This is a very unique finish...it is a matte, muted goldplating with a special antique overlay. Ours is the closest thing you will ever find to the finish found on the old designer jewelry and can only be told apart with the new and the old, side by side, under careful scrutiny. It is rich, gorgeous, perfect for the old Victorian rolled gold look as well as for cagework beadery in the style of Miriam Haskell. It also makes lovely bridal jewelry! Russian goldplated brass can be carefully manipulated. No nickel in the finish.