlets. The brand focuses on translating flashy fashions seen on celebs like Megan Markle into wearable, wholesale-priced jewels for everyday trendsetters.
While prices aren’t dirt cheap, they beat luxury retailers charging thousands for fine accessories. As a made-in-America company based outside Baltimore, Sterling Forever aims for quality construction that looks more expensive than its sub-$100 price tags.
Before weighing the pros and cons, here is a snapshot of Sterling Forever jewelry:
Sterling Forever Pros
- Wide selection of earrings, necklaces, bracelets and rings
- Variety of metals, gemstones and plating options
- Most pieces under $100
- Celebrity and Instagram-worthy designs
- Free shipping on U.S. orders over $50
- 60-day returns
- Lifetime guarantee against manufacturing defects
Sterling Forever Cons
- Limited buyer reviews
- Quality and materials not equivalent to fine jewelry brands
- Some customer complaints of tarnishing over time
- No free returns/exchanges
- Unclear sourcing of gemstones
As an affordably-priced company, Sterling Forever uses more budget-friendly metals and stones compared to high-end jewelers. This allows them to replicate on-trend looks for less, though possibly sacrificing some shine and durability.
We’ll analyze specific bestsellers next, but the overall vibe is fashionable, Insta-worthy bling with questionable long-term wearability.
Sterling Forever Rings Review
When it comes to accessories, rings clearly take the crown for most regal. We scoped out five top sellers from Sterling Forever’s ring shop to determine if their bands pass the royalty test.
Thin Love Knot Ring
This minimalist band makes a dainty statement with its twisted silver silhouette. Plated in rhodium, 14k gold or rose gold, it brings subtle symbolism as a friendship or promise ring.
The knot design is delicate and lightweight, although several reviewers mentioned it feels slightly flimsy. For $52, it offers trendy styling but likely won’t hold up to daily wear and tear over years. This ring tarnishes faster than solid gold options, so it’s best suited for occasional use.
CZ Criss Cross Ring
With its rows of crisscrossing cubic zirconia stones, this attention-grabbing piece seems fit for a glamorous lead actress. Yet at $65, it’s budget-friendly enough for supporting players too.
The band itself feels substantial, but a few reviews called out loose stones after several wears. Overall quality meets expectations for the low price, but meticulous folks may be bothered when stones require tightening every so often.
Cubic Zirconia Twisted Infinity Ring
In sterling silver or rose gold plating, this infinity symbol ring displays almost 1 carat of brilliant cubic zirconia. The twist design gives dimensional detail, although some reviews felt the metal felt thin.
For an affordable diamond alternative under $60, this eternity band offers solid sparkle. As an occasional fashion piece it impresses, but the thin plating is prone to scratches. The shiny stones help disguise scuffs, but frequent wearers may be disappointed with signs of wear over time.
Mystic Topaz CZ Engagement Ring
This dazzling design delighted reviewers with its rainbow-reflecting center stone and crisscrossing cubic zirconia side accents. The mystic topaz flashes an array of enchanting colors in the light.
Several customers purchased this as an engagement ring or anniversary gift and were thrilled with the beautiful style. However, the thin band scratching and lack of an interior size engraving nagged some as downsides.
For $50, this eye-catching halo stunner brings major sparkle and passes as a pricier diamond. But long term durability falls short if worn daily.
Pear-Shaped CZ Solitaire Ring
This elegant pear-shaped beauty imitates timeless diamond solitaires seen on celeb hands for decades. Cubic zironcia offers white flash while the split shank band gives the illusion of a larger center stone.
Reviewers gushed over the impressive sparkle, with many commenting they get flooded with compliments. One downside noted is the lack of size engraving inside the band, making fits less custom.
Overall this ring dazzles as an affordable diamond dupe, although occasional tightening is needed as the pave stones loosen slightly in the long run.
Sterling Forever Necklaces Review
Next we’ll highlight five top selling Sterling Forever necklaces, from dainty chains to eye-catching pendants. Do these pieces have the staying power to become beloved accessories instead of tossed fashion fads? Let’s evaluate the pros and cons.
Gemstone Choker
This adjustable beaded choker epitomizes the Insta cool-girl vibe. Polished semi-precious stones like onyx, amethyst and white howlite pop against the gold or silver plating.
Fans of the style love this y2k callback at an affordable $36 price point. Most felt the look elevated simple outfits into standout statements.
A few reviewers mentioned noticing loose string or beads after repeated wears. Overall though the quality impresses for low cost, versatile styling.
Heart Padlock Necklace
How will anyone unlock your heart? This chic yet playful pendant features a rhodium plated brass heart lock dangling from a delicate box chain.
Fans call it an everyday essential necklace with just enough edge. The lock stays securely fastened and the 18-inch box chain feels durable, although a few noticed tarnishing over time.
For $75 the quality meets expectations, with most style-seekers finding it an easy way to level up basic looks.
When Stars Align Necklace
This celestial necklace makes zodiac goddesses shine with its whimsical depiction of their astrological constellation. The raw brass oxidizes into a unique patina over time for an earthy cool look.
Horoscope junkies swoon over these anthropologie-style necklaces for their fun personality. The distressed metal develops character although isn’t for those wanting shiny new accessories forever. With quality detailing for $69, cult fans love the boho yet personal style.
Bar Initial Necklace
Subtle personalization goes a long way for gifting loved ones this special necklace styled with their initial. Dainty but still noticeable, the block letter pendant adds tailored flair without overpowering outfits.
For $92 reviewers overwhelmingly loved gifting this made-to-order piece. The chain and pendant feel sturdy, with most wearing it 24/7 comfortably. It avoids tarnish and wearing issues that can occur with Sterling Forever’s plated metals, making it a meaningful forever keepsake.
Delicate Butterfly Necklace
This darling delicate butterfly necklace offers cheerful charm through its whimsical bug motifs. The 14k gold or rhodium plated brass brings subtle shine without overpowering.
Its adjustable length accommodates different necklines with crisp style. Reviewers found it elevated basic tees and dresses into something special. The tiny cubic zirconias add cute colorful sparkle as your butterfly herd takes flight together.
Some noticed the ends wore down after 6 months of everyday use. But at $74, fans still found it a fun fashion friend that instantly brightened moods.
common questions
Now that we’ve reviewed specific pieces, let’s dive into frequently asked questions about the overall Sterling Forever brand.
Does Sterling Forever jewelry tarnish?
Yes, certain metals like sterling silver and vermeil plating will slowly tarnish from oxidation and everyday exposure. Sterling Forever suggests gentle soap and water cleanings to minimize darkening over time. Taking care by storing pieces properly helps slow down this natural process.
For metals prone to tarnishing, expect darkening after 3-6 months with frequent wear. The lifetime guarantee doesn’t cover natural metal aging, but you can request replacements if any issues seem caused by defective craftsmanship instead.
How does the quality compare to fine jewelry brands?
Well, you’re not scoring carats of flawless diamonds or high karat gold when shopping under $100. Sterling Forever uses more affordable metals and manmade stones for maximum sparkle-per-dollar.
The designs emulate runway and red carpet trends you’ll pay big bucks for elsewhere. But inherent product differences mean their pieces won’t have the resale value or timeless endurance of investment jewelry.
Basically you must set expectations based on low price points – these are fashion-forward costume pieces, not heirlooms. But they can bring similar style at a fraction of the cost.
Who is Sterling Forever best for?
The ideal Sterling Forever customer appreciates on-trend imitation jewelry over pricier precious pieces. They likely follow celebrity culture and want to emulate signature looks without huge splurges.
Budget-savvy shoppers will delight in the company’s chic, affordable treasure chest. The brand also suits no-fuss folks wanting easy accessorizing that instantly elevates everyday outfits.
Lastly, Sterling Forever makes gift-givers smile with its wide selections catering to varied tastes and price points.
What do customers say about Sterling Forever?
Scouring the web shows mostly positive perceptions of this costume jewelry brand. They earn high marks for beautiful designs and budgets that don’t break the bank.
Many reviewers call them perfect affordable gifts receiving tons of compliments. The style shapeshifts well from everyday cool to special occasion sparkle, although some pieces skew daintier and more delicate.
That said, there are also customers reporting frustrations when plating scratches or stones fall loose over time. And limited buyer feedback makes it hard to gauge overall satisfaction rates.
But for inexpensive, fashionable accessorizing, most conclude Sterling Forever dazzles. Just don’t expect precious metals and diamond resilience without the pricetags.
promotions & discounts
Scoring celeb style on a working woman’s budget? Yes please! Here are ways to save even more money adorning your wrist and neck with Sterling Forever’s imitation elegance.
The brand offers an email subscriber discount of 15% off your first order. No minimum spends or exclusions apply, instantly chopping prices sitewide!
They also run occasional seasonal sales around peak holidays like Mother’s Day, Fourth of July and Christmas shopping, which can amount to 20 percent off or more.
Lastly, the Apostle Ambassador program rewards shoppers who spread the (cubic zirconia) love with friends, awarding $10 off gift cards with every referred customer. Sign up on their Ambassador page to qualify and start sharing your favorite accessory finds via social media or other channels to stack up those savings!
Where to Buy
Sterling Forever sells all its collections through its official website SterlingForever.com with worldwide shipping options available.
While predominantly an ecommerce operation, their accessories also pop up through third party online retailers like:
- Amazon
- Nordstrom Rack
- Saks off Fifth
- The Bay (Canada)
Brick and mortar stores don’t exist currently, but a Manhattan showroom is in the works slated to open mid-2023. This will allow customers to browse the glittery goods in person instead of solely online.
The Bottom Line
Sterling Forever makes choosing dazzling jewelry a cinch with its vast assortments at easy price points. The styles sweep you into Hollywood allure rather than leaving you bored.
Yes, a few QC nitpicks about gemstones loosening or metals tarnishing. But compared to five-figure diamond deals, the value surpasses expectations.
Overall these celeb-inspired pieces offer darling decor at bargain costs. For those mixing up accessorizing instead of treasuring precious wares forever, Sterling Forever undoubtedly dazzles.
