Although gold is a precious and stunning metal, not all gold jewelry is crafted alike. As a matter of fact, there exist three primary types of gold jewelry, namely gold plated, gold filled, and gold vermeil. Each of these three types has distinct attributes and benefits.
Let’s begin by defining each type, and then we’ll compare them and explore how you can determine which one is best suited for you.
What does Gold-Plated mean?
Gold plating involves applying a thin layer of gold to a base metal or alloy through a chemical reaction called electroplating. This process creates jewelry or objects that have a thin layer of gold electroplated or deposited onto them.
To be considered “gold plated,” an item must have a minimum thickness of 0.5 microns, as established by the law. However, many items with gold coatings thinner than 0.5 microns are mislabeled as gold plated, and are either “gold electroplate” at 0.175 microns or “gold flashed” if they are even thinner.
The purpose of gold plating is to give the item the appearance of being made entirely of gold at a low cost. As consumers, it’s important to be aware of the actual thickness of the gold coating, so we can make informed decisions.
What does Gold-Filled mean?
Gold-filled consists of a base metal, usually brass bonded with a thick layer of gold through a mechanical bonding process. To be considered gold-filled, a piece of jewelry must contain at least one-tenth of its weight in gold.
It has a similar appearance and can be worn by people with sensitive skin as it does not contain nickel or other harmful metals. Many high-quality gold-filled pieces closely resemble solid gold.
In order to meet US regulations, the gold content in gold-filled jewelry must make up at least 5% of the overall weight. The terms “rolled gold plate” and “gold overlay” may be used legally if the percentage is less than 5%.
What is Gold Vermeil?
Gold Vermeil is a type of jewelry that consists of a sterling silver base that has been coated with a thick layer of gold through a process called electrolysis. To be considered vermeil, the gold coating must be at least 2.5 microns thick and made of at least 10 karat gold.
The process of creating gold vermeil involves first cleaning the sterling silver base and then applying a layer of gold onto the surface through electrolysis. This is followed by a final layer of a protective coating to prevent tarnishing and wear.
Gold vermeil is a popular choice for jewelry as it offers the appearance and durability of solid gold, but at a more affordable price point.
How to care for Gold Plated, Gold Filled, and Gold Vermeil jewelry?
All 3 are all beautiful and valuable pieces that require proper care and maintenance to keep them looking their best. Here are some tips for taking care of your gold jewelry:
First, it’s important to understand how tarnishing occurs. Tarnishing is a chemical reaction that happens when certain agents, such as oxygen, water, body sweat, oils, and lotions come into contact with the metal.
To prevent tarnishing, avoid wearing your jewelry in the ocean or swimming pool, as the salt and chlorine can damage it. Additionally, try not to wear your gold jewelry during strenuous activities as sweat can tarnish it.
When not wearing your jewelry, store it in an airtight bag to limit its exposure to oxygen. Avoid applying perfume, hairspray, or body spray while wearing your jewelry, as they contain chemicals that can damage it.
To clean your gold jewelry, use a damp cotton ball or microfiber cloth to gently remove surface dirt and smudges after each use. It’s important to store your jewelry pieces individually to avoid them rubbing against each other, which could cause damage.
Gold-filled jewelry is more durable and long-lasting than gold-plated jewelry due to its thicker layer of gold. However, it still requires proper care and maintenance. Avoid exposing gold-filled jewelry to harsh chemicals, as they can cause discoloration and damage. If you need to clean your jewelry, use mild soap and warm water, and gently pat dry with a soft cloth.
Gold vermeil jewelry is also more durable than gold-plated jewelry, but it’s important to avoid exposing it to water and harsh chemicals. To clean your gold vermeil jewelry, use a soft cloth and mild soap and water. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or polishing cloths, as they can scratch the surface of the jewelry.
In summary, taking care of your gold-plated, gold-filled, and gold vermeil jewelry requires some simple steps to prevent tarnishing and damage. By following these tips, you can keep your jewelry looking beautiful and shiny for years to come.
Pros and Cons of Gold Plated, Gold Filled, and Gold Vermeil Jewelry
Gold plated, gold-filled, and gold vermeil jewelry are three popular types of gold jewelry. While each has its unique characteristics and advantages, they also have their own set of pros and cons.
Pros of Gold Plated Jewelry:
- Gold plated jewelry is the most affordable option
- It can be easily found in many stores
- It can give a shiny and luxurious look at a lower cost
Cons of Gold Plated Jewelry:
- The gold coating is relatively thin and can wear off over time
- It is not suitable for those with sensitive skin
- It can tarnish or discolor quickly
Pros of Gold Filled Jewelry:
- Gold-filled jewelry is more durable than gold plated jewelry due to its thicker layer of gold
- It is a more affordable alternative to solid gold jewelry
- It is hypoallergenic and safe for those with sensitive skin
Cons of Gold Filled Jewelry:
- It can still tarnish over time, especially if not cared for properly
- Gold-Filled jewelry is more expensive than gold plated jewelry
- It can be difficult to find in certain styles or designs
Pros of Gold Vermeil Jewelry:
- Gold vermeil jewelry looks and feels like solid gold jewelry
- It is more affordable than solid gold jewelry
- It is hypoallergenic and safe for those with sensitive skin
Cons of Gold Vermeil Jewelry:
- It is not as durable as solid gold jewelry
- The gold layer can wear off over time
- It may be difficult to find in certain styles or designs
The Cost Comparison of Gold Plated, Gold Filled, and Gold Vermeil Jewelry
Here’s a brief overview of the cost comparison between these three types:
Gold Plated Jewelry
This is the most affordable option among the three because the gold layer is relatively thin.
Gold Filled Jewelry
The gold layer in gold filled jewelry is much thicker than that in gold plated jewelry. Hence, it is more durable and long-lasting. Gold filled jewelry is more expensive than gold plated jewelry, but still more affordable than solid gold jewelry.
Gold Vermeil Jewelry
It is more expensive than both gold plated and gold filled jewelry, but less expensive than solid gold jewelry.
In conclusion, understanding the differences between gold plated, gold filled, and gold vermeil is crucial when purchasing gold jewelry. Knowing the unique properties and characteristics of each type of gold jewelry will help you make an informed decision when selecting the perfect piece for your collection.
We suggest going for gold filled jewelry, as it offers both affordability and quality. With a thicker layer of gold than gold plated, it is durable and long-lasting, making it a great choice for those looking for a balance between cost and quality.
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