Gold Plated Jewelry

Gold-plated jewelry is jewelry that has a light layer of gold, approximately 0.05% gold or less on top of a metal base, typically brass or copper. This thin layer of gold is plated onto the base metal. Because the gold plating is so thin, the gold tends to rub off easily. This metal can also be prone to tarnishing when exposed to liquids or chemicals, so proper care is essential in maintaining the longevity of the jewelry. Due to the minimal amount of gold used in this jewelry, it is best worn for occasional wear or for buyers looking to try new trends at an affordable price point.

What is the difference between gold-plated, gold vermeil and gold-filled jewelry?

A gold-plated necklace is the most affordable of these options but the least strong. Gold vermeil jewelry has a thick gold plating on top of sterling silver. The benefit of gold vermeil jewelry is that it is hypoallergenic so people with metal allergies can wear it safely. Additionally, because the gold plating is much thicker than jewelry plated with gold, it tends to last much longer though frequent wearers can expect to see some wear and tear after a while, especially high-contact jewelry. Gold-filled jewelry has a solid layer of gold that is mechanically bonded to a base, usually brass. This type of bonding means the gold will not rub off. Gold-filled jewelry has nearly 100 times more gold than gold-plated jewelry, but it also has more limitations because of the way it is manufactured. It is only available in sheet or wire form, so many manufacturers will use filled gold to make flat charms. While gold-plated rings, gold-plated earrings and other gold-plated jewelry may wear more quickly, it is the most affordable of the three options and therefore the best option for trying new styles and trends.