Among the most common types of gold jewelry alternatives are gold–plated, gold vermeil and gold-filled pieces. While they may look similar at first glance, the differences lie in how they’re made, how long they last and how much gold they contain. Keep reading for a breakdown of these options to help you determine which best fits your needs.
What Is Gold-Plated Jewelry?
Gold–plated jewelry is created by applying a very thin layer of gold—typically less than 0.5 microns thick—onto a base metal such as brass, copper or stainless steel through an electroplating process. This makes gold-plated jewelry the most affordable option among the three. However, it does have its drawbacks: the thin gold layer wears off relatively quickly, especially with frequent use, and the piece may tarnish or fade over time. Gold-plated jewelry is best suited for occasional wear or for fashion-forward shoppers who enjoy trying out new trends and don’t mind replacing pieces as styles evolve.
What Is Gold Vermeil Jewelry?
Gold vermeil (pronounced “ver-may”) is a step up in quality from standard gold plating, featuring a thicker layer of gold—at least 2.5 microns—applied over a sterling silver core. For a piece to be labeled as “vermeil” in the U.S., the gold must be at least 10 karats and meet strict regulatory standards. Vermeil offers several advantages, including a higher gold content than gold–plated jewelry, a hypoallergenic sterling silver foundation and a longer-lasting finish.
What Is Gold-Filled Jewelry?
Gold–filled jewelry contains a thick mechanical bond of gold to another metal (usually brass), rather than just a surface coating. To be classified as gold-filled, the gold must account for at least 5% of the item’s total weight. This layer is 5 to 10 times thicker than gold–plated jewelry and more durable than vermeil. As a result, gold–filled pieces are highly resistant to tarnishing, peeling or fading, making them ideal for everyday wear and capable of lasting for years with proper care. However, gold-filled jewelry does have some limitations, including a higher cost than gold–plated and vermeil options, as well as limited design flexibility due to its thicker construction. Additionally, it cannot be resized or repaired as easily as solid gold.
Gold-plated, gold vermeil and gold-filled jewelry each offer a unique entry point into jewelry. Shop these styles and more online at Borsheims.com today to find the new addition your collection has been waiting for.
