Types of Gold Explained

Gold plated jewelry offers an accessible way to enjoy the beauty of gold without the high cost. This technique involves bonding a layer of genuine gold onto a base metal, resulting in an appearance that can mimic the look of solid gold. The affordability of gold plated pieces makes it easy to stay up-to-date with current trends and experiment with various styles. However, the gold plated layer will gradual diminish which could result in skin irritation for those with sensitive skin. 

Gold Vermeil: 

Gold vermeil (pronounced ver-may) jewelry offers a balance between affordability and quality. Gold vermeil jewelry shares a similar process with gold plating, where a thin layer of gold covers a base metal. In gold vermeil jewelry, the underlying metal is always sterling silver. Over time, the gold vermeil layer may naturally wear down revealing the sterling silver underneath. Because sterling silver is a hypoallergenic material, gold vermeil jewelry is less likely to cause skin irritation, making it a popular choice for those with sensitive skin. 

Gold-filled: 

While its name may imply that it is "filled" with gold, that is not accurate. A thick layer of real gold is bonded over a base metal core, typically brass, creating the best of both worlds. The standards for gold filled jewelry are strictly regulated. It is legally required to be 1/20th (or 5%) pure gold by weight. It combines the aesthetics of solid gold with the strength and affordability of a base metal, making it a trustworthy alternative to solid gold jewelry. The majority of individuals find gold-filled jewelry to be hypoallergenic and comfortable to wear, making it a great option for anyone with sensitive skin. 

It's important to note that while gold-filled jewelry is durable, it may still be susceptible to tarnishing if exposed to certain chemicals, like chlorine. However, with proper care your gold-filled jewelry will maintain its brilliance for many years.